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ZEROBASEONE’s Official Lightstick Design Wins Fans’ Hearts

Lightstick

Rookie boy group ZEROBASEONE made waves in the K-pop community with the release of their much-anticipated lightstick. The group teased fans with a digital mockup of the design on October 13, showcasing the lightstick amidst a bed of flowers, evoking memories of their debut song “In Bloom.”

ZEROBASEONE (제로베이스원) OFFICIAL LIGHT STICK TEASER

Diverging from the traditional stick format that most groups adopt, ZEROBASEONE‘s lightstick boasts a distinctive design. Shaped like a ring, it shares similarities with only one other K-pop group’s lightstick: ITZY‘s. However, ZEROBASEONE has enhanced this design by incorporating a rose pattern at the top, giving their lightstick the appearance of an actual wearable ring. At the ring’s center is an interchangeable, customizable emoji face. Additionally, the lightstick’s petals emit a captivating blue glow, further enhancing its appeal.

The lightstick’s aesthetically pleasing and innovative design has garnered widespread admiration. ZEROSE have said it’s much better than the temporary lightstick used during the group’s fan-con. That one was rather simplistic, featuring an acrylic sign of the group’s name atop a plain white stick. The official lightstick was made available for purchase on October 16 at 3:00 PM KST, and pre-orders were quickly snapped up by eager fans.

What’s in a lightstick?

Lightsticks are more than just accessories. They’re symbols of fandom identity, and every K-pop group aims to design one that truly connects with its fans. These lightsticks amp up the concert experience, with fans coming together to create a mesmerizing ocean of lights that move in sync.

Today’s lightsticks come packed with features like Bluetooth, adding an interactive layer to the concert experience and deepening the bond between fans and performers. They’re not just tools for cheering; they’re cultural symbols that capture shared moments between idols and fans. And with unique designs, they often become sought-after collectibles. For K-pop idols on stage, seeing this sea of lights is a powerful reminder of their fanbase’s love and dedication. This sight often sparks deep emotions.

In this context, ZEROBASEONE‘s official lightstick truly shines. It reflects their understanding of fan culture and their drive to bring something fresh to the table. The unique ring design, paired with customizable features and a striking blue glow, sets them apart in the bustling K-pop world. As ZEROBASEONE continues to rise, this lightstick is sure to be a treasured symbol of their journey and the steadfast love of their fans. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The members have said they can’t wait to see ZEROSE toting this lightstick at their shows. Source: YouTube/@ZB1_official.

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ZEROBASEONE Achieves Double Million-Seller Status with Debut Album

Rookie group ZEROBASEONE has taken the music scene by storm with their record-breaking debut album. As of September 30, their album YOUTH IN THE SHADE has sold an impressive 2,034,594 copies since its release in July. This monumental feat positions them as the first K-pop group to sell over 2 million copies of a debut album.

They’ve also earned a spot on the elite list of artists acknowledged by Circle Chart for selling more than 2 million copies of a single album. Fans have even more to anticipate, as ZEROBASEONE is set to make a comeback with their second mini-album, MELTING POINT, on November 6.

Previously, ZEROBASEONE had already made waves by becoming the first K-pop group to sell over a million copies of their debut album in a single day, as reported by Hanteo Chart. On July 4, the group surpassed 1.08 million stock pre-orders for YOUTH IN THE SHADE. In doing so, they broke a record set by SECHSKIES in 1997, becoming the first K-pop group to record one million pre-orders for a debut album in over two decades. They achieved this feat 13 days after pre-orders began and five days before their official debut.

Congratulations, ZEROBASEONE!

The group’s soaring popularity during their pre-order phase led many to predict they would cross a million sales with their debut album. This prediction came true on July 10 when the album’s sales hit the one million mark in just nine hours on the Hanteo charts. By the end of their debut day, sales had reached 1.2 million.

ZEROBASEONE was formed on Mnet’s Boys Planet, a successor to Girls Planet 999. Although Boys Planet came after Girls Planet 999, it still garnered significant attention. The presence of popular contestants like Kim Jiwoong, known for being an OTT actor, and Chinese music prodigy Zhang Hao helped. Both made it to the final lineup of ZEROBASEONE.

