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BLACKPINK’s Rosé Shares New Instagram Story Featuring Adorable Hank

The adorable Hank is back! Rosé has shared a series of Instagram Stories and the BLACKPINK member made sure to include her cute pup. Not surprisingly, BLINKs are loving the latest update on the celebrity pooch!

Rosé Brings Back Adorable Hank in New Instagram Story Series

On October 17, Rosé delighted her followers with an Instagram story update. The BLACKPINK member shared her unboxing of an Apple Mac Studio and expressed some doubts about the installation process. Luckily, the adorable Hank made special appearances throughout the series of stories, playing a special role in the entire process.

As the idol begins to unbox the package, she becomes distracted by the pup who clearly wants a treat. Naturally, Rosé had to take a break, cooking some chicken for Hank and showing off some of his tricks. The series of Instagram stories immediately won the hearts of fans worldwide.

Since adopting Hank in 2020, the pup has become a regular feature on Rosé’s personal social media accounts. His endearing canine charm has captured the hearts of millions of BLACKPINK fans worldwide, resulting in Hank’s Instagram account amassing a substantial following. Not surprisingly, Hank is now one of the most popular pets on Instagram.

Interestingly, Rosé recently clarified rumors about herself and a fellow animal lover. It was previously believed that the BLACKPINK member was involved in Taylor Swift’s upcoming album. Since then, Rosé spoke to a BLINK about the issue, confirming she had simply attended a party.

“I think it was just a party that we had amongst ourselves. But the wrong news got out,” Rosé said.

It’s an interesting confirmation and we’re certainly happy to Rosé being able to attend the listening party. In the meantime, Taylor Swift is currently set to release ‘1989 (Taylor’s Version)’ which was a re-recording of her 2014 album.  The album is set to contain five previously unreleased “From the Vault” tracks and will be released on October 27, 2023.

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HwaSa Discusses MAMAMOO, Stage Preparations, and Life Goals

HwaSa might be promoting as a solo artist right now but the MAMAMOO member knows and respects her roots. In a new interview, the “I Love My Body” singer confirmed she is aware of how her group helped push her career further. In addition to that, Ahn Hyejin discussed her surprisingly laidback stage preparations and ultimate life goals.

Hwa Sa Shares Surprising Stage Preparations

In a recent interview with allkpop, Hwa Sa was reminded that it has almost been a decade since she debuted with MAMAMOO. Reflecting on her career, the “Maria” singer admitted that she can’t choose a specific moment that led her to where she is now as an artist. Instead, Hwasa pointed out that the idol group made everything possible for her.

“I can’t pinpoint just one. I’m here only because MAMAMOO exists,” she said.

With almost 10 years of experience, Hwasa confirmed that she has streamlined her stage preparations.

“Preparing my set list requires a lot of physical stamina, so I need to be more selective and attuned to my physical condition before going on stage. It’s essential to have nourishing meals that strike a balance between light and heavy.” she said. “Stretching is crucial, and I need to warm up my voice without straining my neck or overusing my vocal cords.”

“I carefully monitor the condition of my throat when speaking. It’s best to opt for lightweight clothing and ensure my choice of shoes is comfortable,” she continued. “Before going on stage, I avoid rushing; instead, I take my time to feel energized and always apply some perfume. As I perform more frequently, my stage fright lessens, but I still get nervous when I step on stage after a long break.”

It’s surprisingly laidback compared to most artists and her relaxed attitude is also reflected in Hwa Sa’s life goals. When asked about her wishes for herself and MAMAMOO, the idol chose happiness.

“My goal would be to live a healthy and joyful life,” Hwasa said.

Hwa Sa’s most recent release is the single album “I Love My Body”, which promotes body positivity.

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BB GIRLS Reveals New Official Light Stick

BB GIRLS is truly getting ready for a new start. The group previously known as Brave Girls has introduced their new official light stick, offering fans a first look at its design. It’s their latest update since the idols moved to a new agency and changed their group name!

BB GIRLS Launches New Official Light Stick

On October 17, the group shared the design of their brand-new light stick, generating excitement among their fan base. The introduction of the new official light stick is a significant moment for BBGIRLS and their fans, marking a fresh chapter in their journey as artists with a new name and identity.

