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RIIZE Becomes Million Seller in Just One Week After Debut

RIIZE

In an industry where success can be elusive, SM Entertainment’s new boy group, RIIZE, has made a resounding statement. Just one week into their debut, the group has already written their name in the annals of K-pop history as a “million seller.” This remarkable achievement underscores RIIZE’s immense popularity and the anticipation that surrounded their debut.

Last week, fans eagerly awaited the release of RIIZE‘s single album, “Get A Guitar,” along with its catchy title track of the same name. Their excitement was palpable, and the sales figures reflected this enthusiasm. Hanteo Chart, a trusted source for album sales data, reported that “Get A Guitar” sold over a million copies from September 4 to 10.

On the first day, its sales soared past 178,000 copies, a number that’s truly astounding for a rookie group. The momentum didn’t stop there. The second day saw sales figures ascend to an outstanding 310,500. Another 227,800 copies were sold on the last day. That brought the number of copies sold in the first week to more than 1,016,849.

RIIZE is only the second artist to achieve this

To put this into perspective, even when including groups formed through survival shows, RIIZE is only the second artist in Hanteo history to sell over a million copies of their first album in its debut week. The only other act to achieve this feat was the Boys Planet project group ZEROBASEONE, who set the record earlier this year. Their debut album, YOUTH IN THE SHADE, sold 1,833,028 copies in its first week.

The success of RIIZE‘s debut is a testament to their talent, the dedication of their fans, and the strategic planning of SM Entertainment. As the group continues its journey in the K-pop world, fans and industry insiders alike will be watching them closely. Who knows, the group might set or shatter other records in the future. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The members held a listening party on Stationhead to celebrate this achievement. Source: Twitter/@RIIZE_official.

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Billlie’s Moon Sua Takes Hiatus Due to Health Concerns

Moon Sua updates fans with new selfie. Credit: Facebook/BILLLIE

Moon Sua of K-pop girl group BILLLIE will be taking a break from her scheduled individual and group activities due to health reasons. 

On Tuesday, September 12, Billie’s agency Mystic Story released a statement about the idol’s condition. 

According to the label, Moon Sua needs “sufficient rest and stability for the time being.” However, Mystic Story didn’t provide additional details about the artist’s welfare.  

Then, the agency apologized to fans for the inconvenience caused by the sudden news. They also assured fans that they’re doing their best to help their artists improve their well-being.

With the recent hiatus announcement, Mystic Story shared that BILLLIE will continue promotions as a five-member group for the time being. Only Haram, Haruna, Sheon, Siyoon, and Tsuki will participate in the group’s activities. 

Additionally, Moon Sua’s hiatus came two months after fellow BILLLIE member Suhyeon announced her own hiatus. Suhyeon also halted activities to focus on recovery. 

Fans show support for Moon Sua

This isn’t the first time for Moon Sua to take a break from activities in 2023. 

Following the passing of her older brother, ASTRO’s Moon Bin in April, she also halted her activities as she was the chief mourner at the time. Her group, BILLIE, also canceled all of their activities for that week before Mystic Story announced that the group’s comeback promotions had been cut short and their upcoming schedules will push through without Moon Sua. 

During her earlier hiatus, she was absent on the group’s promotions for the album the Billage of perception: chapter three, as well as the group’s Japanese debut.

In June, she resumed her activities and returned to host Show Champion. 

With the announcement of her second hiatus for this year, fans took to social media to show their support for Moon Sua. Most of the replies and comments were the fans’ telling the idol to “get well soon,” and  “come back stronger.” 

Featured image: Moon Sua updates fans with new selfie. Credit: Facebook/BILLLIE

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Former UNI.T Member Yoonjo and Actor Kim Dong Ho to Marry

Yoonjo shares photos from her wedding shoot with fiancé Kim Dongho. Credit: Instagram/Yoonjo

Love is indeed in the air as former Uni.T member Yoonjo and actor Kim Dong Ho announced that they are soon tying the knot!

On Monday, September 11, the singer penned a heartfelt message where she unveiled the delightful news to her fans. In the same post, Yoonjo also shared stunning photos from their wedding shoot.

“Today, I have something I want to tell you, so I am writing a handwritten letter for the first time in a long time. I’ve met the person I want to spend the rest of my life with, and we will get married before the cold winter comes,” Yoonjo said at the start of her letter.

Additionally, the singer reassured her fans that she is in good hands. She shared that her fiancé has been a huge source of strength for her and he has always remained by her side.

