Fourth-generation girl group STAYC has been making waves with their third mini-album, Teenfresh, and their first world tour. When they appeared at KCON 2022, thousands of fans chanted their iconic line, “STAYC girls, it’s going down.” Their U.S. chart successes further solidify their international popularity.
However, the downside of immense popularity is that everything you do attracts attention, including your mistakes. For instance, a wardrobe mishap during their Dallas concert recently caught global attention. Intending to pay homage to the local sports team, members Isa and Sumin wore what they believed to be Texas Rangers jerseys. However, these jerseys were not from Dallas’s baseball team but from the Rangers Football Club in Scotland. Specifically, they donned kits from the 1996-97 season, a period when the Scottish club had stars like Paul Gascoigne and Ally McCoist.
While other STAYC members correctly donned Dallas Mavericks and Dallas Cowboys jerseys, the mix-up led to a surge in searches for Texas Rangers jerseys, with a 1,328% increase overnight. However, this spike might be attributed more to the baseball team’s success than the girls’ wardrobe. Anyway, watch the girls performing in the wrong jerseys in the video below.
STAYC ‘LOVE’ (TEENFRESH Tour) 231019 Dallas, TX
Ally McCoist on the STAYC mix-up
Fans from both the baseball and football Rangers teams took the blunder in stride. Instead of criticism, many expressed gratitude that the jerseys weren’t from the New York Rangers hockey team. The story quickly went viral, with major media outlets like the New York Times and BBC News covering the incident.
Even McCoist himself got in on the act. Speaking on the TalkSport breakfast show, he said, “It’s hilarious. How can you make a mistake like that? They’re clearly looking for Texas Rangers tops and they stick on Glasgow Rangers tops—I nearly cried laughing when I saw it. To be fair to the girls, they look better in the strips than me!”
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time K-pop has intersected with Scottish football. In 2018, boy group Stray Kids featured a Celtic jersey, Rangers’ arch-rival, in their ‘My Piece’ music video. As STAYC continues their global tour, fans worldwide eagerly await more memorable moments, both planned and unplanned. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: The girls’ mistake sent shockwaves through the K-pop and sports worlds. Source: X/@CloudHeino.
Rapper Jessi’s recent decision to cancel her entire broadcast schedule has raised concerns and prompted fans to worry about her well-being. The “GUM” rapper was previously confirmed to appear in several shows but backed out at the last minute.
Jessi Shocks Fans With Sudden Absence in Broadcast Schedule
The rapper, known for her strong and charismatic presence in the music industry, has been noticeably absent from scheduled rehearsals and has now gone on to cancel all her upcoming broadcast appearances, including popular music shows like KBS’ “Music Bank”, MBC’s “Show! Music Core”, and SBS’ “Inkigayo”.
Since then, her new agency MORE VISION shared a statement regarding the abrupt cancellations. “We apologize for the sudden news. We’re doing our best, so Jessi can recover her health,” the statement read.
Jessi, who recently signed with the label MORE VISION in April, has attributed her absence to health issues. While the specific nature of these health issues has not been disclosed, her fans and well-wishers have expressed their support and hopes for her speedy recovery.
Jessi’s decision to prioritize her health and well-being is a reminder of the importance of self-care and the challenges that artists in the entertainment industry often face. The demands of a busy schedule and the pressures of maintaining a public image can take a toll on one’s physical and mental health.
As Jessi takes time to address her health concerns, her fans and the music industry as a whole are sending her positive thoughts and best wishes for her recovery. It is a reminder that even the most prominent and resilient figures in the entertainment world are not immune to health challenges and the need for self-care. Jessi’s candid approach to her well-being is also a testament to the importance of prioritizing health and seeking the support and care necessary to overcome any obstacles that may arise.
Jessi released the new single “GUM” on October 25, 2023.
K-pop boy group VERIVERY revealed that one of their members, Hoyoung, will be taking a temporary hiatus from promotional activities due to health concerns.
On Monday, October 30, VERIVERY‘s agency, Jellyfish Entertainment released a statement detailed Hoyoung’s current health status. As well as the steps that the agency is taking to prioritize their artist’s well-being.
