Category: KPOP NEWS

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BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS V Addresses ‘Special Duty Team’ Military Enlistment

BTS member V, also known as Kim Taehyung, recently addressed speculations about him joining the “Special Duty Team” during his mandatory military service.

V Confirms Decision to Join ‘Special Duty Team’ for Mandatory Military Enlistment

BIGHIT MUSIC had previously informed fans, known as ARMYs, about the enlistment of the remaining four BTS members—RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—in November. However, specific details about the enlistment process were not provided, except for the information that Jimin and Jungkook would enlist through a companion system, allowing them to be together during training.

Recent reports from Korean media outlets suggested that V might join the Special Duty Team, an anti-terrorism unit directly supervised by the Blue House. This news led to a mix of skepticism and concern among ARMYs, as this unit is known for its strict training program and involvement in high-risk operations.

On December 5, during a live broadcast on Weverse, V confirmed the news about joining the Special Duty Team. He described it as a personal challenge and directly addressed the concerns of fans, assuring them that he would take care of himself during the enlistment period.

“There were articles coming out about the unit I will be enlisting. ARMYs were worried, but honestly, I just wanted to challenge myself by going there and because I have goals. So please do not worry too much. I am challenging myself, but I also know how to deflect when needed.”

V’s acknowledgment of the situation and his determination to face the challenge positively resonated with ARMYs, who expressed pride in his attitude. Fans continue to support V and wish for his health and safety during his mandatory military service.

The confirmation from V provides a glimpse into the members’ mindset as they prepare for this significant phase of their careers. The support from ARMYs remains unwavering as they stand by each BTS member during their individual journeys.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Jessi and MORE VISION Reportedly Considering Contract Termination

MORE VISION, the music label led by Jay Park, and singer JESSI are currently in discussions regarding the artist’s contract termination. The news came as a surprise as JESSI signed an exclusive contract with MORE VISION in April, just seven months before the revelation.

MORE VISION Reportedly Considering Contract Termination After JESSI Misses Numerous Appearances

The discussions about terminating the contract are ongoing, and both parties are working through the details. While JESSI’s contract still had ample time remaining, the decision to part ways has created a situation with divergent opinions.

Despite the termination discussions, there is currently an impasse between MORE VISION and Jessi, with no formal agreement reached yet. The chances of reconciliation and continuing their contractual relationship still appear to be slim.

JESSI made a comeback with her song “Gum” on October 25, marking six months since she joined MORE VISION. However, controversy arose when JESSI abruptly canceled her appearance on KBS2’s ‘Music Bank’ on October 27, citing health issues. Subsequently, she also missed appearances on MBC’s ‘Show! Music Core’ and SBS’s ‘Inkigayo’ due to health problems. This departure from her previous active participation in music broadcast stages during album promotions also raised questions and added a layer of complexity to the situation.

An industry insider even suggested that the contract termination had already happened.

“JESSI and MORE VISION had disagreements during her new song promotions, and these issues persisted thereafter. Ultimately, MORE VISION decided it would be best for both parties to part ways,” they said.

As the discussions continue, the future direction for Jessi’s career and her association with MORE VISION remains uncertain. Fans and the industry will closely monitor the developments surrounding this unexpected turn of events.

For now, MORE VISION has yet to make an official statement. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

RIIZE Confirmed for January Comeback Just 2 Months After ‘Talk Saxy’ Release

RIIZE has just confirmed that they are gearing up for their next comeback. Interestingly, the idol group will be dropping new music just two months after the release of “Talk Saxy”!

RIIZE Confirms First Comeback in 2024 Just 2 Months After ‘Talk Saxy’ Release

SM Entertainment‘s rookie boy group, RIIZE, is set to make a comeback early next year. According to reports on December 6, the group is also slated to release a new single on January 5. The news was later confirmed by SM Entertainment.

“RIIZE will be making a comeback next year with a new single on January 5. Please show lots of interest,” the agency said.

The upcoming comeback will mark RIIZE’s return after approximately two months since their last release, “Talk Saxy,” which came out in October. RIIZE debuted in September with the song “Get A Guitar,” garnering attention for their musicality and performance skills.

However, there has been a recent development in the group’s lineup. In November, SM Entertainment announced that member Seunghan would be taking an indefinite hiatus. As a result, RIIZE will also continue their activities with the remaining six members. This means that their upcoming comeback will be the first featuring Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Sohee, and Anton.

The anticipation for RIIZE’s comeback is high, as fans are eager to see the group’s growth and musical direction in their new single. With their unique blend of talents and the backing of SM Entertainment, RIIZE also has the potential to make a significant impact in the K-pop scene, and their January comeback is eagerly awaited by fans and the industry alike.

