Category: KPOP NEWS

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Is G-Dragon Transferring to Another Agency?

G-Dragon in a concept photo for BIGBANG's 2015 'MADE' in Seoul DVD. Credit: Facebook/BIGBANG

In June, YG Entertainment confirmed that the exclusive contract of G-DRAGON with their agency has ended. Since then, fans have been keenly anticipating his next moves.

On Saturday, September 30, G-DRAGON posted a series of photos on his personal Instagram account. One photo specifically prompted fans to speculate on his career developments. 

Said photo showed an electronic display put up by Warner Music Records that read: “Welcome G-Dragon.” This led fans to speculate that the rapper has likely signed with the label. 

Prior to the photos’ release, foreign media reported that the singer visited the  Warner Music Records office in Los Angeles, California. For those who don’t know, Warner Music is one of the top three music labels in the global music industry alongside Universal Music and Sony Music.

With GD’s speculated leap in his career, fans, especially BIGBANG’s fandom VIPs, are thrilled for his return. Earlier this year, the “Crooked” singer announced that he has plans to return with a solo album.

Fans’ thoughts about the next move of G-Dragon

Although there are no official confirmations yet, fans have already brought their sentiments to social media.

Upon seeing the update, VIPs could not hide their excitement for the singer. “If it’s true that G-Dragon signed with Warner, Congratulations! Hopefully we will get music soon,” one wrote.

https://twitter.com/tttoptier131kon/status/1707001128532250988

Other fans, meanwhile, remain skeptical and believe that his visit at Warner Music is only for US promotions.

G-DRAGON’s journey with BIGBANG and YG

Known as one of the leading K-Pop artists, G-DRAGON has spent 23 years with YG Entertainment. From BIGBANG’s debut in 2006, the singer has been with the agency since he was 19 years old.

Composed of members G-DRAGON, T.O.P., Taeyang, Daesung and former member Seungri, BIGBANG has been established as one of the leading K-pop groups from the second generation. The act released numerous hits including “BANG BANG BANG”, “Still Life”, “LOSER”, and a lot more throughout their career. 

Undoubtedly, the group’s leader GD has led BIGBANG to be one of the most influential K-Pop groups in history.

Sadly, BIGBANG went on an indefinite hiatus in 2018, releasing the song “Flower Road.” Said song served as a farewell song while the members completed their mandatory military service.

In 2019, the youngest member Seungri departed from the group after being embroiled in the infamous Burning Sun scandal. 

In 2022, T.O.P. also decided to not renew his contract with the agency, and announced that he would no longer participate in the group. Meanwhile, Taeyang transferred to THEBLACKLABEL, which is a subsidiary of YG Entertainment.

Regardless of whether there’s official confirmation yet or not, fans are already looking forward to G-DRAGON’s comeback as a solo artist.

Featured image: G-Dragon in a concept photo for BIGBANG’s 2015 ‘MADE’ in Seoul DVD. Credit: Facebook/BIGBANG

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ABYSS Release Apology After Leaving Out One Group in Company Photo

Artists of ABYSS company come together for a Chuseok group photo. Credit: Twitter/ABYSS

Chuseok or the Korean Thanksgiving is known to be a celebration of family. To celebrate the event, ABYSS Company took their “first family picture” with its roster of photos. However, it was met with backlash as one of their groups, Urban Zakapa, was nowhere in the photos.

On Saturday, September 28, entertainment agency ABYSS Company posted photos of their artists wearing hanbok for the Chuseok holiday. Among them were singers Sandara Park, BamBam, Sunmi, Jukjae, Park Won and folk duo Melomance.

“ABYSS’ first family photo that is reassuring just to look at. The first family picture of ABYSS that makes you feel warm just by looking,” they captioned the post. Moreover, the company also posted individual photos of the celebrities alongside their personal messages for fans.

However, netizens were quick to notice that Urban Zakapa, the vocalist trio under ABYSS, were not in the “family photo.” Which led to fans raising complaints and the company releasing an apology statement.

“Due to the termination of the contract of former artist Hyun-Ah, we decided that it would be difficult to feature the entire Urban Zakapa in the content,” ABYSS explained. “As a result, we are concerned about the many fans who love Urban Zakapa, we sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused,” they added.

