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SEVENTEEN’s Hoshi Gives CARATs Impromptu Hi-Touch Event

Hoshi recently set fans abuzz with excitement during an SBS “Inkigayo” recording. The SEVENTEEN member instigated an unexpected hi-touch event that got CARATs totally excited!

Hoshi Gives Surprise Hi-Touch Event After SEVENTEEN Recording

On October 29th, SEVENTEEN took to the stage to perform and record their captivating performance of “God Of Music” at the SBS “Inkigayo” studio. What made this moment particularly memorable was a delightful surprise from Hoshi himself.

In the midst of their performance, a choreographic sequence led Hoshi to the side of the stage. It was at this moment that Hoshi chose to steal even more hearts by spontaneously organizing a mini hi-touch event for the fans present.

As captured in a fan cam video, around the 1:40 mark, Hoshi made his way to the side of the stage, reaching out to the fans and sharing high fives with them. The unexpected and intimate interaction undoubtedly created unforgettable memories for the fortunate fans who were present to witness this spontaneous gesture of affection from Hoshi. With that in mind, CARATs can’t get enough of the fun and exciting possibilities when Hoshi is involved.

In other related news, Hoshi recently offered fans a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes at HYBE building, sharing some interesting insights about the company’s artist-exclusive elevator. In a recent appearance in the latest episode of “Salon Drip”, the SEVENTEEN member shared how the elevator setup led to an endearing encounter with members of a younger group NewJeans.

Despite Hoshi’s confident reputation, he candidly described himself as an “introvert” and admitted to feeling a touch of shyness during the unplanned meeting with the younger girl group. Even when reassured by the NewJeans members that he was welcome to join them in the elevator, Hoshi chose to wait separately, showcasing the genuine and relatable sides of his personality.

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HYBE And MBC Finally Resolve Four-Year Conflict

It has been a long time but HYBE and MBC have finally resolved their four-year conflict. The renowned record label and the broadcasting company have settled their differences in a recent meeting.

Four-Year Conflict Between HYBE and MBC Finally Resolved

On October 30, HYBE Label’s chairman Bang Si Hyuk made a visit to MBC for an open and candid discussion with MBC president Ahn Hyeong Joon. The meeting was made possible after Ahn extended an invitation as a gesture of regret. During this meeting, Ahn expressed his regret for MBC’s past wrong and outdated practices that had caused harm and hurt to HYBE’s artists.

Ahn also issued a statement regarding their meeting. “We firmly agree that there’s a need to establish a relationship between artists and broadcasting companies that befits the respectable status of K-pop,” he said. “Additionally, we also agreed to improve the long-standing flawed production culture between broadcasting and entertainment companies and to create an environment for content production with mutual respect and consideration.”

Bang’s statement reflected his appreciation for the gesture. “I’d like to express my deep gratitude to MBC for their sincere apology and their commitment to improving the rights of K-pop artists,” he said. “I hope this meeting will serve as a starting point for a new era where a healthy content production environment is established across the entire domestic entertainment industry, transcending the boundaries of our two companies.”

HYBE’s Plans for the Future

During the meeting, Bang Si Hyuk underscored the paramount importance of prioritizing artists’ rights to ensure the sustainable growth of K-pop. He highlighted specific areas requiring improvement, such as the practice where artists have to endure prolonged waiting times to interact with the production team even after a program has concluded. HYBE further revealed that both parties expressed their intention to engage in further discussions aimed at establishing a healthy content production environment and striving for tangible outcomes in the near future.

The four-year conflict between HYBE and MBC originated in 2019 when BTS performed at a significant year-end music show in the United States, resulting in their inability to participate in MBC’s annual year-end event, “MBC Music Festival,” on the same day. Consequently, all artists affiliated with HYBE have been restricted from appearing on MBC’s “Music Core” since that incident. This protracted dispute has been a source of contention in the K-pop industry, and the recent meeting signifies a potential turning point in resolving these issues and fostering a more collaborative and artist-friendly environment.

