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‘Jinny’s Kitchen’ Boss Lee Seo Jin Leaves Hook Entertainment

Lee Seo Jin has been represented by the agency for the past nine years
Lee Seo Jin has been represented by the agency for the past nine years

Lee Seo Jin is parting ways with his long-time agency. The “Jinny’s Kitchen” star has decided not to renew his contract with Hook Entertainment. It’s a surprising decision considering that Lee had been represented by the company for the past nine years.

Hook Entertainment Reveals Lee Seo Jin’s Decision on Contract Renewal

On September 28, Hook Entertainment issued a statement regarding Lee Seo Jin’s decision.

“Hook Entertainment’s contract with actor Lee Seo Jin will come to an end at the end of September,” the statement read. “We would like to sincerely thank Lee Seo Jin for being with us for such a long time, and we hope to always cheer him on in our hearts.”

Lee Seo Jin, who made his debut in the 1999 drama “A House on the Wave”, has also earned a special place in viewers’ hearts as the embodiment of variety PD Na Young Suk’s vision. He recently gained popularity in “Jinny’s Kitchen” for managing a restaurant that also employed Park Seo Joon, Jung Yoo Mi, Choi Woo Sik, and BTS’ V.

In contrast, Hook Entertainment recently found itself entangled in a widely publicized contract dispute with singer Lee Seung Gi in November 2022. The dispute revolved around allegations of deceiving Lee Seung Gi for 18 years regarding his earnings as a singer. Subsequently, actress Youn Yeo Jung also decided to part ways with the label.

The controversy surrounding the contract dispute has had a significant impact on Hook Entertainment’s reputation and relationships with its artists. Lee Seo Jin’s decision to leave the agency may be viewed as another significant development within the context of these recent events.

Lee Seo Jin’s departure from Hook Entertainment marks a new chapter in his career, and fans are eager to see where his journey will lead him next, especially given his strong association with PD Na Young Suk’s variety programs.

In related news, the cast of “Jinny’s Kitchen” have also been confirmed to reunite for a spin-off series “The Communication Caterers”.

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Super Junior Announces Fan Meeting for 18th Anniversary

Super Junior during their 'Super Show 9' concert in Ho Chi Minh. Credit: Facebook/Super Junior

Mark your calendars, ELFs! K-pop boy group Super Junior will be marking their 18th debut anniversary with a fan meeting titled 1t’s 8lue. 

On Tuesday, September 26, the “Sorry, Sorry” hitmakers announced that the event will be held twice at the Grand Peace Palace at Kyung Hee Universe, Seoul on November 4. The first show is set for 2 pm, while the second show is set for 7 pm.

Members Leeteuk, Heechul, Yesung, Shindong, Eunhyuk, Donghae, Siwon, Ryeowook, and Kyuhyun are confirmed to participate in the fan meeting. 

According to a Naver article, the 1t’s 8lue show will not only perform their hit songs, but also prepare various activities that would entertain their fans. Additionally, attendees can expect talking segments wherein the members will look back on their 18-year career. 

Moreover, there will also be several games that will highlight the group’s friendship and chemistry. Considering that Super Junior are known to be a variety of idols, fans are already looking forward to a fun and sentimental time. 

Interestingly, the 1t’s 8lue would serve as the group’s first fan meeting in more than a year. In April 2022, they held the Return of the King fan meeting in Japan. Given that it’s been a while since fans have seen them, the show will also be livestreamed online for fans who can’t attend the event in person. 

Super Junior as Hallyu Kings

Initially a 12-member group, Super Junior debuted under SM Entertainment in November 2005. In 2006, member Kyuhyun was added as the group was meant to have rotating members. 

Throughout its career, the group faced a series of controversies and lineup changes. But they also set several records, and earned the title of “Hallyu Kings.” Currently, only nine members actively promote with the group. 

In July 2023, members Donghae, Eunhyuk, and Kyuhyun didn’t renew their contracts with SM Entertainment. However, the three promised to still be active in Super Junior activities.

Now, Kyuhyun is under the Antenna agency while Donghae and Eunhyuk have established ODE Entertainment.