Mnet unveiled the final lineup on April 20 during the Boys Planet finale. It included Sung Hanbin, Seok Matthew, Ricky, Park Gunwook, Kim Taerae, Kim Gyuvin, and Han Yujin. These talented boys went on to break one record after another. Congrats, ZEROBASEONE! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: If any group deserves the ‘monster rookie’ title, it’s this one! Source: X/@GLOBALBASEONE.

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Look: EXO’s Chanyeol Drops Teaser for ‘Good Enough’

EXO releases the first teaser of Chanyeol's digital single 'Good Enough.' Credit: Twitter/EXO

The long wait is almost over, EXO-Ls! Chanyeol of K-pop group EXO has been confirmed to return with new solo music. 

On Monday, October 16, SM Entertainment announced that the rapper will be releasing the digital single “Good Enough” on October 20. 

In the first teaser released, Chanyeol is seen playing a Jenga game. But the overall aesthetic of the teaser appears to be more retro-themed. 

According to a Naver report, “Good Enough” is a synth-pop song with a rhythmic synthesizer line. It reportedly aims to give fans a sense of comfort as it will tackle the challenges everyone faces to achieve their dreams. 

Moreover, Chanyeol wrote the lyrics for “Good Enough.”

Following the news, fans have expressed their excitement for it as “Good Enough” will serve as Chanyeol’s first solo offering in two years and a half. He last released the single “Tomorrow” through SM STATION in April 2021.

Since then, he enlisted in the military and finished his service in September 2022. 

Look back on the career of Chanyeol 

Chanyeol made his debut as a member of EXO under SM Entertainment in 2012. In July, the group released their seventh full-length album EXIST in July. It served as EXO’s first album as a full-group in two years.

Together with member Sehun, Chanyeol formed the sub-unit EXO-SC in 2019. The duo is known for songs “What a Life,” “1 Billion Views,” and “Rodeo Station.” 

As a solo artist, he released his first single “Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter (SSFW)” in 2019. 

Outside of EXO, Chanyeol has also participated in various collaborations and singing of K-drama OSTs. For instance, he collaborated with Super Junior’s Yesung for “Confession,” Heize for “Don’t Make Me Money,” and Junggigo for “Let Me Love You.” 

In terms of OSTs, he recorded “Stay with Me” with Punch for the drama Goblin and “Go Away Go Away” with Punch again for Dr. Romantic 2. 

Given his wide range of releases, fans of Chanyeol are looking forward to his upcoming new music.

Featured image: EXO releases the first teaser of Chanyeol’s digital single ‘Good Enough.’ Credit: Twitter/EXO

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WayV to Release ‘On My Youth’ in November

WayV releases the digital single 'Welcome to my Paradise.' Credit: Facebook/WayV

Mark your calendars, Weyshennies! WayV, NCT’s China-based unit, is about to make their first comeback in almost 11 months. 

On Monday, October 16, SM Entertainment announced that the group is gearing up for their second full length-album On My Youth. 

According to a Naver report, the album will have a total of 10 songs of various genres. Its title track will have the same title as the album. 

Notably, all tracks will be released on digital platforms on November 1. But the physical album will only be available starting November 8. 

To note, On My Youth will serve as the group’s first album since their fourth EP Phantom came out in December 2022. 

Moreover, this will also mark WayV’s first comeback since member Lucas officially confirmed his exit from the group in May.

According to SM Entertainment, Lucas parted ways with NCT and WayV to pursue his individual endeavors. To recall, Lucas had been on hiatus since August 2021 after he was embroiled in cheating and gaslighting controversies. Following the news, he penned a letter to fans, saying that he was sorry to the members. 

With this, WayV has continued activities with the remaining six members: Kun, Hendery, Yangyang, Xiaojun, Ten, and Winwin. 

Also in May, the group released the digital single “Welcome to My Paradise.” 

2023 for WayV

In line with the release of their fourth EP, WayV also held their fan meeting tour Phantom. Between February to August, the group staged shows across several stops in Asia and Europe. 

In August, WayV also participated in the full group comeback of NCT. Aside from the release of their album Golden Age, the SM Entertainment act also held their first concert as a full group titled NCT Nation: To the World. 

WayV debuted in January 2019. The group is known for songs “Kick Back,” “Love Talk,” “Turn Back Time,” and “Miracle.” 

