Category: KPOP NEWS

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

SEVENTEEN’s S.coups to Sit Out Promotional Activities for ‘Seventeenth Heaven’

S.coups poses for a concept photo of 'SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN.' Credit: Facebook/SEVENTEEN

Amidst the excitement for the release of SEVENTEEN’s upcoming 11th mini-album SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN, concern sparked among the group’s fandom following a health update about injured leader S.coups. 

On Thursday, October 19, PLEDIS Entertainment announced that S.coups won’t be participating in the promotional activities for SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN given his health condition. 

In August, the rapper sustained a tear in his left anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) while filming for a show. Back then, the agency shared that the idol was immediately taken to the hospital for a comprehensive medical examination. 

S.coups’ current condition

According to PLEDIS Entertainment, S.Coups underwent anterior cruciate ligament and anterolateral ligament reconstruction surgery. 

Although it’s been two months since the successful surgery, the road to recovery remains a long and challenging one for S.coups. 

In their recent update, the label assured fans that the idol has been prioritizing his recovery and rehabilitation, undergoing the necessary treatments and physical therapy. 

However, PLEDIS Entertainment disclosed that the artist’s knee is still in a vulnerable state. Moreover, the SEVENTEEN member was also advised to avoid any physical taxing activities to ensure a full recovery. 

While S.coups had a strong desire to participate in the group’s activities, the agency decided to not let him go given his condition. 

Additionally, they asked for the fans’ understanding given that the decision was made in consultation with medical professionals. 

CARATs will wait for SEVENTEEN’s leader

Following the news, fans have taken to social media to express their love and understanding for the rapper’s situation. 

Meanwhile, S.coups also personally penned a message for CARATs on Weverse.

“I wanted to participate in activities as much as I could, but I’ll take a break for a while to focus on rehabilitation,” he told them. Furthermore, he also assured fans that he’ll focus on his recovery so he can show a healthier version of him as soon as possible. 

Since his injury, S.coups had been on hiatus and even missed the group’s Follow concert in Japan. 

As for SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN, it will be released on October 23 with “God of Music” as the title track.

Featured image: S.coups poses for a concept photo of ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN.’ Credit: Facebook/SEVENTEEN

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’ Jimin Gives GQ Korea a Glimpse Into His World

In a recent photoshoot for GQ Korea, BTS‘ Jimin struck a variety of poses in a picturesque garden. Days later, he sat down for an interview with a writer from the magazine, and the writer described the garden as having a “fairytale ambiance.” It had just rained at the time of their shoot, giving the garden and Jimin himself an ethereal aura.

Jimin agreed. “I was able to have a pleasant photoshoot wearing nice clothes with good people,” he reminisced. “Looking back on my experiences, I think the photos came out best when I expressed myself naturally. So, when I do a photoshoot, I try to relax my body a lot.” When asked what color best encapsulates how he felt that day, he responded, “If I were to express it in a color… I think of cherry blossom color.”

He shared his approach to life with the interviewer. “I think no one can set their own limits. There may be limits, but you can’t know where the limit is until you try,” he said. “That’s why I know how much courage and effort it takes to keep believing in oneself and creating. I think it’s amazing to decide something for yourself and move forward with your own power.” Clearly, Jimin values determination and self-belief.

Recording his debut solo album, FACE, was a journey of introspection and healing. When asked how he felt after releasing it, he said, “I was able to clearly recognize the emotional state I felt during the past times, which I couldn’t grasp. Because of those experiences, I think I won’t be afraid to stand up again when I feel like I’m about to fall.”

Jimin on loyalty, relationships, and more

The interviewer referenced a previous conversation with Jimin in which he mentioned an interest in abstract concepts like loyalty, relationships, and the meaning of the phrase “I love you.” They asked if Jimin had since gained clarity on these topics. He responded, “These are still difficult words for me. I think I’m still growing and going through the process of becoming an adult. That’s why my thoughts seem to change every day. Words like relationships, loyalty, and love sometimes feel meaningless, and sometimes they feel really warm even though I don’t fully understand them. I want to feel more and various emotions in the future.”