In related news, RIIZE and ZEROBASEONE secured the prestigious New Artist of the Year award at the 2023 Melon Music Awards. The achievement marked a significant record for SM Entertainment as RIIZE became the third group under the agency to clinch the title. The award was also previously given to SHINee in 2008 while Super Junior first took the honor back in 2006.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BLACKPINK Renews Contract With YG Entertainment for Group Activities

Jisoo, Lisa, Rosé, and Jennie pose after their Coachella performance. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

All four members of BLACKPINK have officially extended their contracts with their original agency, YG Entertainment, for future group activities, putting an end to the speculation surrounding the acclaimed K-pop sensation’s future.

On Wednesday, December 6, YG Entertainment announced that they’ve successfully secured exclusive contracts for group endeavors with Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa. A representative from the label emphasized that this decision was reached after thorough discussions and is founded on a deep sense of trust between the parties involved.

“After careful discussions with BLACKPINK, we signed exclusive contracts for group activities based on deep trust,” YG Entertainment said, according to a Soompi report. 

 

Furthermore, Yang Hyun Suk, the executive producer at YG Entertainment, expressed his joy in continuing the collaborative journey with BLACKPINK. He said: “BLACKPINK will continue to do their best to shine even brighter in the global music market as artists representing not only our agency but also K-pop, and we send our unwavering support and faith for their future steps.”

According to South Korean media reports, the contract renewal will see the quartet release new music and hold another large-scale world tour soon. 

BLACKPINK still in our area

While the renewal covers group activities, there has been no official announcement regarding the members’ solo pursuits yet. 

Since the quartet’s original contract with YG Entertainment expired in August, there’s speculation that the members would pursue individual activities with other agencies. To recall, there were reports claiming that Lisa will be signing with an American agency, while Jennie and Jisoo will allegedly set up their own labels. Notably, these reports also included deals that allegedly promised business and promotional opportunities for the artists outside of their K-pop activities. 

Although there’s no news about the members’ contract for their solo activities, the latest news concludes months of uncertainty about BLACKPINK’s future as a group. 

Since their debut in 2016 with hit singles like “Whistle” and “Boombayah,” BLACKPINK has risen to become one of the most commercially successful female acts in the K-pop industry.  

Furthermore, they also made history as the first K-pop act to headline the renowned Coachella music festival in the United States, solidifying their global influence and popularity. Recently, the members were also awarded with honorary memberships in the Order of the British Empire.

Featured image: Jisoo, Lisa, Rosé, and Jennie pose after their Coachella performance. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BigHit Music Shares Update on Military Enlistment of Remaining BTS Members

RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook for the group's 2022 Festa photos. Credit: Facebook/BTS

BigHit Music, the agency of K-pop juggernaut BTS, has unveiled additional details about the impending military enlistment of RM, V, Jimin, and Jungkook.

In a statement released on Tuesday, December 5, BigHit Music confirmed that the four members would be fulfilling their mandatory military service soon. According to the label, RM and V would follow their respective military enlistment procedures. Meanwhile, Jimin and Jungkook are scheduled to enlist simultaneously. 

Furthermore, the agency announced that there would be no official event on the day of their entry into the military. Additionally, BigHit Music emphasized that entrance ceremonies are private affairs that should only be attended solely by military personnel and the members’ families. With this, fans were strongly advised against visiting the site to prevent any potential issues like crowding. 

“Please convey your warm regards and encouragement in your hearts only,” the agency said. 

Moreover, BigHit Music  also cautioned fans against purchasing any tours or products that unlawfully utilized BTS intellectual property. As such, they also vowed to take necessary legal actions against any commercial activity involving these unauthorized use of IPs. 

At the end of their statement, the agency asked for the fans’ continued love and support for the BTS members until they return from finishing their respective military services. “Our company will also strive to provide all the support they need during this time,” they said. 

BTS to reconvene as a full group in 2025

In November, BigHit Music announced that members—RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook— have already initiated the military enlistment process. 

Notably, the  four are the only remaining members of the seven-piece act who are yet to commence their military service. Earlier enlistments saw Jin, the oldest member, start his enlistment in December 2022. Then, he’s followed by j-hope in April 2023 and Suga in September 2023. 

In their latest post, BigHit Music also didn’t disclose the enlistment dates and sites of the members. Although there are reports from South Korean media outlets that RM and V will enlist on December 11, while Jimin and Jungkook will follow on December 12. On top of that, there’s also speculation as to what divisions and which boot camps the members will enlist. But BigHit Music refused to confirm any reports. 