Featured image: WayV releases the digital single ‘Welcome to my Paradise.’ Credit: Facebook/WayV

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BLINKS Celebrate as BLACKPINK’s ‘Born Pink’ Tour Sets New Record

BLACKPINK recently made history when their ‘Born Pink’ World Tour became the highest-grossing K-pop tour ever. This achievement positions them as the first and only Asian act to hold this record. The data, encompassing net profit, seat occupancy, and ticket sales across global venues, showcases remarkable figures.

@kmlsoo27

BLACKPINK’s ‘BORN PINK WORLD TOUR’ is officially the highest-grossing tour by an Asian act in HISTORY, with a reported $260,597,475 earned from 56/68 shows and counting. #blackpink #bornpinkworldtour #blackpinkinyourarea #fyp

♬ How You Like That – BLACKPINK

TouringData, an independent platform that reports on concert grosses and live entertainment information, confirmed that ‘Born Pink’ amassed over 260.6 million USD in profits. The tour reportedly sold 1,485,245 tickets, with an average revenue of 4,653,526 USD per show and an average ticket price of 175.46 USD. These figures are based on 56 of the recorded 66 concerts from the tour.

The North American leg of the ‘Born Pink’ World Tour generated 51,280,096 USD from 14 shows. In Europe, the group earned 24,878,954 USD from 10 shows. In the Asia sub-continent, the girls made a staggering 164,460,142 USD from all 30 shows. Two shows in Latin America contributed 19,978,283 USD. 

The BLACKPINK members’ monumental success

Once their last ten shows—including some of their biggest encore shows—are taken into account, their total earnings might well exceed 300 million USD. This would make the ‘Born Pink’ World Tour one of the most successful tours by any female musical artist ever. BLINKs expressed their joy on social media, celebrating BLACKPINK‘s monumental success.

https://www.tiktok.com/@sir_ge/video/7289789560635149574?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=6908322787502065153

According to a YG Entertainment report on September 20, the ‘Born Pink’ World Tour attracted 1.8 million spectators across 66 shows in 34 global locations. Including the Coachella and Hyde Park concert attendance, the total audience count rises to 2.11 million. The tour kicked off in Seoul in October 2022, drawing 55,000 attendees. It then attracted 540,000 fans in North America, 55,000 in Australia, and 215,000 in Europe. Notably, 900,000 attendees came from Asia alone.

In related news, each BLACKPINK member, namely Jennie, Jisoo, Lisa, and Rosé, recently achieved a total of 10 million Spotify listeners per month through their solo releases. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Wow! The ‘Born Pink’ World Tour broke yet another record. Source: X/@BLACKPINKSTATS5.

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Look: ENHYPEN to Return With ‘Orange Blood’

ENHYPEN shares a behind-the-scene photo from a magazine shoot. Credit: Facebook/ENHYPEN

Save the date, ENGENEs! K-pop boy group ENHYPEN is set to make their highly-anticipated comeback on November 17 with the release of Orange Blood. 

On Monday, October 16, agency BELIFT LAB confirmed that the septet is gearing up for their new extended play. This will serve as ENHYPEN’s return in just five months. 

In line with the announcement, HYBE LABELS also posted a 25-second logo trailer for Orange Blood. To note, HYBE acquired the full rights of BELIFT LAB in August. 

As for the logo trailer, it opens with a scene of a solar eclipse. Then, the phrase “You and I are connected through blood” flashed on the screen. Next, a montage of scenic videos appeared before the “Orange Blood” logo appeared. 

Additionally, ENHYPEN has also released the promotional schedule for Bad Blood. According to the calendar, the group will release a mood film on top of the usual concept trailers, photos, previews, and track list. Moreover, there will also be an activity called “Orange Blood EN-Connect” night set for November 18. Although details about it weren’t provided. 

As of writing, additional details about Orange Blood, such as the number of songs and its title track, have yet to be announced. 

Notably, Orange Blood will serve as a follow-up to the group’s EP Dark Blood. Released in May, the album carried the hit song “Bite Me” for its title track. 

Furthermore, Dark Blood set several personal records for the group. For instance, it’s the first album of the group to sell 1.1 million copies on the first day of its release. On top of that, it also recorded 1.32 million copies for its first tracking week. 

2023 highlights for ENHYPEN aside from ‘Orange Blood’ 

On top of their achievements with their music releases, 2023 is also shaping to be an impressive year for ENHYPEN on other aspects about their career. And what makes these milestones more memorable is that the group achieved them in less than three years into their debut. 