As she wrapped up her letter, Yoonjo expressed her gratitude to those who have sent them congratulatory messages. She also wished for everyone’s good health. “I’d like to sincerely thank everyone who congratulates us, and I hope that everyone will take care of their health in this changing weather, so that your days are both happy and healthy,” she said.

Meanwhile, her fiancé, actor Kim Dong Ho, also announced the happy news through his official fan cafe. “I met the person I want to be my lifelong partner, and we are getting married in November of this year,” the musical actor wrote. 

“Now, I’m going to start a new second act within the warm confines of my home.” he added.

Like Yoonjo, Dong Ho also thanked his fans and promised to repay their support by improving as an actor. “I am truly grateful to you all for loving and supporting me despite my shortcomings. I will work hard to repay you by becoming a more mature and wonderful actor,” he mentioned.

Other details about their wedding weren’t disclosed.

Congratulations Yoonjo and Dong Ho! 

Upon hearing the news, numerous celebrities have sent their well wishes to the bride-to-be, including her former members in Uni.T.

Singer-songwriter Yebin, Yoonjo’s former bandmate, said “My beloved sister, I congratulate you so much. Let’s be happy for the rest of your life”.

Aside from Yebin, NC.A, Yang Jiwon, and Hong Eui-Jin, also known as Hezz, also expressed their happiness with the news as they left cheerful remarks on Yoonjo’s post. Another Uni.T member Lee Suji, who also announced her marriage recently, sent her congratulatory message. 

It is indeed a blissful year for Uni.T as two of their members are getting married soon. Last September 9, Suji shared photos of the girl group in celebration of her bridal shower.

Featured image: Yoonjo shares photos from her wedding shoot with fiancé Kim Dongho. Credit: Instagram/Yoonjo

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Pre-Orders for TXT’s ‘The Name Chapter: Freefall’ Reach 2.35m Copies

With over a month left till their much-anticipated comeback, TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT) is already making waves in the music industry. On September 8, BIGHIT MUSIC announced that TXT had shattered their personal record for stock pre-orders in a mere eight days. The agency said in a statement, “Eight days after pre-orders opened, TXT’s third full-length album The Name Chapter: FREEFALL reached 2.35 million stock pre-orders.”

This achievement is noteworthy as the album surpassed the 2.34 million stock pre-orders of TXT’s previous release, The Name Chapter: TEMPTATION, in just over a week. With five weeks still to go before the album’s official release, fans and industry experts alike are excited to see how much higher these numbers will climb.

Stock pre-orders represent the estimated album demand, calculated using various factors, including the number of albums pre-ordered by fans. It’s a testament to the group’s growing popularity and the anticipation surrounding their new music.

What can we expect from The Name Chapter: FREEFALL?

So, what can fans expect from The Name Chapter: FREEFALL? The members have hinted that the closing track of their previous release, “Farewell Neverland,” provides significant clues. The lyrics “Neverland my love, I bid you goodbye and I’m free-falling” suggest a potential indie-rock influence. If this is the direction TXT is heading, fans are in for a treat.

Details about the album’s different versions have also been revealed. Fans can choose from three standard editions: Clarity, Melancholy, and Reality. Additionally, there are Gravity member versions and two Weverse versions. Interestingly, these details have been shared without a single concept photo being released, further fueling the excitement.

A collaboration with Anitta

As part of their comeback strategy, TXT has announced a collaboration with Brazilian pop sensation Anitta titled “Back for More.” Anitta recently shared several behind-the-scenes details, revealing her trip to South Korea to possibly film a music video with TXT. She confirmed that the song has full choreography, which she described as challenging. The members of TXT have expressed their love for the track, with Soobin even telling fans it might be his favorite.

The world will get a first taste of this collaboration at the MTV Video Music Awards on September 13, where TXT and Anitta will premiere the song. With the album set to drop on October 13 at 1:00 PM KST, the countdown has truly begun. Fans worldwide are eagerly waiting to dive into the musical journey that TXT has prepared with The Name Chapter: FREEFALL. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The anticipation for TXT’s new music has reached fever pitch. Source: Weverse.

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EVNNE Unveils More Details on Debut Album ‘Target: Me’

On September 10, Jellyfish Entertainment, the agency behind the new sensation, EVNNE, made an official announcement. Through their SNS accounts, they revealed the tracklist for the boy group’s first mini album Target: ME. The tracklist teased a unique sonic palette, sparking fans’ heightened interest in EVNNE‘s imminent debut.

According to the tracklist, the mini album will have six songs, including the title track “TROUBLE.” The five B-sides are “Role Model,” “Pretty Thing,” “Your Text,” “JUKEBOX,” and “Even More.” The title track is particularly intriguing. Its lyrics paint a vivid picture of a captivating, mysterious troublemaker determined to reshape the world. This track, as its title suggests, captures EVNNE’s free-spirited, untamed vibe, promising listeners a taste of their unique charm.

