Category: KPOP NEWS

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Fans Outraged at SM Entertainment’s Treatment for 2024 Season’s Greetings of EXO

EXO members pose for their album 'EXIST.' Credit: Facebook/EXO

Fans of K-pop boy group EXO were sent abuzz with disappointment as they discovered that the group was conspicuously absent from the lineup of the highly-anticipated 2024 SM Entertainment Season’s Greetings. 

On Wednesday, October 25, Kwangya released the promotional poster for their Season’s Greetings. In it are a multitude of SM Entertainment’s artists, including beloved acts like TVXQ, Super Junior, Red Velvet, NCT 127, NCT DREAM, WayV, aespa and even the rookie boy group RIIZE.

Among the groups under SM Entertainment, three were noticeably absent: Girls’ Generation, SHINee, and EXO. However, both Girls’ Generation and SHINee were quick to explain that the Season’s Greetings for their groups will have pre-orders by November. Furthermore, they explained that the two groups had a different schedule compared to other SM Entertainment artists given their prior schedule. 

Meanwhile, EXO didn’t release a statement about their Season’s Greetings until Friday, October 27. Similar to Girl’s Generation and SHINee, theirs will also have a separate schedule. Other details about pre-order for EXO’s Seasons Greetings will be announced through a separate notice at a later date.

Although SM Entertainment has finally confirmed that EXO is still releasing a Season’s Greetings for 2024, fans are still unhappy as to why it took several days before they released an explanation about the delay. The omission already left fans puzzled and anxious about the group’s future activities with the agency. 

On social media, fans lamented as to how the agency failed to properly promote EXO, especially in light of recent contract disputes and member departures from the group.

EXO vs SM Entertainment in 2023

Notably, thi puzzling exclusion comes at a time when EXO has been navigating a series of ups and downs with their agency SM Entertainment. 

In June, fans were taken aback when it was revealed that three EXO members, Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen, had issued contract termination notices to SM Entertainment. The EXO-CBX sub-united filed to terminate their contracts with SM Entertainment, citing alleged “mistreatment and unfair contract terms.” In response, SM Entertainment refuted these claims. After a three-week legal battle, both parties had reached a settlement. 

Then in October, new reports emerged that two more members,  Chanyeol and Sehun, were potentially transferring to another agency to pursue solo careers. But SM Entertainment swiftly denied these rumors, emphasizing that the contract signed by the members last year remains valid. 

Shortly after, SM Entertainment also confirmed that D.O. would continue his solo activities under a newly established label. Additionally, he will simultaneously maintain his connection with SM Entertainment for EXO activities.

Amidst these developments, leader Suho assured fans that EXO will continue as a full group. 

Featured image: EXO members pose for their album ‘EXIST.’ Credit: Facebook/EXO

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

NCT’s Taeyong and SEVENTEEN’s Woozi Show Off Adorable Friendship

NCT's Taeyong participates in SEVENTEEN's 'God of Music' challenge with Woozi. Credit: YouTube/SEVENTEEN

In the world of K-pop, where talents and friendships often flourish behind the scenes, fans are always eager for glimpses into the personal lives of their favorite idols. Recently, NCT 127‘s Taeyong surprised fans during a live Instagram session by introducing an unexpected guest: SEVENTEEN‘s Woozi. 

As this is the first time that the two idols were seen together, fans couldn’t help but be curious  as to how these two K-pop powerhouses came to know each other. According to Taeyong they became friends because of their mutual passion for creating music. “We became close because we both liked composing music,” he said.

 

Moreover, the NCT 127 leader didn’t shy away from expressing his admiration for Woozi’s capabilities as a producer. During the live session, he revealed that he played some of his work for the SEVENTEEN member, who provided valuable feedback that boosted his confidence. Another proof of their tight friendship was that Taeyong was able to listen to the demo of “God of Music.” 

 

Throughout the live session, the two idols were also wary about dropping spoilers for their still-unannounced activities. At one point, Woozi told Taeyong that SEVENTEEN has imposed a fine for any member who drops spoilers. To which, the SM Entertainment artist was quickly taken aback. Which left Woozi quickly clarifying that it’s more of an inside joke within the group than a strict policy. 

Taeyong x Woozi collaboration?

Aside from the two idols sharing snippets from their daily lives, fans couldn’t help but adore the unexpected friendship between the two. At the start of the Instagram live, the “Super” singer mentioned that it was his first time appearing on someone else’s live stream, and the “Fact Check” singer expressed his honor at having him as a guest.

Moreover, Woozi also treated viewers to a dance to Taeyong’s solo track “Shalala.”  To which, the NCT member suggested that they film a TikTok dance challenge together, preferably their group’s latest comeback “Fact Check“.