Hyun-Ah of Urban Zakapa airs disappointment towards ABYSS

When the “family photo” was released, Jo Hyun-ah, the vocalist of Urban Zakapa, did not hesitate to voice out her honest thoughts. 

“Wow, we’re not in this picture. Couldn’t even tell us about it, huh? Lol, the singer boldly remarked in the comments section. 

In the company’s apology statement, ABYSS also mentioned that they regretted proceeding with the photo shoot without notifying Urban Zakapa first. “We have reached out to the group and apologized to them, explaining what had happened,” they stated.

In response, Hyun-ah once again expressed her disappointment. “Is it just enough to publish an apology, and we should accept it? It feels somewhat coercive and pressuring”, she commented.

Earlier this year, the singer left ABYSS to establish her own agency, Andrew Company. On the other hand, the trio’s other members, Kwon Sun Il and Park Yong In, decided to stay with ABYSS.

Urban Zakapa is known as one of the artists who have been with the company since their humble beginnings. Throughout their career, the trio has released numerous hit tracks including “I Don’t Love You,” “Wish,” “You’re the Reason,” among many others.

Featured image: Artists of ABYSS company come together for a Chuseok group photo. Credit: Twitter/ABYSS

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K-DRAMA K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Im Siwan Rumored to Be Dating a Former IZ*ONE Member

K-drama actor and member of the K-pop group ZE:A, Im Siwan, recently found himself at the center of dating rumors with an idol-turned-actress. On September 28, a series of photos emerged online, showing a man and a woman in various settings. The post, aptly titled ‘Actor Im Siwan and Kang Hyewon Dating Suspicion,’ quickly became a hot topic. Kang Hyewon, once a member of IZ*ONE, is now making strides in the acting world. Here’s a comprehensive look at the rumors.

Images that surfaced during the day stirred significant attention online, with many speculating that the people in the photos were the Run On actor and Kang Hyewon. One showed a man and a woman leisurely walking in a park, with netizens commenting on the charming difference in their physical proportions. Another showed them signing autographs together. This fueled speculation about their relationship, leading to overwhelming support and affection for the potential couple.

However, the internet community remained split over the authenticity of these viral images. Some suggested that the photos might be from a project the two are working on. As it turns out, that may have a grain of truth because Im Siwan and Kang Hyewon have been cast as the main leads in an upcoming series. Some fans believe that the autograph session at the BBQ restaurant was for child actors, taken during a meal break with the entire crew.

Im Siwan as Byungtae

Upon closer examination, it was revealed that the woman accompanying Siwan in the park was likely not Kang Hyewon but one of their co-stars, actress Lee Sunbin. She was reportedly on set with Siwan while he was filming in Chuncheon. This revelation, supported by various media outlets, suggested that the dating rumors might have been a simple misinterpretation.

Im Siwan will be seen alongside Kang Hyewon, Lee Siwoo, and Lee Sunbin in Coupang Play’s next series, Boyhood. This supernatural thriller takes place in the 1980s at Buyeo Agricultural High School in Chungcheong Province. It tells the story of Byungtae, a shy student whose life takes a dramatic turn after a miraculous event. 

Byungtae, portrayed by Im Siwan, transforms, becoming their school’s most influential student overnight. Kang Hyewon and Lee Siwoo will play pivotal roles as Jung Kyungtae and Kang Sunhwa, respectively. The series is directed and produced by Lee Myungwoo, known for his work on Backstreet Rookie and The Fiery Priest.

All told, while the internet was abuzz with dating speculations, the rumors surrounding Im Siwan and Kang Hyewon were actually based on misunderstandings. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Are they or aren’t they? Find out here! Sources: X/@25Jrp and @wntrult.

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BTS’ RM Tells DAZED Korea the Real Reason He Cut His Hair

BTS‘ fearless leader, RM, recently did an interview with DAZED Korea, shedding light on the story behind his noticeably shorter hair. Many fans wondered why he got that cut, and RM explained, “I did say ‘because it was hot,’ and that’s true, but it was a bit of an impulse. The last time I had such a short length was in high school, but I wanted to face myself as I am. I wanted to get rid of some of the worries in my head, and not having hair is really helping me to think more simply. I still have a lot on my mind.”