According to the agency, Hoyoung recently visited the hospital to sought treatment for a deterioration in his psychological well-being. After being examined, the medical professionals advised the idol to take ample time to rest and focus on his recovery.
Following extensive discussions and self-reflection, Hoyoung decided to heed this advice and temporarily step away from his group’s activities.
With this, VERIVERY will continue their activities with only four members – Gyehyeon, Yeonho, Yongseung, and Kangmin.
Moreover, the agency assured fans that they’ll share updates on the idol’s progress on his recovery. Especially when the time comes that he’ll be deemed fit to resume activities again.
In their statement, Jellyfish Entertainment also asked for the understanding and support of fans. As they emphasized that they’re prioritizing the health and well-being of their artists.
Both Minchan and Hoyoung are on a break
Hoyoung‘s temporary hiatus is not the first time VERIVERY has faced such a situation.
In December 2022, fellow member Minchan announced that he’s taking a break from group activities due to his own health concerns. Notably, Minchan has been on hiatus for more than ten months. And this also marks his second health-related hiatus, as Minchan had previously suspended his activities from October 2020 through May 2021.
The news of both Hoyoung and Minchan’s health-related breaks has understandably raised concerns among fans, who are genuinely worried about the well-being of these talented artists.
Through social media, their fans have been actively expressing their support and well wishes for the idols as they hope for their speedy recovery. In addition to concerns for the two members on hiatus, fans have also voiced their hopes that Jellyfish Entertainment will continue to provide the necessary support and resources to ensure the overall well-being of all their artists.
On top of that, Hoyoung’s hiatus came two months after leader Dongheonenlisted in the military.
VERIVERY debuted as a seven-member act in January 2019 with the EP Veri-Us. The group is known for songs “Tag Tag Tag,” “Trigger,” Super Special,” and “Thunder.”
In 2020, VERIVERY participated in Mnet’s reality television series Road to Kingdom, wherein they finished in fifth place.
G-Dragon’s legal representative has finally shared an update on the ongoing drug-related investigation involving the BIGBANG member. The statement offers some insight into Kwon Jiyong’s cooperation with the police and addresses false information being spread about the case.
G-Dragon Issues New Statement Regarding Drug-Related Investigation
On October 30, G-Dragon’s lawyer Kim Soo Hyun shared a new statement about the drug-relation investigation.
“This is Kwon Ji Yong’s (G-Dragon’s) advisory counsel, lawyer Kim Soo Hyun of K1 Chamber LLP. As clearly revealed already, it is not true that Kwon Ji Yong used drugs,” the statement read.
“Regarding this, Kwon Ji Yong appointed a lawyer and submitted a statement of intent for voluntary attendance to the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency’s Narcotics Unit of the Regional Investigation Department with the appointed lawyer this morning,” it continues.
“Through the statement of intent for voluntary attendance and a written opinion of counsel, Kwon Ji Yong expressed his intent for voluntary attendance and his intent to actively cooperate with the investigation, and in order to resolve the false accusations as quickly as possible through a rapid investigation process to reveal the truth, he stated to the police that he will actively cooperate with the hair follicle test and urine test. His schedule for voluntary attendance is currently being discussed,” the statement added.
G-Dragon Addresses False Information About Drug Abuse Case
The statement also addressed false information being spread about G-Dragon’s case. It is confirmed that the BIGBANG member intends to pursue legal action against those spreading fake news.
“Recent speculative false reports and YouTube videos regarding this case such as the appointment of a lawyer who is a former constitutional judge and an excessively high lawyer payment are being released thoughtlessly, but we clearly reveal that these are not true at all, and we will take strong legal action against these types of speculative reports for the circulation of false information and defamation,” the statement read.
Multiple articles about G-Dragon are been deleted from Naver News after G-Dragon started legal actions against misleading information against him. pic.twitter.com/sRnXb8A2AL
Seo Soojin, previously known for being a member of the girl group(G)I-DLE, is making a notable comeback to the entertainment scene after a two-year break, which was a result of school violence allegations. Her new agency, BRD, recently showcased a teaser video for her forthcoming record Agassy, set to drop on November 8. The teaser shows Soojin wearing something that looks like hanbok, the Korean traditional dress, complemented by a traditional Korean hairpin, binyeo.