And the two did film several dance challenge, proving their genuine bond! On Friday, October 27, they released one video for NCT 127′s “Fact Check“ and two videos for SEVENTEEN’s “God of Music” dance challenge. One video showed them doing the track’s point choreography, while another showed them sitting down and dancing adorably. 

Apart from dance challenges, Taeyong also mentioned during the live session his desire to receive a song from Woozi tailored to his style. To which the SEVENTEEN producer agreed, promising he’ll create something cool for his hyung. 

Now that they’ve kept their promise of doing a TikTok dance challenge, fans are eagerly anticipating a music collaboration between the two. Nevertheless, it’s safe to say that their musical collaborations and interactions will continue to be a source of joy and inspiration for many of their fans. 

Featured image: NCT’s Taeyong participates in SEVENTEEN’s ‘God of Music’ challenge with Woozi. Credit: YouTube/SEVENTEEN

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Listen: LOONA and ARTMS’ HaSeul Releases ‘Plastic Candy’

HaSeul releases new digital single 'Plastic Candy.' Credit: Twitter/ARTMS

LOONA and ARTMS member HaSeul has treated fans with new music through the release of her digital single “Plastic Candy.” 

On Thursday, HaSeul released “Plastic Candy” on digital platforms before performing it at her concert Music Studio 81.8Hz. 

Prior to the release of the track, ARTMS released a behind-the-scenes video of the idol recording the song. 

“I was very nervous when recording it,” she said. “This song is full of dreaminess. If you think about the lyrics, you will find this more interesting.” 

Notably, “Plastic Candy” is HaSeul’s first solo music in nearly seven years. In 2016, she released her two-track self-titled single album as part of LOONA’s pre-debut project. 

Meanwhile, the Music Studio 81.8Hz is also the idol’s first solo show since signing with Modhaus. Set from October 26 to 29, the four-night show will also feature one of her ARTMS bandmates – Heejin, Kim Lip, Jinsoul, and Choerry – on each night of the concert.

HaSeul as a MODHAUS artist

In June, HaSeul signed with MODHAUS and joined the agency’s ARTMS project. 

Notably, Modhaus was founded by LOONA’s former creative director Jaden Jeong. And the ARTMS project featured the activities of LOONA members Heejin, Kim Lip, Jinsoul, Choerry, and Haseul. 

Her transfer to Modhaus follows the suspension of her exclusive contract with BlockBerry Creative. All 12 members of LOONA have left BlockBerry, after winning a string of lawsuits to suspend their contracts. 

Under MODHAUS, Odd Eye Circle, the sub-unit composed of Choerry, Jinsoul, and Kim Lip, released their album Version Up in June. Meanwhile, Heejin is also set to make her solo debut on October 31. 

As for the other LOONA members, Chuu made her solo debut in October with the EP Howl. Meanwhile, members HyunJin, YeoJin, Vivi, Go Won, and HyeJu have formed the group LOOSSEMBLE (LOONA Assemble) under the agency CTDENM. 

On several accounts, the members have expressed their desire to have a LOONA reunion and even showed support for each other’s activities. 

Featured image: HaSeul releases new digital single ‘Plastic Candy.’ Credit: Twitter/ARTMS

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

The Boyz to return with ‘Sixth Sense’

IST Entertainment shares photo of The Boyz from their 'Christmas in August' album. Credit: Twitter/IST Entertainment

Mark your calendars, DEOBIS! K-pop boy group The Boyz is returning with new music on November 20 through Sixth Sense. 

On Wednesday, October 25, IST Entertainment confirmed that The Boyz is gearing up for their comeback. 

“They will start their comeback by releasing Sixth Sense, the second part of their second full-length album PHANTASY,” the agency said in a press release. 

Notably, this will mark The Boyz’ first comeback in three months following the release of Christmas in August. To recall, Christmas in August, which carries the title track “Lip Gloss,” served as the first part of the group’s PHANTASY trilogy. 

Other details about Sixth Sense, such as its title track, concept photos, and number of songs, have yet to be released. 

But it can be recalled that The Boyz have earlier released posters for their PHANTASY trilogy. In which, the poster for Sixth Sense featured a drive-in theater. Moreover, it had a different vibe and concept as to the beach featured in the poster for Christmas in August. 

The Boyz’ PHANTASY trilogy

In July, IST Entertainment first revealed that the group’s second full-length album PHANTASY will be divided into three parts. 

Additionally, they noted that the three installments will all be released by the second half of 2023. The first part, Christmas in August, was released in August. 