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NCT NEW TEAM Possibly Getting A New Name

Over the years, SM Entertainment‘s ambitious NCT project has unfurled, resulting in the creation of various sub-units that showcase a diverse range of musical and cultural dynamics. The most recent addition, and reportedly the final chapter of this undertaking, is NCT NEW TEAM, initially known as NCT Tokyo. However, it looks like the group is set for a fitting new name before their official debut!

SM Entertainment Possibly Revealed NCT NEW TEAM’s New Name

The anticipation surrounding the emerging group has been steadily growing, especially after they unveiled their pre-debut single “Hands Up” on October 8, 2023. The ensemble not only represents a new facet of the NCT universe but also carries the aspiration of bridging the musical landscapes between South Korea and Japan. It appears they may now have a new name.

SM Entertainment’s recent trademark filings have unveiled a catchy potential name: NCT WISH.

https://twitter.com/SionCherry/status/1718499001836925003

The prospective name not only reflects the dreams and ambitions of the young artists but also harmonizes with the overarching narrative of the NCT project. NCT fans have warmly embraced this name, filling social media with heartfelt messages and theories about how NCT WISH beautifully aligns with the journey of these talented individuals.

As the excitement for NCT NEW TEAM’s official debut continues to build, the potential new name adds a layer of emotional and symbolic depth to their narrative. Whether they debut as NCT NEW TEAM, NCT WISH, or under any other name, the anticipation surrounding these young talents is undeniably indicative of the remarkable journey that lies ahead, not just for the group but for the NCT project as a whole.

The journey toward the formation of NCT NEW TEAM has been a captivating and intricate one. SM Entertainment, in partnership with Avex Trax, envisioned a group that could resonate with the Japanese audience while staying true to the NCT ethos. The meticulous planning brought together a mix of experienced performers and fresh faces, including Sion, Riku, Yushi, Daeyoung, Ryo, and Sakuya, to create an exciting blend of talents poised to make their mark. They are set to debut in 2024.

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Cube Entertainment Confirms New Boy Group

CUBE Entertainment has confirmed that they are preparing for the debut of a new boy group! The upcoming idol group will be the agency’s first since they launched PENTAGON in 2016.

New Boy Group Confirmed by CUBE Entertainment

CUBE Entertainment is gearing up for the much-anticipated debut of a new boy group tentatively named nowadays in early 2024. The exciting development comes as per an exclusive report by JTBC, and it has sparked significant buzz among K-pop enthusiasts.

The group is slated to consist of five members, and they’ve been diligently preparing for their debut since mid-October. Notably, the members selected for the venture encompass a mix of talents, including those who have already made a name for themselves through prior activities and fresh, unrevealed trainees. The combination of experience and new talent hints at an intriguing dynamic for the upcoming group.

Furthermore, there’s an interesting twist to their debut, as they have been shooting their debut content in the United Kingdom. This choice of location adds a layer of mystique to their upcoming release and raises questions about the creative direction and international appeal of nowadays.

This highly-anticipated debut represents a significant milestone for CUBE Entertainment. It marks their first boy group debut since the introduction of PENTAGON back in 2016, underscoring the importance and excitement surrounding the new group.

CUBE Entertainment has yet to officially comment on JTBC’s report, leaving fans eager to hear more about the group’s concept, music style, and the individual members who will comprise nowadays.

As 2024 approaches, K-pop fans around the world are sure to keep a close eye on CUBE Entertainment and the burgeoning boy group’s journey towards their debut. The fusion of experienced talent and fresh faces, coupled with international influences, suggests that nowadays has the potential to make a significant impact on the K-pop scene.

In related news, CUBE Entertainment confirmed that Yeo One, Yan An, Yuto, Kino, and Wooseok decided against renewing their contracts with the company.