 

With all the BTS members enlisting before 2023 ends, there’s a high possibility that all seven will have finished their services by 2025. In a previous livestream, RM assured fans that the group will “be back for sure” in 2025.

In September 2023, all seven members of BTS renewed their contract with BIGHIT Music for the second time.

Featured image: RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook for the group’s 2022 Festa photos. Credit: Facebook/BTS

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

FT Island’s Minhwan and Yulhee Announce Divorce After 5 Years of Marriage

Choi Minhwan and Kim Yulhee tied the knot in October 2018. Credit: FNC Entertainment via Soompi

South Korean celebrities Choi Minhwan and Kim Yulhee, have decided to end their five-year marriage. 

On late Monday, December 4, both parties announced the news in their respective Instagram posts. 

“After much time, effort, and discussion, we have decided to support each other on separate paths. Although our journey as a couple has come to an end, our roles as parents to our children persist,” Yulhee, a former member of K-pop girl group LABOUM, wrote, according to a translation by Soompi. 

Minhwan and Yulhee are parents to three children. They welcomed their first child in May 2018, followed by the birth of their twin daughters in February 2020. 

In her post, Yulhee explained that they’ll remain to prioritize their children, promising that they’ll take care of them “to the best of [their] abilities.” Moreover, she also revealed that the children would continue to reside with their father to avoid any psychological distress. Despite this current living situation, Yulhee also emphasized that she spent ample time with the children to ensure that the impact of her absence would be minimal. 

While she was initially worried about sharing the news, Yulhee sought understanding from their fans as it was a difficult decision for all parties involved. But she assured that it was a choice they made “for each other’s happiness” and after “extensive deliberation.” 

The relationship of Minhwan and Yulhee

Following Yulhee’s post, Minhwan also confirmed the news in his own Instagram. “After extensive discussions, my wife and I have come to the decision to conclude our marriage,” he wrote. 

Furthermore, the FT ISLAND member expressed his gratitude and apologies to their families, team members, and fans who had supported them. Amidst the difficult situation, he pledged to not neglect his duties as a father. “I will do my utmost to fulfill my role and ensure our children do not carry any emotional scars,” he said. 

To recall, Minhwan and Yulhee first confirmed their relationship in September 2017. Two months after announcing that they’re a couple, Yulhee left the group LABOUM. According to her agency, Yulhee “no longer wishes to be in the entertainment industry.” 

In May 2018, their agencies confirmed they’ve legally registered their marriage, just days after the FT ISLAND member announced that his partner is pregnant. Their private wedding ceremony was held in October 2018. 

Throughout their marriage, Minhwan also appeared on the variety show Mr. House Husband wherein he showcased his parenting journey with his three children. 

Featured image: Choi Minhwan and Kim Yulhee tied the knot in October 2018. Credit: FNC Entertainment via Soompi

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K-DRAMA KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

TAN’s Lee Jaejun Kisses Lee Jihan in ‘City Boy Log’

The City Boy Log series, featuring TAN’s Lee Jaejun and model Lee Jihan, recently became the center of attention in the K-pop community. Posted on YouTube, this series comes across as a hybrid of a Boys’ Love (BL) drama and a vlog, highlighting the duo’s undeniable on-screen chemistry.

In an episode set in Okinawa, the two are shown sneaking out to buy snacks and drinks, later sharing wine in their room. The episode takes a significant turn when Jaejun admits his admiration for Jihan’s free-spirited nature, leading to a pivotal point in the series that changes the dynamic between the two.

#6 “Let’s take it easy honey… It’s my first time…” Vlog | City Boy Log

‘City Boy Log’ goes viral

The episode begins with a suggestive scene in darkness, with only the sounds of Jaejun and Jihan groaning and talking. After their snack run, the pair return to their room. The atmosphere changes as they lie in bed together, sharing wine. Jaejun’s confession culminates in a kiss, followed by a passionate makeout session. Jihan eventually turns the camera off, suggesting further intimacy.

This clip has gone viral, garnering significant views and surprising many with its explicit content, which is more daring than what is typically seen in Korean BL dramas. This isn’t the first time the pair have shared a kiss; they briefly kissed in the third episode of the series. As such, fans are hoping that City Boy Log is a precursor to a full-length BL K-drama starring the pair.

