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Look: LE SSERAFIM Is Louis Vuitton’s Brand Ambassador

LE SSERAFIM poses for their campaign for 'Louis Vuitton.' Credit: Sakura's Instagram

K-pop girl group LE SSERAFIM is about to make waves in the fashion industry as luxury house Louis Vuitton tapped them as their newest brand ambassador. 

On Friday, October 13, the brand unveiled a new campaign featuring all five LE SSERAFIM members: Kim Chaewon, Hong Eunchae, Sakura, Kazuha, and Huh Yunjin. 

In the debut campaign video, the quintet are seen flaunting the brand’s latest capsule collection while walking across the iconic bridge of the Hangang River. 

Aside from the short fashion film, Louis Vuitton also released individual and group photos of the group. 

According to L’Officiel, the capsule collection that the LE SSERAFIM members are modeling features exclusive redesigns of iconic Louis Vuitton pieces. 

Additionally, the collection will reportedly have a total of 16 bags that are exclusive to South Korea. Meanwhile, another eight designs will be rolled out worldwide to a later date. 

Prior to being named brand ambassador, LE SSERAFIM previously performed at Louis Vuitton’s Pre-Fall 2023 after-party show in April. 

In a press release, Nicolas Ghesquière, artistic director of women’s collection at Louis Vuitton, expressed his excitement in having the group onboard. 

“We met for the first time at my pre-fall show in Seoul and I really loved the energy they brought to the after party with their performance. They each have such a unique style that together feels very cool and authentic,” he said, 

Fans’ happiness for LE SSERAFIM 

Following the news, FEARNOTs couldn’t help but congratulate “Anti-Fragile” singers for the achievement. 

Since all of LE SSERAFIM were tapped as ambassadors, they became the first K-pop girl group to be tapped by Louis Vuitton. And the second overall, as they will be following in the footsteps of their HYBE Labels seniors BTS. To recall, all members of BTS served as Louis Vuitton ambassadors from 2021 to 2022. 

For their fans, the milestone is even more commendable as the group achieved it within a year and a half since their debut. Initially a six-member group, LE SSERAFIM made their debut under Source Music in May 2022. In July 2022, Kim Garam left the group. 

Given this recent development, LE SSERAFIM is joining the likes of other K-pop idols who are also under Louis Vuitton. Among in the list are Stray Kids’ Felix, BTS’ j-hope, Jackson Wang, and NewJeans’ Hyein. 

As for other K-pop idols serving as ambassadors for fashion brands, the list includes BTS’ V for Cartier, TWICE’s Dahyun for Michael Kors, TWICE’s Sana for Prada, SEVENTEEN’s DK for Bally.

Featured image: LE SSERAFIM poses for their campaign for ‘Louis Vuitton.’ Credit: Sakura’s Instagram

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Look: Golden Child Hints at Comeback

Golden Child hints at an upcoming group comeback. Credit: Twitter/Golden Child

Attention, Goldenness! The long wait is almost over as K-pop boy group Golden Child appeared to hint at an upcoming comeback. 

On Wednesday, October 11, the group released a teaser that showed nine members posing for a photo. The phrase “Coming soon” was also included in the poster, as well as the caption. 

Notably, leader Daeyeol was seen in the teaser. Which came as a surprise to many of their fans as the idol got discharged only two weeks ago. He was the first member to enlist. 

Meanwhile, member Y, who enlisted in March and is still serving in the military, wasn’t seen in the teaser. 

According to some Korean media, Golden Child will be releasing an album in November. However, Woollim Entertainment has yet to confirm other information about this upcoming release. Other details, such as release date, kind of release, and album title, have yet to be announced. 

Despite the lack of information, Goldenness are already looking forward to the upcoming release. As it will serve as Golden Child’s first comeback in over a year. They last made a group comeback in August 2022 with their album AURA. Daeyeol didn’t participate in AURA as he was already in the military at the time.

Know more about Golden Child

Initially an 11-member group, Golden Child made their debut in August 2017. Prior to that, the members participated in the pre-debut project for trainees called W Project. 

Also abbreviated as GNCD or Golcha, they were the second boy group from Woollim Entertainment, since Infinite debuted in June 2010. 

