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ATEEZ’s Seonghwa on Temporary Hiatus After Family Tragedy

Seonghwa is going on a much-deserved temporary hiatus. It has been confirmed that the grandmother of the ATEEZ member has passed away. In line with this, Seonghwa’s agency announced that he will be taking a break from activities following the family tragedy.

ATEEZ’s Seonghwa Temporary Hiatus Announced

On October 25, KQ Entertainment shared the somber news of the passing of ATEEZ’s Seonghwa’s beloved grandmother. In light of this unfortunate event, Seonghwa will be taking a temporary hiatus from some of the group’s forthcoming activities in the United States.

“We are conveying the unfortunate news that ATEEZ member Seonghwa’s grandmother passed away on October 23,” the statement read. “We offer our blessings to the departed, and we ask that you send Seonghwa your warm comfort and support.”

“Accordingly, we are informing you that Seonghwa will inevitably be unable to participate in [the group’s] scheduled activities in the United States,” it adds.

Despite the challenging circumstances, Seonghwa has made the admirable decision to fulfill his commitment to the upcoming “Immortal Songs in New York” concert, which is scheduled to take place on October 26. It is a testament to his dedication and professionalism as an artist.

The news of Seonghwa’s temporary absence from ATEEZ’s activities serves as a reminder of the importance of family and the profound impact such personal losses can have. During this difficult time, ATEEZ’s fans, known as ATINY, have shown their support and empathy for Seonghwa.

The members of ATEEZ have consistently demonstrated their bond as both a group and a family, and their thoughts and sympathies are undoubtedly with Seonghwa during this period of mourning.

As Seonghwa takes time to be with his family and honor the memory of his grandmother, fans and the K-Pop community send their heartfelt condolences and support to the ATEEZ member during this emotional and challenging moment.

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BLACKPINK’s Jisoo, Ahn Bo-Hyun Break Up

BLACKPINK's Jisoo and Ahn Bo-hyun update fans with new photos. Credit: Instagram/Jisoo and Ahn Bo-hyun

Several months after going public with their relationship, BLACKPINK’s Jisoo and actor Ahn Bo-hyun have parted ways due to “busy schedules.”

According to a Soompi report on Tuesday, October 24, an industry representative claimed that the two “naturally became distant due to their busy schedules” which resulted in their split. Additionally, said report claimed that the break up only happened recently. 

In response, BLACKPINK’s agency YG Entertainment confirmed the news. “It is true that Jisoo and Ahn Bo Hyun broke up,” they said. 

To recall, Jisoo and Bo-hyun’s relationship was confirmed by their respective agencies in August 2023. Entertainment news website Dispatch was the first outlet to break the news, sharing photos of the couple spending time at Jisoo’s home. Both reportedly bond over their similar interests in acting, singing, and fashion. Moreover, the relationship garnered a lot of attention as it was the first time for a BLACKPINK member to admit that she’s dating. 

Following the news of their split, some fans took to social media to express their surprise and reaction to the breakup. Nevertheless, some remain hopeful that the two will continue to be good colleagues instead. 

BLACKPINK’s Jisoo and Ahn Bo-hyun’s individual careers

Another reason why the relationship between Jisoo and Bo-hyun left fans surprised was because the two haven’t worked with each other before. Some even thought that it was Jisoo’s Snowdrop co-actor Jung Hae-in who served as a matchmaker between the two as Hae-in is a same-age friend to Bo-hyun. But Hae-in explained that he only found out that the two were dating through the news. 

 Ahn Bo Hyun, 35, starred in shows See You In My 19th Life, Yumi’s Cells, Military Prosecutor Doberman, My Name, and Itaewon Class. 

Meanwhile, Jisoo made her debut as a member of BLACKPINK in August 2016. She also ventured into acting through the Disney+ series Snowdrop. Recently, she made a cameo appearance in the film Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman. As a solo artist, she made her debut in March with the EP ME. 

Currently, fans are eagerly awaiting for Jisoo and BLACKPINK’s contract renewal status with YG Entertainment.

Featured image: BLACKPINK’s Jisoo and Ahn Bo-hyun update fans with new photos. Credit: Instagram/Jisoo and Ahn Bo-hyun

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Photos From Wedding of EXO Chen Go Viral on Social Media

Chen poses for EXO's 'Exist' album. Credit: Facebook/EXO

EXO member Chen officially tied the knot with his non-showbiz partner in a private ceremony on October 22, and the momentous event quickly created a buzz of excitement and nostalgia among fans. 