BTS‘ success on global platforms like the Billboard charts showcases the universal appeal of their music. Jimin believes that genuine emotions are the bridge that connects them to fans worldwide. He said, “We confessed these feelings honestly, and many people empathized with these emotions. So I think the heart reached before the language.”

Speaking of BTS, Jimin also touched upon the deep bond he shares with his members, attributing their closeness to all the time they’ve been together. He said, “We’ve been together for almost ten years… We’ve always been there for each other, and we’ve always been there for each other. I think that’s why we have this bond.”

As the interview drew to a close, Jimin‘s gratitude to everyone who supported him and his members was palpable. “Thank you for always supporting and loving us. We will continue to work hard and show you good performances. Please look forward to it,” he said. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jimin wears an off-white mock neck knit, beige silk twill short sleeve shirt, and brown cargo Bermuda pants, all from Dior Men. Source: GQ Korea.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

ITZY’s Lia Surprises MIDZYs With Unexpected Update Amidst Current Hiatus

It looks like Lia is truly taking time for herself in her hiatus. Luckily, the ITZY member just shared an unexpected update on social media and MIDZYs are loving how Choi Ji-su appears to be enjoying herself while taking the long-needed break!

ITZY Member Lia Gives MIDZYs an Unexpected Update

Back in September, JYP Entertainment issued a statement confirming that Lia “underwent consultation and examination as she is experiencing extreme tension and anxiety about carrying out her scheduled activities.” The agency stated that the ITZY member “received medical advice that she needs rest and treatment.” They further confirmed that “Lia will not participate in scheduled activities starting today and will take a break for the time being to focus on her treatment.”

Following the announcement of her hiatus, there was a period of silence where fans awaited updates on Lia’s condition. It was widely assumed that Lia was taking the much-needed time to rest and recuperate. However, a recent update from one of her friends has brought immense joy to the ITZY fandom. The update included a photo collage showing Lia enjoying a casual day out with two friends, exuding cheerfulness and embracing life to the fullest.

This heartwarming update has been met with a flood of positivity and support from fans on social media. Lia’s joyful and relaxed appearance in the images stands in contrast to the circumstances that led to her hiatus. Witnessing Lia partake in ordinary moments with friends has provided reassurance and happiness to MIDZYs concerning her well-being during this break.

Fans are now hopeful that Lia is making progress in her recovery and will soon be prepared to reunite with her fellow group members on stage. This recent update has injected a sense of optimism, assuring everyone that the ITZY star is using her break to rejuvenate and return even stronger.

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’ Jimin’s Support Spurs Brand to Give ARMY Freebies

On October 13, fans worldwide celebrated the birthday of BTS member Jimin. They displayed billboards in bustling areas and organized events. One such event took place in Seongsu-dong, South Korea. The brand Niccier contacted the organizers of the event and offered to send 100 perfumed hand creams to the event. Niccier gave fans free products because thanks to Jimin, they were able to overcome challenging times.

On March 24, Jimin released his highly anticipated first solo album FACE and debuted as a soloist on music shows, including KBS2’s Music Bank. Fans attended the pre-recording, and in return, the artist surprised them with gifts. He gave them two smartphone grips, one with a drawing by Jimin and another with dried flowers in resin. He also gave them pamphlets with heartfelt messages and Niccier hand cream gift sets. Each set cost 53,000 KRW (about 40.90 USD).

Niccier wasn’t doing well in terms of sales at that time. So when many fans posted pictures of the gifts they received, those who couldn’t get Niccier products at the music shows purchased them individually from the brand’s website, increasing their sales. This support helped the brand get back on their feet.

Why did Jimin choose Niccier?

