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BLACKPINK Jennie Seemingly Confirms Solo Album in Recent Usher Interaction

BLACKPINK’s Jennie recently engaged in a conversation with global superstar Usher at a Chanel event in Paris, and their exchange has ignited excitement and speculation about Jennie’s future in music, especially in light of discussions surrounding the group’s contract renewal with YG Entertainment. Could Jennie Kim release a solo album in the near future?

Did BLACKPINK Member Jennie Tell Usher She Is Currently Working on A Solo Album?

Jennie is set to release a special single titled “You & Me” following her captivating performance of the song at the BORN PINK shows, which resonated deeply with the audience. However, it appears that this single may not be the only surprise in store for fans.

Amidst the anticipation of her new single and ongoing contract negotiations, Jennie seems to have future plans already in motion. The intriguing revelation emerged during her attendance at the Chanel fashion show on October 3, where she interacted with various celebrities, including Usher.

A video clip capturing their conversation has sparked enthusiasm for Jennie’s upcoming endeavors. In the video, Usher discusses the possibility of the idol’s future album and expresses his interest in collaborating with Jennie. While it’s not uncommon for stars to express a desire to collaborate with idols, it was Jennie’s response that stirred excitement. She shared, “Right now, I’ve started working on mine…” Although she didn’t explicitly mention an album, her response strongly suggested that she is indeed working on a musical project, aligning with Usher’s earlier remarks.

Jennie’s potential collaboration with Usher and her ongoing musical pursuits are generating anticipation and curiosity among fans, who eagerly await further updates on her exciting journey in the music industry.

For now, YG Entertainment has not yet confirmed whether Jennie is releasing any new music other than “You & Me”. However, BLINKs are already anticipating an official announcement in the next few weeks.

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P1Harmony’s Soul Suffers Leg Injury During Pre-Concert Soundcheck

Haku Shota will still participate in P1Harmony's concerts despite suffering a leg injury

Soul will be taking precautions due to a leg injury during a recent P1Harmony concert. But despite the setback, Haku Shota has been confirmed to honor his commitment to participate in the “2023 P1Harmony LIVE TOUR [P1ustage H : P1ONEER]” concert dates as originally scheduled.

Soul Determined to Join P1Harmony Concerts Despite Recent Leg Injury

On October 4, FNC Entertainment confirmed the news and shared that Soul sustained the leg injury during a soundcheck rehearsal. Currently, the P1Harmony member is in the process of recovery. However, in consideration of his injury, he will limit his movements during the performance to prevent further strain on his leg.

“During a pre-concert fan event (soundcheck) at the ‘2023 P1Harmony LIVE TOUR [P1ustage H: P1ONEER]’ in Sydney, Soul suffered a leg injury and immediately sought medical attention at a hospital. Soul has been diagnosed with ‘patellar tendinitis’ and is currently receiving outpatient treatment. He is making a speedy recovery and is in good health,” the statement read.

“While he can carry out his daily activities without any problems, medical specialists have advised him to avoid intense exercise and strenuous movements to ensure a full recovery,” it continues.

Interestingly, the agency confirmed that they had discussed all options with Soul who is determined to participate in P1Harmony’s schedules. In conclusion, FNC Entertainment agreed to let the rapper join the concerts.

“As Soul is determined to go on stage, after consulting with medical professionals, we’ve decided to proceed with the scheduled ‘2023 P1Harmony LIVE TOUR [P1ustage H: P1ONEER]’ dates with Soul while making necessary adjustments [to minimize his movements]. In consideration of the leg injury and Soul’s safety as our top priorities, some aspects of the performances will be adjusted, and Soul will be performing while seated until he makes a full recovery. We kindly ask for your understanding regarding this matter,” the statement confirmed.

Fans of P1Harmony can still look forward to the concert while wishing Soul a swift and full recovery.

