Category: KPOP NEWS

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Phunky Studios Slaps Yoo Junwon with a Mega 3 Billion Won Lawsuit

Yoo Junwon

In a shocking turn of events, Phunky Studios, the production company behind the MBC survival show Fantasy Boys, has taken legal action against Yoo Junwon. The suit comes after the trainee’s sudden exit from the group, right on the cusp of his debut. The Seoul Central District Court has confirmed receipt of the case, with the production company demanding a staggering 3 billion KRW in damages.

Yoo Junwon‘s journey in the limelight began when he clinched first place on the show. This victory paved the way for his inclusion in the debut group. However, his happiness was short-lived. Just a month before the group’s much-anticipated launch, the budding idol suddenly decided to leave.

Yoo Junwon had troublesome parents

PocketDol Studio, responsible for managing the group, shed light on the behind-the-scenes turmoil. They revealed that they and Yoo Junwon’s parents had engaged in extensive contract discussions, revisiting the terms over ten times. “Our company discussed the contract with him and his parents over ten times immediately after the program ended. Despite the contract being written according to the standard terms recommended by the Fair Trade Commission, his parents requested a revision of the contract,” they said. The bone of contention? An increased profit distribution rate, justified by Yoo Junwon‘s first-place finish in the program’s voting compared to other members.

The studio further elaborated, “If we adjust the profit distribution rate differently for members based on the final voting rank, there could be an issue of fairness. We explained sufficiently every time why we couldn’t do that. However, Yoo Junwon‘s parents unauthorizedly took Yoo Junwon out twice and finally notified that he would not join the team.”

Fantasy Boys remains undeterred

Despite the void left by its first-place winner, Fantasy Boys remains undeterred. The group is still on track to make its official debut on September 21 KST, featuring the remaining 11 members. Fans can hardly wait for their debut album, NEW TOMORROW, set to drop on September 16.

In K-pop, controversies aren’t unusual. However, this lawsuit’s magnitude and its circumstances sent shockwaves throughout the industry. As the legal battle begins, fans and industry insiders alike are hoping for a resolution that serves the best interests of all involved. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Junwon went from center to defendant real quick. Source: Twitter/@nugubgs_.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’ Jungkook Wins ‘Song of the Summer’ at 2023 MTV VMAs

On September 13th, BigHit Music proudly announced a monumental achievement for BTS’ Jungkook. His first solo single, “Seven (feat. Latto),” was proclaimed Song of the Summer at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards, held at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. This accolade isn’t just a testament to the song’s global appeal and marks Jungkook as the first Korean soloist to win in this category.

In 2021, BTS‘s chart-topping hit “Butter” had secured this title, underscoring Jungkook‘s immense popularity both as a member of BTS and as a soloist. The Song of the Summer award is determined by fans’ votes and carries significant weight in the industry. Notably, this isn’t his first brush with the MTV VMAs. Last year, he was nominated for his collaboration with Charlie Puth. His nomination for Song of the Summer this year, for the second straight time, had fans buzzing with anticipation. His win further cements his global stature as a soloist.

“Seven (feat. Latto)” hasn’t just been a hit at award shows. According to a recent chart released by Billboard on September 12, the song ranked No. 37 on the Hot 100. Impressively, right after its debut, it rocketed to the top of this chart and has consistently stayed in the upper ranks for eight straight weeks. Finally, the song ranked first in Global (excluding the US) and second in Global 200 for eight straight weeks. The only other K-pop track to achieve similar success in ‘Global (excluding the US)’ is BTS‘ “Dynamite.”

What will Jungkook do next?

But the accolades don’t stop there. Jungkook is set to make another significant mark on the global stage. He will headline the 2023 Global Citizen Festival in Central Park, New York, on September 23. This festival, organized by the New York-based international civic group Global Citizen, has been a platform since 2012 to raise awareness about pressing issues like climate change, extreme poverty, and famine. Fans earn free tickets to this event by taking actions that help end extreme poverty. BTS did “Permission to Dance” and “Butter” at the 2021 edition of this festival. Jungkook will be the first K-pop soloist to headline it, joining other notable headliners like Lauryn Hill and the Red Hot Chilli Peppers.

In a press release, Jungkook expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I’m really excited to perform at the Global Citizen Festival as a headliner. I’m happy to be part of a festival that has a good motive. I’m looking forward to performing at the festival.”

With such accomplishments, Jungkook continues to break barriers and set new records in the world of K-pop, proving that his immense talent truly knows no bounds. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungkook didn’t have to attend the VMAs to make waves at the ceremony. Source: Twitter/@Dazed.

