Category: KPOP NEWS

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Here Are the K-Pop Acts Who Won at the 2023 Billboard Music Awards

NewJeans is named Top Global K-pop Artist. Credit: Twitter/Billboard

The 2023 Billboard Music Awards announced its winners on Sunday, November 19. For this year’s edition, the prestigious music award-giving body witnessed the inclusion of four new K-pop categories: Top Global K-Pop Artist, Top K-Pop Album, Top Global K-Pop Song, and Top K-Pop Touring Artist. 

Notably, the Billboard Music Awards determines victors based on performance metrics from the year-end Billboard charts, with the tracking period for this year extending from November 4, 2022, to October 12, 2023.

Apart from the announcement of winners, K-pop fans were also treated to performances of groups NewJeans and Stray Kids. During the award night, NewJeans showcased their hit songs “Super Shy” and “OMG.” Meanwhile, Stray Kids debuted their latest title track “LALALA.” 

 

Billboard Music Awards 2023 Winners

One of the winners is rookie group NewJeans, who secured the title of Top Global K-pop artist. In their acceptance speech, Hanni expressed her gratitude to fans.

 “To have been nominated in this category alongside such incredible artists that we all look up to is an honor in itself,” Hanni said. Meanwhile, Minji added: “This award will be a reminder to us for all the love and support we’ve received from our fans, BUNNIES. We’ll try our hardest every day to make it up to our fans.” 

On top of that, Hyein also gave a shout out to her fellow NewJeans members. “We’re always looking out for one another – inspiring, helping, believing. But above all, forming this unbreakable friendship.” 

Another winner is Stray Kids, who claimed the Top K-pop Album award for 5-STAR. During their speech, leader Bang Chan was quick to acknowledge their fans, STAYS. “Without the love and support from everyone, we would probably not have made it this far,” he said. Meanwhile, Changbin, speaking in Korean, promised that they would continue to work on better music for their fans. 

 

Additionally, BTS’ Jungkook received the award for Top Global K-pop Song with “Seven (feat. Latto.)” In his acceptance video, the BTS member said that the win is “truly an honor.” “Without you, I couldn’t have gotten this amazing award,” he said to ARMYs. 

Furthermore, BLACKPINK secured the award for Top K-pop Touring Artist of the Year. 

Featured image: NewJeans is named Top Global K-pop Artist. Credit: Twitter/Billboard

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

SEVENTEEN’s Dino Set to Release New Solo Mixtape ‘Wait’

SEVENTEEN’s Dino, the youngest member of the 13-member K-pop group, is preparing to release a new solo song titled “Wait.” His agency, PLEDIS Entertainment, announced that the song will hit streaming services on November 27 at 6:00 PM KST. Accompanying this announcement was an intriguing teaser photo.

X/@pledis_17

Dino has since released concept photos and a teaser video, which you can watch below.

DINO ‘Wait’ Official Teaser 1

Powerful high notes

Aside from “Wait,” Dino recently contributed the track “ICARUS” to the soundtrack of Castaway Diva. This J-rock style song is about the desire to soar higher, even at great personal cost. The song’s lyrics and music were designed to tug at listeners’ heartstrings. The addition of Dino’s emotive vocals take it to another level.

“ICARUS” begins with a thrilling blend of drums, electric guitar, and piano, setting the stage for him to come in swinging. As a member of SEVENTEEN’s performance team, he’s better known as a dancer, not a singer. But on this song, he hits some powerful high notes that reveal a new, more potent side of his vocal ability.

X/@pledis_17

Dino on going solo

This isn’t Dino’s first time to go solo. His discography includes the songs “ET: Every Time,” “High Five,” “Last Order,” “The Real Thing,” and “Zero (Hero).” 

In a 2021 interview with Weverse Magazine, Dino discussed his aspirations as a soloist. He shared his ambition to hold a concert featuring all his songs when he turns thirty. Dino also revealed a personal motto that guides his artistic expression. It goes, in part, “I will touch your heart rather than entertain you for a moment.”

X/@pledis_17

A new musical journey

SEVENTEEN‘s 11th mini-album SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN and its title track “God of Music” have done well. The album set a new pre-order record, highlighting the group’s growing popularity and influence in the K-pop industry.

As the release date of “Wait” draws near, fans eagerly anticipate Dino‘s new musical journey. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Are you as excited for ‘Wait’ as we are? Source: YouTube/@HYBELABELS.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Stray Kids Charts 4th No. 1 Album on Billboard 200 With ‘Rock-Star’

The group poses for concept photo of 'Rock Star.' Credit: Facebook/STRAY KIDS

Stray Kids continues to dominate the K-pop scene, securing their fourth consecutive No. 1 entry on the prestigious Billboard 200 chart with their latest mini album ROCK-STAR.