RM said that while the new look might be unfamiliar to the ARMY, the feedback on his new look has been overwhelmingly positive. “I think ARMYs might be a little unfamiliar with it. But the reaction around me is very good. Some people say I look the most handsome right now,” he chuckled. “I’ve been confident in my appearance and hair for a long time, so I actually thought it would look pretty good even if I shaved it off like this. It’s comfortable and neat. It was difficult to get asked questions like ‘Have you had a change of mind?’ But other than that, everything is good.”

The leather shirt and pants set, pinstripe cotton shirt, lambskin slippers, and tie are all from Bottega Veneta./DAZED Korea

His personal interests

Diving deeper into his personal interests, RM touched upon his connection with art. He expressed admiration for artists like Yun Hyong-keun, whose works adorn the walls of his apartment. “Mr.Yun is still breathing at my bedside, in my study, in the kitchen, and at the entrance of my house. When I stand before him, my worries and the jagged ups and downs of my life feel like nothing. I think he teaches very close and sometimes from very far away. Even though he isn’t here now, I still feel like I am learning and growing from him.”

Eventually, talk turned to his Instagram activity. RM has been sharing a mix of art, movies, and other things, such as films that piqued his interest, like Asteroid City and Phantom Thread. He also talked about his work with Bottega Veneta and the art exhibit sponsored by the luxury fashion house.

“What I liked about Bottega Veneta was that they wanted me to join them,” he shares. “When I had a video meeting with creative director Mathieu Blazzy, we talked more about art and lifestyle than fashion. I really liked it when he said, ‘Our brand matches your lifestyle.’ Another thing I like is the unique elegance Bottega Veneta pursues. I already own work by artist Suki Seokyeong Kang, and the Leeum Museum of Art is one of my favorite places in Korea, so I’m happy to be able to participate in this partnership. And I wish more brands would be more genuinely interested in art.”

The wool twill coat layered with the wool coat, turtleneck, and Fireman boots are all from Bottega Veneta./DAZED Korea

RM on his public persona

As the interview neared its end, RM reflected on his public persona. “I’m actually not sure why people take me seriously, but it’s probably because of my UN speech or the numerous interviews. However, if you just watch content like Psick Show, Run BTS, or my vlogs, you’ll know I’m not that heavy and serious person twenty-four hours a day. I love humor and fun. That’s also one of the reasons for my life,” he remarked.

He continued, “But humor and a sense of responsibility are different. It would be nice to lead a life with only fun and pleasure, but adding a little commitment can make your life more fulfilling. It’s also fun to see everyone worrying that I look serious. The fact that there are things in the world that only I can do makes my heart beat faster. It makes me feel alive. Fun and commitment, that’s not a bad recipe. I want to keep in mind that I’m quite a funny and strange person in private.”

RM‘s interview with DAZED Korea provides a profound insight into the mind of the K-pop sensation, showcasing his thoughts, inspirations, and the genuine individual behind the global icon. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: RM is wearing a leather shirt, an intrecciato weaving detail tie, and a bracelet, all from Bottega Veneta. Source: DAZED Korea.

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BLACKPINK’s Jisoo Spotted in Paris Having Dinner With Korean Actress

The BLACKPINK member shared a photo of her dinner date with Korean actress Go Min-si

Jisoo is currently in the romantic city of Paris and it looks like she caught up with another South Korean actress. The BLACKPINK member was recently spotted enjoying a delightful dinner with “Love Alarm” star Go Min Si. The revelation confirms an unexpected yet welcome friendship between the two women.

BLACKPINK’s Jisoo Spotted in Paris With Korean Actress Go Min Si

On September 28, Jisoo took to her Instagram story to share a glimpse of their Parisian rendezvous. The BLACKPINK member shared a photo of herself dining at a chic French restaurant, dressed casually yet exuding charm. In a gesture of camaraderie, Jisoo credited Korean actress Go Min Si as the photographer behind the captivating shot.

Not surprisingly, Go Min Si reciprocated the sentiment by posting a similar Instagram story update. The “Sweet Home” actor also tagged Jisoo and acknowledged the “Flower” singer as the talented photographer who captured a lovely candid moment during their dinner.

gominsi/Instagram

Both celebrities are currently in Paris for various engagements associated with ‘Paris Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2024.’ Notably, on the same day, Jisoo attended the renowned Parisian cabaret Crazy Horse to support her fellow BLACKPINK member Lisa, underlining the strong bond that exists among the idols both on and off the stage. This heartwarming encounter in the City of Love offers a glimpse into the genuine connections forged in the world of entertainment.