Chen, whose real name is Kim Jong-dae, first made public his relationship in January 2020. In a handwritten letter, the idol told his fans that he has a girlfriend that he “wants to spend the rest of his [life] with.” At the time, he also announced that they’re also expecting their first child. In April 2020, it was confirmed that Chen’s partner had given birth to their first child. 

Then in January 2022, it was confirmed that the couple welcomed their second daughter while the idol was in the military.

Chen and his wife’s official wedding 

In August, SM Entertainment announced that Chen and his partner will be holding a belated wedding ceremony in October. According to the agency, the wedding ceremony  has been delayed due to circumstances, such as Chen’s military enlistment and his wife’s childbirth. 

Details about the wedding ceremony were intentionally kept private out of respect for Chen’s non-celebrity wife. Nevertheless, numerous attendees shared glimpses of the occasion, giving fans a peek into the joyful celebration.

In the photos circulating on social media, the couple’s radiant happiness on their big day is evident. Chen looked dapper in a white shirt paired with a matching jacket, black bow tie, and trousers. Meanwhile, his bride looked absolutely elegant in a maroon dress. Additionally, the venue was adorned with pure white flowers, creating a magical atmosphere that symbolized the purity of their love.

 

One heartwarming aspect of the wedding ceremony was the presence of  all EXO group members. Even Kai who’s currently serving in the military was reported to be in attendance. Some videos also saw EXO members participating in the ceremony, with Baekhyun and Xiumin as the hosts, while Suho performs a special song. Notably, Chen was also captured to serenade his wife. 

 

Given that the news about Chen’s relationship drew mixed reaction from fans, others who are supportive about the idol’s personal affairs are delighted to see EXO’s reunion in the event. For them, it’s a testament of the strong bond among the members.

Featured image: Chen poses for EXO’s ‘Exist’ album. Credit: Facebook/EXO

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Lexie Withdraws From HYBE’s ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’

Lexie in a behind-the-scene photo for 'The Debut: Dream Academy.' Credit: Dream Academy's Instagram

With how talent reality shows have taken the entertainment industry by storm, it’s no surprise that The Debut: Dream Academy is gaining buzz worldwide. However, it left viewers surprised as one of the contestants, Lexie, announced her withdrawal from the show. 

In a Weverse post on Friday, October 21,  HYBE x Geffen Records confirmed Lexie’s departure from the show. “Lexie believes that while this process has been immensely beneficial on her journey of self-discovery, pursuing a place in the final girl group no longer aligns with her professional aspirations,” the statement read.

Lexie on her journey in ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’ 

In a touching behind-the-scenes video shared by HYBE Labels, Lexie opened up about the main reason for her departure. According to the 19-year-old contestant from Sweden, she realized that “this path is not just meant for [her].” 

Despite the decision to part ways with the competition, Lexie remained grateful for the life-changing opportunity she had been granted. Moreover, she spoke candidly about her growth throughout The Debut: Dream Academy.  “All the people I’ve met and all the things I’ve learned. I’ve just grown so much. Obviously, it’s a hard decision, but I’m honestly truly happy and at peace with it. And I’m really excited to see what the future has in store for me,” she said. 

Additionally, she also had nothing but sweet words to her fellow contestants, saying that they’re her “sisters” and “family.” “Without you guys, I wouldn’t have made it this far. You guys are just like my rock. And how you guys from day one took care of me, I was really scared. But you guys just welcomed me with my open arms,” she said.  

With Lexie’s exit, the competition now proceeds with 13 remaining contestants. The remaining 13 will embark on the third mission, slated to kick off on October 25. After the third and final mission concludes, only 10 girls will have the chance to perform at the show’s live finale, which is scheduled for November 17.

HYBE x Geffen Records’ global girl group

Created by South Korean entertainment giant HYBE and American record label Geffen Records, the reality series aims to discover and cultivate the next global girl group. Only 20 talented contestants from different corners of the world were chosen in a pool of 120,000 applicants. 

According to earlier reports, the group that will be formed through The Debut: Dream Academy will debut with an English song. In addition to their debut track, the girl group’s journey will be immortalized in a Netflix documentary series scheduled for release in 2024. 

As HYBE is known to be home to K-pop powerhouse acts BTS, SEVENTEEN, TOMORROW X TOGETHER, and more, fans have set high expectations for the upcoming girl group.