Based on the information available on its website, Niccier emphasizes the importance of genuine values and self-worth. The brand encourages people to go beyond societal norms and expectations, urging them to discover and embrace their true selves. Niccier champions authenticity, resilience, and self-discovery. 

FACE captivated critics and fans with its emotional depth and musical versatility. The track “Set Me Free Pt. 2” reflects Jimin‘s journey of self-discovery and liberation. Its assertive lyrics about “freedom and moving forward” and the album’s overarching themes echo Niccier’s message. Both Jimin‘s music and Niccier’s brand ethos advocate for determination, passion, and overcoming adversity.

Given this thematic alignment, it’s plausible that Jimin selected Niccier products to gift his fans during the FACE promotions, as the brand’s values harmonize with the album’s messages. By opting for Niccier, Jimin may have aimed to provide his fans with products that are not just memorabilia but also embody the emotions and meanings of his music. This gesture reinforces FACE‘s themes and inspires fans to embrace their true selves, mirroring Jimin‘s own journey through his work. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jimin clearly put a lot of thought into those gifts. Source: GQ Korea.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

IU’s Agency Issues New Safety Measures To Protect Their Artists

EDAM Entertainment is taking extra safety measures to protect its artists. The agency, which is best known for representing IU, confirmed the new guidelines in an effort to safeguard artists from reckless fan behavior.

EDAM Entertainment Confirms Safety Measures to Protect IU

On October 17, EDAM Entertainment took significant steps to enhance the safety and privacy protection of their artists and guide fan conduct in order to foster a healthier fandom culture. The company issued a statement outlining the new safety measures via IU’s fan cafe.

The agency specifically banned fans from visiting places that are generally considered private and outside official schedules, such as the company premises, recording studios, rehearsal rooms, hair and makeup salons, and the artist’s residence. They stressed the importance of preserving and respecting the artist’s private life. Locations like airport immigration, security and baggage claim zones, and airport facilities such as duty-free shops and lounges were also designated as off-limits.

EDAM discouraged random live broadcasting and filming during an artist’s travels, citing the inconvenience it causes to staff and the breach of the artist’s privacy. They also cautioned against encroaching on an artist’s personal space by approaching too closely, repeatedly attempting to make contact, initiate conversation, or establish physical contact. These actions were labeled as unacceptable, and the guidelines also extended to the artist’s family, friends, and acquaintances.

Respecting Artists’ Private Lives

Regarding private schedules that are not disclosed to fans, the agency requested understanding, explaining that such unannounced events are intended to minimize external exposure at the organizer’s request and ensure business security. They emphasized the importance of following instructions from on-site staff and security personnel during official offline activities.

The guidelines outlined the strict prohibition of non-compliance, unauthorized access to restricted areas (e.g., backstage rooms, parking lots), verbal disputes with other fans, verbal abuse of staff, and instances of assault. Additionally, the impersonation of artists for fan activities, unauthorized photography or recording, the purchase and sale of the artist’s personal information, and the trading of travel information while an artist is on the move were considered illegal.

EDAM Entertainment issued a warning that fans who failed to adhere to these guidelines might have their membership and associated benefits in the official fan club terminated. In severe cases, where it is determined that a crime has been committed, legal actions, including civil and criminal proceedings, may be initiated. These measures reflect the agency’s commitment to ensuring the well-being and privacy of their artists while promoting a positive and respectful fandom culture.

IU generally has a polite fandom but the idol has been subjected to unruly fan behavior. EDAM previously addressed the idol’s safety after she reportedly received death threats.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

SM Entertainment Addresses EXO D.O. Signing With New Agency

It’s official: D.O. is leaving SM Entertainment. Several reports suggested that the EXO member will be leaving the company to join a new agency with a longtime friend. Now, SM Entertainment has addressed the news to assure fans about the idol’s future.

According to several reports, D.O. is currently extending his activities by joining a new agency, which was founded by a long-time management director who has been with him since his debut. Notably, D.O. and the management director share a close bond well-known among EXO fans. Do Kyungsoo reportedly mentioned the manager in various award acceptance speeches and interviews, and consults with the manager regarding his career decisions.