In January 2018, Jaeseok announced his departure from the group due to health reasons. Since then, the group has continued activities with the 10 members: Daeyeol, Y, Jangjun, Tag, Seungmin, Jaehyun, Jibeom, Donghyun, Joochan, and Bomin. 

The group is known for songs “Lady,” “It’s U,” “DamDaDi,” and “Let Me.” 

Apart from music, Golden Child members have also ventured into acting. Some of their acting projects include Crash! Insignificant Roommates, Golden Movie, 18 Again, and Shadow Beauty. 

Featured image: Golden Child hints at an upcoming group comeback. Credit: Twitter/Golden Child

 

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SEVENTEEN Breaks Personal Record for Pre-orders With ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN’

SEVENTEEN poses for their concept photo in 'SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN.' Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

SEVENTEEN has still a week before they officially release their upcoming 11th mini-album SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN but it’s already making new personal records for the K-pop boy group. 

On Thursday, October 12, album distributor YG PLUS announced that SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN has already recorded a total of 4,673,069 stock pre-orders so far. 

For those unfamiliar, stock pre-orders refer to the number of albums that were ordered by fans before its actual release. As a result, said album has set a new career high in SEVENTEEN’s discography. And what makes this achievement even more remarkable is it came just six months after their previous milestone. 

Previously, the group’s 10th mini-album FML, which was released in May, recorded 4.64 million copies in pre-orders. 

With this feat of SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN, it now ranked second among the top 20 albums with the highest stock pre-orders in K-pop history. In the first place is Stray Kids’ 5-Star album with 5,130,000 pre-orders. 

Since there’s still roughly 10 days before the official release of SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN, fans of SEVENTEEN are hopeful that they’ll rank higher once the pre-order season ends. 

Given the pre-order records from SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN, charts are declaring that SEVENTEEN is about to surpass 30 million album sales on Circle Chart. 

In fact, SEVENTEEN already surpasses 10 million album sales for 2023 even without the count from SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN. According to PLEDIS Entertainment, the “Super” hitmakers have already sold an unprecedented record of 11,043, 625 physical albums, from January to September of 2023 alone.

 

Impressive year for SEVENTEEN

2023 really appeared to be pivotal for SEVENTEEN.  

In terms of group album releases, their two comebacks for 2023, FML and SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN, were both setting records. Aside from group albums, the comeback of SEVENTEEN’s subunit BSS also topped local and international charts. 

According to streaming platform, BSS and SEVENTEEN dominated the 2023 charts. 

Apart from music, the group also proved their entertainment skills through a number of variety shows.

As of writing,  Jeonghan and Dino are part of the travel program Magic Lamp. Meanwhile,  Seungkwan participated in the Netflix survival show The Devil’s Plan and Joshua and Hoshi participated in Bro Marble. 

Moreover, Jun also starred in the Chinese drama Exclusive Fairytale. To which he won a “Rising Star of the Year” award. 

Additionally, SEVENTEEN has also finished shooting Nana’s Tour, the group’s version of Youth Over Flowers with PD Na Yeong Seok. Details about the show’s release are yet to be announced.

Featured image: SEVENTEEN poses for their concept photo in ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN.’ Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

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‘Dear Jinri’ Director Discusses Sulli’s Real Personality

During the 28th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), esteemed documentarian Jung Yoon Suk premiered his latest work “Dear Jinri.” This documentary is centered around the final interview of the renowned K-pop singer Choi Jinri, known by her stage name SULLI, which took place shortly before her tragic passing in 2019.

‘Dear Jinri’ Director Discusses Working With SULLI

Originally titled “Persona: SULLI”, the production faced a halt when the singer passed away in the midst of filming. “Dear Jinri” is one part of this project, the other being a short film titled “4: Clean Island.”

Following the documentary’s screening at BIFF, director Jung engaged in an interactive session with the audience, sharing insights into the behind-the-scenes persona of Sulli.

Jung discussed his approach to the documentary, emphasizing his intention to delve into the protagonist’s thoughts and actions. He described Sulli as highly perceptive of the creative process, highlighting her exceptional listening skills.

“When I gave an opinion as a director, instead of making personal arguments as an actor, she would genuinely listen to my perspective,” Jung said.

In his reflections on the departed idol/actress, Jung expressed warmth and remembered her as someone with an accommodating personality, which was in contrast to the public’s often skewed perception of her character.