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Ex-TO1 Member Oh Seong Min to Debut in One Pact

ARMADA Entertainment introduces Oh Seong Min as a ONE PACT member. Credit: Twitter/ONE PACT

Former Boys Planet contestant and TO1 member Oh Seong Min will start anew as he’s confirmed to be part of the upcoming rookie boy group ONE PACT. 

On Wednesday, October 4, ONE PACT’s agency ARMADA Entertainment introduced Oh Seong Min as the group’s second member.

He’ll be joining fellow Boys Planet contestant Yoon Jong Woo. 

Interestingly, ONE PACT would be Oh Seong Min’s second group as he was previously part of the group TO1. There, he promoted under the stage name Jerome. 

For those unfamiliar, TO1 was formed through Mnet’s reality show To Be World Klass. Initially named as TOO, the group made its debut in April 2020. However, the group didn’t gain that much popularity as its management CJ ENM and n.CH Entertainment got involved in legal disputes. Because of this, several members left the group, which lead to lineup changes. 

In June 2022, Jerome announced his departure from TO1, alongside Minsu and Woong Gi. 

Although they left TO1, they remained to be part of WAKEONE Entertainment. Several months after leaving the group, Oh Seong Min participated in Boys Planet wherein he finished in 35th place. 

What we know so far about ONE PACT

In late September, ARMADA Entertainment announced their plans of debuting a new idol group. 

The group will be called ONE PACT, which is a fusion of the words “one” and “impact.” Furthermore, the group name is meant to signify the act’s goal of being united to make a significant impact. 

According to Korean media, the agency has teased that the members of ONE PACT will have members with diverse personalities and charms. 

Aside from Oh Seong Min and Yoon Jong Woo, ARMADA Entertainment has yet to provide details on the other members.

Additionally, the agency also hasn’t confirmed the final number of members, as well as target debut date for the group. 

Moreover, ONE PACT will join the list of growing Boys Planet contestants who entered the industry after the series. 

First, the formed group who won in the show are now promoting as ZEROBASEONE, or ZB1. Consisting of Zhang Hao, Sung Han Bin, Seok Matthew, Ricky, Park Gun Wook, Kim Taerae, Kim Gyu Vin, Kim Ji Woong, and Han Yu Jin, ZB1 debuted in July with their first mini album Youth in the Shade.

Another boy group produced by Boys Planet is EVNNE, who made their debut in September. Meanwhile, four more former contestants of Boys Planet are set to debut as the boy group TOZ.  in 2023.

Featured image: ARMADA Entertainment introduces Oh Seong Min as a ONE PACT member. Credit: Twitter/ONE PACT

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Police Clears MAMAMOO’s Hwasa Over Alleged Obscene Performance

Hwasa in the concept photo of MAMAMOO's 2023 Season's Greetings. Credit: Facebook/MAMAMOO

Seoul police have decided not to pursue charges against Hwasa from K-pop girl group MAMAMOO regarding her supposed obscene performance.

The Seongdong Police Station confirmed the news on Wednesday, October 4. According to a Soompi report, the police announced that they would not be referring Hwasa’s case to the prosecution. 

“After summoning Hwasa as a defendant, investigating the content and development process of the performance [of that day], and comprehensively reviewing the statements of those involved, [we found it] difficult to acknowledge the criminal charges,” the police was quoted as saying. 

With this, no charges would be filed against Hwasa. The development came almost five months since her controversial performance.

Fast facts on case against Hwasa

On May 12, Hwasa performed at the Sungkyunkwan University Festival. It was part of the filming for tvN’s variety show Dancing Queens on the Road. 

However, a dance move for her performance in the song “Don’t” was deemed disturbing and inappropriate by several viewers. Which resulted in the university’s Student Parents and Human Rights Protection Solidarity filing a complaint against the singer at the Seongdong Police Station on July 10. 

According to reports, the complainant claimed that Hwasa’s performance was “enough to evoke a sense of shame and disgust among the audience.” 

