Category: KPOP NEWS

Concerts are known for their super strict rules, especially regarding cameras. In many events, fans are often prohibited from bringing cameras, leading to a cat-and-mouse game between fansites and security. While some concerts turn a blind eye to fans capturing moments with their phones, others are more stringent, ensuring no footage is taken.

In South Korea, this game is even more intense. Fansites, eager to capture their idols in the best light, often find their professional-level equipment confiscated. This has led to some fansites using ingenious methods to smuggle their things into concert venues. Some resort to strapping cameras to their legs, camouflaging them with long skirts, while others disassemble their equipment, and stuff parts in their bags. However, once inside, if discovered, they risk being ejected from the venue.

What did BamBam do?

This backdrop sets the stage for a recent incident involving GOT7‘s BamBam. The artist held a solo concert in Seoul, and as expected, many fansites were sneaking in their cameras to immortalize the event. One fansite, known simply as Bammad, captured a breathtaking photo of BamBam bathed in a single spotlight. The composition and quality of the photo were so impressive that the artist himself took notice.

In an unexpected move, BamBam publicly exempted Bammad from the standard “no cameras” rule. He took to social media to express his admiration for the photo she took, stating, “Please absolutely never take away this noona’s camera during concerts.” This personal endorsement from BamBam was a significant gesture, but it also highlighted the challenges fansites face. Despite securing her idol’s approval, Bammad still has to navigate the potential pitfalls posed by concert promoters.

The fansite master’s reaction

In a candid response, Bammad tweeted, “Please tell your company this…I’m scared to go overseas…” 

This exchange underscores the delicate balance between artists, fansites, and event organizers. As BamBam embarks on the rest of his world tour, fans are waiting to see if he advocates for Bammad, ensuring she continues delivering high-quality photos without hindrance. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This is just one of Bammad’s many amazing shots. Source: Twitter/@bammad0502.

Filipino snack brand Oishi surprised many by teaming up with the renowned South Korean girl group, TWICE, for its latest ad campaign. Oishi recently debuted TWICE’s commercial for the “O Wow! O Wow!” campaign on its social media platforms, creating a buzz among fans.

The commercial, which spans a minute, captures the nine-member group digging into different Oishi snacks while watching TV. The nine members grouped themselves into four teams, with each team promoting one snack. Chaeyoung and Mina endorsed the chocolate and ube-filled crackers. Nayeon, Sana, and Tzuyu couldn’t get enough cheese-flavored potato fries. Dahyun and Jeongyeon were all about the sweet corn-flavored tortilla chips. Finally, Jihyo and Momo ate the spicy-flavored prawn crackers.

But it wasn’t just about the snacks. The commercial also featured TWICE dancing to their hit song “What is Love.” As a delightful surprise, the video ended with the idols showing off their Tagalog skills, exclaiming the Filipino word for delicious, “Sarap! Sarap!”

More from TWICE 

In related news, TWICE is gearing up for the Philippine stop of their Ready to Be World Tour, with sold-out performances set for September 30 and October 1 at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan. This comes after the music video for their English hit “MOONLIGHT SUNRISE” earned over 100 million views on YouTube. This solidifies TWICE’s position as the K-pop girl group with the most number of videos to achieve this feat. (So far, 23 of their music videos have over 100 million views.)

The excitement doesn’t end there. TWICE is set to host two fan meetings in Seoul on October 21. JYP Entertainment recently heightened ONCEs’ anticipation by unveiling a poster for these events on its official social media platforms. The poster, set against a pink background, showcased the nine members in hip outfits, exuding their signature girl-crush look. 

Fans are eagerly awaiting the event, curious about the special memories the group will share as they celebrate their eighth anniversary since debut. Moreover, the fan meeting will be broadcast live for a fee, allowing international fans to join the festivities alongside TWICE and their fellow ONCEs. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This is TWICE’s second time endorsing a Filipino brand. Their first was for Bench. Incidentally, the owners of Bench and Oishi are brothers. Source: Facebook/@oishi.ph.

In a recent interview with AnOther Magazine, former SF9 member Rowoon shared insights into his career. Their conversation began with the interviewer highlighting the growing popularity of Hangul, the Korean language. Rowoon expressed pride in this trend, saying, “This is something I’m proud of. I think the Korean alphabet, Hangul, is beautiful, and I’m grateful that other people perceive it that way too.”

Later in their conversation, Rowoon pondered the motivations behind the intense love fans have for top South Korean actors and idols. He candidly admitted to having a potentially controversial opinion on the matter. When the interviewer pressed him on it, he suggested that the root of such fervent devotion might be tied to feelings of loneliness. 

“This may be a little dangerous to say, but I think it’s about loneliness. That’s how I feel, honestly. I think it’s a contradiction because, at the end of the day, it’s a form of consumption. Once you try to find a reason for it, it turns into loneliness,” he remarked.

Rowoon on the darker side of fandom

Talk then turned to the darker side of fandom: sasaengs or stalker fans. AnOther Magazine noted that, like many celebrities, Rowoon has experienced both the highs and the lows of fame. In other words, he has dealt with his fair share of sasaengs. From obsessive love to harsh criticism, this guy has seen it all. Reflecting on the negative attention, Rowoon revealed, “It used to be hurtful, so now I just treat it as more attention. It keeps me on edge, alert, and hard-working.”