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BTS V Reveals How Unexpected Netflix Show Changed His Mind About Acting

The BTS member claims that one Netflix show made him want to continue acting

BTS’s V recently disclosed that his perspective on acting underwent a transformation thanks to a popular Netflix show. It’s been seven years since V marked his acting debut in the K-drama “Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth”. Nevertheless, Kim Taehyung has affirmed his keen interest in returning to the world of acting, inspired by a beloved series available on the popular streaming platform.

BTS Member V Shares Love for Unexpected Netflix Show

The BTS member was recently a guest on IU’s talk show “IU’s Palette” where they discussed his solo album ‘Layover’. However, the two also touched upon some of V’s other interests which include acting. When IU asked whether he has plans for his acting career in the future, Kim Taehyung confirmed that he does. In addition to that, V admitted that he wants to try working on a thriller for a change.

Perhaps the coolest revelation during the interview is when V shared how a Netflix show changed his perspective on acting. “Do you know the Netflix series ‘The End of the F***ing World’? My thoughts on acting completely changed after I watched that,” Kim Taehyung stated.

IU quickly admitted that she also loves the series. V immediately continued that he wanted to take on a role similar to James in the Netflix series.

“When people ask me, ‘Is there a role you want to play?’ I tell them this protagonist of ‘The End of the F***ing World’,” he said.

This isn’t the first time that the BTS member admitted he is eager to return to acting. It was previously reported that V wants to play the bad guy for a change when he continues pursuing his acting career.

“I’ve told a lot of my friends and people around me that I now have this ambition to play a villain at least once,” he said.

V is currently promoting his solo album ‘Layover’.

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‘SBS Super Concert’ in London Officially Cancelled

The SBS Super Concert in London was scheduled to feature some of the best K-pop acts including TXT, The Boyz, ITZY, and ZEROBASEONE

The much-anticipated SBS Super Concert scheduled to grace London, England has been met with cancellation. The cancellation of the event, in collaboration with KPOP Lux, was announced officially on September 13 by SBS.

SBS Officially Announces KPOP LUX SBS Super Concert in London Has Been Cancelled

Although the precise reasons underpinning this unfortunate decision remain veiled, SBS expressed their deep remorse for any letdown it might have caused to fans. They reaffirmed their commitment to fostering opportunities for international K-Pop enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the music they adore.

“Despite our efforts to ensure the smooth hosting of the 2023 KPOP LUX SBS Super Concert in London, we regret to inform you that it has been cancelled due to unavoidable local circumstances,” the statement read.

The cancellation rings particularly disheartening for K-Pop aficionados in England, who had eagerly anticipated an event that promised a thrilling blend of music, dance, and the distinctive K-Pop essence. Beyond the promise of mesmerizing performances, the SBS Super Concert sought to facilitate cultural exchange and mutual appreciation between South Korea and England.

SBS Super Concert Already Had Some of K-Pop’s Finest Acts

A stellar lineup had been poised to grace the stage, featuring a roster of esteemed K-Pop groups and soloists including TXT, The Boyz, ITZY, ZEROBASEONE, ONEUS, WEi, BILLLIE, xikers, Choi Ye Na, and Dream Catcher. Each of these artists commands a substantial global fan base, guaranteeing an electrifying concert experience that many K-Pop devotees had eagerly anticipated.

While this cancellation is undoubtedly a disappointment, fans can take solace in the hope that future opportunities to celebrate K-Pop will arise, fostering a stronger bond between South Korea’s vibrant music culture and admirers across the world.

https://twitter.com/LuxSbs1859/status/1682048188407226368

The SBS Super Concert was previously held in Madrid, Spain where it proved to be a huge success in July. The previous event also featured amazing performances from SHINee, Enhypen, IVE, ATEEZ, STAYC, Cravity, and xikers.

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CNBLUE’s Yonghwa Recalls ‘We Got Married’ Stint With SNSD’s Seohyun

CNBLUE's Yonghwa and SNSD's Seohyun during their last day of filming 'We Got Married.' Credit: YouTube/MBC

Rejoice, Goguma couple shippers! Yonghwa of CNBLUE has just gifted their fans some crumbs from his and SNSD’s Seohyun’s virtual marriage on the reality variety show We Got Married.

On Monday, September 11, the vocalist appeared as a guest on MC Kangnam’s Youtube show My Neighborhood Friend Kangnami. In the episode, Kangnam brought back Yonghwa’s previous work with the youngest member of SNSD. 