수진 (SOOJIN) [아가씨] Concept Trailer
The day before, Soojin launched her personal YouTube channel. Here, she uploaded a dance video for one of her album’s tracks, “Black Forest.” The monochrome video features Soojin performing a unique contemporary dance to dramatic instrumental music. As the video progresses, two masked back-up dancers join her, adding depth to the performance.
Despite the limited information about her solo debut, this dance video has already garnered significant attention. Within a mere two hours post-release, the video attracted around 47,000 views. As of this writing, the count has surged to 91,000 views, and her channel boasts more than 160,000 subscribers. She has also released a series of concept photos since then.
수진 (SOOJIN) – BLACK FOREST
What happened to Seo Soojin?
To provide context, Soojin’s career hit a snag in 2021 when actress Seo Shin Ae, a former classmate, accused her of bullying and violence during their school days. Soojin firmly denied these allegations and took legal action against her accusers. The controversy led to her departure from (G)I-DLE in August of the same year. However, in March of the subsequent year, the case was dismissed due to insufficient evidence. Following this, Cube Entertainment announced the termination of her contract. During the nearly three years she spent away from the limelight, Soojin maintained a connection with her fans through social media.
Recently, Soojin signed an exclusive deal with a new agency, BRD Communications. This move marks her re-entry into the K-pop world as a solo artist. As she prepares for her solo debut, many are keenly observing to gauge the public’s reception. After leaving (G)I-DLE in 2021, she is now making her return to the music industry after a hiatus of two years and eight months.
Soojin‘s resilience, especially in light of the challenges she faced, is commendable. Her next steps are eagerly anticipated by fans and the industry alike. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: This photo is from the fourth batch of concept photos Soojin released. Source: X/@BRD_SOOJIN.
Rejoice, BLACKSWANs! South Korean singer Bang Ye Dam, popularly known as a former member of the boy group TREASURE, is about to make a significant step in his musical career with his upcoming solo debut in November.
On Monday, October 30, Bang Ye Dam launched official accounts on various social media platforms, including X (formerly known as Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. Alongside these new accounts is a poster confirming his upcoming debut as a solo artist.
Additionally, the poster also unveiled his new logo, which hints at his musical journey ahead. Notably, the logo creatively stylizes his initials to resemble a treble clef, a symbol closely associated with music notation,
While the official title of his upcoming release is yet to be disclosed, fans can anticipate a pre-release track dropping on November 10. Meanwhile, Bang Ye Dam’s first solo mini-album is scheduled for release on November 23.
Although other details about his solo release are still under wraps, fans are already awaiting for new music from the talented artist. As this will serve as his first release since signing with his new agency, GF Entertainment,in August.
A look back on the career of Bang Ye Dam
Bang Ye Dam‘s journey in the public eye began in 2012 when he gained recognition as a contestant on SBS’s K-pop Star Season 2. There, he showcased his impressive talents and finished in second place, closely following the brother-sister duo AKMU. Moreover, this also marked the start of his trainee days under YG Entertainment.
Then in 2018, Yedam participated in the reality program YG Treasure Box, where the group TREASUREwas formed. Initially a 12-member group under YG Entertainment, TREASURE made their official debut in August 2020.
However, in May 2022, YG Entertainment announced that Ye Dam, along with Mashiho, would be taking a hiatus from group activities. According to the agency, Ye Dam would be focusing on his career as a producer and dedicating time to study music.
In November 2022, YG Entertainment confirmed that both Ye Dam and Mashiho were parting ways with the agency. Many fans were surprised at this, as Yedam had been with YG Entertainment for nine years – seven years as a trainee and two years as a member of TREASURE.
Since then, TREASURE has continued activities as a 10-member group. Currently, the remaining members include Choi Hyunsuk, Jihoon, Park Jeongwoo, Yoshi, Junkyu, So Junghwan, Yoon Jaehyuk, Asahi, Doyoung, and Haruto.
When he signed with GF Entertainment, Bang Ye Dam also expressed his gratitude to both his former group and agency. In his message, he wrote that his experience under him made him the artist he is today.