Featured image: Lexie in a behind-the-scene photo for ‘The Debut: Dream Academy.’ Credit: Dream Academy’s Instagram

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3 Former ‘Boys Planet’ Contestants to Debut in AMPERS&ONE

FNC Entertainment shares teaser for 'AMPERS&ONE.' Credit: Instagram/AMPERS&ONE

It’s official: FNC Entertainment has confirmed that they’re set to debut a new boy group called AMPERS&ONE! And it will feature several notable contestants from the Boys Planet series. 

On October 18, FNC Entertainment launched the official social media accounts for AMPERS&ONE. Based on the initial teaser, the group will feature seven members. 

In a press release, the agency explained that the group name is a combination of the word ampersand, also known as the sign that stands for “and” and “one.” Furthermore, it should symbolize the group’s wish to “achieve its dreams by coming together [as a group.]” 

Aside from hinting that the group is set to debut in November, FNC Entertainment has yet to release additional details about it. As of writing, there’s no news yet about the group’s album title or final debut date. 

Who are the AMPERS&ONE members? 

In September, FNC Entertainment first confirmed that former Boys Planet members Na Kamden and Choi Jiho will be part of their new boy group.

Following the launch of the group’s social media accounts, the agency confirmed that Brian will also be part of the septet. While it served a surprise as Brian was affiliated with Yuehua Entertainment during his participation in Boys Planet, fans on social media quickly welcomed the addition. 

Since then, AMPERS&ONE have been teasing the rest of their lineup. Aside from Kamden, Jiho, and Brian, the other members will be Mackiah, Siyun, Kyrell, and Seungmo.

 

Additional details for the other members have yet to be disclosed. Currently, fans are anticipating to see group photos of the septet.

Notably, AMPERS&ONE will be FNC Entertainment’s first boy group since P1HARMONY debuted in 2020. They will join the agency’s roster of rock bands like F.T. Island, CNBLUE, and N.FLYING. As for idol groups, the label is home to AOA, Cherry Bullet, and SF9. 

Featured image: FNC Entertainment shares teaser for ‘AMPERS&ONE.’ Credit: Instagram/AMPERS&ONE

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Suho Reassures Fans That EXO Will Continue as a Group

Suho poses for EXO's 'Cream Soda' music video. Credit: Facebook/EXO

EXO fans around the world breathed a collective sigh of relief when leader Suho assured them that they will continue as a group.  Notably, the short but sweet message came after a series of developments with the EXO members’ involvement with agency SM Entertainment. 

In a private messaging app, the leader assured EXO-Ls that the group’s future activities would remain intact. “No need to worry about EXO promotions. Suho will take responsibility,” he said. 

Where are the EXO members? 

The reassurance from Suho came in light of news regarding fellow EXO member D.O.‘s establishment of his own agency for solo activities. 

According to several reports, D.O. will explore his solo endeavors through an agency established by a long-time manager. Moreover, SM Entertainment confirmed that D.O.’s contract with the agency will expire in early November. However, he will still continue activities with EXO, which will be handled by SM Entertainment.  

Prior to D.O., there were also rumors circulating about Chanyeol and Sehun potentially transferring to another agency. But SM Entertainment swiftly denied these rumors, emphasizing that the contract signed by the members last year remains valid. However, it was then when the agency revealed that they “conditionally allowed” EXO members to pursue individual activities only through their own established companies. 

Additionally, these recent developments in the EXO camp come after a dispute earlier in the year involving members Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen, who formed the EXO-CBX sub-unit. In June, EXO-CBX 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. 

Following the legal battle with EXO-CBX, it can be recalled that Baekhyun also aired his plans of setting up a new agency. As of writing, news about it has yet to be confirmed. 

‘We are One’ 

Throughout this whole ordeal, the EXO members have emphasized their unyielding commitment to continue their journey together. And Suho’s recent message is just another proof of that. 

Following his message, many EXO-Ls expressed their heartfelt admiration and gratitude for the EXO leader. Many fans commended him for his leadership andis unwavering dedication to EXO. 

Originally a 12-piece act, EXO made their debut in April 2012. Chinese members Kris, Tao, and Luhan have left the group, while Lay left SM Entertainment in April 2022. 

EXO is known for songs “Growl,” “Monster,” “Love Shot,” Overdose,” and “Tempo.” In July, EXO released their seventh full-length album EXIST. 