“She always tried to embrace the thoughts of others,” Jung said. “I felt that this side of her was in contrast with the image of Sulli that the public knew. I realized, ‘Aha. So this is who Jinri really is.’”

Moreover, the director offered a theory regarding the stark contrast between Sulli’s public image and her real-life personality. In his view, entertainment content generally omits most of the recorded footage of an individual, selectively showcasing “key” moments during post-production to adhere to time constraints. However, the process often leads to the loss of many authentic moments that could convey the true identity of the person on screen.

Sulli’s journey in the entertainment industry began as a child actor in 2005, and she later debuted as a member of the girl group f(x) in 2009. After leaving the group in 2015, she continued to thrive as an actress until her untimely passing.

“Dear Jinri” premiered at the 28th Busan International Film Festival. The event will be held at the Busan Cinema Center in Busan, South Korea from October 4 to 13, 2023.

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SEVENTEEN’s The8 Showcases His Paintings at the Prestigious Start Art Fair

SEVENTEEN‘s Xu Minghao, who also goes by his stage name The8, is set to make waves in the art world. As part of the 10th anniversary celebration of the Start Art Fair, held during the Frieze period in October, The8 will showcase 11 of his artworks, marking a significant step in his journey as a visual artist.

The8 and his paintings

The8‘s paintings are expected to draw considerable attention. Among the showcased pieces is Rock Heart, which fans might recognize from the MV of his solo track “Hai Cheng.” This painting, filled with strong emotions, offers a glimpse into The8‘s profound connection to his art. Another piece, Dreams Come True, features calm blue and white tones, evoking the serenity of a moonlit sea.

The8‘s use of floral motifs in The Colorful Aura is particularly striking. He explained, “They just express my complex emotions. The emotions within me that I only understand.” The vibrant colors emit an ethereal feeling reminiscent of a photograph by Torkil Gudnason titled Electric Blossom. Another standout is Dragon Amidst the Storm, an abstract piece depicting a dragon caught in a storm, reminiscent of Jackson Pollock’s style.

The inclusion of The8‘s artwork at this prestigious international art fair is a dream come true for him. He had previously expressed a desire to see his creations displayed in a museum or gallery. This dream highlights his deep passion for art and his belief in the profound significance of his work. He felt that social media platforms wouldn’t capture their essence correctly.

While The8 is renowned for his dynamic stage performances with SEVENTEEN, his art reveals a tranquil and contemplative side. His works provide fans with a connection beyond music, offering an intimate look into his emotions and the multifaceted nature of his creativity.

A wide range of international art

The Start Art Fair, presented at the Saatchi Gallery in London, will also feature works by other young Korean artists. Start Art Korea organized a contest to mark the event’s 10th anniversary. Artists Hwang Seunghyeon, Kim Heeju, and Kim Minjeong emerged as winners from a field of 100 contestants. Film director Byeong-gil Jeong will also showcase his artwork. His pieces promise to intrigue art enthusiasts worldwide.

An official from the Start Art Fair said it’s an honor to be a domestic representative, especially when Korean culture is gaining global attention. They emphasized their commitment to discovering potential domestic artists and elevating the status of the Korean art world.

The fair kicked off with a VVIP preview on Wednesday, October 11, followed by a VIP Private View. General admission will span from Thursday, October 12, to Sunday, October 15, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in a wide range of international art.

The8‘s participation in this prestigious event marks a significant milestone in his journey as a visual artist, allowing fans and art lovers to appreciate his talents on a global platform. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The8’s concept photo for SEVENTEEN’s upcoming album is as colorful as his paintings. Source: X/@pledis_17.

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YG Entertainment Extends G-Dragon Trademark Registration

YG Entertainment has taken a significant step by applying for the renewal of the ‘G-Dragon’ trademark. The iconic stage name was initially trademarked in February 2003 with a 10-year validity. In 2013, the trademark was extended, securing its rights until September 13, 2023. The renewal comes shortly after the BIGBANG member signed what appears to be a distribution deal with another label.

YG Entertainment Reportedly Renewed The Registration of the G-Dragon Trademark

Currently, the trademark renewal process is in progress, and it appears poised for another decade under YG Entertainment’s ownership. This move holds importance as it occurred after G-Dragon’s exclusive contract with the company had expired in June. Speculation is rife about G-Dragon’s potential discussions with Warner Music for a new exclusive contract.