In K-pop, Hueningkai of TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT) stands out. Not just for his talent, but also for his perseverance, dedication, and the bond he shares with the other members. Sitting down with Weverse Magazine, he opened up about all that and more.
[위버스 매거진] 휴닝카이 Quotes | 투모로우바이투게더 위버스 매거진에서 투모로우바이투게더의 인터뷰를 확인하세요! 🔎 휴닝카이 “멤버들 덕분에 저에게도 야망이 생겼어요” - [Weverse Magazine] HUENINGKAI Quotes | TOMORROW X TOGETHER Check out TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s interviews on Weverse Magazine! 🔎 HUENINGKAI: “It’s thanks to the other members that I’m becoming more driven myself” – [Weverse Magazine] HUENINGKAI Quotes | TOMORROW X TOGETHER Weverse MagazineでTOMORROW X TOGETHERのインタビューをチェック! 🔎 HUENINGKAI「メンバーたちのおかげで僕にも野心が芽生えました」 #TXT#투모로우바이투게더#휴닝카이#HUENINGKAI#컴백인터뷰#위버스#Weverse#위버스매거진#Weverse_Magazine
Hueningkai‘s recent dance challenges, especially with Jam Republic, showcase his improvement. He worked to refine his technique because he wanted to keep up with Yeonjun. His efforts earned him accolades from his instructors. But the road to perfection was arduous. His pursuit of excellence led him to do the Smoke Challenge not just once—but twice!
“I was eager to show off my dance ability, that’s why I said I wanted to do it. I was actually worried because of how challenging that choreography is, so I put in quite a lot of practice. I felt sorry for the performance directing team because I kept saying, ‘No, again, again, again.’ We shot it 20, 25 times, but when I got back home and watched the video, I still wasn’t satisfied with it. So I said to them, ‘I’m really sorry, but can we shoot it tomorrow one more time?’ I did it again and again the next day and we finally ended up with a good take that we could upload.”
He’s all about hard work. “I think, more than anything else, the more I work at my dancing, the better it gets. I’d have to say dance is the easiest thing to get into, in a way. I think anyone can be good at dancing if they just have perseverance. Dancing isn’t just about the dancing itself—I feel like your own personal aura and your facial expressions are really important, too. Even the five members of our group all have their own unique vibe, and we’re all good at doing different facial expressions. When you dance, it’s important to understand what the music’s all about and to take what you’re capable of up a notch and express yourself that way.”
Hueningkai on Soobin’s struggles
The TXT members’ bond, forged over time, is evident in their concerts, where they lift each other up. “The five of us are so different that when we were trainees, we did team building exercises. But we’re completely used to each other now. We naturally got to know each other after living together for so long, and now we’re just like family. I think the quality of our teamwork really shows during concerts. If one of us has to sit out because they’re not feeling well, the rest of us are able to fill in for them. It’s weird, but suddenly we become really good at communicating in situations like that. Things just happen instantly when emergencies come up.”
Discussing the challenges each member faces, Hueningkai shares his thoughts on Soobin‘s struggles with spontaneity. “We have similar personalities, so I know how he feels. There’s times when I find performing hard too, and at times big crowds can make me scared. My MBTI tests show I’m an ‘I,’ and I like being at home. Soobin–hyung always says he’s sorry because he worries he’s not enjoying himself properly.”
Hueningkai tries his best to support their leader onstage. “We put our arms around each other and jump around and have fun,” he says. “I’m not very good at empathizing or talking with people. Whenever I’m talking with someone, my first thoughts are about the best way to go about doing things and how to solve things. I think it’s best that I quietly help them out by looking out for them and thinking about how I can be doing whatever I can for them.”
His dedication, growth, and more
He wasn’t always goal-oriented. He says his fellow members made him more driven. “I’m actually not much of a go-getter. I’m more about wanting things to go smoothly. I don’t like to overthink things. But it’s important in this field to be ambitious. You have to be driven if you’re going to make it to the top. I think it’s thanks to the determination of the others that I’m progressively becoming more driven myself. I actually have clearer goals now than I did a year ago,” he shares.