As for its third installment, it will be titled Love Letter. For its sequence poster, Love Letter featured a field of snow. However, there’s no additional details yet about the third installment. 

PHANTASY serves as The Boyz’s first full-length album in more than three years following REVEAL, which was released in February 2020. As for their latest release prior to PHANTASY, it was the February 2023 mini-album BE AWAKE. 

Initially a 12-member boy group, The Boyz made their debut in December 2017. However, Hwall left in October 2019 due to health reasons. 

Currently, the group is composed of Sangyeon, Jacob, Hyunjae, Younghoon, Kevin, Juyeon, New, Q, Sunwoo, Ju Haknyeon, and Eric. 

In between the releases for the group’s PHANTASY installments, The Boyz is also embarking on their second world tour ZENERATION.

Featured image: IST Entertainment shares photo of The Boyz from their ‘Christmas in August’ album. Credit: Twitter/IST Entertainment

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Look: ATEEZ Drops Teaser for ‘The World Ep. FIN: WILL’

Members pose for individual photos in 'The World EP. FIN: WILL' Credit: Facebook/ATEEZ

Save the date, ATINYs! K-pop boy group ATEEZ is returning with the new album The World EP. FIN: WILL 

On Wednesday, October 25, the “Bouncy” hitmakers announced their plans of releasing the final installment for their The World trilogy. 

In the teaser for the third album, graffiti over the wall shows the words Historia (History),  Amistad (Friendship), Beliefs, a rabbit silhouette, and the mini album’s title. 

Notably, The World EP. FIN: WILL will come six months after the release of their The World EP 2: OUTLAW album in June. For those unfamiliar, the first part of the trilogy started with the July 2022 release The World EP. 1: Movement. 

As seen in the individual teasers, ATEEZ members also pose with a dark, rebellious theme. Which prompts fans to anticipate the concept of the upcoming album, as many are excited to see how the group will conclude the trilogy. 

 

Additionally, ATEEZ also released a scheduler for their pending comeback. Aside from the usual concept photos, posters, and tracklist, the group hinted at two activities set for November 19 to November 23 and November 24. 

Meanwhile, the album and official music video for the title track will be out on December 1. Other details, such as the number of songs in the album, have yet to be announced. 

As of writing, it remains unclear whether member Jongho will be participating in the activities for the upcoming album as he’s currently on hiatus. In August, KQ Entertainment announced that the idol has experienced “extreme pain” in his leg. 

Five years with ATEEZ

The announcement about The World EP. FIN: WILL came shortly after the group marked their fifth debut anniversary. 

In a special interview video, ATEEZ looked back around their idol journey. 

 

“I hope we continue to grow and for 2024, we’ve been growing and getting better all this time. So I believe we’ll be at a higher place. Even when we’re up there, we won’t lose our focus,” member Yunho said. 

Moreover, they also expressed their gratitude to their fans who continue to support them. “I felt that the love for us is truly extraordinary. I love ATINY just as much as I started,” Seonghwa shared. 

Composed of Hongjoong, Seonghwa, Yunho, Yeosang, San, Mingi, Wooyoung, and Jongho, ATEEZ debuted in October 2018 with the song “Pirate KIng.” 

Currently, the group is embarking on their The Fellowship: Break the Wall world concert tour. 

Featured image: Members pose for individual photos in ‘The World EP. FIN: WILL.’ Credit: Facebook/ATEEZ

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Wonbin Dishes on Favorite RIIZE Member and Other K-Pop Group Biases

There is little doubt that RIIZE has been making waves in the K-pop industry as one of the fifth-generation boy groups under SM Entertainment. Still, they all started out as fans who had biases in other idol groups. But which K-pop stars do Wonbin look up to? The idol dished on his favorite members and even revealed which member of RIIZE he admires!

RIIZE’s Wonbin Reveals His NCT, WayV, SEVENTEEN, and TXT Biases

In a recent video call event, a fan decided to inquire about Wonbin’s biases from other boy groups, including those outside the SM Entertainment umbrella. When asked about his favorite member from NCT Dream, Wonbin promptly responded with Mark‘s name. Continuing the inquiry, the fan wondered about members from NCT’s other subunits, NCT 127 and WayV. Wonbin revealed that Taeyong and Xiaojun were his favorites from these respective groups.

The fan then expanded the scope to non-SM Entertainment idols, beginning with the Pledis Entertainment group SEVENTEEN. To this, Wonbin expressed his fondness for Hoshi. Transitioning to TXT, he indicated Yeonjun as his favorite member.