In essence, this renewal action indicates that YG Entertainment will retain ownership of the stage name ‘G-Dragon.’ Consequently, G-Dragon might face restrictions if he chooses to part ways with YG Entertainment and signs with another company, as the stage name’s rights would remain with the company.

The renewal of the G-Dragon trademark comes shortly after rumors of the BIGBANG leader’s departure from YG Entertainment. It was previously reported that the idol has signed a distribution deal with Warner Records. It was believed by many fans that G-Dragon had entered into a distribution deal with Warner Records for his highly anticipated solo comeback. Some have even noticed indications of his affiliation with Warner Music Group through a Google search, which has further fueled speculation about his global music distribution plans through the label.

G-Dragon is currently the last BIGBANG member to stay with YG Entertainment. Taeyang has signed with YG affiliate THE BLACK LABEL while Daesung signed a contract with R&D Company in April 2023. The idols are all expected to continue promoting with their group.

YG Entertainment has not yet confirmed whether G-Dragon is preparing for a solo comeback. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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Former APINK Member Yookyung Confirms Upcoming Wedding

Yookyung is getting married! The former APINK member has confirmed that she is tying the knot this weekend. In addition to that, Hong Yoo Kyung wrote a sweet letter for fans and shared gorgeous images from her wedding photoshoot!

Former APINK Member Yookyung Shares Heartwarming Letter and Wedding Photoshoot Images

On October 12, Hong Yoo Kyung shared the news with her followers on Instagram. The former APINK member posted a heartfelt letter addressed to her fans.

“I have something important to share with you all who’ve always supported me, which is why I’m writing this message. It’s been a fairly short time, but I’ve met someone who’s constantly given me unwavering assurance and made me want to spend the rest of my life with him. Because of this, I’ll be marrying this coming Saturday,” she wrote.

 

Yookyung added, “I understand this may be sudden. I’m nervous thinking it might catch you offguard. Still, I want to share this joyful news with a sense of gratitude for everyone who has watched over me and cherished me until now.”

“I’d appreciate it if you could continue to bless my new beginning and watch over me with love,” she continued. “We’ll live a beautiful life while being considerate of each other for the rest of our lives. Thank you.”

 

APINK member Eunji quickly commented on the post and congratulated Hong Yoo Kyung. “Let’s meet up more often after you get married. So pretty,” she wrote.

Hong Yoo Kyung debuted as a member of APINK in 2011. However, she later left the girl group in 2013 to focus on her studies. Since then, Yookyung has been staying out of the limelight. Nevertheless, she still manages to stay in touch with the other APINK members who are also expected to attend the wedding on Saturday.

Congratulations to Hong Yoo Kyung and her soon-to-be husband!

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Here’s What International Fans Are Doing for BTS Jimin’s Birthday

Today, on Jimin‘s birthday, Indonesian fans are celebrating in grand style. Spearheaded by the fanbase Jimin Indonesia (PJM_INA), they’ve orchestrated magnificent festivities for today and tomorrow. Their deep admiration for the BTS member is broadcast on an impressive 94 LED screens across 13 major cities, with Jakarta as a focal point.

Fans lovingly call this month “Jimtober” and packed it with activities. Collaborations with photobooth companies like Pictple, Selfi Time ID, and Snaplab are in full swing. Fans in Indonesia can revel in events and gatherings set up in 67 locations across 17 cities. 

https://www.tiktok.com/@anggun_park/video/7284507434830417157?q=Jimtober%20Indonesia&t=1697158494765

Embodying Jimin‘s charitable spirit, PJM_INA has embarked on a noble initiative. They’ve joined hands with Save the Children Indonesia to assist children in Eastern Indonesia battling the severe effects of a prolonged drought.

JIMIN LOVERS INDONESIA, another fan group, curated a special birthday video for Jimin. This video will light up the exterior of Graha Mandiri, Jakarta’s tallest building, from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM tomorrow. Moreover, in honor of Jimin‘s special day today, video tributes are showcased from 4:00 AM to midnight at 93 bustling train stations in 12 cities.

Fans worldwide love Jimin

Jimincherisher is also marking the occasion in their distinctive style. They’re highlighting Jimin‘s birthday today from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM with a billboard at Jakarta’s famed M Bloc Space. Their celebration extends to charitable acts, including distributing dry cat food and supporting Shelterpejaten, a refuge for abandoned dogs.

