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Jungkook Apologizes for TODAY Show Performance Issues

Jungkook

Jungkook, a member of the globally renowned K-pop group BTS, recently graced the TODAY Show with a solo performance that stopped traffic around the show’s New York City studios. His appearance on November 8, promoting his debut solo album GOLDEN, drew an enormous crowd, rivaling the 15,000 fans who showed up for Colombian singer-songwriter Karol G in July. His fans, known as ARMYs, had been lining up since November 6 to secure prime spots for the show.

Hoda Kotb, one of the show’s hosts, escorted Jungkook to the stage. Savannah Guthrie, another host, pointed out that many in the crowd were wearing headbands featuring his BT21 character, the pink bunny Cooky. What’s more, they were eagerly chanting “JK! JK!” in anticipation. Moments later, Jungkook began his set. Clad in a sparkly jacket, black shirt, and matching pants, he started with “3D,” his collaboration with Jack Harlow. The fans made up for the latter’s absence by singing along to his pre-recorded verse.

Jungkook paused in between songs to thank the crowd for coming. He then wished them a “GOLDEN day” before launching into his single “Standing Next to You.” His band gave it an edgy twist with crashing drums and rocking guitar, which complemented the singer’s falsetto perfectly. Then he moved to a thrust stage in the middle of the crowd to show off some fancy footwork. He also interacted with fans, even offering a greeting to one lucky ARMY celebrating her 10th birthday. Jungkook’s final song was “Seven (feat. Latto),” which recently became the fastest song to reach a billion Spotify streams.

Jungkook Live Performances on Today Citi Concert Series 08.11.2023

Jungkook apologized on Weverse

Despite the freezing weather, Jungkook’s vocals remained clear and stable. However, later that day he took to Weverse to apologize for what he felt was a subpar performance. The outdoor venue’s acoustics were poor compared to those of an indoor venue. It wasn’t his fault, but Jungkook is something of a perfectionist, and he really wasn’t satisfied with how he sounded. He wrote, “ARMYs, I apologize. I messed up the live performance. There’s no excuse, and I’ll strive to do better in the next live performance.”

Fans were puzzled by his apology, as many saw no flaws in his performance. Comments flooded in, ranging from confusion to praise, with fans asserting that he did well. 

In other news, Jungkook is set to perform live for ‘Audacy Live’ on November 13 at 9:00 PM EST.  – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The TODAY Show stage at Rockefeller Plaza was packed with ARMYs! Source: X/@etnow.

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ENHYPEN Opens Up About ‘ORANGE BLOOD’ Recording in Forbes Middle East Interview

In an exclusive interview with Forbes Middle East, ENHYPEN shared exciting details about their upcoming mini-album ORANGE BLOOD. The interview was published ahead of their first gig in Abu Dhabi on November 11.

Brighter, warmer things

The album continues the narrative introduced in DARK BLOOD. Jake, a member of the septet, says that while previous album focused on darker themes like sacrifice and fate, ORANGE BLOOD is a representation of brighter, warmer things. “It’s going to portray this warm vibe we’re trying to send to our fans.”

ENHYPEN has been actively involved in the creative aspects of their music. For “Bite Me,” DARK BLOOD’s title track, Heeseung took part in studio directing and Ni-Ki worked on the choreography. For ORANGE BLOOD, Jay played a significant role in writing “Sweet Venom.” I just tried to figure out what word is best for our team and matches our team then sent it to our company. But yeah, I think I was just lucky, and they liked some of those,” he says modestly.

“Sweet Venom” is a pop-punk song with a groovy bassline. It tells the story of a boy confronting his own mortality, expressing his feelings through a poison metaphor. He says the poison, while harmful, makes him feel alive. The song is available in three versions: Korean, English, and a version featuring American singer Bella Poarch.

ORANGE BLOOD also includes the R&B/soft pop song “Mortal,” the ballad “Still Monster,” and the alternative R&B track “멀어 (Far Away).” Each song has a unique theme. For example, “Orange Flower (You Complete Me)” likens gratitude and positive emotions to orange blossoms.

ENHYPEN (엔하이픈) ORANGE BLOOD Preview

ENHYPEN on the pressures of idol life

ENHYPEN, candid about the pressures of idol life, continues to delve deeper into their artistry and their personalities with each new release. But since they live life at the center of a storm, how do they navigate it?