The boy group meticulously crafted the album to highlight their distinctive color and the individual personalities of its members. Furthermore, they designed it to appeal to fans from South Korea and elsewhere in the world. Adding to its allure, hitmakers from the domestic and international music scenes, known for crafting chart-toppers for other K-pop acts, lent their expertise to Target: ME to elevate it.

In a testament to their talent, members Ji Yunseo, Keita, and Lee Jeonghyeon have writing credits on this album. Specifically, Jeonghyeon and Yunseo co-wrote the lyrics for track five, “JUKEBOX.” Keita and Yunseo teamed up to pen the lyrics for track six, the fan song “Even More.” It’s about how the members feel toward their fans.

EVNNE also dropped new concept photos

Comprised of Ji Yunseo, Keita, Lee Jeonghyeon, Mun Junghyun, Park Hanbin, Park Jihoo, and Yoo Seungeon, EVNNE is embarking on their musical journey with a lofty goal. As their name translates to “Evening’s Newest Etoiles”—with “etoile” being French for “star”—they aim to shine like stars in the night sky. All seven have come a long way since Boys Planet, and they’re set to dazzle the music industry with their growth.

A highlight of their pre-debut promotions is their newest set of concept photos, which their label unveiled to the fans’ delight. The members, with their dapper suits and intense gazes, exude a blend of chic and dreamy allure. The use of primary colors in these concept photos symbolizes the unique personalities and strengths of the members. This signifies their commitment to showing their color to the world.

EVNNE will drop Target: ME on September 19 at 6:00 PM KST across various online and offline platforms. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Fans got even more pumped when EVNNE’s label posted more information on their upcoming release. Source: Twitter/@EVNNE_official.

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EL7Z UP Announces Official Fandom Name

EL7Z UP shares concept photo for '7+UP' album. Credit: Twitter/ELYZ UP

Anticipation for EL7Z UP just got higher as the girl group formed from Mnet’s survival series Queendom Puzzle announced their official fandom name. 

On Friday, September 8, the seven-piece act revealed that their fan club would be called ELYZ U. It is pronounced as “elzz-u.”

For the meaning of the fan club name, they explained that it’s derived from the phrase “EL7Z UP, I love u.” “It means that the fans love EL7Z UP. Let’s spend days full of love under the name of ‘EL7Z U,’” they captioned the post. 

Interestingly, ELY7Z UP is pronounced as “else-up.” Moreover, MNet has previously explained that the group name is intended as an anagram of the word “puzzle.” It was initially stylized as ELYZ U+P before the show announced some adjustments.

This momentous occasion is a testament of EL7Z UP’s solid bond with their fans even before the group make its official debut. 

Moreover, ELYZ Us can also start signing up for the official fan club community. 

What ELYZ U should know about EL7Z UP

For those unfamiliar, EL7Z UP is formed through MNet’s survival show Queendom Puzzle, a spin-off  of Queendom. There, 26 idols from currently active girl groups battle for spots to be part of the seven-member group.

H1-KEY’s Hwiseo, woo!ah!’s Nana, and PURPLEKISS’s Yuki were the top three in the final votes.

Meanwhile, Lovelyz’s Kei and WJSN’s

Yeoreum placed fourth and fifth, respectively. Rocket Punch Yeonhee, and CLC’s Yeeun also made it to the debut group. 

According to reports, EL7Z UP will not have a set amount of contract year, but plans to release a total of three albums. It is different compared to other project groups from survival programs, who only promote within a two-year period. 

Additionally, it was revealed that the EL7Z UP members will still be promoting with their original groups or solo during the duration of the project group. 

Time for 7+UP 

Along with revealing the official fandom name, EL7Z UP also released new set of concept photo teasers. 

The project group is set to debut on September 14 with the album 7+UP. It will have a total of five songs, with “Cheeky” as the title track.

To celebrate the group’s debut, they will also open a pop-up cafe and store at The Hyundai Seoul from September 21 to September 27.

Aside from their debut album preparations, the group is also preparing for a fan concert in Japan. They will also reportedly have a world tour and a special performance at the 2023 MAMA Awards.

Featured image: EL7Z UP shares concept photo for ‘7+UP’ debut album. Credit: Twitter/ELYZ UP

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Mamamoo’s Hwasa Questioned by Police for Alleged Indecent Performance

MAMAMOO's Hwasa poses for the concept teasers of 'I Love My Body.' Credit: Twitter/P Nation

Hwasa of K-pop girl group MAMAOO was confirmed to have been questioned by the Seoul police after the idol was accused of staging an indecent performance. 