In September, the Seoul Seongdong Police Station revealed that they had summoned Hwasa to question her about the controversial performance. Her agency, P NATION, confirmed the report. Moreover, the label emphasized that their artist fully cooperated with the police during the investigation. 

Based also in earlier reports, if the singer was found guilty, she would’ve faced a maximum sentence of one year in jail or a fine of 5 million Korean won. 

Moving forward with her career

Following the news about the police dropping Hwasa’s case, P NATION released a brief statement that they’re currently checking the information. As of writing, Hwasa has yet to personally address the development in her case. 

However, it can be recalled that the singer previously spoke about how the controversy has been affecting her. “I don’t usually react much to malicious comments but it’s too harsh this time round,” she said then. 

Such experience, she explained, gave her the inspiration for her latest single “I LOVE MY BODY.”

Featured image: Hwasa in the concept photo of MAMAMOO’s 2023 Season’s Greetings. Credit: Facebook/MAMAMOO

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Look: SNSD’s Taeyeon and (f)x’s Amber Liu Reunite at Paris Fashion Week

Taeyeon and Amber were sitting together at a Paris Fashion Week event. Credit: Instagram/Rain Magazine

Here’s a small treat for you, 2nd generation stans! SNSD’s Taeyeon and f(x(’s Amber Liu just had a brief reunion at the Paris Fashion Week. 

On Monday, October 2, the prestigious Louis Vuitton Women’s Spring-Summer 2024 show was held. There, fans were delighted to see Taeyeon of Girls Generation and Amber Liu of f(x) sitting beside each other.

Taeyeon’s attendance in the event was expected as she was sent as the Korean ambassador for the luxury house. But to fan’s surprise, Amber was also at the show.

Additionally, the K-pop stars were also captured having a little chit chat and a quick hug, which warmed the hearts of fans. Moreover, several fashion magazines also took the chance to interview both stars. 

Given that it’s been awhile since the two idols were seen together, fans couldn’t help but gush over their reunion. 

Others have pointed out that the last time the pair was seen together in public was eight years ago. To note, Taeyeon and Amber worked together for the track “Shake That Brass,” which was released in 2015.

On social media, some fans wrote that they were even getting emotional seeing the two together again. Which also prompted other fans to look back at Taeyeon and Amber’s bond when the latter was still under SM Entertainment. 

Amber and Taeyeon’s activities now

Amber Liu was once a prominent member of the girl group f(x) under SM Entertainment. However in 2019, the group announced an indefinite hiatus following the expiration of their contracts with the agency. 

Since then, Amber has embarked as a solo artist and focused her promotions in China. Although f(x( has been inactive for years now, the members reassured their fans that the group did not disband.

Recently, Amber’s fellow f(x) member Krystal Jung opened up how she’s hoping for a group reunion in the future. Additionally, she also disclosed that they didn’t even expect that the 2015 album 4 Walls was going to be their last. 

For those unfamiliar with f(x), they debuted as a five-member group in September 2009. They rose to fame for songs “Electric Shock,” “Hot Summer,” and “Nu Abo.” In October 2019, member Sulli passed away. 

On the other hand, Taeyeon remains as one of the leading artists of SM Entertainment. Aside from doing group activities with SNSD, she has also been active as a soloist. In  August, the vocalist just finished the Asian leg of her fifth concert tour, The Odd of Love.

Featured image: Taeyeon and Amber were sitting together at a Paris Fashion Week event. Credit: Instagram/Rain Magazine

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Look: Here Are the K-pop Acts Nominated for the 2023 MTV EMAs

BTS' Jungkook during filming of his digital single 'Seven.' Credit: Facebook/BTS

K-pop has once again proved its global influence in the music industry. After numerous recognitions at the recently held 2023 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), K-pop acts are now set to bag a new set of awards at the 2023 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs).

On Tuesday, October 3, Billboard Brazil unveiled the list of nominations for the upcoming EMAs. 