Ni-Ki, their maknae, says he leans on his hyungs a lot. “That’s a tricky question, but you know, I’ve got my brothers, my members beside me all the time. They got my back, and I want to think of this experience not as something I’m doing on my own, but as a journey we’re on together, as a group,” he explains. “And the parts that I’m missing or lacking, the other members are always there to fill the gaps. So, I wouldn’t mind much of the negative things. I’d like to view this from a positive aspect and, you know, enjoy the entire experience and always be excited.”

For his part, Sunghoon says the confidence he gained after three years in the industry is key. Jay, meanwhile, says standing his ground on certain things helps him get through it all.

As they approach their third anniversary as a band, ENHYPEN looks forward to the response to ORANGE BLOOD and the dance challenges it will inspire on social media. The band, set to release the album at 2:00 PM on the 17th, will also unveil the first teaser for the “Sweet Venom”  music Video on the 14th as part of their promotional activities. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The Forbes Middle East article was quite the eye-opener. Source: X/@ENHYPEN.

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Coldplay Dedicates Performance of ‘The Astronaut’ to BTS’s Jin

Coldplay‘s Chris Martin recently paid a touching tribute to BTS‘s Jin. He dedicated a performance of “The Astronaut” to Jin and the rest of BTS. This special moment occurred during the Tokyo leg of their Music of the Spheres World Tour. The band performed an acoustic version of the track, originally written in English, for the first time in Tokyo. The final version, featuring Korean verses by Jin, was released in October 2022.

Coldplay – The Astronaut (acoustic cover), Live at Tokyo Dome 6th Nov 2023

From Coldplay, with love

“This is particularly for Jin and the BTS boys,” Chris Martin declared before the performance, sending love to the members currently serving in the military. He added, “In honor of BTS, we are going to play a song that we gave to Jin. We’ve never played this before on our own. Maybe we’ll never play this again. This is Jin’s song, this is called ‘The Astronaut’ and we send this with love to everybody in any situation anywhere.”

“The Astronaut,” named Rolling Stone’s Best Song of 2022, was Jin‘s first official solo release. It has earned 281 million Spotify streams. Coldplay and Jin first did “The Astronaut” live during the Buenos Aires leg of the British band’s tour. That performance came a day after Jin released the song. Coldplay has performed “The Astronaut” live one other time, when they appeared on an episode of Saturday Night Live last February. They also played a mash-up of “Human Heart” and “Fix You.”

Co-written by Coldplay, Jin, and Norwegian DJ Kygo, “The Astronaut” is the second collaboration between BTS and Coldplay, following the chart-topper “My Universe.” Jin is currently fulfilling his mandatory military service in South Korea. He’s expected to return to the music scene in time for BTS’s 11th anniversary in June 2024.

진 (Jin) ‘The Astronaut’ (with Coldplay) @ Coldplay’s Music Of The Spheres Tour in Buenos Aires

Friendship and mutual respect

Coldplay has consistently shown their appreciation for Jin and his members. In July 2023, during a concert in Amsterdam, Chris Martin saw a fan sign that said, “I get heaven to myself when I’m with you.” He realized it was inspired by a line from “The Astronaut” and immediately gave a shout-out to Jin. 

The bond between Jin and Coldplay continues to grow. Before he enlisted, Jin gave Coldplay patches featuring Wootteo, a mascot he created for “The Astronaut” promotions. Wootteo has since become a symbol at the British band’s concerts, with Chris Martin proudly wearing his patch and sharing it with fans. Coldplay‘s gesture of dedicating “The Astronaut” to Jin is a testament to the friendship and mutual respect between these global icons.

Fans eagerly anticipate the reunion of Chris and Jin, cherishing their precious connection. Coldplay is still on tour, with upcoming dates in Kaohsiung, Jakarta, Perth, and Kuala Lumpur. They plan to return to Asia in 2024 for shows in Singapore, Bulacan, and Bangkok. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The acoustic version Chris Martin and his bandmates played was as beautiful as the band version they performed with Jin last year. Source: YouTube/@BANGTANTV.