On Monday, November 20, Billboard announced that ROCK-STAR joined the ranks of its predecessors, ODDINARY, MAXIDENT, and 5-STAR. All of which had previously claimed the top spot on the chart. 

For those unfamiliar, the Billboard 200 rankings are based on equivalent album units, which consider traditional album sales, track equivalent albums, and streaming equivalent albums. According to Billboard, ROCK-STAR secured its top position with a total of 224,000 equivalent album units earned in the United States, including 213,000 traditional album sales, predominantly from CD sales, and 11,000 streaming equivalent album units.

Additionally, Luminate further detailed that the album’s success was driven by 98% CD sales and 2% digital downloads, totaling 213,000 traditional album sales. The streaming component, contributing 11,000 streaming equivalent album units, equates to an impressive 15.68 million on-demand audio streams during the week ending on November 16.

Stray Kids makes history anew

 With this, Stray Kids have now become the first artist, and notably the first K-pop act, to achieve such a remarkable streak since Alicia Keys in the early 2000s.

“All four of Stray Kids’ chart entries have debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, making them the first act to see their first four chart entries debut at No. 1 since Alicia Keys in 2001 to 2007,” Billboard noted. 

Moreover, this remarkable achievement comes less than two years after their debut at the US charts. Furthermore, it establishes them as the first Korean act to consecutively debut their first four albums at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 – a feat not seen in 16 years.

On top of that, the speed at which Stray Kids achieved this milestone is equally impressive, taking them less than 20 months to accumulate four No. 1 albums. Notably, this rapid success places them in the company of Taylor Swift, as the fastest artist to achieve four No. 1s since August 2020.

Following the achievement, Stray Kids expressed their gratitude towards their fans through a video message. “Thank you to STAY and everyone who has been listening to our music,” they said. 

On November 9, the group released their newest mini-album Rock Star, with the title track “LALALA.”

Featured image: The group poses for concept photo of ‘Rock Star.’ Credit: Facebook/STRAY KIDS

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

NCT’s Johnny Responds to Fans’ Views on SM Entertainment

NCT‘s Johnny recently brought a touch of humor to a topic that stirs up strong emotions among fans: SM Entertainment’s management practices. His playful remarks came at a time when the agency, which manages NCT and its units, faces ongoing criticism from various artists’ fans, including Red Velvet, for issues like mismanaging schedules and overworking idols.

The issue of SM’s management practices has been a hot topic, especially after a recent controversy involving a teaser photo for NCT 127‘s latest comeback. The photo, which seemed to show Taeil‘s injury, sparked backlash and intensified discussions about how the agency treats its artists. This incident has left fans wondering whether the idols themselves are aware of how the general public feels about SM.

During a live broadcast on Weverse, which took place amidst preparations for NCT 127‘s upcoming tour NEO CITY – THE UNITY, Johnny addressed this topic in a light-hearted manner. But their broadcast was lagging due to a slow internet connection, prompting those watching to blame “SM’s WiFi.”

[ENG/INDO SUB] 231115 NCT 127 WEVERSE LIVE FULL | 대박나세요2💚

How Johnny responded

Johnny‘s response to the fans’ comments was both humorous and insightful. “I think they just don’t like SM,” he quipped, prompting Taeyong to ask what he meant. Johnny elaborated, “Anyone can see we are not at SM but they’re saying ‘No wonder, [it’s] SM’s WiFi.’”

This exchange not only amused fans but also highlighted the relationship between the idols and their followers. It showcased how artists can engage with fans on sensitive topics in a way that is both entertaining and respectful. Johnny’s light-hearted approach to addressing fans’ criticisms of SM Entertainment provided a moment of comic relief, reinforcing the strong connection between NCT 127 and their dedicated fanbase. 

Speaking of their fans, international NCTzens are envious of their Korea-based counterparts. NEO CITY – THE UNITY began with six concerts at the KSPO Dome in Seoul. That prompted one fan to say, “NCT 127 hasn’t had a proper world tour since their first tour. Let’s hope this one will include multiple countries this time around.” – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Johnny was all smiles during one of their tour’s first six shows. Source: X/@withsunflower__.