Lastly, the fan asked Wonbin to name his favorite member from his own group. In good spirits, Wonbin humorously declared Sohee as his favorite RIIZE member within their own group. Still, fans believe that he gets along well with Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Seunghan, and Anton.

Wonbin’s responses shed light on his passion for K-Pop, revealing his appreciation for members from various idol groups and confirming that he has his biases just like everybody else. With his evident enthusiasm for the genre, fans can hope to see him collaborating with some of his favorite artists in the future.

RIIZE officially debuted with the single album ‘Get a Guitar’ in September. They are currently preparing for their first comeback with the single “Talk Saxy” on October 27, 2023.

Categories
BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS V Shares Cheerful Update Following Stalker Scare

A BTS stalker took things a little too far and immediately learned the consequences of their actions. The woman has reportedly been arrested for stalking BTS member V in his private residence. Nevertheless, Kim Taehyung remains cheerful, assuring ARMYs with wholesome posts.

BTS Stalker Arrested for Trying to Invade V’s Privacy

Seoul’s Gangnam Police have taken action regarding a disturbing incident of stalking involving BTS’s V. Reports from October 27 reveal that a woman in her 30s is under investigation for stalking the renowned K-pop artist.

The incident unfolded when the woman allegedly followed V into an elevator at his place of residence. Shockingly, it is reported that she had been waiting for V in the parking lot of his residence and subsequently pursued him into the building. The unsettling episode concluded with the woman fleeing the scene. However, she left behind a rather concerning piece of evidence – a marriage license application bearing her name.

Since the incident, BIGHIT Music confirmed the news and assured ARMYs that actions will be taken against the stalker.

“In response to stalking crimes which threaten the safety of our artists and intrude on their privacy, we are exercising a zero tolerance rule,” the statement read.

The distressing news has understandably sent shockwaves through the global BTS fan community, prompting fans to express their deep concerns and frustrations on social media platforms.

BTS V Breaks Silence Since Stalker Incident

In response to the incident, V took it upon himself to provide assurance to his devoted fans regarding his well-being. He shared updates on his current status and safety through both Weverse and Instagram, aiming to allay concerns and fears about the situation.

BIGHIT MUSIC previously issued an official statement, making it abundantly clear that they are taking robust legal measures against individuals who have committed various malicious online activities directed at BTS. These actions range from defamation, stalking, and sexual harassment to disseminating false information and posting hate comments. The label has made it unequivocal that they will not tolerate any violations of the group’s artistic and personal rights.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

G-Dragon Breaks Silence on Drug Abuse Allegations

G-Dragon has finally spoken up about his recent controversy. The BIGBANG leader officially addressed the drug abuse allegations and assured fans that he had done nothing wrong.

BIGBANG Member G-Dragon Issues Statement Regarding Drug Abuse Allegations

On October 27, G-Dragon issued an official statement through his legal representatives. Although the statement is brief, it assures VIPs that the BIGBANG member is innocent of the recent drug abuse allegations.

“This is G-Dragon,” the statement read. “First of all, it is not true that I used drugs. Additionally, I would like to clarify that I have nothing to do with the news reports about violating the Narcotics Act that was released by the media.”

“However, I know that many people are concerned, so I will actively and fully cooperate with the investigation being conducted by the authorities,” it concluded.

This is the first time that G-Dragon has addressed the issue after it was reported that the police were looking for him. On October 25, it was reported that G-Dragon had been booked by the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency under suspicion of violating the Act on the Control of Narcotics, Etc. Importantly, the police clarified that this case is distinct from that of actor Lee Sun Gyun, who is presently under investigation for drug use and recently withdrew from a television drama.

Since then, those who are associated with G-Dragon have shared various statements. Chanel, who the BIGBANG member has been representing as their global brand ambassador, was one of the first to comment on the issue.

“We are aware of the ongoing issue that is G-Dragon’s case,” Chanel’s statement read. “However, we have no official position to share at this time.”

YG Entertainment also issued a statement and confirmed that G-Dragon is no longer signed with the label. “[G-Dragon] is currently not affiliated with our agency as an artist, making it challenging for us to issue an official response,” they said.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

RIIZE to Release Soundtrack Album for 3D Animation ‘Sealook’

The group releases a teaser for their comeback single 'Talk Saxy.' Credit: Facebook/RIIZE

Exciting news await fans of monster rookies RIIZE as the K-pop group is confirmed to release an original soundtrack album for the beloved 3D animation series Sealook. 

On Wednesday, October 25, Million Volt, the animation studio behind the series, confirmed that they’re collaborating with RIIZE. 

Accordingly, the soundtrack album is set to include the songs “Happy! Happy! Happy!” and “Look at me Sealook,” both in their Korean and English versions.