According to MTV, the EMAs will be an event to celebrate the work of global artists with awards and legendary performances from international music icons. Notably, several K-pop acts made it to the record.

Who are nominated for 2023 MTV EMAs?

Topping the list are BTS’ Jungkook and TOMORROW X TOGETHER. Both HYBE artists garnered a total of three nominations each.

Jungkook, the youngest member of the sensational group BTS, has been nominated for the Best K-pop and Biggest fans categories. He will also compete for the Song of the Year category for his digital single “Seven” featuring Latto. Furthermore, this is Jungkook’s first EMA nomination as a solo artist. 

Just last month, Jungkook took home the MTV VMAs Song of the Summer award for the said track.

Meanwhile, boy group TOMORROW X TOGETHER also earned nominations for the following categories: Best K-pop, Best Push Artist, and Best Group. At the MTV VMAs, the “Sugar Rush Ride” singers bagged the Push Performance of the Year award.

Meanwhile, “Super” hitmakers SEVENTEEN and monster rookies NewJeans took two nods each, both for the Best K-pop and Best Group categories.

In addition, “Next Level” singers aespa also earned a nod for Best Group, while BLACKPINK is nominated for Biggest Fans category. Moreover, groups FIFTY FIFTY and Stray Kids will also compete for the Best K-Pop category.

Meanwhile, boy group TREASURE has been nominated in the Best Asia Act category as South Korea’s sole representative.

The 2023 MTV EMAs will take place in Paris, France on November 5. Fans can vote for their favorite acts on the MTV EMAs official website until October 31, 11:59 pm. Who are you rooting for among these nominees? 

Featured image: BTS’ Jungkook during filming of his digital single ‘Seven.’ Credit: Facebook/BTS

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BLACKPINK’s Jennie to Release ‘You & Me’ on October 6

YG Entertainment shares teaser for Jennie's 'You and Me' single. Credit: Twitter/BLACKPINK

It’s finally happening, BLINKs! Jennie of K-pop girl group BLACKPINK is officially releasing her digital single “You & Me” on Friday, October 6. 

YG Entertainment made the announcement on Wednesday, October 4, by sharing a teaser for the special single. In the photo, Jennie is seen sporting a red dress while posing against a moon backdrop. 

For those unfamiliar, Jennie first performed “You & Me” in October 2022 during BLACKPINK’s Born Pink world concert tour. Since then, she’s been performing it as her solo stage for all the other concert stops. Interestingly, the teaser gave off similar vibes from her performance on the Born Pink stage. 

Aside from their concert, Jennie has also performed a remix version of “You & Me” during BLACKPINK’s performance in Coachella. 

In a press release, YG Entertainment revealed that they decided to officially release the single as a way to show their gratitude to fans who supported the group’s historic Born Pink concert. 

“We hope it will serve as a special memento, rekindling the emotion of that time,” they added. 

Prior to the official announcement, eagle-eyed fans have noticed that the remix version of the track has been registered in ASCAP or the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers. 

Jennie’s career as a solo artist

Since the announcement, fans took to social media to express their excitement in finally having “You & Me” as an official release. 

It will serve as Jennie’s first official solo release since she made her solo debut in 2018 with Solo. 

Outside of her activities as BLACKPINK, Jennie also collaborated with The Weeknd and Lily Rose-Depp for a soundtrack for the HBO series THE IDOL. Titled “One of the Girls,” the track was released in June.

Notably, said track entered Billboard’s R&B Digital Song Sales chart at No. 11 for the week of July 6 to 12. Which led to Jennie being the first South Korean female soloist to hit one of Billboard’s music charts. 

Moreover, fans are considering this as a sign for more solo releases from Jennie. In September, the BLACKPINK member said in an interview that she’s working on a new, “unique” solo album. 

What’s next for Jennie? 

Another reason why fans are looking forward to Jennie’s release of “You & Me” is because it’s the latest project between YG Entertainment and a BLACKPINK member amidst discussions about contract renewal. 

