Category: KPOP NEWS

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Former LOONA Members Talk About Rebranding as LOOSSEMBLE

The members pose for the concept photo of their debut mini-album. Credit: Twitter/LOOSSEMBLE

In a cutthroat industry like K-pop, it’s not every time that we get to see idols get several chances in making their dreams come true. And LOOSSEMBLE, a group formed of LOONA members, is aware of that. Which is why, they couldn’t help but be emotional as they look back at their fresh start. 

On September 15, quintet made its official debut as they presented their new music with a self-titled album. A month after their debut, Hyunjin, Yeojin, Vivi, Go Won, and Hyeju, held a press event at Ilchi Art Hall in Seoul to open up about their new beginning. 

According to Korean media, Go Won stated: “Embarking on this new journey was quite daunting for me. However, after numerous discussions with my fellow members, we realized our shared desire to accomplish more, reconnect with our fans and rekindle the excitement. Furthermore, she explained that this sparked a desire in them to “wholly embrace this re-debut.” 

Meanwhile, Yeojin couldn’t help but share the group’s goals for the future. “We want to win a No. 1 trophy on a weekly music show, break existing records and more,” she said. As for Hyunjin, LOOSSEMBLE’s leader, she has bigger dreams for the group. “I also want our song to land on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart,” she mentioned.

Moreover, Vivi also concisely answered that she was half nervous and half excited to re-debut. 

While the other members’ answers were more positive, Hyeju became candid with her response. “I was actually quite hesitant and worried about starting again,” she uttered with honesty. However, Hyeju revealed that it was the fans who cleared her doubts. “We are here together with the goal to meet our fans once again and to march forward together,” she added. 

From LOONA to LOOSSEMBLE 

The debut of LOOSSEMBLE comes months after their exhaustive legal battle with LOONA’s agency, Blockberry Creative.

Originally an 11-member group, LOONA has suspended their exclusive contracts with Blockberry Creatives citing unfair contract terms as their basis. After winning their lawsuit against the agency, Hyunjin, Yeojin, Vivi, Go Won, and Hyeju found a new home under CTDENM.

According to CTDENM,  the name LOOSSEMBLE stands for LOONA Assemble, referring to the quintet coming together as one. 

Putting behind their struggles in the past, the girl group started afresh with a self-titled album consisting of eight songs including the title track “Sensitive.” Said album also has six other songs, and the English version of its title track. 

As proof of their solid fanbase, their debut album was warmly received by K-pop fans. In the first week of its release, LOOSSEMBLE sold over 75,000 copies, marking a good start for the girl group.

Featured image: The members pose for the concept photo of their debut mini-album. Credit: Twitter/LOOSSEMBLE

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

TWICE to Celebrate 8th Anniversary With Pop-up Store, Fan Meeting

TWICE sharing a behind-the-scene photo from their 'Ready to Be' filming. Credit: Facebook/TWICE

ONCEs, mark your calendars! The 8th anniversary of K-pop group TWICE is just around the corner and the girl group has prepared fun activities to celebrate it in style!

On October 6, JYP Entertainment announced through social media that the agency will operate the “TWICE Records” pop-up store in Seoul. The said event will allow ONCEs, the group’s fanbase, to take pictures at a photobooth, check out exclusive merchandise, and participate in other exciting activities.

Moreover, “TWICE Records” will have a week-long operation which will begin on October 18 and last until October 24.

Aside from that, the “Set Me Free” singers will also hold an exclusive fan meeting event titled “2023 TWICE Fan Meeting: Once Again.” Additionally, the fan meeting will have two shows – 1 PM and 7PM – on October 21 at the Olympic Hall in Seoul. 

As the tickets for the event were immediately sold out upon its release, JYPE announced that the final performance at 7PM will be accessible through a live stream on the platform Beyond LIVE. So that global fans will also be able to celebrate the group’ anniversary, as well.

In relation to the fan meeting, TWICE released a dress code notice for the fans. Revealed to be a 90s-themed event, the girl group is hoping to time-travel with ONCEs as they reminisce their journey since debut.

8 years with TWICE: the group’s milestones throughout their career

Before being one of the most popular K-Pop acts in the world, TWICE was first formed through the reality show SIXTEEN.

Composed of Nayeon, Jeongyeon, Sana, Mina, Jihyo, Dahyun, Chaeyoung, Momo, and Tzuyu, the nine-member girl group made their official debut in October 2015. Since then, TWICE has conquered the music industry with their colorful style and eye-catching performances.

The girl group has even won the “Song of the Year” for the Circle Charts Music Awards seven times. In particular, the recognition were for the tracks: “Cheer Up”, “TT”, “Knock Knock”, “Heart Shaker”, “What is Love?”, “Dance the Night Away” and “Scientist.” 