Featured image: Suho poses for EXO’s ‘Cream Soda’ music video. Credit: Facebook/EXO

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Wow! BLACKPINK’s Lisa earns 8th Guinness World Record with ‘Money’

BLACKPINK shares photo from 'Lalisa' music video. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

There’s no doubt that BLACKPINK’s Lisa remains to be one of the leading names in the K-pop industry. A proof of that is how her solo debut single, LALISA, released in September 2021, has continued to bring her a wave of international acclaim.

And now, the Thai rapper-dancer has achieved her eight Guinness World Record with her sensational B-side track, “MONEY.”

According to Guinness World Records, “MONEY” stands as the first K-pop track by a solo artist to reach an astounding 1 billion streams on Spotify. What makes this feat more remarkable is that it was initially a B-side track. However, given its immense popularity, the song was released as a second solo single on November 9, 2021. 

In September, Spotify first noted  that “MONEY” has amassed over 1 billion streams on their platform. Which makes Lisa the first and only South Korean singer to join the Billions club. Aside from the BLACKPINK member, other female artists to achieve this feat include Adele, Billie Eilish, Doja Cat, Olivia Rodrigo, SZA, and Gayle. 

But that’s not all; the accompanying performance video for “MONEY” has also become one of the most-watched videos. As of writing, it boasts a staggering 919 million views. 

A record-breaking year for Lisa

The milestone achieved by “Money” is the latest addition to Lisa’s incredible achievements for 2023 alone.

To recall, her solo EP, Lalisa, also secured two remarkable Guinness World Records titles. As per GWR, the EP Lalisa reached over 1 billion streams on Spotify, making Lisa the fastest solo K-pop artist to achieve this milestone on the platform.

In 2022, she wrote down her name in history as the first K-Pop soloist to win the MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) Best K-pop video award. Moreover, she also holds the title for the most Guinness World Records for a K-pop singer having a total of seven feats under her name.

In 2023, Lisa’s reach expanded further, as she secured the Guinness World Record for having the most followers on Instagram among K-pop artists. Aside from that, the multi-talented rapper and dancer is the only K-pop idol to be part of Instagram’s Rich List of 2023.

Outside of her idol activities, the BLACKPINK member also made waves for her participation at the Crazy Horse Cabaret in Paris. 

Featured image: BLACKPINK shares photo from ‘Lalisa’ music video. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

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SEVENTEEN Soars to New Heights with ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN’

Melon shares photos from SEVENTEEN's filming for 'SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN.' Credit: Twitter/SVT Contents

K-pop boy group SEVENTEEN continues to establish themselves as one of the biggest names in the industry. With their 11th mini-album SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN, the group have taken the industry by storm by setting new records and achieving remarkable milestones. 

On Monday, October 23, SEVENTEEN made their highly-anticipated comeback with SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN. The eight-track album served as the group’s return after five months following the release of FML in May.

Although it’s only been months since the group released new music, their latest album still had a meteoric rise to the top of charts, solidifying the group’s status as one of the most influential acts in the industry. 

Records set by ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN’ 

Prior to the album’s official release, SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN amassed an astounding 5.2 million pre-orders, setting a new benchmark for Korean acts. Said number also served as the group’s best personal record as their previous album, FML, only recorded 4.64 million copies in pre-orders. Furthermore, with this final total, SEVENTEEN now holds the record for the highest pre-order volume for an album in the history of K-pop. 

Meanwhile, the first-day album sales of  SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN are equally impressive as it reached 3.288 million units. This places them second only to their previous release, FML, which achieved 3.99 million first-day sales. In doing so, SEVENTEEN now holds the top two positions for the biggest first-day album sales debuts in the history of the Hanteo chart.

 

Additionally, the reach of SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN extended far beyond Korea’s borders. According to a report from Naver, the album achieved an all-kill status as it dominated the Japanese iTunes album chart across all genres. Moreover, it also maintained its reign at the top of Line Music’s real-time album chart. 

In China, the album sold a total of ¥400,000 digital sales revenue in just 18 hours after its release. 

‘God of Music’ dominates charts

Some of the standout achievements of SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN is also attributed to its title track, “God of Music.” Within 24 hours of its release, the track quickly dominated charts such as Genie, and Bugs. What makes this accomplishment even more remarkable is that SEVENTEEN became the first male group to top the Melon Top 100 for 2023, a milestone that speaks volumes about their growing influence and popularity.