Go Min Si is known for her work in films like “Parallel Novel”, “Cheese in the Trap”, “Set Play”, and “Decision to Leave”. She also notably appeared in TV shows like “My Sassy Girl”, “Welcome to Waikiki”, “The Smile Has Left Your Eyes”, and “Jirisan”. Go is currently expected to reprise her role as Lee Eun-yoo in the second season of the Netflix series “Sweet Home” and is currently working on the show’s Season 3.

Jisoo was recently confirmed for a cameo appearance in the film “Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman”. The BLACKPINK member was also revealed to play a traditional Korean fairy in the upcoming movie.

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aespa’s Karina and NingNing Joke About Overwhelming Comeback Schedule

Are aespa members struggling to deal with their overwhelming comeback schedule?

Karina and NingNing need your help! The aespa members have jokingly addressed their upcoming comeback and it sounds like the idols are not very happy about it. Not surprisingly, fans think that the joke undermines the truth about their overwhelming comeback schedule.

Karina and NingNing “Ask For Help” Due to aespa’s Overwhelming Comeback Schedule

In a special edition of this week’s “Eunchae’s Star Diary,” LE SSERAFIM member Hong Eunchae had a heartwarming reunion with Karina and Ningning. The “Music Bank” MC and the aespa members finally fulfilled their promised samgyeopsal date and a bit of catch-up.

The three talented K-Pop idols shared a delightful meal of grilled samgyeopsal, savoring the delicious flavors while engaging in a lively conversation about their ongoing world tours. During their time together, Hong Eunchae couldn’t help but notice the impressive scale of aespa’s world tour, which encompassed a more significant number of stops than LE SSERAFIM’s tour. Moreover, she highlighted the remarkable dedication of the girl group, who were simultaneously gearing up for a domestic comeback slated for November.

“You wrapped up your last comeback promotions around May or June, and you’ve been busy with your world tour all this time, but you were also preparing for your next comeback all at once. That sounds like a lot,” Eunchae said.

Without missing a beat, Karina nodded and looked at the camera to say, “Help.” Her fellow aespa member NingNing quickly joined the joke by saying, “Please, help us!”

It’s easy to see that Karina and NingNing are just joking but fans were also concerned about the idols having to deal with an overwhelming comeback schedule. Hopefully, aespa will be able to take a break after they release their new music.

The friendly gathering was a testament to the strong bonds that exist within the K-Pop industry, where artists from different groups come together to share their experiences and enjoy each other’s company. However, it also shed light on the hard work and commitment that go into global tours and domestic comebacks, offering fans a glimpse into these talented idols’ demanding yet rewarding lives.

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HyunA Supports DAWN’s New Single ‘Heart’

HyunA continues to support her ex-boyfriend DAWN and is hyping up his new single 'Heart'

HyunA has demonstrated her unwavering support for her former boyfriend DAWN by promoting his new single. Not surprisingly, fans are loving the friendship between the two. In addition to that, there are speculations that the couple will eventually get back together!

HyunA Continues To Support Ex-Boyfriend DAWN’s New Releases

On September 29, HyunA took to her Instagram story to share two images: one featuring DAWN and a direct link to his freshly released track “Heart.” The post has sparked significant interest among netizens, who continue to speculate about the nature of their relationship following their breakup in November of the previous year.

What’s particularly noteworthy is that this isn’t the first instance of HyunA promoting DAWN’s musical endeavors since their parting. In the past, she extended her support for his song “Star,” indicating that their bond truly extends beyond their romantic involvement.

HyunA’s public endorsement of DAWN’s work showcases a mature and supportive attitude, transcending any lingering rumors or relationship speculations. It emphasizes their camaraderie and a shared commitment to celebrating each other’s professional achievements, reinforcing the idea that, in the world of entertainment, personal and professional relationships can coexist harmoniously. Fans and admirers of both HyunA and DAWN can appreciate their continued support for each other’s artistic pursuits, irrespective of their romantic history.

Interestingly, HyunA has been more supportive of her former partner on her social media accounts despite removing their shared pictures from her posts. When Somi questioned HyunA about her decision on the first episode of “Yes or Hot”,  the “Bubble Pop!” singer then explained that the removal of certain posts was solely motivated by her desire to curate a visually appealing and aesthetically pleasing Instagram feed.