Featured image: Super Junior during their ‘Super Show 9’ concert in Ho Chi Minh. Credit: Facebook/Super Junior

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Look: Newjeans Teases League of Legends Worlds 2023 Anthem

NewJeans during their promotional activities for 'Get Up.' Credit: Twitter/NewJeans

Get ready to cheer loudly, Bunnies! K-pop girl group NewJeans will be taking over the 2023 League of Legends World Championship with their music. 

On Thursday, September 27, League of Legends announced that South Korean girl group NewJeans will be featured in the Worlds 2023 Anthem titled “Gods.”

Composed of Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein, the group took on the challenge to try on a new genre with this project. “It was fun to try a new genre and sound. Through this collaboration, we are happy to present a song that incorporates both NewJeans and League of Legends’ unique colors,” the band said in a press release.

Moreover, the “Hype Boy” hitmakers hoped it would bring a new sense of empowerment to the players.

NewJeans in League of Legends competition

For those who don’t know, the League of Legends World Championship is a major annual professional tournament hosted by Riot Games. Teams from all over the world compete rigorously in a series of League of Legends battles. 

In its 2023 edition, the prestigious competition will take place in South Korea. During the  previous years, Riot Games worked with big names in the music industry including Imagine Dragons and Lil Nas. 

Carrie Dun, the Global head of creative at Riot Games shared his thoughts in the collaboration. “Between Worlds taking place in Korea and NewJeans’ meteoric rise, this partnership felt fated as a true cultural celebration,” he said. 

Additionally, he believes that “Gods” as the official anthem will set the stage for what’s bound to be an incredible World.

Bunnies’ excitement for NewJeans

With this new achievement, the group’s fandom Bunnies could not hide their excitement for the K-pop superstars.

“Thank you for this blessing! Can’t wait to hear it,” one fan excitedly wrote.

The Golden Guardians account also showed their anticipation with the news. “WE ARE SEATED,” they claimed. To which the League of Legends’ account replied with: “As you should!”

https://twitter.com/GoldenGuardians/status/1706811899881668876

The official track and an animated video will be launched on October 4.

Featured image: NewJeans during their promotional activities for ‘Get Up.’ Credit: Twitter/NewJeans

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GOT7’s Bambam Jokingly Calls Out a Fan for Watching His Dancers Instead of Him

GOT7's BamBam during his 'AREA52' concert in Manila. Credit: Instagram/BamBam

The bond between a K-pop idol and a fan is special. And BamBam of K-pop group GOT7 has recently proven once again why their fans, the AHGASEs, deeply endeared him. 

During his Area52 concert in Manila on Saturday, September 21, the Thai singer delivered an awesome show for his Filipino fans. As it was his first solo concert in the country, BamBam prepared several stages, including doing a cover of a hit Filipino song titled “Raining in Manila” by the OPM band Lola Amour. 

Aside from that, he also had Sandara Park, also known as 2NE1’s Dara, as his special guest. The two even took on the “GENTO” dance challenge by P-pop group SB19. 

Amidst these performances though, BamBam noticed one concert attendee whose attention wasn’t on him. After the actual performance, he jokingly singled out the fan and shared how he noticed that the fan was looking at his backup dancer instead. 

According to BamBam, he was trying to make eye contact with the fan during his performance, but the said fan was busy looking at one of his dancers. Moreover, he even asked that specific AHGASE to point out which dancer was particularly interested in. 

To which BamBam replied that he wants AHGASEs to only look at him, and nobody else. 

Territorial BamBam to his AHGASEs

The particular interaction quickly went viral on social media, with many AHGASEs finding it cute and hilarious. Others were pointing out that GOT7 members are territorial with their fans, and are usually sulky when they see fans “swerving lanes.” 

Meanwhile, some are praising BamBam’s bond with his fans as he’s already known to be active in interacting with them in any chance he could get. 

Interestingly, the said fan who got caught by BamBam also took to Twitter to air her side. Based on the videos she uploaded, the idol even asked her what’s her name and told her that he’ll remember her. 

She also explained that it was the girl dancers she was looking at as they were too pretty. 

On top of that, more Filipino AHGASEs pointed out that this wasn’t the first time that BamBam jokingly called out fans for noticing his dancers. 