On May 12, the singer performed at the Sungkyunkwan University Festival as 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” sparked online debate. Some praised the idol for her fierceness, while others claimed that the number was disturbing and inappropriate. 

Aside from netizens, the university’s Student Parents and Human Rights Protection Solidarity also reportedly took offense in Hwasa’s performance. According to reports, a complaint was lodged against her at the Seongdong Police Station on July 10. 

“It was enough to evoke a sense of shame and disgust among the audience,” the group was quoted as saying. 

 

At the time, P NATION, Hwasa’s agency, issued a statement to say that the police were reviewing the case. 

Developments on Hwasa’s controversy 

On Sunday, September 10, the Seoul Seongdong Police Station confirmed that they have summoned Hwasa to question her about the controversial performance. The development came almost four months after the festival took place. 

According to Korea Times, the police will reportedly decide whether to send Hwasa’s case to the prosecution. If the singer is found guilty, she could face a maximum sentence of one year in jail or a fine of 5 million Korean won. 

Additionally, P NATION emphasized that their talent fully cooperated with the police during the investigation. 

Moreover, Hwasa also recently spoke about the controversy during her guest appearance in Sung Si-kyung’s YouTube series. 

“I don’t usually react much to malicious comments but it’s too harsh this time round,” she said. Said experience, she explained, gave her the inspiration for her latest single “I LOVE MY BODY.” 

 

Fans show support for Hwasa

Following the news, fans took to social media to show their support for Hwasa. Using the hashtags “We stand with HWASA” and “Love with HWASA,” netizens have praised the singer for staying strong despite the hate. 

Some also complimented the singer for breaking boundaries and inspiring fans with her songs. 

 

On September 6, Hwasa released the digital single “I LOVE MY BODY.” It marks her first  release under her new agency P NATION. 

It was in June when Hwasa left RBW, the agency who formed K-pop girl group MAMAMOO. In July, she signed with P NATION, the agency established by PSY. 

Featured image: MAMAMOO’s Hwasa poses for the concept teasers of ‘I Love My Body.’ Credit: Twitter/P Nation

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BIGHIT Music Opens Global Audition for Producers

BIGHIT Music announces audition details for aspiring producers. Credit: Twitter/BIGHIT Music

Gear up aspiring producers! BIGHIT MUSIC announced on Monday, September 11, that they are looking for the next new creator to join the label.

Titled 2023 Next New Creator with BIGHIT MUSIC, the record label under HYBE hopes to see producers “who are looking for opportunities to showcase their boundless potential and talent”.

As per the announcement, the auditions are open to applicants above 14 years old. Both individual and team submissions are welcome as well. 

 

Additionally, Interested applicants must submit two to five demos of sole tracks or tracks with completed melody. 

Moreover, BIGHIT encourages applicants to submit music with fresh sounds and trendy beats that would be sufficiently competitive in the global music market.

On top of that, a promising reward of 5,000,000 Korean won awaits the new in-house producer.

The preliminary application period will be on September 18 until October 23. More details can be found via HYBE Audition’s official website. 

The selected winners will have the opportunity to work with BIGHIT Music’s renowned producers including founder “Hitman Bang” Bang Si-Hyuk, PDogg, Slow Rabbit, and many more.

BIGHIT Music and HYBE Labels expands

Interestingly, BIGHIT’s global search for producers has started in 2016. In 2021, the agency said that through this kind of audition, they have discovered producers worldwide and have “provided opportunities for them to present their musical prowess.”  

In other news, BIGHIT has also opened auditions for the agency’s next superstars. Currently, BIGHIT is home to only two groups: worldwide sensation BTS who debuted in 2013, and the Lollapalooza 2023 headliners TOMORROW X TOGETHER, who debuted in 2019. The auditions are still open until September 22. 

Aside from BIGHIT Music, other subsidiaries from HYBE Labels are also searching for their next K-pop trainees. KOZ Entertainment, home to rookie boy group BOYNEXTDOOR, is holding auditions until November 18. Meanwhile, PLEDIS Entertainment, which manages boy group SEVENTEEN and girl group fromis_9, also has an ongoing “Wonder Teens” global audition.

Featured image: BIGHIT announces audition details for aspiring producers. Credit: Twitter/BIGHIT Music

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EXO’s Suho Confirmed for a Cameo on ‘Arthdal Chronicles’ 2

EXO's Suho shares teaser for his cameo in 'Arthdal Chronicles' 2. Credit: Instagram/SM Actist

Heads up, K-Drama enthusiasts! EXO’s Suho is confirmed to make a special appearance in the fantasy drama series Arthdal Chronicles 2: The Sword of Aramun.