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Former Hello Venus Member Yoonjo Confirms Wedding Date with Actor Kim Dong Ho

Former Hello Venus member Yoonjo and actor Kim Dong Ho have revealed their wedding date. The couple previously confirmed that they are getting married later this year and they have since revealed that they are tying the knot this month.

Yoonjo and Kim Dong Ho Confirm November Wedding Date

On November 10, Kim Dong Ho’s agency, Makestory, officially announced that the couple will hold their wedding ceremony on the 19th of this month.

The wedding will be a private affair with only close family and friends in attendance. The couple had initially shared the news of their impending marriage in a heartfelt letter back in September.

“Today, I have something I want to share with you all, which is why I’ve written this letter by hand,” Yoonjo wrote. “I’ve met someone with whom I want to spend the rest of my life, so we’ve decided to get married before the cold winter arrives!”

“[My fiancé] is someone who has been a huge source of strength for me when I felt very anxious and uneasy, and he’s someone who’s always been dependable and remained by my side,” she continued. “We plan to walk together towards a happy and healthy life while thinking of one another first and loving each other, just as we have up until now. I’m sure there will be people who are surprised by this sudden news, but it would give us a great deal of strength if you cheered us on and gave us your blessing!”

Their relationship has garnered attention and best wishes from fans and the industry, as they prepare to embark on this new chapter in their lives together. With their wedding date just around the corner, their well-wishers are eagerly anticipating the special day.

Yoonjo is a former Hello Venus member while Kim Dong Ho is known for his work in ‘Twinkle Twinkle,’ ‘Wild Romance,’ ‘My Husband Got A Family,’ and ‘Graceful Friends.’

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DARA Says 2NE1 Fans Transferred to New Fandoms Following Disbandment

Sandara Park has opened up about the state of her group’s fandom, revealing that BLACKJACKs started supporting other groups. According to Dara, 2NE1 fans began turning their support for other idol group’s after her own group was disbanded in 2016.

Dara Discusses 2NE1 Fans Moving To New Fandoms

On November 10, Dara made a special appearance on BamBam’s YouTube talk show “Bam House” where they engaged in a heart-to-heart conversation. During their discussion, Dara openly shared her thoughts about her fanbase and the changes it has undergone over the years.

She reflected on the size of her fandom today compared to her time with 2NE1. This led to her expressing concerns, particularly because all the former 2NE1 members now belong to different entertainment labels. Dara was worried about the challenges this diversity posed to the group’s fanbase.

“The fandom has significantly diminished,” she said. “Because our group parted away and there are fans who moved to other groups’ (fandoms).”

However, BamBam, who recently reunited with his fellow GOT7 members despite their different labels, provided encouragement. He explained that while it was challenging, he and JB took the initiative to bring the group back together and suggested a similar approach for Dara. He proposed the idea of creating a group chat room and leading the reformation, believing it would be a fantastic and enjoyable endeavor.

Dara acknowledged that some fans had indeed transferred their support to other groups, with many moving to BLACKPINK. She explained that fans who appreciated 2NE1’s style found a similar vibe in BLACKPINK’s music and performances.

Despite this, BamBam offered comforting words. He expressed his belief that if 2NE1 were to make a comeback, regardless of how many fans had transferred or the current state of fan activity, their dedicated supporters would reunite and rally around the group once more.

Sandara Park has since signed with Abyss Company and recently released her self-titled album.

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aespa Winter’s Latest Fancam Draws Snow White Comparisons

There is little doubt that Winter is truly stunning and the aespa member regularly has netizens enchanted with her gorgeous visuals. So it’s no surprise that the idol’s latest fancam is drawing comparisons to Snow White.

aespa’s Winter Draws Snow White Comparisons in Gorgeous Fancam

Shortly following aespa’s electrifying stage performance on MBC’s “Music Core”, a fancam featuring Winter took the internet by storm. Winter’s striking presence left netizens utterly captivated, and her flawless skin and mesmerizing beauty were nothing short of awe-inspiring.

With her vibrant, voluminous red hair and an immaculate complexion, Winter showcased an irresistible combination of stage charisma and natural allure. Her performance not only wowed with its talent but also garnered immense attention due to her enchanting beauty. Netizens and fans alike were left utterly speechless, basking in Winter’s radiant presence and undeniable star quality.