DAWN recently released his EP ‘Narcissus’ on September 15, 2023. The first lead single was “Star” and it was quickly followed by the track “Heart”.

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Totally Crazy: More Details on Lisa’s Cabaret Performance in Paris

BLACKPINK‘s Lisa shattered numerous K-pop stereotypes with her debut performance at the legendary Parisian cabaret Crazy Horse on September 28. Although Lisa is a newcomer to this iconic venue, she follows in the footsteps of superstars like Beyoncé, Dita von Teese, Pamela Anderson, and Rihanna.

About the Crazy Horse cabaret

With its limited 1,000 seats, the theater offers an intimate and exclusive ambiance. But the allure of the show drew over 50,000 fans vying for tickets. Nestled beside luxury fashion giants Givenchy and Yves Saint Laurent, it’s located at 12 Avenue George V, Paris, offering views of landmarks like the Champs-Élysées and the Eiffel Tower. Contrary to popular belief, the dress code for the Crazy Horse show isn’t strictly formal. While evening gowns are a common sight, many don smart casual attire.

Tickets for the show start at 115 EUR (approximately 121 USD). Add-ons like a bottle of champagne can increase the bill by 20 EUR (21 USD). A more private experience is priced at 295 EUR (313 USD), with only a limited number of these exclusive tickets available.

The venue is the brainchild of artist Alain Bernardin, who founded Crazy Horse in 1951. He envisioned transforming the traditional Parisian cabaret shows, like those at Moulin Rouge, into a more refined art form. Today, Crazy Horse is a testament to his vision, offering theatrical entertainment that includes singing, dancing, and even magic acts, all performed by semi-nude female dancers.

Even so, their performances are executed in a way that avoids objectification. As Paris Tickets & Tours puts it, “The main element that separates Crazy Horse from other shows is its dedication to celebrating the female form in all its splendor and grace. The show’s tasteful nudity combined with its breathtaking choreography emphasizes the sensuality of the performers without objectifying them. Their confidence, grace, and impeccable timing create a spectacle that leaves audiences in awe.”

Lisa exuded sophistication

Ahead of her performance, the “Money” singer teased fans with posts about her shows at Crazy Horse on her official Instagram. This culminated in a grand reveal on September 27. Her debut caused a surge in “Crazy Horse” searches on Google the following morning, a testament to her global influence.

Lisa‘s debut was nothing short of spectacular, thanks to her exceptional talent and captivating presence. Her entrance was marked by a playful peek from behind the curtain, her infectious smile and wink setting the tone for the evening. She then gracefully shared the stage with the Crazy Horse dancers, lip-syncing to French tunes. Her ensemble, a blue-green bob wig complemented by a tweed jacket and shorts, encapsulated her confident yet playful demeanor. One of the highlights was a cheeky moment where she got on all fours, engaging the audience with her charm. This move was reprised in one of her subsequent solo performances.

Her performance of “But I’m a Good Girl” was a sensuality, elegance, and confidence masterclass. The stage, adorned with beaded blinds, served as the perfect backdrop for Lisa’s entrances and exits, keeping the audience on their toes. This performance, lasting about three minutes, left an indelible mark on the audience.

“Crisis? What Crisis?” showcased Lisa‘s versatility. Starting off in a white shirt, black dress, tie, and glasses, she gradually transitioned through the act, exuding sophistication at every turn. Her deliberate movements and expressions held the audience’s attention, a testament to her unmatched charisma and skill. However, the venue prohibited capturing these moments on camera. Many BLINKs shared stories of security personnel confiscating phones, but they returned them after the 90-minute show.

Familiar faces

Lisa had familiar faces in the audience. BLACKPINK members Jisoo and Rosé were present, cheering on their teammate. Representing Dior and Yves Saint Laurent respectively at the Paris Fashion Week, both made time to support Lisa. They entered the venue through the VIP entrance, bearing flowers. Their support was evident as they cheered for Lisa throughout the performance.

Among the attendees was Frédéric Arnault, CEO of Tag Heuer and Lisa‘s rumored boyfriend. He was accompanied by his family, including his father Bernard Arnault, founder and CEO of LVMH, his mother Hélène Mercier Arnault, a renowned pianist, and his younger brother Jean Arnault, director of watches at Louis Vuitton. Other notable attendees included Thai actress and model Thanaerng, Spanish singer-songwriter Rosalia, model Kaia Gerber, and actor Austin Butler.