During his previous visit last July 2022, BamBam also had a funny reaction when he noticed several fans were fawning over one of his dancers. Sharing a photo of the said dancer, he quipped that he’ll give him a break before he steals his fans. 

Featured image: GOT7’s BamBam during his ‘AREA52’ concert in Manila. Credit: Instagram/BamBam

 

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Block B’s P.O. Officially Discharged From The Marine Corps

The Block B member and actor has been officially discharged after finally finishing his military duties

P.O. has finally completed his military service. The Block B member has officially been discharged from the Marine Corps. In addition to that, it looks like Pyo Jihoon is gearing up for a group comeback and some new acting gigs in the future.

Block B Member P.O. Has Completed Military Service

On September 27, P.O marked a significant milestone as he officially completed his 1-year and 6-month military service, holding the rank of sergeant. His military journey began on March 28, 2022, when he enlisted and joined the Marine Corps, serving as a member of the military band.

Expressing his joy and gratitude, P.O took to Instagram to announce his discharge, calling it a “happy moment” in his life. “Jihoon has finally completed his military service,” he wrote. “It’s admirable and impressive, aren’t we all feeling the same way?”

Fans are truly proud of Pyo Jihoon and there is an important reason why he was so determined to enlist for military service. Back in June, the musician pleasantly surprised his fans by making an appearance on the “National Defense News” YouTube channel. During the interview, he shared updates about his military service and revealed the heartfelt reason behind his decision to enlist – fulfilling his late mother’s wish.

Pyo Jihoon’s path to military service was not without its challenges. He had applied to join the Marine Corps three times, from the ages of 27 to 29, facing setbacks due to his previous school attendance issues caused by his debut in the entertainment industry. However, he persevered, eventually securing a spot in the military band. Reflecting on his journey, P.O described his time in the military as an invaluable experience that he believes every Korean man should undergo at least once in their lifetime.

P.O, who debuted as part of Block B in 2011, was the last member of the group to complete his military service. His return has ignited excitement among his fellow Block B members and fans, raising hopes for a potential group comeback in the near future.

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Kwon Eun Bi Sparks Netizen Debate Over Surprising Weight Revelation

People have strong reactions to Kwon Eunbi's weight revelation!

Kwon Eun Bi is one K-pop idol that people simply can’t stop talking about. However, the latest topic about the former Iz*one member is decidedly more critical than appreciative. The idol recently dropped a major weight revelation in a popular TV show and netizens simply couldn’t believe it.

Kwon Eunbi’s Weight Revelation Stuns Netizens

In the world of K-pop, idols assume multifaceted roles, extending beyond just being musicians. They serve as trendsetters, role models, and often become the embodiment of beauty standards. A recurrent and contentious topic within this realm revolves around the physical attributes of these idols, with a primary focus on their visuals and weight. These conversations highlight the immense pressure that K-pop idols face in adhering to perceived societal norms and expectations.

Recently, K-pop sensation Kwon Eun Bi found herself at the center of such a debate. During a recent guest appearance on “Point of Omniscient Interference”, Eunbi gave viewers a glimpse into her day-to-day routine. In one specific scene, she stood on a scale and the number that flashed was a surprising “44.7 kg”. Without missing a beat, the artist cheerfully exclaimed, “I lost weight!”

It didn’t take long before discussions about Kwon Eunbi’s weight and height have gained traction among Korean online communities. These conversations gained momentum when an observant netizen questioned the authenticity of the combination of Eun Bi’s stated height and weight, deeming it seemingly unrealistic.

While the public’s reaction is noteworthy, it’s crucial to remember that weight is merely a numerical value and does not define a person’s beauty, talent, or intrinsic worth. Eun Bi’s appeal extends far beyond her physical appearance, encompassing her musical prowess, personality, and charisma, which endear her to her fans. Her willingness to openly discuss her weight reflects her confidence and serves as a reminder to all of us to embrace ourselves, transcending the confines of mere numbers.

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g.o.d. Opens Fan Club Recruitment For 25th Anniversary

The legendary idol group has finally opened their fan club recruitment for the first time in over 18 years

g.o.d. is celebrating their 25th anniversary and dropping an excellent opportunity for fans! The legendary idol group has just opened their fan club recruitment which begins later this week. This marks the first time that the idols have opened recruitment for their fan club in over 18 years!