Moreover, “Happy! Happy! Happy!” is described as a calming pop song while “Look at me Sealook” has colorful and lively tones. 

To tease the collaboration, Sealook has been releasing teasers and snippets for the upcoming tracks.

For those unfamiliar, Sealook is a 3D animation series that premiered in South Korea in December 2022. It is co-produced by The Pinkfong Company, who is known for the television sensation Baby Shork, and Million Volt. According to its press release, the series is a “mockumentary-style sitcom about the daily lives of ‘fun-loving seals.’” 

Notably, Sealook features a unique format – a series of 90-second-long short-form videos, completely devoid of dialogues. Despite this, it has managed to amass an impressive following with over six million subscribers and one billion accumulated channel views on its official channel in less than a year since its premiere. 

RIIZE is set to release their soundtrack album for Sealook on November 4. 

RIIZE is on the roll

Following the news, fans of RIIZE can’t help but be excited for the group’s first OST participation. Especially that the act is collaborating with a popular series just months after their debut. 

Composed of members Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Seunghan, Sohee, and Anton, RIIZE is the latest addition to SM Entertainment’s roster of artists. Interestingly, two of the group members, Shotaro and Sungchan, have previously made their debut in 2020 as part of NCT. 

On September 4, the septet officially made their debut with the song “Get A Guitar.”

Prior to their debut, the group has already gained worldwide popularity as evident on how they became the fastest K-pop group to reach 1 million followers on Instagram. 

Adding to the excitement, RIIZE has also announced that they’re set to make their first comeback. On October 27, the group will be releasing the new single “Talk Saxy.” Definitely, a lot of things to look forward to with the rookie boy group! 

Facebook: The group releases a teaser for their comeback single ‘Talk Saxy.’ Credit: Facebook/RIIZE

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES VARIETY

SEVENTEEN to Appear in Na PD’s ‘Waggle Waggle’

Na PD shares photo of SEVENTEEN for 'Waggle Waggle.' Credit: Instagram/Na PD

CARATs are in for a treat as K-pop boy group SEVENTEEN is collaborating anew with  Na Young Seok, aka Na PD, for the upcoming variety show Waggle Waggle. 

On Wednesday, October 25, a teaser for the episode was released. In the video, SEVENTEEN’s Wonwoo is seen inviting the rest of the members to have a one-on-one drinking session with him.

As seen in the exchanges, members DK, Minghao, and Woozi rejected the offer, while Vernon didn’t pick up his call. But Seungkwan, one of the members who is active in variety shows, was quick to point out that Wonwoo is inviting them because he’s filming a show. 

“I need to contact a few people on a regular basis,” the rapper noted. 

Prior to the teaser, Na PD has first revealed that he filmed a new variety show with SEVENTEEN through a YouTube live.

During the live session, it was disclosed that he had dinner with the group and exchanged stories while drinking beer. At one point, he even hinted that fans should anticipate a face-off between members Seungkwan and Hoshi in Waggle Waggle. 

To the fans’ delight, Na PD also assured fans that leader S.coups, who’s on a break due to health concerns, appeared in Waggle Waggle. 

Other details about the show are still kept under wraps but the Waggle Waggle episode featuring SEVENTEEN is set to premiere on Saturday, October 28. 

‘Waggle Waggle’ and more: SEVENTEEN x Na PD’s collab

Following the news, K-pop fans and entertainment show enthusiasts can’t help but be excited as both SEVENTEEN and Na PD are known for their variety chops.

For instance, the K-pop group’s own web series Going Seventeen has gained a fandom of its own. Meanwhile, Na PD is already a known figure in South Korean entertainment. Notably, he’s the one behind successful variety programs such as 2 Days & 1 Night, Grandpas Over Flowers, New Journey to the West, and Three Meals a Day.  

Moreover, this marks another collaboration between SEVENTEEN and Na PD for 2023 alone. A proof that the two parties have formed a tight bond. 

In early 2023, SEVENTEEN appeared in Na PD’s Youtube series The Game Caterers 2. There, the group luckily won two wishes. One of which is making Na PD do a dance challenge for “Super” while the other is starring in their Youth Over Flowers own episode. 

In September, the group was confirmed to have filmed for the series in Europe. For those unfamiliar, Youth Over Flowers is a travel variety show wherein the staff tricked the cast members into spontaneous trips. 

As of writing, Na PD has yet to announce a release date for SEVENTEEN’s Youth Over Flowers. 

Featured image: Na PD shares photo of SEVENTEEN for ‘Waggle Waggle.’ Credit: Instagram/Na PD

Exit mobile version