In 2010, Yonghwa and Seohyun, or the YoungSeo couple, acted as newlyweds for We Got Married. Nicknamed as “Goguma couple” (sweet potato couple), the two idols garnered popularity and support due to their enthralling chemistry. 

During their We Got Married stint, the two gained attention for their supposed innocent love as Seohyun didn’t have romantic relationships prior to that.

Additionally, the YoungSeo couple were also known for being musically-inclined. With this, the two even composed their own song and performed it in front of a crowd. 

Unsurprisingly, fans even rooted for the couple’s relationship in real life.

Yonghwa looks back on his YoungSeo stint 

Reminiscing about the past, Yonghwa revealed that despite people thinking it was all an act, their “marriage” was largely unscripted. 

Moreover, the singer also unveiled the story behind their lost “couple ring.” Yonghwa clarified that his viral clip of searching for the ring during a live performance on Music Core was real.

“It’s really real. The ring I bought with Seohyun at a fancy stationery store was cheap. So it easily corroded and it fell. But I didn’t lose it. As soon as the stage was over, I searched for it and that is what came out,” he said in the show.

On social media, fans of the virtual couple expressed their excitement on having the YoungSeo days being talked about. Especially since it’s been nearly 13 years since Yonghwa and Seohyun starred in the series. 

More about WGM

For those unaware, We Got Married is an MBC reality show that allows male and female celebrities – from idol group members, actors, or TV personas – to take part in a virtual marriage for a certain period of time. The couples are given tasks which help develop their relationship. 

Other famous couples who also appeared in the show include BTOB’s Yook Sungjae and Red Velvet’s Joy, f(x)’s Victoria and 2PM’s Nickhun, and actor Namkoong Min and singer Hong Jin Young, among many others.

With the series’ first launch in February 2008, WGM aired for a total of four seasons before its final episode in May 2017. With its immense popularity, the show inspired several spin-offs, including a global edition.

Featured image: CNBLUE’s Yonghwa and SNSD’s Seohyun during their last day of filming ‘We Got Married.’ Credit: YouTube/MBC

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K-DRAMA KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Cha Eun Woo Discusses Taking On ‘A Good Day To Be A Dog’ Role

MBC’s highly anticipated drama, “A Good Day to Be a Dog,” has unveiled more tantalizing stills showcasing Cha Eun Woo’s remarkable transformation into the character Jin Seo Won. These fresh images vividly portray Cha Eun Woo’s change in appearance as he takes on the role of a math teacher.

ASTRO Member Cha Eun Woo Transforms Into A Math Teacher in New ‘A Good Day To Be a Dog’ Stills

Cha Eun Woo’s clean-cut style and demeanor impeccably embody the essence of a dedicated educator. In these snapshots, he authentically captures the essence of a teacher, from his posture—crossing his arms thoughtfully while observing his students—to his presence in front of the chalkboard, donning a pair of glasses that add an intellectual touch to his character.

The attention to detail in Cha Eun Woo’s portrayal of Jin Seo Won promises an engaging and immersive experience for viewers as they witness his compelling transformation into a math teacher, elevating the anticipation surrounding this drama even further.

Although his character is terrified of puppies, Cha Eun Woo explains that he is the opposite.

“Personally, I like dogs, and I thought that the subject of turning into a dog when kissed is interesting and exciting, so I chose [this project]. I think this unique topic is our drama’s charm,” he said.

Cha Eun Woo Confirms His Love For Math

He further pointed out that Jin Seo Won isn’t necessarily a bad guy for hating canines. Cha Eun Woo said, “He is a character who appears cold on the outside due to his fear of dogs stemming from childhood trauma, but he is a warmhearted character.”

He continued, “I like math, and [my character’s] job is a math teacher in the drama, so I wanted to express this in a more fun and three-dimensional manner.”

“A Good Day to Be a Dog” unfolds as an enchanting fantasy romance drama that revolves around Han Hae Na (played by Park Gyu Young). Her life takes an extraordinary twist when she is cursed to undergo a transformation into a canine every time she shares a kiss with a man. However, the complexity deepens as the only individual capable of breaking this peculiar curse is her co-worker, Jin Seo Won, portrayed by ASTRO’s Cha Eun Woo. The catch is that Seo Won harbors a profound fear of dogs, stemming from a traumatic incident buried in his past, now lost in his memory. The series will premiere on October 11, 2023.

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Stray Kids and Tomorrow X Together Both Bag Their 1st Vmas Award

Stray Kids at the red carpet of MTV Video Music Awards. Credit: Twitter/VMA

Jump for joy, MOAs and STAYs! TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT) and Stray Kids have both won at the 2023 MTV Music Video Awards (VMAs) held on Tuesday, September 12, at New Jersey, USA. 