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Jimin Captivates Fans With ‘Stuck With U’ Dance Cover

BTS‘s Jimin recently took the internet by storm with his stunning dance cover of “Stuck With U.” Known for his charismatic stage presence and fancy footwork, Jimin once again proved why he’s considered one of the top dancers in the K-pop industry.

The dance cover, uploaded on Jimin’s Instagram, features him effortlessly interpreting the song through his expressive dancing. Dressed in a simple yet stylish outfit, he manages to convey a range of emotions, from longing to joy. His every move matched the song’s mood perfectly.

Fans were quick to express their admiration for Jimin‘s performance. Social media buzzed with excitement, ARMY fans praising his ability to tell a story through dance. “Jimin‘s dance moves are like a brush painting emotions on a canvas,” one fan commented, encapsulating the sentiment of many.

Jimin worked hard

His choice of “Stuck With U,” a hit song by Ariana Grande and Justin Bieber, was particularly noteworthy. The song, known for its romantic, soothing melody, was a perfect match for his fluid movements. His cover added a new layer of meaning to the song, making it resonate even more with the audience.

Over the years, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of his art. He explored different styles of dance. When he became a trainee, he worked double time to learn hip-hop. This newest cover is another example of his commitment to improving his craft and his ability to connect with fans by creating content that resonates with them.

As BTS continues to evolve and experiment with new styles and concepts, Jimin‘s dance cover of “Stuck With U” stands out as a reminder of the group’s dedication and talents. It’s obvious that Jimin, with his exceptional skills and passion for dancing, will continue to captivate and inspire fans around the world. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This latest cover was also captioned with the hashtag ‘#ThisIsJimin,’ like his earlier covers. Wonder what that means? Source: Instagram/@j.m.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS K-POP STYLE KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

aespa’s Winter Is New Global Ambassador of Polo Ralph Lauren

Winter poses as Polo Ralph Lauren's ambassador. Credit: Twitter/aespa

Winter of K-pop girl group aespa has been chosen as the first solo brand ambassador for Polo Ralph Lauren. 

On Monday, November 20, the globally recognized fashion powerhouse proudly introduced Winter as its newest official face. Additionally, the announcement was accompanied by images of the idol in the brand’s Fall and Holiday collections for 2023. 

According to media reports, Ralph Lauren Korea was all-praises for the aespa member. “Winter, who has received much love from fans as the representative all-rounder of a girl group who stands out in many fields, is the person who can perfectly portray the classic designs and aristocratic images that shows Polo Ralph Lauren’s originality,” they said. 

In the photos, Winter was praised for effortlessly looking elegant while showcasing the brand’s chic outfits and accessories.

One of the photos showed the idol in a chic, knitted cream-colored sweater paired with a matching beret cap. Another photo featured the aespa member in a black midi-dress with a red plaid skirt and styled with brown leather boots. 

On social media, fans couldn’t help but praise how the artist complemented the fashion brand’s pieces. Moreover, fans have been eagerly anticipating this moment of Winter being tapped as a global ambassador since April 2023 as she has previously graced the cover of a leading magazine where she also wore pieces from Polo Ralph Lauren.

With this, Winter joins the growing list of K-pop idols making waves in the fashion industry. Other stars who are brand ambassadors include BTS’ V for Cartier, TWICE’s Dahyun for Michael Kors, and SEVENTEEN’s DK for Bally. 

Busy 2023 for Winter

Apart from being a brand ambassador, she has also been busy with aespa’s latest comeback. On November 10, the quartet released their fourth mini-album Drama. 

Meanwhile, Winter has also recently collaborated with (G)I-DLE’s Soyeon and IVE’s Liz for the new single “Nobody.” 

Featured image: Winter poses as Polo Ralph Lauren’s ambassador. Credit: Twitter/aespa

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EXO’s D.O. Releases New Profile Photos Under Company Soosoo

EXO D.O. poses for new profile photos. Credit: Twitter/Company Soosoo

Idol-actor Doh Kyungsoo, who’s more popularly known as EXO member D.O., has embarked on a significant change in his career as he releases profile photos under his new agency, Company Soosoo. 

On Monday, November 20, Company Soosoo unveiled the latest photos of D.O. In the pictures, the idol-actor showcased his charismatic expression and distinctive aura that once again captivated fans. 

Notably, this photoshoot serves as his first public appearance since he joined the new company. As such, fans were quick to shower the artist with praises for his elegance, poise, and confidence. Moreover, this led fans to anticipate D.O.’s future activities under Company Soosoo. 