Brave Girls underwent a name change earlier this year, transitioning to BBGIRLS after departing from their former agency, Brave Entertainment, and signing with Warner Music Korea as a complete group. Not surprisingly, MINYOUNG, YOUJOUNG, EUNJI, and YUNA are all excited about their future after the release of the single album “ONE MORE TIME”.

“The four of us are beginning a new journey as BBGIRLS. We are nervous and excited at the same time,” Minyoung previously said. “It is very exciting to be reintroduced and to also start in a new environment. We, together with our music label, have worked hard in every step of the process to create an album that shows all of our distinct colors well.”

Eunji agreed, confirming that the idols took their time in choosing their comeback song.

“We took the time to listen to a lot of demos and communicated a lot,” she said. “‘ONE MORE TIME’ was the song that stood out the most, with a strong first impression and the most lasting impression. Also, as the title suggests, this track portrays a message of trying one more time. We believed it would be the most fitting concept for BBGIRLS re-debut.”

BB GIRLS released the second single album “ONE MORE TIME” on August 3, 2023.

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GOT7’s Youngjae Drops Teaser for ‘Do It’

GOT7's Youngjae in a teaser for 'Errr Day.' Credit: Twitter/YoungjaeXArs

Mark your calendars, AHGASEs! Youngjae of K-pop boy group GOT7 is making a comeback with his first solo full-length album Do It.

On Tuesday, October 17, his agency SUBLIME released the first teaser poster for the upcoming release. In the photo, a football helmet is seen lying on the lawn. 

Do It is slated for a November 6 release. Aside from that, other details about the album such as its title track, theme, and number of songs have yet to be announced. Prior to the official album release, a track list, highlight medley, and concept film will be available to fans. 

Moreover, Do It will serve as Youngjae’s new music offering in eight months following the release of the digital single “Errr Day” in March. 

AHGASEs’ reaction

Although no other details were provided yet, fans are already hyped up by the idea that Youngjae will be back with new music. 

On social media, fans are speculating as to how the sports-themed teaser will fit in the concept of the album. Others are also expressing their wishlist on featured collaborations for the album. 

One reaction that particularly stood out following the announcement though was from GOT7’s Bambam. In a tweet, the Thai rapper compiled the recent activities of his members. 

“GOT7 keeps you busy,” he wrote. 

For 2023 alone, the GOT7 members have embarked on their solo international concert tours and released solo albums. Meanwhile, JAY B and Jinyoung are serving in the military. 

Youngjae as a solo artist

In 2014, Youngjae made his debut as a member of GOT7. After the group left JYP Entertainment in 2021, he made his solo debut in October 2021 with the mini-album Colors from Ars. 

Since then, he released the digital singles “Walk With Me” and “Errr Day,” and his second EP Sugar. 

Apart from that, Youngjae also ventured into acting in musicals such as Midnight Sun and The Days. 

Additionally, he also sang OSTs for K-dramas like “Pop Star” for the series So I Married the Anti-fan and “On My Way” for The Golden Spoon.

Featured image: GOT7’s Youngjae in a teaser for ‘Errr Day.’ Credit: Twitter/YoungjaeXArs

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Jessi to Release ‘Gum’ on October 25

More Visions shares company profile photo of Jessi. Credit: Twitter/More Vision

It’s official: Korean-American rapper Jessi is returning with new music. 

On Tuesday, October 17, her agency MORE VISION released a teaser image featuring an animated mouth with silver ornaments. It was revealed that Jessi is set to release the single “Gum” on October 25. 

Prior to the confirmation of the release date, Jessi has been sharing updates about her progress with the digital single. 

In her website, she recently wrote that she just finished the edits for the song’s music video. “Can’t wait for you guys to see it. Shit is [fire emojis],” she wrote. 

Additionally, she also talked about other aspects of the track in her recent guest appearance in Yoo Jae Suk’s Just an Excuse show. In the episode, Jessi revealed that the choreography for “Gum” is “so intense.” “It’s like a whole lower body workout, and there is no break,” she said. 

As to what fans can expect in her new music, she said that she’ll show a “confidence performance.” “Since it’s been a while since I released new music. And I’m also at a new label,” she explained. 