In related news, Winter has been revealed as aespa’s representative in the highly-anticipated collaborative project with (G)I-DLE and IVE. The ambitious joint venture will also unite talents from three prominent 4th generation girl groups: Soyeon from (G)I-DLE, Winter from aespa, and Liz from IVE. They will perform a new single “Nobody”.

The collaborative single, titled “Nobody,” is set for release on November 16 at 6 PM KST. This special project is part of a broader initiative to support Busan’s bid to host the ‘2030 World Expo’, emphasizing South Korea’s commitment to securing this prestigious global event. The combination of these three powerhouse talents also promises an exciting and memorable musical experience for fans of all three girl groups.

The forthcoming collaboration, titled “Nobody,” will be produced by El Capitxn and feature heartfelt lyrics crafted by the esteemed songwriter Seo Ji Eum. Fans are also highly anticipating this release, eager to witness the distinctive styles of these representatives converge on the track. The collaborative single is finally set to drop next week.

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STAYC’s Seeun and Yoon to Halt Activities Due to Health Issues

Two members of STAYC will be taking a break due to health issues. Seeun and Yoon will be unable to participate in the group’s upcoming activities and will both focus on resting until further notice.

Seeun and Yoon to Sit Out STAYC’s Upcoming Schedules

On November 12, High Up Entertainment issued a statement regarding STAYC’s upcoming activities. The agency also confirmed that Seeun and Yoon will be unable to participate in the new schedules.

“STAYC members Seeun and Yoon visited a local hospital in Japan for examination due to poor health conditions, and received the advice from medical workers that they need rest and stability,” the statement read. “Thus, they will be unable to attend the ‘TGC Teen 2023 Winter supported by SIW2023’ schedule. Currently, Seeun and Yoon need time to rest and recover.”

“We ask all SWITH fan members for your understanding, and will support Seeun and Yoon in hopes of their quick recovery,” the statement concluded.

STAYC, a dynamic South Korean girl group under the banner of High Up Entertainment, is capturing the hearts of fans worldwide. This six-member ensemble, featuring Sumin, Sieun, Isa, Seeun, Yoon, and J, made their impressive debut on November 12, 2020, with their first single album, “Star to a Young Culture.”

Excitement continues to build around STAYC as they gear up for their highly anticipated third extended play ‘Teenfresh’, scheduled for release on August 16. The group’s infectious melodies and captivating performances have solidified their place in the K-pop scene.

Adding to the excitement, on July 27, STAYC delighted fans with the announcement of their first world tour, aptly named ‘Teenfresh’. The world tour promises to bring the group’s energetic music and stage presence to an international audience, expanding their reach and leaving a mark on the global music landscape. STAYC’s journey is one marked by talent, ambition, and a commitment to connecting with fans around the world, making them an act to watch in the K-pop industry.

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GreatGuys ‘Record of Youth’ World Tour Cancelled Due To Visa Issues

GreatGuys’ highly anticipated “Record of Youth” world tour faced an abrupt cancellation due to unforeseen visa issues, which came as a major disappointment to fans and the group itself. The tour, organized by Florida-based event planner ONK Entertainment, was set to kick off on November 12, but this exciting journey was abruptly halted.

ONK Entertainment Issues Statement Regarding GreatGuys’ ‘Record of Youth’ World Tour Cancellation

As the members of GreatGuys arrived in the United States in preparation for their performance in Denver on November 12, they were confronted with the unfortunate revelation that ONK Entertainment had not processed the necessary visas for both the group and their staff. These essential documents were vital for them to legally perform in the United States, and the absence of these visas meant they were unable to enter U.S. territory.

Since then, ONK Entertainment issued a statement regarding the situation.

“Through this statement, we want to inform you that the GreatGuys ‘Record of Youth’ World Tour that was scheduled to happen from November 12th to November 19th of this year will be cancelled. Unfortunately, ONK Entertainment didn’t process and get the members and staff the right visas to perform, and for those reasons, they couldn’t enter the U.S. territory,” the statement read.

“We want to clarify that this is our full responsibility,” it continues. “Neither DNA Entertainment, GreatGuys, or K-Pop Kastle has nothing [sic] to do with this, and we will work directly with U.S. Customs Borders [sic] to resolve this problem.”