‘HEARTBEAT’ (TAN JAEJUN FanCam) @SBS Inkigayo 230813

About rising star Lee Jaejun

Lee Jaejun, also known as Jaejun, is a South Korean singer and a member of the boy group T.A.N. Born on September 25, 1997, in Cheongju, South Korea, he first debuted in July 2012 with C-Clown and stayed in the music industry even after the group’s disbandment. In 2021, he ranked No. 5 in MBC’s Extreme Debut: Wild Idol, leading to his debut in T.A.N. He stands 175 cm (5 feet 9 inches) tall and weighs 56 kg (123 lbs). His blood type is A, and his Zodiac sign is Libra. He’s active on Instagram under the handle @jjun_0925.

The full episode featuring this intriguing development in City Boy Log is available to watch online. Fans are hopeful that this means good things are in store for Jaejun and Jihan in the K-drama world. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The sixth episode of ‘City Boy Log’ became a viral sensation on the BL side of social media. Source: YouTube/@CITYBOY_LOG.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

N.Flying’s Yoo Hwe Seung Drops ‘What I Decided to Die For’ OST

N.Flying’s Yoo Hwe Seung has recently released a new original soundtrack (OST) for the Naver webtoon What I Decided to Die For. The track, titled “Love Me Baby,” became available on streaming platforms starting 6:00 PM on the 30th.

“Love Me Baby” is an urban rock song with a strong guitar foundation, featuring Yoo Hwe Seung’s intense vocal lines and a vibrant band sound that enhances the song’s progression and climax. The lyrics, reflecting the depth of the character Cha Gyeol, grow more intense towards the end, with Yoo Hwe Seung’s powerful voice adding to the emotional impact. Key lines include “I’m circling the universe for you. I can never leave,” and “If you see me somewhere, please don’t look away.”

Following the first OST “n-th Universe,” which was about the love story of Cha Gyeol and Ji Oh, “Love Me Baby” sets Cha Gyeol’s deep emotions to music. Released after the webtoon’s finale, the song adds a new dimension to the narrative. Both new readers and those familiar with the webtoon’s ending will appreciate the song.

[MV] 유회승 (엔플라잉) – Love Me Baby

Yoo Hwe Seung: The voice behind the music

Yoo Hwe Seung, a South Korean singer, songwriter, and musical theater actor, is the main vocalist of N.Flying. He began his journey in the music industry with FNC Entertainment in 2016, and gained popularity on the survival show Produce 101 Season 2.

After his appearance on Produce 101 Season 2, where he ranked 39th, Yoo Hwe Seung joined N.Flying and debuted with the group in August 2017. His work extends beyond N.Flying, as he has recorded OSTs for the K-dramas Criminal Minds and Hwayugi. Born in Seoul, Yoo Hwe Seung stands at 175 cm and weighs 62 kg, and has three older sisters.

Yoo Hwe Seung is an influential figure in the South Korean music industry. He recently completed N.Flying’s Forest of Travelers tour and played the lead in the musical Mozart!. He is also known for his exceptional vocal talent, appearing in shows like King of Mask Singer and My Ears’ Candy.

[Webtoon MV] Yoo Hwe-seung (N.Flying)

A tale of love and turmoil

What I Decided to Die For was created by YUJU. Launched on December 6, 2021, and updated weekly on Tuesdays, it quickly earned a massive following. It was best known for its depiction of the male lead and its themes of drama, mystery, and psychological challenges.

The story revolved around Ji Oh, a high school senior dealing with late puberty and an injury before a major Taekwondo competition, and Cha Gyeol, a mysterious yet charming boy. Their relationship, marked by the latter’s “bad boy with a good heart” image, unfolded amidst emotional and challenging situations. That drew readers into a world of deep romance and self-discovery.

What I Decided to Die For explored life’s unexpected twists and turns. It offered a narrative that was both engaging and thought-provoking, making a strong impression on its readers. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: His passionate vocals complement the webtoon’s emotional scenes. Source: YouTube/@vlending.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’s V Enlists in Elite Army Capital Defense Command Unit

Kim Taehyung, also known as V from BTS, has joined the Special Duty Team (SDT) of the Army’s Capital Defense Command for his military service. The SDT is an elite military police unit involved in counter-terrorism. It handles violent crimes, carries out special operations in cities, and captures armed deserters.

V went through a tough selection process for the SDT, which demands high intelligence and more. His application included document checks, interviews, and physical tests. He applied in late August and early September, was interviewed in October, and got accepted later that month. He’ll be enlisting in a few days.