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TXT Soobin’s Breakfast Date with Bebe Rexha Sparks Collab Speculations

Is it time for an awesome K-pop collaboration? Soobin from the popular K-pop group TXT and the internationally acclaimed pop sensation Bebe Rexha recently enjoyed a delightful breakfast date in South Korea. Their friendship has been a long-standing one, and every time they reunite, it serves as a touching reminder of the deep and authentic bond they share, making them the epitome of friendship goals. But did it also confirm that the two are working on a new project?

TXT’s Soobin Reunites with Bebe Rexha on Breakfast Date

Soobin’s admiration for Bebe Rexha dates back to his early debut days, and he hasn’t hesitated to express his desire to meet her. His fanboy moments over the years have endeared him to fans, making him relatable and endearing in the eyes of many. In a fortunate turn of events, 2022 brought them together during a livestream, an event that sent ripples of excitement through Soobin and his fellow bandmates.

Fast forward to the present, and it’s evident that their friendship has blossomed beautifully. Bebe Rexha took to her TikTok to share glimpses of their most recent get-together, and she couldn’t help but sing praises for the breakfast date. Who wouldn’t want to brag about such a cool hangout with a friend? The photos they shared are nothing short of adorable, capturing the essence of their genuinely charming friendship.

The internet is now abuzz with love and admiration for both these stars. Fans of TXT, known as MOAs, and Bebe Rexha’s loyal supporters are overflowing with joy over the wholesome posts shared by the singer. It’s no secret that Soobin is a massive Bebe Rexha fan, and this meet-up undeniably means the world to him. The pictures and posts shared by Bebe Rexha stand as a testament to the humble and down-to-earth nature of these stars, who, despite their demanding schedules, carved out time to celebrate their friendship.

As the news of the heartwarming breakfast date spreads, the happiness it has brought to fans is immeasurable. But could it also mean that TXT and Bebe Rexha are working on a collaboration? For now, neither have confirmed a new project but fans are happy to see a true and meaningful friendship between the artists.

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aespa’s Karina Seemingly Shades Other Girl Groups for Infighting

Karina recently spoke about the relationship she shares with the three other members of aespa in a high-profile interview. However, netizens believe that the idol’s comments threw some shade at other girl groups!

Karina Discusses Her Relationship with Other Aespa Members

In the latest episode of Rolling Stone‘s “Musicians on Musicians” video series, aespa and international artist Grimes interviewed each other. At one point, Grimes asked Karina about working with three other members.

“How is it like working with all four of you and negotiating and all that?” the Canadian singer asked. “In many ways, it’s great but every time I do have a creative partner, it is so fulfilling, but sometimes you fight.”

Interestingly, Karina pointed out that she considers the other aespa members as family and that they naturally get along well.

“Even though all four of us have different personalities, I think we come together well. And we just get along well as people,” she said. “And because we understand each other well, even without saying anything, we also work well together.”

Karina then continued by sharing how other idols tend to fight with their members. Although she didn’t specify any names, many believe she was referring to other girl groups.

“Honestly, if you look at other K-pop groups, people fight a lot, and there are a lot of teams that don’t work well together. But even from the beginning, we didn’t have those issues,” she said. “And if a conflict arises, we try to resolve it immediately. So I think we’re able to work well without any issues.”

It’s an interesting comment but not exactly fresh news. After all, disagreements are natural in any group of people who must work together to achieve a goal. If anything, Karina’s comments confirmed that the members of aespa learned to accept each other’s personalities and worked out their differences.

aespa is currently preparing for their fourth EP ‘Drama’ which is set for release on November 10, 2023.

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Former EXO Member Kris Wu Reportedly Writing Songs in Prison

It looks like Kris Wu is staying active musically amidst his current incarceration. A panelist on a Chinese television program has sparked controversy by claiming that the former EXO member is composing music and participating in talent competitions while in prison.

Kris Wu’s Alleged Prison Activities Revealed

The update regarding Kris Wu’s activities came to light through screen captures from the television show that were shared on Twitter. According to the post, the former EXO member “is writing songs with positive vibes and participating in prison talent shows.”