Despite the reported move to a new agency, it is anticipated that D.O. will maintain his role as an EXO member while pursuing new opportunities within the framework of the new company.

SM Entertainment Confirms EXO D.O.’s New Agency

Since then, SM Entertainment has addressed the report, confirming D.O.’s status in a statement.

“D.O.’s exclusive contract with us will expire in early November,” the statement read. “Following thorough discussions with D.O., it has been decided that he will continue his EXO activities with SM, but will proceed with his acting and individual activities through the newly established agency founded by his and SM’s former manager.”

The news of D.O.’s departure comes shortly after it was reported that EXO members Chanyeol and Sehun will sign with a new agency. SM Entertainment refuted the reports but also indicated that the members can pursue individual activities with other companies.

“It is not true that Chanyeol and Sehun have moved to a new agency,” the statement read. “The contracts that EXO members signed with SM Entertainment at the end of last year remain valid, and EXO activities will continue to proceed under SM Entertainment.”

SM Entertainment continued, “However, in regards to the members’ individual activities, we have conditionally allowed them to proceed through their own established companies if they wish, within the terms of their existing exclusive contracts with SM.”

EXO released their seventh studio album ‘EXIST’ on July 10, 2023.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

ATEEZ Wins Best Concert Award at 10th Edaily Culture Awards

On October 16, Hongjoong, Jongho, Mingi, San, Seonghwa, Wooyoung, Yeosang, and Yunho clinched the Best Concert Award at the esteemed Edaily Digital Awards. This accolade was in recognition of the ATEEZ concert tour, THE FELLOWSHIP: BREAK THE WALL, further cementing their stature in the K-pop scene.

ATEEZ‘s victory is particularly commendable as they didn’t originate from one of the “Big Four” K-pop companies: HYBE, JYP, SM, or YG. Instead, they come from KQ Entertainment. Their win distinguished them as the first fourth-generation group that took home the Best Concert Award for a global tour. This notable accomplishment received extensive coverage in local media, further highlighting the group’s success.

The Best Concert Award at the Edaily Culture Awards boasts a distinguished legacy of winners. EXO took the honor in 2016, Wanna One in 2017, BTS in 2018, TVXQ! in 2019, and TWICE in 2020. SEVENTEEN clinched the award in 2022 with their ‘BE THE SUN’ world tour. ATEEZ is the newest addition to this illustrious list.

THE FELLOWSHIP : BREAK THE WALL WORLD TOUR IN SEOUL

The ATEEZ concert earned high marks

In the K-pop industry, such awards often pave the way for the coveted daesang, or grand prize. ATEEZ‘s win in the Best Concert category positioned them as contenders for it. This award is a prestigious honor in K-pop, with only one winner chosen from each of six categories. They are as follows: Classic, Concert, Dance, Musical, Play, and Traditional Music. The daesang winner will be announced during the ceremony on November 10, heightening the anticipation among ATINY worldwide.

A panel chose the Best Concert winner, taking into account factors like “the global ripple effect” and ticket sales. They also considered craftsmanship, growth prospects, and innovation. The panel said: “ATEEZ, a team that achieved the miracle of small and medium-sized agencies, is a group with a significant contribution to the development of the K-pop market and has a vast global influence. The tour, which showcased the power of K-pop with outstanding performances and spectacular direction, was successfully concluded, and for that, they were given high marks.”

D-DAY MAKING FILM OF BREAK THE WALL WORLD TOUR IN SEOUL

Immense pride and joy

This recognition sparked immense pride and joy among ATINY, celebrating ATEEZ‘s journey from modest beginnings to a dominant force in K-pop. Adding to the celebration was the return of member Jongho, who missed some shows on the tour due to an injury.