Now in their eight year, TWICE has achieved greater heights in their career. For instance, they are the first female K-pop group in history to headline and sell out shows in the iconic Sofi Stadium through their fifth world tour Ready To Be.

Currently, the girls are expanding their global influence as they continue the Ready To Be tour in numerous countries. Among their concert stops include North America, Europe, Southeast Asia, among others.

Featured image: TWICE sharing a behind-the-scene photo from their ‘Ready to Be’ filming. Credit: Facebook/TWICE

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

HYBE’s ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’ Eliminates 4 More Contestants

'The Debut: Dream Academy' announces results for its Mission 2. Credit: Twitter/Dream Academy HQ

The competition is indeed getting tougher! As The Debut: Dream Academy eliminates four more contestants after its second mission. Now, only the remaining 14 aspirants will advance to the third and last mission.

For the Mission 2 of the survival show, the 18 contestants were divided into four teams and they were tasked to perform a song by the K-Pop girl group LE SSERAFIM. Two groups sang and danced to “ANTIFRAGILE,” while the other two groups performed “FEARLESS.”

Interestingly, the participants even had a surprise visit from the LE SSERAFIM members themselves in the middle of their rehearsals. Moreover, HYBE chairman Bang Si Hyuk also talked to the contestants briefly. 

After casting the global votes, the final rankings for the said mission was unveiled. There, it was announced that Brooklyn and Karlee from the USA, Mei from Japan, and Iliya from Belarus have been axed from the series.

Following the eliminations, the remaining 14 contestants are left to continue their dreams of being an idol. Once the third and last mission ends, only 10 girls will perform at the show’s live finale which will be held on November 17. 

More about ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’

Created by South Korean entertainment company HYBE and American record label Geffen Records, The Debut: Dream Academy aims to create the next global girl group. The audition program combed through 120,000 applications and selected 20 girls from different countries to participate in the show.

In its pilot episode aired last September 1, it was announced that the 20 participants will undergo three survival missions before clinching a spot in the live finale. There, the official group name and the final debuting lineup will be revealed.

According to the executives of HYBE and Geffen Records, the first song for the girl group will be in English to showcase their global prowess.

 

Apart from their debut track, a Netflix documentary series about the group’s journey is also slated for 2024. Said docuseries will be directed by Emmy-nominated filmmaker Nadia Hallgren, and is jointly produced by HYBE, Interscope Films, and Boardwalk Pictures.

As HYBE is known to be home to K-pop powerhouse acts BTS, SEVENTEEN, TOMORROW X TOGETHER, and more, fans have set high expectations for the upcoming girl group.

With the live finale just around the corner, fans can continue rooting for their favorites by casting votes in the fandom platform Weverse.

Featured image: ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’ announces results for its Mission 2. Credit: Twitter/Dream Academy HQ

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

YG Entertainment Announces November Debut for BABYMONSTER

YG Entertainment has unveiled the debut date for their latest girl group, BABYMONSTER. On the 10th at 1:00 PM, the entertainment giant signaled the group’s imminent debut by sharing a “coming soon” poster on their official blog.

Twitter/@YGBABYMONSTER_

In preparation for BABYMONSTER‘s debut, YG Entertainment has collaborated with international composers and their in-house producers. That resulted in the creation of many high-quality tracks. One particular song, characterized by its intense mood, was chosen as BABYMONSTER‘s debut track. Addressing the change in their debut plans, the agency said, “We aimed to deliver the best outcome and were cautious in selecting the title track. We ask for your understanding regarding the slight delay.”

The members of BABYMONSTER are currently immersed in practicing the choreography for their title track. They are also gearing up to shoot their music video by the end of October. The entire agency put in much effort to ensure the group’s success. 

BABYMONSTER – DEBUT MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENT VIDEO

The BABYMONSTER girls are ready

YG Entertainment says the girls are more than ready. “All preparations are now complete. Once the official debut takes place in November, we will continuously give our best and run with full force. We ask for much interest.” This announcement has heightened global music fans’ excitement.

BABYMONSTER – ‘DREAM’ (PRE-DEBUT SONG)

Previously in July, the agency had announced that BABYMONSTER aimed to debut in September. The group, introduced by YG after a seven-year gap following BLACKPINK, boasts top-tier skills in dance, rap, and vocals. Comprising multinational members like Ahyeon, Haram, and Rora from Korea, Chiquita and Pharita from Thailand, and Asa and Ruka from Japan, they are set to stir things up as “monster rookies.” Despite not having debuted yet, their official YouTube channel already has over 3.12 million subscribers, with their videos nearing 450 million views.