Kris Wu’s legal issues began when a 19-year-old Chinese college student made allegations against him on July 8, 2021. The student accused Wu of engaging in a pattern of sexual assault involving multiple women and girls, some of whom were underage, while they were unconscious and under the influence of alcohol. According to the victim, she was sexually assaulted while intoxicated in December 2020 when she was 18 and claimed to speak on behalf of at least seven other victims. Two of the victims were reportedly minors at the time of the alleged crimes.

The Fall of Kris Wu

Wu vehemently denied the allegations, leading to investigations by the Beijing Public Security Bureau and other authorities. The scandal resulted in various companies, including Porsche, Bulgari, and Lancôme, severing ties with the artist. They either dropped him as a brand ambassador or suspended existing endorsement deals.

Wu was subsequently detained by police in July 2021 and was formally arrested the following month. The legal proceedings surrounding the case continued, ultimately resulting in a verdict. On November 25, 2022, the Chaoyang District People’s Court in Beijing sentenced Kris Wu to a total of 13 years in prison, with additional deportation from China upon completing his sentence. He faced charges related to rape and group lewdness and was also fined ¥600 million yuan (approximately US$84 million) for tax evasion.

The recent television program’s claim about Kris Wu’s involvement in music and talent competitions during his incarceration has stirred public debate and raised questions about the accuracy of the information. It remains to be seen how this situation will develop and whether further details about Kris Wu’s activities will emerge.

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Stray Kids Earn 2nd US Gold RIAA Certification For ‘5-STAR’

Stray Kids has achieved a remarkable feat in the United States, as their latest album has been officially certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). This prestigious certification is granted when an album reaches over 500,000 units sold in the U.S. Amazingly, this is the second time that the idol group has earned gold RIAA certification in the span of three years!

Stray Kids Confirms Gold RIAA Certification for ‘5-STAR’

The album in question is “★★★★★ (5-STAR)” and it holds a special place in Stray Kids’ discography. Notably, this marks the group’s first album to receive the gold RIAA certification, signifying a significant milestone in their international success. Not surprisingly, they excitedly posted about the certification on social media.

The latest accomplishment is particularly noteworthy because it adds to Stray Kids’ previous RIAA certification for their 2020 hit song “God’s Menu” which achieved gold status earlier in the same month.

By achieving this latest certification, Stray Kids joins an exclusive club of K-pop artists who have received recognition from the RIAA. They are only the second K-pop act, following the immense global success of BTS, to earn gold RIAA certifications for both an album and a single. This achievement underscores Stray Kids’ growing influence in the U.S. music market.

Furthermore, Stray Kids’ gold RIAA certification for “★★★★★ (5-STAR)” places them among the elite K-pop acts that have achieved this distinction. Prior to Stray Kids, only BTS and TXT had albums certified as gold in the United States. This accomplishment solidifies Stray Kids’ position as a major player in the international music scene.

The remarkable achievement is a testament to Stray Kids’ talent and the dedicated support of their global fanbase. The group has made substantial strides in the U.S. music industry, and their success continues to reach new heights. Congratulations to Stray Kids for this well-deserved recognition and their exciting accomplishment in the United States!

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BTS’ ‘DNA’ and BLACKPINK’s ‘Whistle’ Inducted in Korea World Music Culture Hall of Fame

BTS poses for their 2022 Festa Family portrait. Credit: Facebook/BTS

K-pop sensations BTS and BLACKPINK have once again made history in the world of music! As their respective hit songs “DNA” and “Whistle” have been honored with induction into the prestigious Korean World Music Culture Hall of Fame. 

According to a Herald Economy report, the 2023 Korea World Music Culture Hall of Fame has announced its first inductees. The list, which consists of 21 songs – 20 domestic and one overseas – was made by the Korean Federation of Copyright Societies. 

Furthermore, the report noted that the inducted list aims to convey universal human values such as love, peace, freedom, and happiness to the world. Which is why their chosen songs span the spectrum of Korean music, from classics like Go Bok-su’s “Living in a Foreign Country” to K-pop releases that garnered global popularity. 