At the start of the ceremony, TXT brought home the Push Performance of the Year award with their recent track “Sugar Rush Ride.” With this achievement, TXT becomes the first fourth generation group to win at the said awards show.

Upon receiving their first moon person, the five member boy group expressed their gratitude and love towards their fandom, MOAs. “We wanted to show who we are and our music with lots of people, this award means that we did that.” Huening Kai said. “Tonight is a night we’ll remember forever,” Beomgyu added.

Shortly after TXT brought home their award, it was announced that Stray Kids has won the Best K-Pop category for their hit track “S-Class.”

Surprised they bagged the award, the group’s leader Bang Chan stated: “We’ve been making our music ever since the start of our career, but to receive this award just really means a lot to us”.

With their fans in mind, Felix added: “We wanna thank our fans, our STAYs, for being so supportive and we have so much to show you guys so please look forward to the future.”

As Stray Kids was announced as winners, their fellow South Korean boy group TXT were seen showing their support and giving a round of applause for the ‘God’s Menu’ singers. 

Interestingly, this year’s event marked the first for two K-pop acts to perform at the VMAs. In the previous years, only worldwide superstars BTS and BLACKPINK have achieved this stunt. 

More about TXT and Stray Kids at VMAs 2023

What made TXT and Stray Kids’ first wins at the VMAs even more special is that it’s the both acts’ first time at the said music awards. 

To make things more exciting, both K-pop acts also showcased their talents in the ceremony. 

For their part, TXT premiered their collaboration with Brazilian singer Anitta. Said song is a pre-release track from their upcoming studio album ‘The Name Chapter: FREEFALL.” 

Meanwhile, Stray Kids wowed the crowd with their performance of “S-Class.”

Featured image: Stray Kids at the red carpet of MTV Video Music Awards. Credit: Twitter/VMA

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’ RM Posts Heartfelt Letter on Weverse for His 29th Birthday

BTS‘ RM, born Kim Namjoon, recently took to Weverse to share a heartfelt letter with fans on his 29th birthday. As he stood on the threshold of a new decade, the septet’s leader reflected on his journey in the limelight.

In his letter, RM delved into all the challenges and joys of growing up in the public eye. He touched upon the lessons he learned in his twenties and the complexities of navigating fame. Despite facing criticism and not always being “loved” in whatever “form” he takes, he emphasized his desire to give back the immense love he has received.

RM wrote on the band’s Weverse page: “Hello. It’s the last birthday of my 20s. I don’t know if it’s because of the characteristics of the field I work in, but birthdays always get accompanied by a bit of bashfulness. I think of it as an ordinary day, but since many people congratulate me sincerely, I feel quite happy and blessed.”

He added, “I often think of the thought that love is like a name being given to someone. Until Kim Namjoon becomes ‘Kim Namjoon.’ It is just a day amongst the plentiful 365 days, but the fact that this day doesn’t feel like just a passing day to the twenty-nine-year-old me is because of you all.”

RM is ‘living really well’

RM‘s introspection made him ponder the relationship between artists and fans. He questioned the boundaries of this bond and the nature of the ties that bind them. “Can it all be accepted under the kind apparition or phantom called ‘love’? Even now, I’m going through the experience of exposures becoming weaknesses, and honesty becoming wounds, but I don’t know yet,” he shared.

He also touched upon the evolution of his words and thoughts, noting, “Before I said that, I’m sad that my words keep getting more complicated as time goes on. That fact seems to still be the same. But even then, I’ve become calmer. These days, I live with the thought of ‘why not.’ Explained by all the love I’m getting, I’m living while sharing optimism. And it’s also going in my next songs that will come out someday.”

RM ended his letter with a profound reflection on his journey with BTS and the love he received. “The feeling that no matter which version of me it’d have been, I would’ve been writing this letter to you in September 2023. My birthday letters are each a different love language of where I have reached at that present time. And because of you all, I’m living really well. I want to live well.”

He added, “I just wanted to let you all know that I love you with the latest version of me. I cannot hug each and every one of you but know that my feelings are more than that. I won’t ask you to love me no matter what my form is. But I want to try and make an effort for as much as I’ve received.” – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: BTS’ leader waxed philosophical for his birthday. Source: Twitter/@LemonamuRM.

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Lee Seung-hwan Changes Stage Name to ‘ONLEE,’ Releases First Single

Former Boys Planet contestant Lee Seung-hwan has embarked on a new beginning by adopting the stage name ONLEE (a combination of his last name, “Lee,” and the word “only”) and releasing new material.