Meanwhile, Mexican composer Pili Martin dedicated a piano piece to him, accompanied by a touching letter and YouTube video. 

Always With You Jimin

The genuine and heartfelt bond between Jimin and the ARMY is a shining example of the authentic bond artists can forge with their fans. Over the years, Jimin has received countless tributes, all of which are a testament to his gratitude for the love and support fans send his way.

Happy birthday to the cutie sexy lovely Park Jimin! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jimin is the face of Dior Men’s new campaign. Source: X/@jiminpics.

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KQ Entertainment Shares Health Update on ATEEZ’s Jongho

KQ Entertainment recently provided a health update on Jongho’s knee injury. This time, the agency might have some good news about the ATEEZ member!

KQ Entertainment Finally Shares Positive Health Update on ATEEZ Member Jongho

In August 2023, the label announced Jongho’s hiatus due to a meniscus rupture, and as of October 12, they have finally shared the ATEEZ member’s progress. According to the statement, Jongho has undergone surgery and rehabilitation for his knee injury, and he’s currently in a condition where he can walk and participate in light exercise.

“Back in August, Jongho was diagnosed with a ‘meniscus rupture’, and has since undergone surgery and rehabilitation treatment. Currently, he is able to walk and engage in light exercise as part of his daily routine,” the statement read.

The company then shared some good news about Jongho’s condition. “After extensive discussions with the artist, we have decided to proceed with his activities in a flexible manner, so that he is not overloaded,” they wrote.

The label also confirmed that Jongho will be rejoining ATEEZ for ‘M! Countdown in France,’ marking the end of his hiatus. However, to prioritize his recovery, he will refrain from engaging in any strenuous choreography.

“Once again, we apologize for any concern this may have caused, and we assure you that we will continue to prioritize the artist’s recovery and complete healing,” they wrote.

Notably, Jongho has a history of health issues. He previously experienced both an ankle injury and a meniscus rupture. The agency clarified on August 20th that Jongho had, after his previous ankle injury, received a diagnosis of a meniscus rupture. However, he chose “conservative treatment” over surgery, driven by his determined desire to continue performing on stage.

ATEEZ will perform at the upcoming “M! Countdown in France” which will be held in the Paris La Défense Arena on Sunday, October 15, 2023.

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FIFTY FIFTY Claims Agency Used Girl Group To Settle Major Debts

FIFTY FIFTY is not backing down from their conflict with ATTRAKT. The girl group shared new claims about their agency in a social media post. This time, the idols are claiming that the label used their success to settle major debts with a different company.

FIFTY FIFTY Drops New Bombshell Amidst ATTRAKT Legal Dispute

Since their legal dispute with ATTRAKT, FIFTY FIFTY has opened an Instagram account to share their side of the story. Although they have not posted anything for some time, their latest update is a true shocker. In the post, the girl group shared new claims about their agency.

“The agency should stop taking baseless accusations,” their statement read. “Did the agency consider the girl group as a means to earn money for resolving debts?”

It further read, “The CEO of the agency, J, approached the CEO of an outsourcing company, A, to align their claims by investing 5 billion KRW (3.7 million USD) in advance payment debt, which his other S agency owed, into the girl group FIFTY FIFTY.”

They wrote, “The agency charged the members 3 billion KRW in costs on the settlement statement, but they haven’t provided any detailed information about the operating costs of 3.3 billion KRW and the deposit of 1.7 billion KRW up to October.”

“Do not insult the members with unsubstantiated tampering (contact before the exclusive contract expires),” the statement continues. FIFTY FIFTY also had a warning for CEO Jun Hong Joon.

“Now, reveal everything about FIFTY FIFTY truthfully, last as it may be,” they wrote. “We will disclose everything we have suffered under surveillance and control, damaging our health. We will reveal the truth behind the good stories told about CEO Jun.”

FIFTY FIFTY previously lost the legal battle to break out of their exclusive contracts with their label. On August 28, a judge decided to reject an injunction aimed at suspending FIFTY FIFTY’s exclusive contracts with ATTRAKT. This decision was prompted by reports stating that FIFTY FIFTY had declined to engage in mediation court proceedings.

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