One of which is their recent 10th gold disk certification in Japan. According to the Japan Record Association, the group’s third Japanese single, “結-YOU-,” was certified Double Platinum.

Moreover, ENHYPEN is also making waves in the fashion industry. 

In June 2023, the “Drunk-Dazed” singers became brand ambassadors for the fashion luxury brand Prada. Then, the group also became ambassadors for the Seoul Fashion Week. 

In line with being brand ambassadors for Prada, ENHYPEN also appeared at the Milan Fashion Week. There, the group reportedly generated a 7 million USD in Media Impact Value.

Currently, ENHYPEN is also embarking on their second world concert tour, FATE. 

Featured image: ENHYPEN shares a behind-the-scene photo from a magazine shoot. Credit: Facebook/ENHYPEN

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LE SSERAFIM Stuns in Concept Photos for ‘Perfect Night’

LE SSERAFIM to return with 'Perfect Night.' Credit: Twitter/SOURCE Music

K-pop girl group LE SSERAFIM is returning with new music titled “Perfect Night.”

Source Music announced that “Perfect Night” will serve as the group’s first English-language single. 

Previously, the quintet’s only all-English track was the hit song “Eve, Psyche & The Bluebeard’s Wife.”

Despite being a B-track from the group’s Unforgiven album, it easily became a fan-favorite. Not only did LE SSERAFIM have to release a full English version of it, but it also spawned remixes with international stars such as Rina Sawayama, Upsahi, BIBI, Mirani, Camo, and Demi Lovato. 

While its success might be hard to follow through, LE SSERAFIM appears to be ready to take on the challenge. And their fans are already anticipating the upcoming single as it’s the group’s first release in five months. 

What we know about ‘Perfect Night’

In a press release, Source Music announced that ‘Perfect Night’ will “send an energetic message that even a not-so-perfect day can be fun when you spend it with your crew.”

Prior to the confirmation of the single, LE SSERAFIM also released a cryptic teaser for the track. There, a pink convertible is seen speeding along a race track. Then, the phrase “Tonight, I don’t care what’s wrong or right” appeared onscreen. 

On Monday, October 15, the “ANTI-FRAGILE” singers released the first set of individual and group photos for ‘Perfect Night.’ 

Similar to the vibes of the video teaser, the LE SSERAFIM members mixed sporty and futuristic themes in the photos. Overall, the pictures followed a neon pink, blue, and silver scheme. 

 

Meanwhile, track samplers and music video teasers will be available to the fans before the track’s official release on October 27. 

‘Perfect Night’ comes after LE SSERAFIM was supposed to wrap up their first concert tour FLAME RISES. However, their Bangkok show had to be canceled as three members were diagnosed with Type A influenza. 

In other news, LE SSERAFIM was also recently chosen as brand ambassadors for the fashion luxury house Louis Vuitton. Interestingly, they’re the first K-pop girl group to be tapped as a full act by the brand.  

Featured image: LE SSERAFIM to return with ‘Perfect Night.’ Credit: Twitter/SOURCE Music

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FSS Seeks Arrest Warrants for Kakao Staff Amid SM Stock Probe

The Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) has taken a significant step in the ongoing investigation into the alleged stock price manipulation of SM Entertainment. Arrest warrants have been requested for three key employees of Kakao and its subsidiary, Kakao Entertainment.

The Capital Market Special Judicial Police, a division of the FSS, announced their intention to seek the arrest of three individuals, including Bae Jae-hyun, the head of Kakao’s investment division. This action is based on charges related to violations of the Capital Market Act, specifically allegations of stock price manipulation. The Seoul Southern District Prosecutors’ Office also requested warrants for Bae Jae-hyun and the heads of investment strategy of Kakao and Kakao Entertainment.

Historically, arrest warrants in such cases indicate a belief that the suspect might be a danger to the community or a potential flight risk. A notable instance from the past is the 2002 case of Lee Soo-man, who fled South Korea after accusations of embezzlement and tax evasion. The president pardoned him in 2007 after finding him guilty.

The Kakao execs’ representatives respond

The crux of the current investigation revolves around suspicions that these individuals spent a staggering 240 billion KRW to inflate SM Entertainment’s stock prices artificially. This purported manipulation aimed to surpass the public purchase price offered by HYBE, a rival in the bid for SM Entertainment’s management rights. The Special Judicial Police also highlighted that the suspects failed to report their significant stock holdings in SM Entertainment.