However, the journey isn’t devoid of doubts. When asked if they’ll ever be content, Hueningkai says that might never happen. But he believes in continuous effort. “But I think it’s only right that we keep trying our best. I’ve changed a lot during this whole time. I guess what influenced me a lot was that I want to challenge the kind of image that boy groups have. Some people say boy groups aren’t popular with the wider public, but I wanted to let the world know who we are and prove ourselves,” he asserts.
Hueningkai‘s journey with TOMORROW X TOGETHER is a testament to his dedication, growth, and the bond he shares with his members. “I feel like I can keep going for a long time thanks to the other members. And I feel really, really proud to be a member of TOMORROW X TOGETHER. I don’t think I could’ve done it if I weren’t part of this group. I absolutely love our songs and our dances. I’m happy to be a part of the group. I want to be with them. Because I love the five of us.” – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: Hueningkai has grown by leaps and bounds. Source: X/@HNKMEDIA.
BTS‘ Jimin recently hosted a watch-along for Jimin’s Production Diary. Sporting his new orange hair, he shared iconic reactions to various scenes from his documentary. As the event progressed, fans were treated to a series of delightful surprises. While the broadcast started as a solo live by Jimin, Jungkook and other BTS members eventually joined, making it even more memorable.
Jimin’s Production Diary offers fans a behind-the-scenes look at the production process of his debut solo album, FACE. As Jimin was engrossed in a scene where Jungkook was recording backup vocals for the hidden track “Letter,” he grinned broadly and shouted “JK!” Fans thought he was reacting to the “Seven” singer’s appearance in the documentary. However, the real reason for Jimin‘s excitement was Jungkook‘s unexpected physical presence during the live.
Upon seeing Jungkook, Jimin immediately asked him what he was doing there. To Jungkook‘s surprise, the staff handed him a microphone and chair, hinting that they hoped he would stay and watch some of the documentary with Jimin. Jungkook greeted the fans, saying, “Hello ARMY, I’m Jungkook! I was going to go quietly.”
Jimin, ever curious, touched Jungkook’s chest and asked, “Why are you bringing me a microphone? Why did you lose so much weight?” Jungkook chuckled and explained that he had been practicing. In a playful turn, Jimin suddenly said, “You can go now.” As Jungkook was about to leave, he bid farewell to the ARMYs. However, Jimin humorously asked him to take his chair with him, saying, “Hurry up and go, take the chair with you. Thank you.” Jungkook concluded with, “Have fun watching. Bye! I love you.”
After Jungkook‘s departure, netizens buzzed with excitement over his cameo. But the surprises didn’t end there. As Jimin continued with his broadcast, he noticed messages from j-hope and Jin in the chat. Both members, currently serving in the military, took time out to engage with Jimin and the fans. Their playful banter showcased their unbreakable bond.
The cameo from BTS‘ youngest member, Jungkook, and the heartwarming messages from j-hope and Jin, highlight the deep bond and camaraderie that the members share. Even amidst their busy schedules and commitments, they always find ways to support and uplift each other. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: To Jimin, Jungkook’s visit was a pleasant surprise. Source: X/@ROCKSTARJIKOOK.
In a recent conversation with Elle Korea, BTS’ Jimin pulled back the curtain on his personality, his passion for what he does, and his camaraderie with the other BTS members. The interview, conducted by Bang Ho-kwang, offers fans an intimate look into the life of this icon.
On confidence and perfectionism
The “Like Crazy” hitmaker isn’t usually a perfectionist—except when he’s performing. He believes that while other things can be imperfect, the stage must always be flawless. This belief has been a driving force in his career, making Jimin go beyond his limits and grow as an artist and an individual. While promoting his debut solo album, FACE, he confronted one of these limits.
“Doing so much on my own, I realized once again how shy I am,” he confessed. “I realized how much more I need to grow beyond myself. You have to be prepared to act with confidence. I’m ashamed. I’m really ashamed that I’m still at this level. But I don’t want to run away, I want to prove that I can do well too.”
That’s why he released FACE even if part of him didn’t want to. “FACE was an album I made when I was under a lot of personal stress, so I was scared to even release it. I can’t forget the feeling of relief after finishing the songs. I’m always working on songs and I really want to try various genres. I would be happiest if you enjoyed my music.”