K-pop Legends g.o.d. Announce Fan Club Recruitment For The First Time in 18 Years

The official Instagram account for g.o.d. shared the great news, revealing that recruitment will commence from September 27 to October 3, 2023. In addition to that, the members of the idol group shared their excitement for the fan club.

“We’re thrilled and overjoyed to have our own home base for our fans after such a long while,” they said in a statement. “We want to extend our gratitude to our dedicated fans who have showered us with love and promise to bridge the gap between us. We hope that this recruitment serves as a remarkable gift that brings fulfillment to both g.o.d and Fan g.o.d.”

This is an exciting opportunity for fans who never got their own chance to join the club in the past. Not surprisingly, the fan club recruitment news was a welcome one as younger fans will finally get the chance they have been waiting for. With that in mind, it’s a great opportunity for FAN G.O.Ds of all ages later this year.

g.o.d. or Groove Over Dose consists of 5 members namely Park Joon-hyung, Yoon Kye-sang, Danny Ahn, Son Ho-young, and Kim Tae-woo. They will be celebrating their 25th anniversary this year. In 2022, The idols celebrated their 24th anniversary by holding a year-end concert at the Olympic Park Gymnastics Stadium in Seoul from December 9 to 11. This marked their first performance in four years. On October 14, it was confirmed that g.o.d would also hold an additional concert in Busan on December 24 and 25.

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Girl’s Day Yura Talks About Group’s Close Bond, Hints Possible Reunion

GIRL'S DAY Yura shares new photo with fans. Credit: Instagram/Yura

Yura of the K-pop group Girl’s Day has just given DAI5Ys some updates about the members!

On Tuesday, September 26, Yura sat down for an interview following the release of her new film Marrying the Mafia: Returns. There, the singer-actress tackled various topics including Girl’s Day’s close bond.

Yura revealed that the members still regularly meet despite their hectic schedule. 

“I met the Girl’s Day members once at the end of August… Even if we see each other occasionally, there is a very comfortable feeling as if we have met often,” she shared.

Additionally, the singer-actress mentioned that the members are very supportive of each other’s acting projects. Whenever we work, we talk a lot among the members. Soon, Minah’s movie will be released, and Hyeri’s movie will be released when it’s over. I think when we meet, we talk a lot about acting,” she said. 

Yura’s dreams for Girl’s Day in the future

Consisting of Yura, Hyeri, Minah and Sojin, Girl’s Day debuted in 2010,  After the group’s contract with Dream T Entertainment expired in 2019, the members decided to not renew with the agency, putting the group on hiatus. In 2023, they celebrated their 13th anniversary. 

In the same interview, Yura expressed her dreams for a new Girl’s Day album while watching the comeback reunions of other second-generation groups. “Even in my dreams, I dream of standing on the Girl’s Day stage. When I see my fellow singers coming together again, I want to do the same,” she said. 

However, the singer-actress also acknowledged the difficulties they would have to face as they are in different companies now. “Girl’s Day members want to do it,” she emphasized.

Yura’s acting venture

While the Girl’s Day remain inactive with their group activities, Yura has focused on her acting career.

Her most recent film Marrying the Mafia: Returns, is expected to show a new side of Yura. In the movie,  she plays the role of Jinkyung, the youngest daughter of the Jang family. The comedy film will revolve around Jinkyung and writer Daeseo’s grand plans for marriage to retain the Jang family’s glory.

Prior to that, Yura has also starred in multiple dramas including Destined With You, Forecasting Love and Weather, and Radio Romance among others.

Featured image: GIRL’S DAY Yura shares new photo with fans. Credit: Instagram/Yura

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Fans of Fifty Fifty Boycott Attrakt for Its New Compilation Album

FIFTY FIFTY poses for the concept photo of their song 'Cupid.' Credit: Twitter/FIFTY FIFTY

As the legal battle between K-pop girl group FIFTY FIFTY and its agency ATTRAKT continues,  the group’s fandom came in solidarity to support the “Cupid” singers amidst the controversy. 