Prior to the release of the profile photos, the agency also announced that they’ll be taking legal action for malicious posts that target and harm their artists. According to Company Soosoo, they have an internal monitoring system that would collect relevant information about instances like these. However, they also asked fans to continue reporting these posts and comments that contain insults and baseless accusations. 

“We will continue our ongoing efforts to safeguard our artists’ rights and vigorously respond to illegal activities, including the spread of false information and malicious rumors,” they said. 

EXO’s D.O. under Company Soosoo

In October, SM Entertainment confirmed that D.O.’s contract with the agency will be expiring by November. However, the company emphasized that D.O. will still continue his EXO activities with SM Entertainment. 

But, he will also pursue acting and individual activities through Company Soosoo, a newly-established agency that is founded by his and SM Entertainment’s former manager. As of writing, there’s no announcements yet as to what solo projects will D.O. be pursuing. 

Aside from being the vocalist of EXO, D.O. has also released the solo albums: Empathy and Anticipation. 

Furthermore, he also pursued acting. Since 2014, he’s been starring in multiple series and films, including It’s Okay, That’s Love, 100 Days My Prince, Bad Prosecutor, Room No. 7, and The Moon. 

Among his latest projects is the variety show You Reap What You Sow, which also stars Lee Kwang Soo, Kim Woo Bin, and Kim Ki Bang. 

Featured image: EXO D.O. poses for new profile photos. Credit: Twitter/Company Soosoo

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

RIIZE’s Seunghan to Go On Indefinite Hiatus Amid Online Controversy

Seunghan in concept photos for RIIZE's 'Get A Guitar.' Credit: Facebook/RIIZE

SM Entertainment announced on Wednesday, November 22, that Seunghan will be taking a break from doing activities with K-pop boy group RIIZE due to an ongoing online controversy surrounding his personal life. 

Seunghan, who made his debut under RIIZE in September, found himself in the midst of a public uproar as leaked photos from his pre-debut days circulated online. These images depicted him smoking, dating, and engaging in video calls with other singers.

Following these incidents, SM Entertainment said that the idol is “feeling severely apologetic” to his members and fans. According to the translation from Soompi, the label added that Seunghan is “reflecting on himself for causing disappointment and commotion.” 

As he felt the weight of mental pressure and a sense of responsibility in light of the issue, Seunghan shared his intention to suspend his activities with the team. 

“We also judged that it is too difficult for him to continue activities through this situation, and respecting his opinion of no longer wanting to cause harm to the team, and members,” we decided on the indefinite suspension of his activities,” SM Entertainment said. 

Seunghan pens letter to fans

In respect of the idol’s decision to take a break, SM Entertainment announced that RIIZE will operate with six members starting November 22, excluding Seunghan. 

Furthermore, the agency apologized for the abrupt decision but asked for fans’ understanding since it was a decision they made under “deep contemplation.” Moreover, SM Entertainment also expressed their regret for its oversight in artist management although said incidents happened before  their debut.  

Following the announcement, Seunghan also shared a handwritten letter to fans through Weverse. “First of all, I’d like to say I’m really sorry. I know very well that my rash actions in the past are hurting too many people now,” he said. 

The idol continued that he is currently “deeply reflecting” as he thinks he’s “caused too much damage” already. Ending his letter, he promised fans that he will work harder in becoming a better person.” 

SM Entertainment to pursue legal action

However, in response to the unauthorized distribution of Seunghan’s private videos and photos, the agency announced its intention to take legal action. 

Moreover, SM Entertainment pointed out that those involved in leaking and circulating these materials have resorted to malicious tactics, including creating baseless false information and fabricated messenger conversations. This, in turn, has led to severe defamation of the artist by spreading distorted information that deviates from the truth.

To address the situation,, the agency initiated monitoring efforts and identified the individuals responsible for the unauthorized leaks. Now armed with substantial evidence, they plan to file a legal complaint at the local police station soon to  address these violations.

“For the sake of the artist and team, as well as the fans who love the team, the agency will not only file legal complaints but also respond strongly without any settlement or leniency,” the agency promised. 

Featured image: Seunghan in concept photos for RIIZE’s ‘Get A Guitar.’ Credit: Facebook/RIIZE

Categories
BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’ RM, Jimin, V, Jungkook Prepare for Military Enlistment

RM, Jimin, Jungkook, and V pose for photos. Credit: Facebook/BTS

Attention, ARMYs! Members RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook of K-pop powerhouse BTS have officially initiated the process of enlisting for their mandatory military service, their agency BIGHIT Music announced on Wednesday, November 22. 