New start for Jessi 

For those unfamiliar, “Gum” will serve as Jessi’s first release under her new label MORE VISION. 

In July 2022, she left P NATION, her agency of three years. At the time, the rapper assured her fans that she’s not retiring. “I’m only getting started. Thank you Jebbies (her fans for your unconditional love and support,” she said then.

In April, she signed with MORE VISION, an agency established and handled by Jay Park. 

With regards to the changes in her career, Jessi has previously admitted that she initially planned to launch her own company.  However, she decided not to push through after encountering several difficulties.

For the past few days, excitement surrounding Jessi’s upcoming comeback has been building. As her company confirmed her plans of releasing new music, other promotional activities also started.

Recently, she launched her official website where fans can access exclusive photos and even communicate with her.

As a solo artist, Jessi is best known for her hits “What Type of X,” “NUNU NANA,” “Cold blooded,” and “ZOOM.” Aside from being a singer-rapper, she also gained recognition for her variety skills. She also appeared in South Korean variety shows Hangout with You and Sixth Sense.

Featured image: More Visions shares company profile photo of Jessi. Credit: Twitter/More Vision

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SM Entertainment Denies That EXO’s Sehun and Chanyeol Moved to Another Agency

EXO-SC performs at the Waterbomb event in Japan. Credit: Facebook/EXO

SM Entertainment has refuted reports that EXO members Sehun and Chanyeol have signed with a different agency for their solo activities. 

On Tuesday, October 17, South Korean news outlet SBS reported that Sehun and Chanyeol, who’s also known as sub-unit EXO-SC, have signed with a different label to pursue more individual activities. 

According to the report, the unnamed agency was founded by Jung Hoon Tak, the former CEO of the entertainment agency iHQ. Furthermore, it also claimed that Sehun and Chanyeol will still continue their group activities with EXO under SM Entertainment. 

In response, the label announced that Sehun and Chanyeol transferred to another agency. “The contracts that EXO members signed with SM Entertainment at the end of last year remain valid,” the agency added. 

However, the label noted that they have reached a conditional agreement with the EXO members in terms of their plans of pursuing solo activities. Which, they explained, is only possible if the idol “proceed through their own established companies if they wish.” 

As of writing, Sehun and Chanyeol have yet to address the issue. 

EXO and SM Entertainment in 2023

The news about Sehun and Chanyeol’s status as an artist of SM Entertainment came four months after their fellow EXO members Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen also had a dispute with the agency. 

In June, the EXO-CBX sub-unit filed to terminate their contracts with the agency over alleged “mistreatment and unfair contract terms.” The EXO-CBX sub-unit cited unclear handling of earnings and slave contracts as their motivation. 

At the time, SM Entertainment had refuted claims made by the three EXO members. After a three-week legal battle, it was announced that both parties have reached a settlement. 

In July, EXO released their seventh full-length album EXIST. To note, it served as EXO’s first album as a full-group in two years.

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.” 

Featured image: EXO-SC performs at the Waterbomb event in Japan. Credit: Facebook/EXO

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Which K-Pop Acts Submitted Their Music for GRAMMY Consideration?

As the prestigious 2024 GRAMMY Awards are coming up, the K-pop scene is abuzz with excitement. Official submissions for certain categories were announced, and the list of K-pop acts who submitted their work is impressive. Leading the charge are renowned groups like BTS, Stray Kids, TWICE, and TXT.

BTS is going for a GRAMMY

Interestingly, individual BTS members didn’t just rest on the group‘s laurels. They submitted their solo work, adding to the anticipation. Given the success of their recent endeavors, this move isn’t surprising. Numerous esteemed K-pop groups have also submitted their works, all aiming for the industry’s first-ever GRAMMY win. While no K-pop act has won a GRAMMY yet, hope is very much alive this year, especially considering the genre’s global popularity.