Since the group’s seven-year contract with the agency ended in August, fans and media have been anticipating whether all BLACKPINK members will renew with the agency. Recently, there’s been reports that only Rosé will renew, while the rest of the members will continue their career elsewhere.

Moreover, other reports claimed that Jennie is planning to establish her own agency. However, YG Entertainment reiterated that no final decision has been made yet. 

Currently, Jennie also appears to be focusing on other ventures as she attends several fashion events. As proof of her global influence, she also was recently included in the Top 50 Most Influential Women list of 2023.

Featured image: YG Entertainment shares teaser for Jennie’s ‘You and Me’ single. Credit: Twitter/BLACKPINK

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What’s the Connection Between BTS and ‘Red, White, & Royal Blue’?

On October 3, BTS‘ j-hope became the talk of the town when it was revealed that his vibrant personality inspired a main character in the 2019 novel Red, White & Royal Blue. This revelation became even more significant when the novel was adapted into a film, featuring Nicholas Galitzine as Prince Henry and Taylor Zakhar Perez, best known for The Kissing Booth, as Alex Claremont-Diaz.

@lalocaev

Pez #rwrbmovie #RWRB #rojoblancoysangreazul #redwhiteandroyalblue #alexclermontdiaz #henryfoxmountchristenwindsor #percyokonjo

♬ sonido original – LaLocaEv

Katie Rogers, a book blogger at Pages and Pugs, unveiled this connection in 2019. She had won an annotated copy of Red, White & Royal Blue at a charity auction for RAICES, a cause championed by the author Casey McQuiston. Among the annotations, one on page 31 stood out, where McQuiston listed the inspirations for the character Percy “Pez” Okonjo. The note read, “Inspirations for Pez include John Boyega, Jung Hoseok, Freckle from ‘The Gay and Wondrous Life of Caleb Gallo.’”

In the film, Malcolm Atobrah brings Percy “Pez” Okonjo to life. Pez, with his charisma, fashion sense, and flair reminiscent of j-hope, captivates the audience from his very first scene. His chic outfits and radiant demeanor mirror the style of j-hope, BTS‘ main dancer and sub-rapper. j-hope, celebrated for his charm and talent, was a fitting muse for a character in a novel that transitioned to the silver screen.

Where is j-hope now?

Released last August on Amazon Prime Video, Red, White & Royal Blue tells the fictional love story between Prince Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor and Alex Claremont-Diaz, the son of the U.S.’s first female president. Directed by Tony-winner Matthew Lopez for Amazon Studios, the film is proof of Lopez’s directorial prowess. (He also co-wrote the screenplay with Ted Malawer.)

While the j-hope connection has intrigued many, Red, White & Royal Blue has also been lauded for its progressive themes and breaking traditional gender boundaries. The novel proudly secured its position as a New York Times Bestseller in 2020. Interestingly, it also references BTS‘ leader, Kim Namjoon, or RM. In a text message on page 210, Alex playfully addresses his sister June using RM’s real name.

@serendipitysirius

the way i Gasped #bts #redwhiteandroyalblue #caseymcquiston #bangtanboys #booktok #kimnamjoon #rm #bangtansonyeondan방탄소년단

♬ Originalton – dailynicki

In related news, j-hope began his military service on April 18, 2023. He passed basic training with flying colors and is currently serving as an assistant drill instructor. He’ll return to music with his bandmates in 2025. In the meantime, fans can check out his solo album Jack in the Box (Hope Edition). – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: K-pop and literature collided in ‘Red, White & Royal Blue.’ Sources: Instagram/@casey.mcquiston and @uarmyhope.

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Ryan Reynolds Celebrates Bang Chan’s Birthday With Hilarious Video

Ryan Reynolds shared a hilarious video featuring himself to celebrate STRAY KIDS' Bang Chan's 26th birthday

Bang Chan is officially 26 years old. The STRAY KIDS leader blew the candles on October 3 and not surprisingly, several fans greeted the idol on his special day. But one notable STAY who stood out was Ryan Reynolds who shared a unique video to celebrate Bang Chan’s special day.