In a notice posted on the fan community app Weverse, the agency informed fans of the significant transition process in the group. 

“We would like to inform our fans that RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook have initiated the military enlistment process. The artists are preparing to fulfill their military service duties,” their statement read. 

Although the specific dates for their enlistment were not provided, the label assured fans that updates would be communicated in “due course.”

“We ask for your continued love and support for RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook until they complete their military service,” the agency said. Additionally, BIGHIT Music also promised fans that they will “spare no effort” in providing support for their artists.  

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 October 2022, BIGHIT Music announced that all seven members of BTS will fulfill their mandatory military service. At the time, the agency disclosed that BTS intends to reconvene as a whole around 2025. 

The mandatory military service, lasting at least 18 months, is a requirement for all able-bodied South Korean men under the age of 30, with few exceptions. 

See you in 2025, BTS! 

In June 2022, the septet announced that they’re taking a break from group activities to focus on solo projects as well as military enlistment.

Since then, the members have put out individual releases including j-hope with Jack in the Box, Jin with Astronaut, RM with Indigo, Jimin with Face, V with Layover, and Jungkook with GOLDEN. 

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

After debuting in 2013, the seven-piece act has become ostensibly the biggest K-pop group in the world. In fact, they even entered the Guinness World Records 2022 Hall of Fame in September 2021.  

Featured image: RM, Jimin, Jungkook, and V pose for photos. Credit: Facebook/BTS

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

HYBE Confirms BTS Members Haven’t Sold Any HYBE Stocks

HYBE Corporation, the entertainment behemoth behind BTS, recently stepped forward to clear up a significant misunderstanding about the K-pop group’s stock ownership. A now-deleted report inaccurately claimed that all seven BTS members—RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—had sold all their stocks, causing confusion among fans and investors.

In reality, owning stocks means holding a part of the company, and each BTS member has a stake in HYBE Labels. Reports emerged suggesting that the septet had put their HYBE Labels stocks on the market back in September. The reported selling amounts, based on the September 20 closing price of 243,000 KRW, were substantial, with each member allegedly selling shares worth billions.

Additionally, HYBE’s chairman Bang Si Hyuk reportedly reduced his shareholding significantly. This reportedly coincided with BTS signing new contracts with HYBE, adding to the public’s confusion.

@chimchimbeth2013

Replying to @chimchimbeth2013 According to Yonhap, South Korea’s largest news agency: “The special relationship between seven members of the group BTS and Hybe Chairman Bang Si-hyuk, the agency’s founder and largest shareholder, has been resolved.” Hybe said, “The members did not sell their shares, and as the contract between Chairman Bang Si-hyuk and the BTS members as shareholders has ended, they are no longer considered special parties,” adding, “It is not related to the sale or change of shares.” it is known that BTS members have been specially related according to individual shareholder agreements with Chairman Bang Si-hyuk and have delegated voting rights. Accordingly, it is expected that the seven members of BTS will be able to exercise Hybe voting rights according to the stocks they own in the future.” That means despite BTS being shareholders, due to the old contract, it was BangPD who still represented them and voted for them. But now with the renewal of the new contract BTS members can vote individually.” #news #info #btsrelated #related #bangpd #hybe #latest #news #update #btsarmy #army #wow #congratulations #thelegend #chimchimbeth2013 #chimchimmybethpark2013 #chimmybethpark2013 #foryou #hallyutalkph #xyzbca #trend #trending #fyp #fypシ #fypシ゚viral #fypage #kpop #kpopfyp #edit #btsarmy #bts #hybe #bighit #army #fandom #kpopartist #btsxarmy #방탄소년단 #bts_official_bighit

♬ like by bts – keehoswife⁷

HYBE clears the air

However, HYBE has since clarified the situation. The agency stated that the BTS members had not sold their stocks. Instead, their special status as shareholders simply ended. HYBE explained that the change was due to the end of their individual shareholder contracts with Bang Si Hyuk. Those agreements delegated their voting rights to the Chairman.

When they signed new contracts with HYBE, these individual agreements were rendered null and void. That means all seven BTS members can now exercise their voting rights as shareholders of the company.

BTS’s impact on HYBE’s success can’t be overstated. The group’s temporary hiatus announcement in 2021 led to a significant drop in the company’s stock value. This highlights their integral role in HYBE’s prominence. The company‘s future is closely tied to BTS‘s continued involvement, underscoring the importance of their relationship for the business’s sustainability. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The rumor that BTS sold their stocks was much ado about nothing. Source: X/@bts_bighit.

Exit mobile version