BTS members showcased their diverse talents in their submissions. Jin entered “The Astronaut” in the Pop Solo Performance and Music Video categories. RM‘s Indigo album targets the Pop Vocal Album category, while “Wild Flower” aims for Pop Duo/Group Performance and Music Video. SUGA, for his part, has his sights set on the Rap Album category with D-DAY.

j-hope’s “On the Street” is up for Pop Duo/Group Performance and Music Video. Jimin‘s FACE is submitted for Pop Vocal Album, with “Like Crazy” vying for ROTY, SOTY, Pop Solo Performance, and Music Video. V‘s Layover album is up for Pop Vocal Album, and “Slow Dancing” for Pop Solo Performance and Music Video. Lastly, Jungkook‘s “Seven” seeks nominations in ROTY, SOTY, Pop Duo/Group Performance, and Music Video.

Also in the mix

Girl group TWICE is also in the mix. Their Ready to Be is up for Album of the Year and Pop Vocal Album, while “Set Me Free” competes in ROTY, SOTY, Pop Duo/Group Performance, and Music Video. TXT‘s “Back For More” aims for Pop Duo/Group Performance, and their “Sugar Rush Ride” music video is also in contention. Their documentary Our Lost Summer is a submission for the Music Film category.

Newcomer aespa aims for the coveted Best New Artist award. Stray Kids, another powerhouse act, is in the race for Best New Artist. Their ★★★★★ (Five Star) is submitted for Album of the Year and Pop Vocal Album, with “S-Class” competing in ROTY, SOTY, Pop Duo/Group Performance, and Music Video.

These GRAMMY submissions mark a significant step in K-pop‘s journey for global recognition. It’s a testament to the artists’ determination to make a mark on the international music scene. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: A lot of K-pop acts are hoping to earn GRAMMY nominations. Source: CNET.

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SNSD’s Taeyeon Preparing to Drop New Solo Album in November

Girls’ Generation member and soloist, Taeyeon, is gearing up to release a new album this November, as confirmed by SM Entertainment. This announcement was part of the agency’s Q4 schedule for 2023, which also highlighted several other anticipated releases.

Her last album was a hit

“Taeyeon is currently preparing for a new album set for release in November,” SM Entertainment shared in a press release, as reported by Korea JoongAng Daily. “It will be her first album release after a while, following her third full-length album INVU which dropped in February last year.”

The INVU album was a commercial and critical success. Time magazine, a renowned American media outlet, included INVU in its list of The Best K-Pop Songs and Albums of 2022. Time praised the album, noting Taeyeon’s “sonorous and affectionate tone” and her ability to seamlessly transition between powerful high notes and soft falsettos. They also highlighted her versatility, calling her an artist who showcases her vocal prowess across various genres.

The title track “INVU” achieved significant chart success. It secured the No. 1 spot on Gaon’s Digital Chart and also made its mark on international charts, including Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales and Global Excl. U.S. charts. Furthermore, “INVU” featured on several Billboard charts worldwide, spanning countries like Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Taiwan, and South Korea. Taeyeon‘s achievements didn’t stop there; she clinched Gaon’s Artist of the Year Award in the music category in February and topped the Gaon Digital Comprehensive Chart in March.

What else is Taeyeon up to?

While fans eagerly await her new material, they can stay updated with Taeyeon‘s activities on social media. Recently, on October 7 KST, the Girls’ Generation leader shared a series of photos on her Instagram from a promotional shoot for Benefit Cosmetics. The vibrant, high school-inspired set showcased Taeyeon‘s radiant charm, leading fans to shower her with compliments such as “You’re so beautiful today too” and “She looks like a fairy!”

In other updates, Taeyeon continues to entertain as a regular cast member on the tvN variety show Amazing Saturday. She has also been representing Benefit Cosmetics as an ambassador since April 2022.

Anticipation is high for Taeyeon‘s upcoming album, and fans are eager to see what the seasoned artist will bring to the table this time around. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: ‘INVU’ rose to No. 179 (+19) on Spotify’s Daily Chart in South Korea after the news broke. Source: X/@ultsootaeng.

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ZEROBASEONE’s Official Lightstick Design Wins Fans’ Hearts

Rookie boy group ZEROBASEONE made waves in the K-pop community with the release of their much-anticipated lightstick. The group teased fans with a digital mockup of the design on October 13, showcasing the lightstick amidst a bed of flowers, evoking memories of their debut song “In Bloom.”