On Friday, September 8, SM Entertainment shared a photo of Suho donning a historic costume. 

 

Suho, whose real name is Kim Jun-myeon, will join the star-studded cast including Lee Joon Gi, Shin Se Kyung, Jang Dong Gun, and Kim Ok Vin. 

Apart from his confirmed appearance, the EXO leader’s role still remains a mystery. Additionally, a scene from his cameo was also released, making the fans more thrilled with his forthcoming performance.

 

What is the ‘Arthdal Chronicles’ 2 about?

Arthdal Chronicles follows the story of warring kingdoms and ancient tribes in the fictional land of Arth during the ancient civilization during the Bronze Age. Its first season aired in 2019. Although released in three parts, the first season had a total of 18 episodes. 

In the first season, Song Joong Ki played the twins Eun Seom and Sa Ya, with Kim Ji Won acting as Tanya. However, in the second season, Joon Gi and Se Kyung will be taking over as the older versions of the original characters of Joong Ki and Ji Won, respectively. 

Moreover, Arthdal Chronicles 2: The Sword of Aramoon will pick up eight years after the story concluded in the first season. Which means, the sequel is set to follow the aftermath of the rebellion of the tribes slaughtered by Ta Gon in the first season.

As seen in its 30-second teaser trailer, the saga is expected to explore the epic tale of war and power as the characters battle to take over Arthdal.

The first episode of Arthdal Chronicles 2: The Sword of Aramoon was released on September 9. It is available for streaming on TVN and Disney Plus. 

 

Actor Suho

In 2015, Suho made his acting debut in the indie film One Way Trip. Then he got his first lead role in the 2017 drama The Universe’s Star. But it was his character in the 2018 drama “Rich Man” that solidified his acting career.

Before enlisting in May 2020, he last appeared in the five-episode web drama How Are You Bread, with The Red Sleeve actress Lee Se Young.

In 2023, Suho has made his comeback as an actor with the ongoing series Behind Your Touch. There, he plays the role of a mysterious guy in the small town of Mujin. In this drama, he stars alongside esteemed celebrities Lee Min Ki and Han Ji Min.

Aside from his career as an actor, Suho also participated in the promotions for EXO. The group released their seventh studio album EXIST in July.

Featured image: EXO’s Suho shares teaser for his cameo in ‘Arthdal Chronicles’ 2. Credit: Instagram/SM Actist

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iKON Member Bobby Finally Addresses B.I.’s Exit

iKON rapper Bobby has shared his initial feelings about former member B.I.'s departure from the idol group

Bobby is making himself heard amidst all the discussions about a former iKON member. The rapper decided to speak up after people continued speaking ill about B.I., the group’s former leader. Kim Jiwon also revealed his true feelings about Kim Hanbin’s departure from the group.

Bobby Shares Support for Former iKON Leader B.I.

On September 11, Bobby shared an unexpected post on social media. The iKON rapper utilized his personal Instagram account to share his reflections on the fan conflicts surrounding iKON and their former leader, B.I.

“Don’t put in work for OT7 or OT6 and some. I’m not trying to be political or none. Just trying to let y’all know how I feel for whoever. STOP THIS WAR (sic),” he wrote.

When fans began responding to his post, Bobby decided to give them a piece of his mind. One particular fan expressed their feelings about Kim Hanbin’s departure. Interestingly, Kim Jiwon explained that he had already spoken to B.I. about what happened.

“I feel you honestly because he is my bro. He did show and had some bad influence on the next generation, but I can’t stop my love for him though. You know he knows what he did was wrong and everything, but let’s not make this whole game commercial and sh-t though,” he wrote.

Bobby continued by admitting he still loves B.I. and asked fans to support him.

“I love him as much as you love him. Let’s not forget he’s a good dude. Let’s give him a chance to make it up to you. Forgiveness is the most noble thing that a human being can do,” he wrote.

In June 2019, unsettling information came to light regarding B.I., involving his attempt to acquire marijuana and LSD back in 2016. These illicit substances were sourced through a female drug dealer, and it was reported that the rapper did indeed consume the marijuana he had obtained. Furthermore, allegations suggested that Kim Hanbin managed to elude police charges at the time.

B.I. is currently preparing for his next comeback with the EP ‘Love or Loved Part 2’. In related news, the remaining iKON members have reclaimed their group trademarks after leaving YG Entertainment.

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