The ATEEZ concert award solidifies their position as a leading fourth-generation group. With the awards ceremony coming in November, the boys are hoping to add a daesang to their accomplishments. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The winning ATEEZ concert tour began in Seoul, South Korea on October 29, 2022 and ended in Manila, Philippines on September 16, 2023. Source: X/@1024updates.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

OMEGA X Confirms 1st Comeback After Leaving SPIRE Entertainment

OMEGA X shares new profile photo. Credit: Twitter/OMEGA X

K-pop boy group OMEGA X is ready to start anew as they confirmed that they’ll be making a comeback with iykyk. 

On Wednesday, October 18, the group announced that they’re releasing their third mini-album iykyk on November 7. Other details such as the number of songs and name of the title track have yet to be announced. 

Following the news, fans of the group couldn’t help but rejoice as it served as OMEGA X’s first return following their controversial legal battle with former agency SPIRE Entertainment. 

A rundown of OMEGA X’s fallout with SPIRE Entertainment 

Composed of Jaehan, Hwichan, Sebin, Hangyeom, Taedong, Xen, Jehyun, Kevin, Jung-hoon, Hyuk and Yechan, OMEGA X debuted in June 2021 with the mini-album VAMOS. Prior to being part of the project group, some of their members participated in survival shows such as Under 19, The Unit, and Produce 101 season 2. 

In October 2022, speculations that the group is being mistreated by their agency Spire Entertainment started. Several witnesses shared on social media that they saw the OMEGA X members being berated and assaulted in public during the group’s CONNECT: Don’t Give Up world tour. Some reports also claimed that the members weren’t given tickets for their flight back to South Korea when the mistreatment allegations started gaining traction on social media. 

Such events led the group to hold a press conference in November to announce the termination of their contract with SPIRE Entertainment. During the press conference, the members detailed the physical, verbal, and sexual abuses that they went through under the hands of their agency. 

In January 2023, the group was granted an injunction suspending the validity of their contracts with SPIRE Entertainment. 

In May 2023, OMEGA X announced that they reached an “amicable and mutual agreement” with their former agency. Hence, both parties have decided to end all of their disputes. 

OMEGA X forges on

Throughout this ordeal, the members of OMEGA X have expressed their desire to continue their dreams of being an idol. Despite the tough circumstances, they kept assuring their fans that this won’t be the end of their group. 

Amidst their legal battle, the group managed to release a new digital single titled “Dream” in April. In June, they also held a mini fan meeting for their debut anniversary. Moreover, the members also actively appeared in radio programs, web dramas, music shows, and television broadcasts. 

 

In July, OMEGA X announced that they signed with a new agency, IPQ. 

Featured image: OMEGA X shares new profile photo. Credit: Twitter/OMEGA X

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’ Jungkook to Perform at 2023 MTV EMAs in Paris

BTS shares behind-the-scene photo from Jungkook's filming of '3D.' Credit: Facebook/BTS

Attention ARMYs! Jungkook of K-pop boy group BTS is set to make his debut as a solo performer at the 2023 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs) in Paris. 

On Wednesday, October 18, MTV EMAs unveiled its list of performers. The awarding ceremony is set for November 5. 

Aside from Jungkook, other confirmed performers include Anne Marie, and Sabrina Carpenter. Meanwhile, The Kid Laroi, David Guetta, and Thirty Second to Mars are also confirmed to take the stage.

For the 2023 MTV EMAs, Jungkook is nominated in three categories: Best Song for “Seven,” Best K-pop and Biggest Fans. Which makes him the most nominated K-pop soloist for the awarding ceremony. 

As of writing, the BTS member is the only confirmed K-pop act that will perform in the ceremony. 

Although there’s no other details about Jungkook’s performance yet, fans are already getting hyped up on the possible numbers he’ll prepare for the show. Especially since the awarding ceremony will come days after the official release of Jungkook’s solo debut album Golden. 