Bang Chan Gets Hilarious Birthday Greeting from Ryan Reynolds

It’s no secret that Bang Chan and Ryan Reynolds have become close friends despite the distance. So it’s no surprise that the “Deadpool” actor made sure that the STRAY KIDS rapper got a special treat on his birthday. Reynolds’ PR team, known for the Maximum Effort Twitter account, posted a hilarious video proving the actor is a STAY just like the rest of us.

In the playful birthday message, Reynolds shared an amusing edit on Twitter, featuring a clip of himself from the 2015 movie “Woman in Gold.” In the edit, his character can be seen searching for TWICE‘s “Like OOH-AHH” online. The clip then humorously showcases Bang Chan appearing as a zombie in the music video, followed by a video of Bang Chan on a radio show. Reynolds captioned the post with a witty remark, stating, “You only turn 26 once. Or is it Twice?”

The lighthearted video quickly gained traction and garnered over 400,000 views, showcasing Reynolds’ creative and entertaining birthday tribute to Bang Chan. Fans of Bang Chan embraced the playful gesture, appreciating the humor and thoughtfulness behind Ryan Reynolds’ birthday message for the K-pop idol.

Bang Chan and Ryan Reynolds first bonded over STRAY KIDS’ Deadpool-themed performance on “Kingdom”. After several exchanges on Twitter, Reynolds decided to send a signed Maximum Effort bottle to the idol and received a signed copy of the group’s most recent album at the time. From there, Bang Chan became Reynolds’ “Favorite Australian”, a title he “stole” from “Deadpool 3” star Hugh Jackman.

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ATEEZ Yunho Confirmed as Special MC for ‘Inkigayo Live in Tokyo’

ATEEZ member Yunho will serve as one of the special MC for the two-day event 'Inkigayo Live in Tokyo' this week

ATEEZ’s Yunho has received a prestigious invitation to serve as a special MC for the eagerly awaited “Inkigayo Live in Tokyo” event hosted by SBS. This exciting two-day extravaganza is scheduled to unfold in Tokyo, Japan, on October 3 and October 4, further solidifying Yunho’s remarkable career trajectory.

ATEEZ Member Yunho To Serve as Special MC For Two-Day ‘Inkigayo Live in Tokyo’ Event

Yunho’s journey to this significant role has been punctuated by several noteworthy appearances as a special MC. He has graced the stages of acclaimed programs, including SBS MTV’s ‘The Show,’ SBS’ ‘Super Concert,’ and ‘KCON Japan 2023.’ With each hosting opportunity, Yunho has demonstrated his remarkable talent for live hosting, captivating audiences with his seamless on-stage presence and polished hosting skills.

In addition to his hosting gigs, Jeong Yun-ho has also tried his hand at acting. He previously made his acting debut in the KBS drama “Imitation”.

His latest appointment as a special MC for ‘Inkigayo Live in Tokyo’ serves as a testament to his versatility and rising prominence within the entertainment industry. Fans eagerly anticipate Yunho’s performance at this prestigious event, expecting yet another exceptional showcase by this gifted entertainer.

Yunho’s impressive achievements thus far have firmly established him as one of the industry’s emerging stars, both in music and entertainment. As he continues to ascend in his burgeoning career, the future holds great promise for this multifaceted talent, and fans are excited to witness his ongoing journey to success.

In related news, ATEEZ fans recently defended the idols after a Taiwanese artist allegedly plagiarized the song “Guerilla”. ATINYs reacted to a Twitter thread alleging that the track “Kicking Your Face” by Taiwanese rapper 3WICH had an almost identical structure to the ATEEZ song. This is not only the most recent instance where the group has had to deal with plagiarism.

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