Now that “God of Music” debuted at Melon’s Top 100, SEVENTEEN joins NewJeans, IVE, LE SSERAFIM, and G-IDLE as the only idol groups to have a song top the list for 2023. 

 

Outside of the Korean music charts, “God of Music” achieved top rankings on the iTunes “Top Song” chart in an impressive 29 countries and regions. The song’s appeal transcended linguistic and cultural boundaries, finding favor in places like Brazil, the Philippines, and Singapore.

In an interview with Vulture, member Vernon says that the track shows SEVENTEEN’s “true colors.” “We’re just a really fun and bright group in general,” he said. Meanwhile, Joshua added: “It shows our energy, it shows our happiness, it shows our teamwork, it shows our performance skill sets.”  

Other songs included in the album are “SOS,” “Diamond Days,” “Back 2 Back,” “Monster,” “Yawn,” and “Headliner.” 

Featured image: Melon shares photos from SEVENTEEN’s filming for ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN.’ Credit: Twitter/SVT Contents

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JYJ’s Kim Jaejoong Shares Terrifying Sasaeng Stories From TVXQ! Days

Kim Jaejoong is one idol who has experienced the best and the worst in the K-pop industry. After all, the former TVXQ! member has been making music for over 12 years. So it’s no surprise that the JYJ member has some shocking tales to tell. Kim recently shared terrifying sasaeng stories from his time with TVXQ!

Former TVXQ! Member Kim Jaejoong Shares Horrifying Sasaeng Stories

In an episode of his online podcast, Kim Jaejoong shared some chilling experiences with sasaengs, the obsessive and invasive fans known for their extreme behavior in the world of K-Pop. During the broadcast, Kim read an alarming story from a listener who had returned home one day, only to find that their door was unlocked, causing panic. The listener couldn’t recall if they had locked it that morning. Upon hearing this story, the JYJ member instantly connected with the listener’s fear, as he had his own share of disturbing sasaeng stories.

Jaejoong revealed that he had received photo text messages featuring images of his living room, kitchen, and bedroom, with an unsettling detail: he was present in every photo. The sasaengs had somehow entered his home, snapped the pictures, and then left. The mystery of how they obtained his phone number only added to the terror he experienced. Following this incident, Jaejoong changed the locks on his doors to ensure his safety.

Another harrowing incident involved Jaejoong moving into a new apartment. To his shock, sasaeng fans managed to rent or purchase an apartment directly opposite his, even on the same floor. These individuals would watch him closely whenever he appeared on his terrace, invading his privacy and leaving him feeling trapped and vulnerable.

Jaejoong’s sasaeng stories spanned over 12 years before his life gradually returned to a sense of normalcy. While he is no longer tormented by sasaengs today, his ability to endure and overcome such invasive intrusions for more than a decade is a testament to his resilience and strength.

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SEVENTEEN Actually Sent a Disco Ball Mic To Space for ‘God of Music’ MV

SEVENTEEN has officially returned with a vibrant new album and a dynamic title track that comes with a fun music video. However, there’s one moment in the “God of Music” MV that has been confirmed to be truly out of this world! It has just been revealed that the travelling disco ball mic was truly sent into space, teasing the budget spent on the latest music video!

SEVENTEEN Sends Disco Ball Mic into Space for ‘God of Music’ MV

On October 23, SEVENTEEN delighted fans with their latest album ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN’ and the accompanying music video for its title track “God of Music.” While much of the music video was filmed in the picturesque landscapes of Budapest, Hungary, there’s one intriguing scene that stands out.

In a brief segment of the music video, a disco ball mic appears to be floating high in the sky above the ground, transitioning to a scene where it appears to float in outer space. What’s even more fascinating is that this wasn’t created through green screen technology; it’s actual footage captured for the “God of Music” music video!

The unique footage was made possible through a collaboration between PLEDIS Entertainment and a company called Sent Into Space. For their part, Sent Into Space recently shared a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the original footage on their Twitter account.

Not surprisingly, CARATs have been astonished by the fact that SEVENTEEN had the resources for such a seemingly expensive collaboration, especially for a short part of the music video. The collaboration demonstrates the group’s financial capabilities, which have grown significantly thanks to their remarkable album sales numbers. It also highlights their commitment to delivering high-quality music and visuals to their dedicated fan base.

SEVENTEEN released their latest EP ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN’ along with the title track “God of Music” on October 23, 2023.

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