In a surprising turn of events, Lisa traveled to Paris without renewing her contract with YG Entertainment. Fans spotted her at Seoul’s Incheon airport on September 25, 2023, without her usual entourage of managers and bodyguards, fueling speculations about her future with the agency.

Lisa will perform her final Crazy Horse show on September 30. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Contrary to popular belief, Lisa didn’t perform nude. Source: Instagram/@crazyhorseparis_ official and @lalalalisa_m.

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Why Some Fans Aren’t Happy With Jack Harlow’s Verse on Jungkook’s ‘3D’

Jungkook‘s “3D (feat. Jack Harlow)” is a captivating blend of melodies and lyrics that charm listeners in every conceivable way. Produced by renowned names like BloodPop and David Stewart, the track has an early 2000s vibe that fans worldwide enjoyed. With lyrics like, “But when there’s two dimensions/There’s only one I’m missing,” Jungkook expresses a desire to connect beyond mere dimensions. BigHit Music describes the song as a clever play on the three dimensions, emphasizing the longing to bond with someone.

Its chorus is catchy, and Jungkook’s vocals, whether as a gentle whisper or a powerful rap, never fail to impress. Jack Harlow, on the other hand, brings something different to the table. He raps about how women everywhere, including ABGs or Asian Baby Girls, are attracted to him. Harlow ends with a nod to his and Jungkook’s roots, mentioning flying “from Korea to Kentucky.” He even pays homage to Jungkook’s charm with the line, “I’m on my Jungkook, take a chick off one look.”

정국 (Jung Kook) ‘3D (feat. Jack Harlow)’ Official MV

ABG explained

However, not all listeners are enamored with the song’s lyrics. Some find them overly suggestive, while others are concerned about Harlow‘s verses, particularly his mention of ABGs.

The term “Asian Baby Girl” has evolved. It used to refer to Southeast Asian women who joined gangs due to oppressive communities. Over time, it has become a popular subculture among young Asian women. ABGs are characterized by bold makeup, tattoos, and a preference for streetwear and luxury brands. The modern ABG aesthetic is a form of empowerment and self-expression. It challenges traditional Asian stereotypes of being reserved or submissive.

However, the “ABG” reference in the song has raised eyebrows. Asian women have historically been fetishized, especially by white men in Western societies. This fetishization often takes the form of stereotypes portraying Asian women as submissive and exotic. Such views have colonial roots and have been perpetuated through media and popular culture. When Jack Harlow, a white rapper, mentions “ABG” in his verse, it evokes these historical connotations. The line can be interpreted as a white man expressing a preference for Asian women. Given the historical context, that can be seen as problematic. This is especially poignant when considering that the song is a collaboration with Jungkook, an Asian artist, potentially amplifying the cultural implications.

@vizteca

Thoughts on #jungkook3d just my opinion / initial reaction

♬ original sound – Jessie

A double-edged sword

Furthermore, collaborations between artists from different cultural backgrounds can be a double-edged sword. While they promote cross-cultural understanding and creativity, they can inadvertently highlight cultural insensitivities. In “3D,” the collaboration between an Asian and a white artist brings to the forefront the nuances of cultural representation and appropriation. Harlow‘s verse, with its sexual overtones and the ABG reference, can be perceived as a Western perspective that might not fully grasp or respect the cultural significance of the terms and themes it employs.

Music is a powerful medium that transcends boundaries. However, lyrics, being a form of verbal expression, are open to interpretation. In the case of “3D,” while some appreciate the musicality, others are attuned to the cultural and historical implications of the lyrics. The song becomes not just a musical piece but a reflection of broader societal issues and discussions.

The controversy surrounding Jack Harlow‘s verse in Jungkook‘s “3D” highlights the intricacies of cross-cultural collaborations in today’s music industry. As global collaborations become more common, artists and fans must approach music with an open mind, a critical ear, and deep respect for the diverse cultures that shape our world. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungkook has always wanted to work with Jack Harlow, but he didn’t anticipate the backlash Harlow’s verse would receive. Source: X/@Deezer.