Jimin exists because of the team
Reflecting on BTS‘ decade-long journey, he reminisced, “No one knew who we were back then. Still, I wondered, ‘How do these people know and support us?’ I remember giving my best on stage for them. The pandemic was a time when we felt the preciousness of interacting with the audience on stage and on-site. Thanks to that, we realized that performers exist because of them.”
Jimin’s bond with his members is unbreakable. Whether it’s supporting their individual activities or sharing a friendship tattoo, he emphasized, “We often talk among ourselves. I exist because of the team. Now I’m more comfortable with the members than ever.”
He feels most at home in a concert hall with the other six members and the fans. When asked about his favorite stage performance, Jimin didn’t hesitate, “Personally, I really love and cherish the stages we’ve shown as a team. There are many memorable stages, but if I had to choose one, it would be ‘ON.’ Especially the ‘ON’ stage, which was the opening song of the concert, I think was cool.”
A singer who does well
He also touched on his stint as a Tiffany & Co. ambassador, which took him to New York and the reopening of The Landmark. Jimin described the experience as surreal. “I was very nervous. It was my first time attending a big event alone. There was beautiful jewelry and numerous celebrities. Looking back, everything was so new and amazing; it felt like I was in a scene from a movie.”
Finally, he left his fans a heartfelt message: “Please wait. I will become a singer who does well.”
This in-depth interview with Jimin offers a profound understanding of the artist behind the superstar, making it a must-read for every ARMY member and K-pop enthusiast. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: Adorned in Givenchy, Gucci, and Tiffany & Co.’s finest jewels, Jimin is elegance redefined. Source: Elle Korea.
Dang Hong Hai, who captured hearts on the survival show Boys Planet, has signed an exclusive contract with Dongyo Entertainment. Recognizing his immense potential and the promise he holds for the future, the agency committed to giving him unwavering support and the resources he needs to flourish. In a statement, Dongyo Entertainment said, “We are excited to confirm that we have formalized an exclusive contract with Dang Hong Hai. Our decision was influenced by his infectious energy and raw passion.”
The agency also unveiled a fresh profile picture of Dang Hong Hai. It showed him in a casual white T-shirt and jeans. He exuded confidence with a captivating gaze and a warm smile. Born on October 26, 2003, Dang Hong Hai is a Scorpio with diverse talents. He has an impressive academic record, having secured a high admission score of 45.75 out of 50 at one of Vietnam‘s top high schools. Fluent in Vietnamese, Korean, and English, the 19-year-old stands tall at 180 cm.
His MBTI personality type is INFJ. In his downtime, he enjoys taking leisurely walks, keeping up with the news, and of course, singing. In fact, he can sing exceptionally well without closing his eyes. He considers TOMORROW X TOGETHER his role models and he loves the song “Good Parts (when the quality is bad but I am)” by LE SSERAFIM. When he participated in Boys Planet, his slogan was, “I will shatter the stage with my skills and passion, so please follow me!”
#DANGHONGHAI ♬LOVE ME RIGHT – EXO(엑소) @K vs G 그룹 배틀
The sky’s the limit for Dang Hong Hai
Dang Hong Hai‘s journey in the entertainment industry has been noteworthy. He passed the Cube Entertainment audition and trained under Fantagio for three years. Although many fans anticipated his debut with the agency’s new boy group, Lun8, he was not included in the final lineup. Before that, he was on a competition for young boys called Tiny Hero in 2015. A year later, he competed in The Voice Kids Vietnam.
To Vietnamese fans, Dang Hong Hai is a household name. Many fan pages dedicated to him garnered tens of thousands of likes, reflecting all the love and support he receives. His arrival at the agency marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his career. He joins Semantic Error star Park Jaechan, who is also one-fifth of the boy group DKZ. The other members are Giseok, Jonghyeong, Mingyu, and Sehyeon.
Now that he has the backing of a major entertainment company and the love of countless fans, the sky’s the limit for this young talent. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: This ‘Boys Planet’ alum may not have made it into ZEROBASEONE, but he hasn’t given up on his dream. Source: X/@aboutdhhai.