On Saturday, September 23, the FIFTY FIFTY’s fan union announced a boycott of all merchandise produced by the music label ATTRAKT as a protest against the label’s abuse of the girl group. Such boycott include the group’s physical and digital albums, social media accounts, and paid event tickets.

Moreover, the boycott was prompted after ATTRAKT released a compilation album K-Pop called The Beginning on September 22. Given the circumstances surrounding its release, fans were unhappy with it.

‘The Beginning’ album draws backlash from fans

Despite the immense support for the girl group and their music, the group’s fandom was greatly disappointed and enraged with the poor quality of The Beginning. Which led them to boycott the product yet again.

In a two-minute clip shared by a fan, multiple empty pages in the album were visibly noticed. With the lack of content, some fans stated that it was a waste of money.

Another fan who purchased the album took her sentiments to social media. In a Twitter thread, she listed down all the details regarding the album’s poor quality. First, she pointed out that the photobook had 195 pages in total, and 123 pages of it are either blank, nearly blank, or have irrelevant designs.

Additionally, the user also criticized the reused content with most photos already publicly released, and the repetitive design all throughout the album. Apart from that, the fan also showed pages with random designs that are far from the group’s concept, in an attempt to fill up more space. 

Because of this, fans were quick to note that it’s just another way for ATTRAKT to squeeze money from FIFTY FIFTY fans. For them, the lack of thought and preparation for the compilation album is proof of the company’s negligence to the group.

One fan even harshly commented that The Beginning album might just be the worst K-Pop album in history.

FIFTY FIFTY’s legal battle with ATTRAKT

In June 2023, all four members Aran, Sio, Keena, and Saena filed a preliminary injunction with the desire to suspend their exclusive contract with the agency. Moreover the group revealed that the agency lacked providing them fair treatment and proper income distribution. 

On the other hand, ATTRAKT CEO Jun Hong Joon, stated that a third party named Ahn Sung Il attempted to poach the girl group. Ahn Sung Il is the CEO of The Givers who has the copyright of FIFTY FIFTY’s debut album registered under his name. Upon discovering Ahn’s anomalies, Jun Hong Joon filed a police report accusing Ahn of fraud, breach of trust, and other offenses.

Following the report, the court approved ATTRAKT’s request to put Ahn Sung Il’s copyright revenue on hold. 

With all the contrasting arguments, the group’s heated dispute with the agency remains unresolved.

Featured image: FIFTY FIFTY poses for the concept photo of their song ‘Cupid.’ Credit: Twitter/FIFTY FIFTY

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Beomhan Discusses Future Plans After Contract Termination

The former trainee was set to debut as a member of M.O.N.T Arena

Beomhan is moving forward with hope in his heart. The former FM Entertainment trainee has finally granted his first interview since his contract termination. Interestingly, the aspiring idol may have confirmed that he will not be pursuing a career in K-pop.

Until recently, Beomhan was a trainee under FM Entertainment and a pre-debut member of M.O.N.T Arena, showcasing his talents and amassing a dedicated fanbase through his world tour and active engagement with fans. However, on September 5, FM Entertainment released a startling statement, revealing the termination of Beomhan’s contract with the agency.

Beomhan Breaks Silence on Future Plans Following Contract Termination

Despite the unexpected turn of events, Beomhan has maintained communication with his fans through livestreams and briefly addressed his contract termination on his personal Instagram. In his first interview with “Bias Wrecker” since the contract termination, Beomhan expressed optimism about his future, emphasizing that he has realized the importance of his presence and the continued support from his fans.

For his devoted supporters, Beomhan assured them that he remains committed to his career and thanked those who continue to stand by him, even if his path leads him away from K-Pop.

“I have been feeling a lot of love, and I appreciate it,” he said. “Thank you all for supporting me and letting me know that you’re with me,” Beomhan added. “I hope I can give back in the same way.”

While hinting at a potential shift in direction, Beomhan confirmed that he is actively working on new music, which he described as likely different from his previous work, creating anticipation among his fans for the upcoming releases.

Throughout this challenging period, Beomhan has maintained a positive outlook on the future while candidly sharing his emotions and experiences related to the situation. With that in mind, his supporters are ready for his upcoming releases and will undoubtedly support him every step of the way.

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