Notably, it’s BTS’ iconic track “DNA” and BLACKPINK’s hit song “Whistle” that made it to the list. Both were recognized for being an “essential song for the sustainable development of K-pop globally.” 

Other Korean songs inducted in the list include releases from Cho Yong Pil, Seo Taiji and Boys, Choi Jin Hee, Lee Dong Won, Patty Kim, and more. Among the 21 songs inducted, “Blowing in the Wind” by Bob Dylan is the first overseas track to be included. 

Moreover, the report mentioned that the Korean World Music Culture Hall of Fame plans to announce a new set of inductees once a month following this first announcement. Additionally, the Korean Federation of Copyright Organizations believes that this list will provide hope and support to music, culture, and arts enthusiasts and organizers at home and abroad. 

BTS & BLACKPINK fans rejoice!

Given that this is the first for the initiative, fans of both BTS and BLACKPINK couldn’t help but celebrate that songs from the group were included in the list. For them, this achievement not only solidifies their status as global music icons but also acknowledges the profound impact they’ve had on the Korean music industry and the world.

In August 2016, BLACKPINK made their debut with tracks “BOOMBAYAH” and “Whistle” on the single album Square One. Particularly, “Whistle” was even recognized by Billboard as one of the best releases of 2016, a first for a newly debuted K-pop group. Since then, the four-piece act has firmly established themselves as a global music sensation. 

As for BTS, this recent inclusion is just another addition to their long-list of achievements. With the 2017 song “DNA,”  the K-pop juggernaut set several records for the group, including being the first Korean boy group music video to hit one billion views on YouTube. 

Although both songs are already several years old, it’s refreshing to see how they’re still achieving new feats until today.

Featured image: BTS poses for their 2022 Festa Family portrait. Credit: Facebook/BTS

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TWICE’s Chaeyoung Collaborates With Coco & Clair Clair

Coco & Clair Claire shares photo with the TWICE member. Credit: Instagram/Coco & Clair Clair

Chaeyoung of K-pop girl group TWICE and American duo Coco & Clair Clair is a collaboration we didn’t see coming! On Wednesday, October 25, they released the collaborative track “Pop Star — Chaeyoung Remix.” 

Notably, “Pop Star” is the final track on Coco & Clair Clair’s album SEXY (DELUXE) edition. It will be released on November 10. 

First announced in September, the collaboration between Chaeyoung and Coco & Clair Clair garnered interest in the industry as both acts have different musical styles. 

After it was revealed that the TWICE member was listed as a featured artist, ONCEs especially were excited about the collaboration. Given that the K-pop act is known for their joyful flair while the American duo is leaning more to synth-pop. 

With the remix now released, fans were treated to a very interesting collaboration as the artists sang about being a pop star. 

As per the Genius website, part of Chaeyoung’s verse goes: “Hey, babe, do you want to see my perfect lifestyle? / But you better be ready, ’cause it’s gonna be wild /  So thank you for feedback, thank you for your jokes / Thank you for your memes, thank you for your roasts.” 

Following the release of the single, Coco & Clair Clair also released behind-the-scenes photos with Chaeyoung. 

TWICE’s Chaeyoung expands her musicality 

For fans of Chaeyoung, the collaboration with Coco & Clair Clair just expanded the idol’s musical portfolio. 

Notably, Chaeyoung was the first member of TWICE to receive writing credits. Since 2016, the rapper-singer has contributed to many of TWICE’s songs. Among them are “Sweet Talker,” “Strawberry,” “Handle It,” “How U Doin’,” and “Celebrate.” 

Moreover, fans are hoping that this would be the start of more collaboration between Chaeyoung and other artists. 

As for her TWICE activities, the nine-piece act is currently embarking on their fifth world tour Ready to Be. Recently, the group marked their eight debut anniversary with a pop-up store and fan meeting.

Featured image: Coco & Clair Claire shares photo with the TWICE member. Credit: Instagram/Coco & Clair Clair

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