Since “Seven” is already nominated, ARMYs are expecting that it will be part of his list. But there’s also a huge chance that Jungkook will perform some of his solo tracks for the first time in MTV EMAs. Some eagle-eyed fans are even hypothesizing that Jungkook and The Kid Laroi will share the stage for MTV EMAs as the two have recently announced that they’re collaborating. 

Notably, the K-pop star collaborated with several big names from Hollywood for his 11-track album. Among those who have songwriting and producing credits in some of the songs for Golden are Ed Sheeran, Shawn Mendes, David Stewart, DJ Snake, and Major Lazer. 

More about MTV EMAs

Apart from Jungkook, there are also several K-pop acts nominated for the 2023 MTV EMAs. 

Among the nominees are his fellow HYBE groups TOMORROW X TOGETHER, SEVENTEEN, and NewJeans. Also nominated are groups BLACKPINK, FIFTY FIFTY, Stray Kids, and TREASURE. 

Fans can vote for their favorite acts on the MTV EMAs official website until October 31, 11:59 pm. 

Featured image: BTS shares behind-the-scene photo from Jungkook’s filming of ‘3D.’ Credit: Facebook/BTS

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

ARMY Celebrates as BTS’ Jin Makes Instagram Comeback

BTS member Kim Seokjin—who also goes by his stage name, Jin—made headlines on October 14 after sharing a series of photos on his personal Instagram account. This comes after his last public appearance during SUGA’s concert in Seoul on August 6. Jin’s latest posts, some of which were taken at the MapleStory pop-up store in Gangnam, left ARMY overwhelmed with emotion.

Eagle-eyed fans deduced that the photos were from Jin’s recent vacation when he was on leave from the military. In the photos, Jin is sporting a brown jacket, a cap, jeans, and a white tee. One of the photos features him posing with a jar of traditional wine, suggesting he might have tried his hand at brewing. The label on the jar reads “Seokjinnie’s honey jar.” In other snaps, he’s enjoying himself at the MapleStory pop-up, dubbed MapleStory World Tour.

The MapleStory pop-up was held at the Hyundai Seoul department store from October 5 to 15. It was designed to resemble the game’s villages and transported visitors into the world of MapleStory. It also showcased over 250 MapleStory-themed products. In one of the photos he posted, Jin is bowing to a MapleStory character. In others, he’s exploring the pop-up and showing off game merchandise.

@ipurpleyou_afbf

Seokjin Instagram update [101423]💜 Seokjin oppa came home today! 🥰 He visited Maple Store during his vacation yesterday and posted these photos 🤗😍 ” Jinnie oppa is on vacation that’s why he was able to give his gift to Jimin”🥹🥰 #SeokjinKim #Jin #Bts_Jin #Jinnie #kimseokjin #bts #WWHJin #seokjinnie #seokjinbts #Borahae #fyp #fypシ゚viral #foryou #fyp #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp

♬ epiphany jin demo ver – ☁️

Kim Seokjin penned a heartfelt message

The ARMY, always attentive, noticed a playful exchange between Jin and fellow BTS member j-hope. The latter commented on one of Jin‘s posts, saying, “Ahjussi, upload it as one feed. How many are you going to post?” Jin humorously replied, “I don’t have that many pictures so I have to make it seem like I have a lot.”

Aside from his Instagram posts, a pre-recorded video for his fans was uploaded to Weverse. He penned a short yet heartfelt message to go with the clip. “Weather where autumn rain has started to fall and become a lot more chilly. ARMY, please be careful not to catch a cold and be healthy,” wrote Jin.

The BTS fandom became emotional when Jin returned to Instagram because they missed him. He had enlisted in the military shortly after releasing “The Astronaut” in December 2022. The song, a collaboration with British band Coldplay, recently surpassed 262M streams. As of today, October 18, it gained an additional 722,583 streams in the last 24 hours. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Kim Seokjin returned to Instagram and Weverse, cheering up the fans who miss him dearly. Source: Instagram/@jin.

Exit mobile version