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‘Freestyling’ With BTS’ SUGA: The Rapper Talks Samsung’s New Product

Despite BTS‘ SUGA‘s ongoing military service, his presence in the public eye remains undiminished. A testament to this is the recent collaboration between GQ Korea and Samsung, where they showcased videos of SUGA discussing his career, personal life, and the pivotal role Samsung’s “The Freestyle” plays in both.

[ENG] Exclusive interview with BTS SUGA GQ 2023 October Issue

All about The Freestyle

Samsung’s “The Freestyle” is heralded as a revolutionary product in the entertainment domain. This compact device, boasting a 4.2 rating from 1,318 reviews, promises an unparalleled cinematic experience right from the start. It effortlessly sets up to project an expansive 100-inch screen, accompanied by superior sound quality, immersing users into their chosen movie or show. But The Freestyle isn’t just for viewing; it’s a nexus for diverse entertainment, courtesy of its Smart TV Content feature. Its innovative design, featuring the 180˚ Dynamic Angle, ensures you can watch from any position, and its compactness makes it a breeze to transport. Moreover, its compatibility with an external battery via a USB Type-C cable means you’re not tethered to a power outlet.

The device guarantees optimal viewing quality. It autonomously corrects skewed images, focuses swiftly, and maintains a level screen. It can project from 30 to 100 inches, allowing users to adjust the screen without relocating the device. The projection’s color even adapts based on the wall’s hue. But it’s more than just a projector; it’s intelligent. Integrated with Samsung Bixby for voice commands, it also offers features like Mobile Mirroring and Tap View for streaming from mobile devices. Additionally, its Ambient Mode lets users personalize their space with lighting effects or cherished photos.

SUGA perceives The Freestyle as the ideal ally for both his professional and personal life, enabling him to maximize every moment. When asked about his current activities, he shared, “Well, I just finished my world tour. These days I’m mainly working on some commercial shoots and personal contents. I was swamped with work but now I have more free time, so there’s been several changes in my life and overall routine.”

The Freestyle x SUGA: How SUGA spends his days off | Samsung

How SUGA finds solace

On his days off, SUGA finds solace in the ambiance of virtual fireplace videos, projecting them onto the ceiling using The Freestyle. “There are these virtual fireplace videos on the Internet that go on for like 10 hours. I like to play them on the ceiling. I do have a TV in my room, but if I use it, I’d have to watch with my chin tucked,” he elucidates. “The Freestyle lets me beam it to my ceiling so I can lay on my back, which is much more comfortable. When I really have nothing to do, I just doze off while listening to ASMR videos. It’s great to just zone out, listening to the sound of crackling fire.”

When he’s not doing that, he’s indulging his passion for basketball. “I feel very attracted to all-out attack and all-out defense. It’s also a sport I’ve enjoyed since I was young. And since I work with the NBA, it is a sport that I find even more enjoyable,” he shared.

SUGA also spends time with his parents and Holly, his parents’ dog. “Actually, it’s not my dog, it’s my parents’ dog, so I haven’t seen him since the last time I went to Daegu. So I need to do a little update on him. Holly is easily frightened. So when we go for a walk and see a stranger or an unfamiliar dog or cat, he gets really scared, so I pretty much hold him while walking. When I play with him, I usually use toys at home and sometimes go out to get some fresh air together. When I went to Daegu this time, I remember he stayed being held in my arms and being together.”

The Freestyle: The Evolution | Samsung

Make the most of it

Shifting the focus back to The Freestyle, he emphasized its significance in his life, especially during his travels. “I’ve been working a lot lately, so, I really want to travel. And I noticed that The Freestyle is great for outdoor use. Typically, projectors can be a hassle to use in places without power outlets, but The Freestyle has its own battery pack, so it can run anywhere. Also, outdoor screens are so high quality these days, so that’s one way to enjoy The Freestyle. My studio is also quite dark, and some of my friends like to use projectors to brighten up their studios by beaming large images, It’s another great way to use The Freestyle.”

When asked if he has any last words to his fans, SUGA said, “It’s still pretty warm where we’re filming. The average temperature is around 30. Autumn is on its way, but it’s over fast, right? Even still, I hope you’ll make the most of it and have a great time.” – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: SUGA’s definitely living up to his ‘Samsung fan’ reputation, eh? He’s quite the endorser. Source: X/@SamsungPeru.

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