Despite the challenges, Rowoon emphasized the deep connection he feels with his fans. He believes that they find solace in his work, and he, in turn, draws inspiration from their support. “I always ask myself, ‘Would there be meaning to what I do if these people didn’t exist?’” Rowoon wondered. “For them, I feel like I need to live my life to the fullest. I used to feel pressure from fame, but now I just try to enjoy it.”

Rowoon‘s journey from a rising K-pop star to a seasoned artist has been filled with ups and downs. Through it all, he remains very grateful for the experiences and the unwavering support of his fans. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Former SF9 member Rowoon looks dapper in the new issue of AnOther Magazine. Source: AnOther Magazine.

K-pop icon IU marked her 15th debut anniversary with a grand gesture of goodwill. On September 18, her agency, EDAM Entertainment, revealed that IU donated a grand total of 300 million KRW to several institutions. These include the Korea Child Welfare Association, the ASAN Medical Center, and the Seoul Children’s Hospital. Notably, these donations were made under the name ‘IUAENA,’ a heartwarming blend of IU‘s name and her official fan club, UAENA.

The funds given to the ASAN Medical Center will be used to support adolescent and female cancer patients who, due to financial constraints, are often sidelined when it comes to getting treatment. Meanwhile, the Korea Child Welfare Association plans to use IU‘s donation to improve child welfare facilities nationwide. Some of these facilities recently sustained damage due to typhoons. Finally, the Seoul Children’s Hospital outlined its intention to use the money to help underprivileged groups with their medical expenses.

IU has always been deeply involved in philanthropy. Earlier this year, she extended her support to the Green Umbrella Children’s Foundation on Children’s Day in May. She led fundraising efforts for coal briquettes to assist economically disadvantaged households in Yangpyeong. Aside from donating money, IU also lent her time and talent to disabled students from Milal School.

IU remains active and engaged with fans

In tandem with her fan club, ‘UAENA,’ IU has consistently strived to make a difference. Together, they aim to set positive precedents and cultivate an atmosphere of collective positivity and warmth. Expressing her gratitude, IU stated, “Thanks to ‘UAENA,’ who always send me unwavering support, I’m delighted to share warmth in society. We’ve built memories and valuable experiences together. As ‘IUAENA,’ I believe in sharing all the love I’ve received and making small but positive changes in people’s lives. Thanks to ‘UAENA,’ I’m constantly learning gratitude. I love you. See you soon.”

Since her debut with the track “Lost Child” in 2008, IU has enjoyed consistent success, becoming a top artist in Korea. She has released five studio albums and nine EPs, and she’s putting the finishing touches on her first new album in two years. But she’s not just a singer. She has also earned awards for her acting.

As she commemorates her 15th anniversary, IU remains active and engaged with her fans. Despite a hectic schedule, she managed to host the media art exhibition Moment earlier this year. Fans can also look forward to seeing her at the [2023 IU Fan Concert ‘I+UN1VER5E’], scheduled later this month at the KSPO Dome. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: IU is a talented performer with a golden heart. Source: Twitter/@_IUofficial.

Seohyun, a prominent member of the second-generation girl group Girls’ Generation, recently shed light on her unique status in the South Korean entertainment industry. In an intimate conversation with Esquire Korea, she talked about being portrayed as a “celebrity Dispatch gave up on.” This label was given to her by the media outlet Dispatch due to her commendable and upright lifestyle.

서현 이제 반말 잘한다고?ㅣ서현, SEOHYUN, 소녀시대, ESQUIRE KOREA

During the interview, Seohyun recalled an instance where she was photographed reading at a cafe. She commented, “I was reading a book, and I think I went with my manager at the time. I think we talked there.” This simple, everyday activity was a testament to her grounded nature, which set her apart from most celebrities.

On a lighter note, Seohyun reminisced about her appearance on the variety show Happy Together. One segment of the show required guests and co-hosts to converse informally. Seohyun‘s hesitation to speak casually to her seniors became a highlight. Reflecting on the audience’s reaction, she said, “I didn’t know people would think that was so funny. I speak informally very well now. At the time, I really couldn’t, so it was awkward.”

Seohyun shared some exciting news

She also pointed out her role in the movie Love and Leashes. “I think I used all the slang I’ve never used in my life in this movie. I cursed a thousand times,” the actress-singer shared, highlighting the contrast between her on-screen characters and her real-life persona.

In addition to discussing her past experiences, Seohyun also shared some exciting news about her upcoming projects. She’s confirmed to return as host of the 2023 Fact Music Awards alongside Jun Hyun Moo. Fans can also see Seohyun in the Netflix series Song of the Bandits, set to premiere on September 22.

Seohyun‘s revelations provide a refreshing perspective on the life of a celebrity. Her commitment to maintaining an authentic image and her dedication to her craft continue to endear her to fans worldwide. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Her immaculate ensemble matched her image. Source: YouTube/@ESQUIREKorea.