The statement further adds that, “the ONK staff is working right now on the full refunds for all the GRACE that bought tickets for this tour.”

The last-minute visa issues not only disrupted the plans for the “Record of Youth” world tour but also left fans disappointed. Moreover, it left the members of GreatGuys in a difficult situation. The unexpected turn of events serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges that can arise when organizing international tours for K-pop groups, underscoring the importance of thorough preparation and documentation.

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B.I.G’s Agency Denies Rumors Of Blocking Heedo From Using Instagram

GH Entertainment has issued a statement addressing the recent controversy involving Heedo. The agency clarified rumors alleging they had restricted the idol’s new Instagram account. The B.I.G member had launched the account shortly after announcing that his contract with the company had expired.

GH Entertainment Clarifies Restriction of Heedo’s New Instagram Account

On November 9, GH Entertainment issued a statement addressing speculations that they had restricted Heedo’s new Instagram account.

“It is completely untrue that we blocked Heedo from his personal social media account,” GH Entertainment said.

On October 31, Heedo announced on his Instagram account that his contract with the agency has ended. By the following week, the B.I.G. member launched a new account which was immediately made private.

GH Entertainment also clarified that Heedo’s contract is under negotiations.

“We are currently reviewing the legal possibility of extending Heedo’s contract period for the time during which Heedo’s group activities with B.I.G were halted due to his activities outside of the group. We will make another announcement when everything has been finalized,” the agency said in the statement.

B.I.G, also known as Boys In Groove, is a South Korean boy band that was formed by GH Entertainment in Seoul, South Korea. Their debut took place on July 9, 2014, marked by the release of their first digital single titled “Hello.”

Over the years, the group has undergone changes in its lineup. On September 30, 2019, Benji’s contract with GH Entertainment came to an end, and it was subsequently announced that he had departed from the group. Similarly, on March 31, 2021, Minpyo’s contract with GH Entertainment reached its conclusion, and he also decided not to renew, leading to his departure from the group.

The current composition of B.I.G features four members: J-Hoon, Gunmin, Heedo, and Jinseok. Despite the changes in their lineup over the years, the group continues to engage with their fans and create music, marking their presence in the K-pop industry.

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G-Dragon Will Take Legal Action Against Alleged Evidence Tampering Reports

G-Dragon is taking legal action against reports suggesting evidence tampering by removing his body hair in connection to alleged drug use.

Earlier, there were reports raising suspicion about G-Dragon concealing evidence related to potential drug use. He had been booked by the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency last month on charges of illegal drug use, which his lawyers subsequently denied. Recently, G-Dragon voluntarily cooperated with investigations at the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency’s Narcotics Unit and provided samples to the National Forensic Service for analysis.

G-Dragon Reacts to Alleged Evidence Tampering Reports

On November 10, media outlets reported that G-Dragon had shaved off all his body hair before visiting the police station. This raised suspicions that he may have done so to tamper with evidence, preventing his body hair from being tested for drugs. In response to these claims, G-Dragon’s lawyer, Kim Soo Hyun, released a statement refuting the allegations of evidence tampering and announced their intention to take legal action against false reports.

“There were reports today claiming G-Dragon shaved his body hair except the hair on his head before the police investigation and that police have raised suspicions of him attempting to tamper with evidence,” the statement read.

“The reports of him shaving his entire body is completely untrue,” it continued. “Furthermore, the court rejected this case due to a lack of evidence, and consequently, no search and seizure warrant related to hair has been issued. Despite this, Kwon Ji Yong believed that by swiftly revealing the truth he can eliminate speculation, and he voluntarily underwent police questioning and cooperated with the investigation by submitting not only urine and hair samples but also nails and toenails. Additionally, he even expressed his willingness to provide additional samples, including leg hair, beyond the head hair samples initially requested by the police.”

“In the future, we will take strong legal action against speculative reporting,” the statement added. “We request that the media engage in responsible and cautious reporting based on facts to prevent irreparable harm to G-Dragon, who is a prominent public figure.”

The legal action aims to address and clarify the situation regarding the allegations and to protect G-Dragon’s reputation amid the ongoing investigation.

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