How did he get his start?

He began his K-pop journey as a contestant on Under Nineteen in 2018 and later joined the project group 1THE9. After the group disbanded in 2020, he tried different things. He went on SBS’ LOUD in 2021, and danced backup for ONEUS in 2022. A year later, he participated in Boys Planet. After the show, he joined Inyeon Entertainment. He then changed his name and made his solo debut with “Be With You” on September 9.

ONLEE(이승환) ‘그 영화처럼 우린(Be With You!)’ CONCEPT FILM

The song is special to him. Not only is it his first release after Boys Planet, but it’s also a heartfelt gift he prepared for the fans who supported him since the beginning of his career. He had a hand in composing, producing, and writing “Be With You.” The song is a masterful blend of powerful guitars and a refreshing pop sound. Its dramatic progression evokes scenes reminiscent of youth-oriented movies, immersing listeners in a cinematic experience. 

ONLEE engages with his supporters

Adding to the anticipation, ONLEE released a band video for “Be With You.” He says the track was his attempt to capture the emotion of longing to be by someone’s side. In this case, because he did it for his fans, it represents his desire to greet them however and whenever he can. His dedication to them extends beyond music. Since Boys Planet, he has actively engaged with his supporters, even hosting a solo fan meeting titled HWANDERLAND MT IN SUMMER in July.

[Official Video Band ver.] ONLEE(이승환) ‘그 영화처럼 우린(Be With You!)’

ONLEE’s first single, “Be With You,” is a testament to his unwavering commitment to music and his fans. With his new stage name and rejuvenated sound, he is determined to make a significant impact in the industry. As he embarks on this chapter, fans from all corners of the globe eagerly anticipate what ONLEE will do next. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: His first single is an energetic pop-rock track that you can’t help but sing along to. Source: YouTube/@ONLEEOFFICIAL-im1mr.

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BTS’ Jungkook Bares His Soul for DAZED UK

Jungkook, a name synonymous with international musical success, graced the pages of DAZED UK to offer fans a glimpse into his world. As one of BTS‘s most prominent members, his journey from a young K-pop idol to a global pop icon is nothing short of inspiring.

The world stood still when he released his first solo single, “Seven.” This UK garage-influenced hit, featuring American rapper Latto, became a worldwide favorite. It was back in March, by Jungkook’s estimation, that he first heard “Seven,” and fell instantly in love with it. “We scheduled a recording session in Los Angeles right away and then a meeting about the video’s concept. Everything was such smooth sailing,” he recalls. Its meteoric rise on platforms like Spotify and YouTube is a testament to its global appeal.

Jungkook‘s relationship with music is so personal. He often relies on his instincts, which have rarely steered him wrong. “It’s kind of indescribable. I don’t get chills or anything like that, I just have a feeling, like this is going to work, this is it.”

Jungkook remains introspective

Despite the dizzying heights of fame, Jungkook remains introspective. He’s always worn his heart on his sleeve. “I’’m the type of person who is honest with their emotions,” he said. “I change quickly. I have to do the things I want to do right now.” This raw honesty endeared him to ARMY worldwide.

His interactions with fans, whether during international tours or through live broadcasts on their fan community platform, are always genuine. He’s been to London and New York, constantly under the limelight, yet Jungkook remains true to himself. “When I go on stage, my wandering thoughts and feelings die down,” he mused, highlighting the sanctuary the stage provides him.

The global pandemic, while challenging, also gave Jungkook a chance for introspection. He opened up about his internal battles, saying, “Rather than dwelling on missed opportunities and blaming myself for being lazy, I accept who I am and focus on what I can do,” he said. This self-awareness has been pivotal in his growth, both as an artist and an individual.

A beacon of authenticity

Over the years, Jungkook has evolved. From exploring new fitness regimes like boxing to expressing himself through piercings and tattoos, he’s on a journey of self-discovery. “I like extreme things,” he admitted with a chuckle. “People always tell me I look round and soft. I want this sharp, powerful image.”

As he looks to the future, Jungkook is filled with optimism and ambition. He’s ready and raring to push boundaries, explore various genres, and surprise fans. He reflected on his achievements and looked forward, “I trusted my gut with my single and thought, ‘Will I be able to reach the audience, and a lot of them?’ And I sort of proved that I could.”

In the ever-evolving world of music, Jungkook stands out as a beacon of authenticity. His interview with DAZED UK reveals the man behind the music and much more. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungkook is one of four celebrities fronting the cover of DAZED UK’s latest issue. Source: Twitter/@Dazed.

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