ZEROBASEONE (제로베이스원) OFFICIAL LIGHT STICK TEASER

Diverging from the traditional stick format that most groups adopt, ZEROBASEONE‘s lightstick boasts a distinctive design. Shaped like a ring, it shares similarities with only one other K-pop group’s lightstick: ITZY‘s. However, ZEROBASEONE has enhanced this design by incorporating a rose pattern at the top, giving their lightstick the appearance of an actual wearable ring. At the ring’s center is an interchangeable, customizable emoji face. Additionally, the lightstick’s petals emit a captivating blue glow, further enhancing its appeal.

The lightstick’s aesthetically pleasing and innovative design has garnered widespread admiration. ZEROSE have said it’s much better than the temporary lightstick used during the group’s fan-con. That one was rather simplistic, featuring an acrylic sign of the group’s name atop a plain white stick. The official lightstick was made available for purchase on October 16 at 3:00 PM KST, and pre-orders were quickly snapped up by eager fans.

What’s in a lightstick?

Lightsticks are more than just accessories. They’re symbols of fandom identity, and every K-pop group aims to design one that truly connects with its fans. These lightsticks amp up the concert experience, with fans coming together to create a mesmerizing ocean of lights that move in sync.

Today’s lightsticks come packed with features like Bluetooth, adding an interactive layer to the concert experience and deepening the bond between fans and performers. They’re not just tools for cheering; they’re cultural symbols that capture shared moments between idols and fans. And with unique designs, they often become sought-after collectibles. For K-pop idols on stage, seeing this sea of lights is a powerful reminder of their fanbase’s love and dedication. This sight often sparks deep emotions.

In this context, ZEROBASEONE‘s official lightstick truly shines. It reflects their understanding of fan culture and their drive to bring something fresh to the table. The unique ring design, paired with customizable features and a striking blue glow, sets them apart in the bustling K-pop world. As ZEROBASEONE continues to rise, this lightstick is sure to be a treasured symbol of their journey and the steadfast love of their fans. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The members have said they can’t wait to see ZEROSE toting this lightstick at their shows. Source: YouTube/@ZB1_official.

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ZEROBASEONE Achieves Double Million-Seller Status with Debut Album

Rookie group ZEROBASEONE has taken the music scene by storm with their record-breaking debut album. As of September 30, their album YOUTH IN THE SHADE has sold an impressive 2,034,594 copies since its release in July. This monumental feat positions them as the first K-pop group to sell over 2 million copies of a debut album.

They’ve also earned a spot on the elite list of artists acknowledged by Circle Chart for selling more than 2 million copies of a single album. Fans have even more to anticipate, as ZEROBASEONE is set to make a comeback with their second mini-album, MELTING POINT, on November 6.

Previously, ZEROBASEONE had already made waves by becoming the first K-pop group to sell over a million copies of their debut album in a single day, as reported by Hanteo Chart. On July 4, the group surpassed 1.08 million stock pre-orders for YOUTH IN THE SHADE. In doing so, they broke a record set by SECHSKIES in 1997, becoming the first K-pop group to record one million pre-orders for a debut album in over two decades. They achieved this feat 13 days after pre-orders began and five days before their official debut.

Congratulations, ZEROBASEONE!

The group’s soaring popularity during their pre-order phase led many to predict they would cross a million sales with their debut album. This prediction came true on July 10 when the album’s sales hit the one million mark in just nine hours on the Hanteo charts. By the end of their debut day, sales had reached 1.2 million.

ZEROBASEONE was formed on Mnet’s Boys Planet, a successor to Girls Planet 999. Although Boys Planet came after Girls Planet 999, it still garnered significant attention. The presence of popular contestants like Kim Jiwoong, known for being an OTT actor, and Chinese music prodigy Zhang Hao helped. Both made it to the final lineup of ZEROBASEONE.

Mnet unveiled the final lineup on April 20 during the Boys Planet finale. It included Sung Hanbin, Seok Matthew, Ricky, Park Gunwook, Kim Taerae, Kim Gyuvin, and Han Yujin. These talented boys went on to break one record after another. Congrats, ZEROBASEONE! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: If any group deserves the ‘monster rookie’ title, it’s this one! Source: X/@GLOBALBASEONE.

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