@audraot7

My man is so passionate with his duity towards his country.. proud of you💜stay safe baby bear 🐻💜 사랑한다💜 Follow 👉🏻 me 👈🏻 for more 🌻 #lusciouspoppy #lusciouspoppybts #lusciousarmy #oc #dontrepost #thv #kimtaehyung #kthv #toomuch #layoverv #김태형 #태형 #방탄소년단 #비티에스 #비티에스아미 #bts #btsarmy #indianbtsarmy #instagramexplore #instagramexplorepage #foryou #viral #foryoupage #fy #fypage #fyp #fypシ #fypシ゚viralシ

♬ Dramatic Military – Faid rafanda

From BTS member to ‘Captain’

As news of V’s application for the SDT spread, fans started referring to him as “Captain” on social media. They also expressed shock and admiration that he decided to do something so daring. V’s decision is another way he’s contributing to his country, adding to the pride he has already brought to South Korea as a global celebrity.

V will report to the Nonsan Training Center on December 11 for basic military training, after which he will be assigned to his respective unit. His enlistment is part of the BTS members’ broader enlistment process. Jin, the group’s oldest member, began his military service on December 13, 2022. j-hope followed by enlisting on April 18, 2023, and SUGA started his enlistment on September 22, 2023. Meanwhile, RM, Jimin, and Jungkook, will join the army very soon too.

South Korea Army (Capital Defense Command) SGT Demo

The history and role of the SDT

The SDT is a distinguished Special Forces unit within the South Korean military, primarily responsible for conducting counter-terrorist operations. Its function is similar to the National Police Agency’s Special Operations Unit (SOU). The SDT, as an elite military police unit, specializes in counter-terrorism, responding to violent crimes, arresting armed deserters within the military, conducting special operations, and executing mobile strikes in urban areas. The unit’s motto, “Protecting the Republic of Korea!” signifies its dedication to national security.

Established in the 1990s in response to increasing threats from North Korea, the SDT’s primary role includes maintaining security and order within military barracks, serving as gate guards, and guarding checkpoints to watch for intruders. The unit has motorized units, such as motorcycles and other police vehicles, for patrolling assigned areas. The SDT, as a special operations team within the military police, exemplifies South Korea’s military’s adaptive and responsive approach to evolving security challenges. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: BTS’s V cut a dashing figure in CELINE’s latest posts. Source: X/@btspicstwt_.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’s Jin, Jimin, and Jungkook Likely to Reunite in the Army

BTS members Jin, Jimin, and Jungkook might meet up in the South Korean military, specifically in the 5th Division. Ilgan Sports reports that Jimin and Jungkook, who will enlist on December 12, are joining the 10th company in this division. Jin, already an instructor in the 11th company of the same division, won’t train them directly since they are in different groups. But they might still see each other occasionally because they’re in the same larger division.

The 5th Division is one of 21 military divisions in South Korea. It’s a large unit made up of smaller groups called companies. Jin is in charge of one such group, the 11th company. Jimin and Jungkook will be in a different group.

@srylle02

Go Jin Hyung👏🏻👏🏻🎖️🪖 #besthyungkimseokjin #teamleaderkimseokjin #seokjinnie #jinhyung #kimseokjin #방탄소년단

♬ NO (I’m feeling untouchable, untouchable) – Meghan Trainor

BTS members’ recruitment and selection process

This situation came about after South Korea’s Military Manpower Administration announced openings for soldiers in December. The 5th Division, which doesn’t have many spots, initially offered only 50 places for soldiers. The application period was from August 29 to September 5, with more selections in September and October. They later added 38 more spots in the 5th Division.

On the other hand, the recruitment for j-hope’s 36th Division will happen in either November 2023 or March 2024. This shows that different military divisions have their own schedules for recruiting. A big part of getting selected is the competition rate—how many people applied versus how many spots are available. For example, the 5th Division’s rate was 2.5:1 in 2020. For every spot available in the division, there were 2.5 applicants competing for it. Divisions with higher competition rates are usually seen as better places to serve because more people want to join them. People usually pick a division based on this rate.

Korean 5th division song

Historical significance of the 5th division

The 5th Division, also known as “The Key Division,” is famous for its role in the Korean War. It was formed early in the war and was crucial in many battles, affecting the war’s outcome and Korea’s future. The division is mainly in the northern part of South Korea, close to the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), which is a buffer zone that separates North and South Korea. This area is known for its strict security measures and absence of military forces. The 5th Division plays a key role in watching for and defending against threats from the North. This shows how important the 5th Division is to South Korea’s defense.

For the BTS members, joining the 5th Division is a chance to show their commitment, both individually and as a group, similar to what they do in their music. By joining, they continue the BTS story and become part of their country’s proud military history. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jimin posted this photo of him, Jin, and Jungkook for Jin’s birthday this year. Source: Instagram/@j.m.

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