The accused’s legal representatives countered these allegations. They stated, “The stock purchases were legitimate efforts to secure a stake in SM Entertainment during the competitive bid against HYBE. There was no manipulation of stock prices.” They also expressed regret over the arrest warrant requests, emphasizing that no harm was done to any stakeholders, including minor shareholders of both HYBE and SM Entertainment. They vowed to clarify all charges in court.

Earlier this year, a dispute arose between HYBE and Kakao over the acquisition of SM Entertainment. HYBE had raised concerns about irregular purchasing activities and sought an investigation from the FSS. While Kakao eventually emerged as SM’s largest shareholder, suspicions of stock price manipulation and other legal violations persisted, leading to the ongoing investigation. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The FSS is on the warpath against Kakao. Source: The Korea Times.

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STRAY KIDS’ Lee Know and Han Release New Duet ‘Want So BAD’

STRAY KIDS’ Lee Know and Han have teamed up to deliver a fresh and exciting track to their fans. The new duet showcases the members’ unique talents. In addition to that, the song affirms the awesome friendship between the duo!

Lee Know and Han of STRAY KIDS Drops New Duet ‘Want So BAD’

Released on October 15 at midnight KST, Lee Know and Han’s new song titled “Want so BAD” is now available for listeners to enjoy. One of the most noteworthy aspects of this release is that Han played a significant role in creating the song. He collaborated with producer chAN to compose the track, and he also wrote all of the song’s lyrics. This showcases his multifaceted talents as a musician and lyricist.

“Want so BAD” is part of STRAY KIDS’ ongoing SKZ-RECORD series, a platform where the group shares original songs and covers that may not be included in their official albums or singles. These releases provide fans with a more intimate look into the members’ creative processes and allow them to experiment with various styles and genres beyond their typical discography.

Stray Kids’ Lee Know and Han have undoubtedly brought their unique energy and talents to “Want so BAD,” creating an exciting addition to the SKZ-RECORD series that fans are sure to appreciate. The track offers a fresh perspective on their musical artistry and strengthens their connection with their audience.

In the meantime, STRAY KIDs is set for a comeback in November. The idol group recently released a cinematic prologue video to announce their comeback with the upcoming mini-album ‘ROCK-STAR’.

In the video, members Felix and Bang Chan narrated the story of a young boy dreaming before going on stage. After the striking plot, Felix’s voice offered a soothing presence while Bang Chan showed a manic delivery of lines.

STRAY KIDS’ next album ‘ROCK-STAR’ is currently scheduled for release on November 10, 2023.

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SEVENTEEN’s Hoshi Gets Flustered When Asked About Girlfriend

Hoshi might be a senior idol, but the SEVENTEEN member still gets flustered by questions about his love life. In an upcoming appearance on a variety show, Kwon Soon-young was asked if he has ever had a girlfriend and his response was hilariously endearing.

SEVENTEEN Member Hoshi Quickly Dispels Girlfriend Question

Despite their years in the industry, SEVENTEEN can still be flustered when asked about dating. In a recent teaser for the popular variety show “Running Man”, Hoshi was caught off guard by a question about dating, leading to an amusing moment that entertained fans.

“Have you ever had a girlfriend like that?” the host asked. In response, Hoshi said, “Never—I don’t know.”

This cautious response from Hoshi is often seen as an effort to maintain their idol image and not disclose personal details about their dating life. It’s not uncommon for K-Pop idols to keep their dating lives private, as this can impact their fan base. Fans often admire and support their idols, and the prospect of them dating can also create mixed emotions among fans.

Hoshi’s flustered reaction in the teaser is in contrast with soloist Jeon So Mi, who was also asked about her love life during a live broadcast. The “Dumb Dumb” singer had a witty and quick response, claiming she wouldn’t be eating undercooked pasta if she was busy dating.

For K-Pop idols, balancing their personal lives and their public image can be a delicate matter, and they often receive guidance on how to handle personal questions in interviews and variety shows. These moments of hesitation and humor also endear the idols to their fans, as they see their favorite artists navigate the challenges of fame with grace and professionalism.

Hoshi’s “Running Man” episode is set to air on October 22, 2023. In the meantime, SEVENTEEN is also preparing for their latest comeback with the mini-album ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN’ on October 23, 2023.

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