The news of BABYMONSTER‘s debut has garnered mixed reactions from Korean netizens. While the excitement is palpable, some fans expressed skepticism, pointing out YG’s previous statements and noting that the group has yet to film their music video. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: It’s been quite a long road for the girls, but their moment is almost here! Source: X/@picbaemon.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Whatever Happened to Former LE SSERAFIM Member Kim Garam?

Kim Garam, once a member of the K-pop girl group LE SSERAFIM, faced a whirlwind of challenges early in her career. A mere month after her debut, she was engulfed in multiple bullying allegations that sent shockwaves through the industry. Consequently, she announced her departure from the group. Instead of letting this setback define her, Kim Garam returned to a more typical teenage life, attending the School of Performing Arts Seoul (SOPA). By May 2023, she celebrated her graduation from this esteemed institution.

@kimgaramcomebacksoon

#garamupdate #GaramUpdate #김가람 #lesserafim #fearless #blueflame #Kimgaram #unforgiven #antifragile #yooeunseo #yooeunseobullyliar #viral #tiktok #tiktokviral

♬ Judas (Tiktok Guitar) – H1TD0WN

SOPA, located in the heart of Seoul, is renowned for giving aspiring artists top-notch music, drama, and dance training. Many of its graduates, including Kim Garam, made their mark in entertainment. As an acting major at SOPA, she immersed herself in the intricacies of drama and theater. Her training covered everything from script analysis and voice modulation to character development and on-camera techniques.

Her dedication and hard work paid off. Following her graduation, Kim Garam was among the select few who cleared the first round of applications for the prestigious acting department of Dongguk University. With its central location in Seoul, this university offers a comprehensive curriculum in theater, film, and television. It’s a hub for budding actors, directors, and scriptwriters, providing them with the skills and exposure needed to thrive in the entertainment industry.

@kimgrrm

#garam #kimgaram

♬ suara asli – am – 𝟑𝟎𝟑 𝐀𝐦𝐳.

Congratulations to Kim Garam

To put Kim Garam’s achievement into perspective, the acting department of Dongguk University receives over 2000 applications annually, accepting only 30 students. With a 72.5% acceptance rate, it ranks as the third most sought-after acting department in South Korea. Notable alums from this department include Girls’ Generation‘s Seohyun and YoonA.

While the Dongguk University announcement redacted the second syllabus of her name, fans were confident that it referred to her. Why? There’s her unique name and the fact that the list only included students from SOPA’s acting department. 

Now, with just the second round of applications standing between her and a place at Dongguk University, the future looks bright for this young star. Congratulations to Kim Garam on her continued journey in the arts. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Garam is doing well after leaving the group. Source: X/@GARAMGLOBAL.

Categories
KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

TXT Drops Highlight Medley for ‘The Name Chapter: FREEFALL’

TOMORROW X TOGETHER, popularly known as TXT, is gearing up for their much-anticipated comeback. The group recently released a preview for their album The Name Chapter: FREEFALL, and the excitement among fans is palpable.

The album is about confronting reality and dealing with the aftermath of dreams. It takes listeners on a journey where dreams meet reality, and the consequences of chasing those dreams unfold. TXT took this concept and spun it into a musical tapestry that spans multiple genres, showcasing their unparalleled versatility.

TXT (투모로우바이투게더) The Name Chapter: FREEFALL Preview

One of the standout features of this album is TXT‘s deep involvement in its creation. They’ve always been involved in their music, and The Name Chapter: FREEFALL is no exception. The members co-wrote the lyrics for a majority of its tracks. Specifically, they’ve penned songs like “Growing Pain,” a hard rock track that delves into the pains of confronting reality; “Dreamer,” an R&B/Soul number that reminisces about forgotten dreams and self-identity; and “Deep Down,” a pop song that celebrates acknowledging and accepting one’s true identity.

“Blue Spring,” a fan song that touched many hearts during TXT’s ACT: SWEET MIRAGE tour, is another highlight. All five members have writing credits on this alternative rock track, which also incorporates elements of folk rock and hip-hop rhythms. Beomgyu took the reins as producer for this song, adding another feather to his cap.

@txt.bighitent

Chasing that TXT 🎥Directed by #BEOMGYU 🧸 #NewMusic #TheNameChapter #FREEFALL #ChasingThatFeeling

♬ Chasing That Feeling – TOMORROW X TOGETHER

Another successful release for TXT

The album doesn’t stop there. “Back for More (TXT Ver.)” brings a touch of disco funk, celebrating the magical moments that exist even in a world of uncertainty. “Happily Ever After” is a bright and optimistic Jersey club track that encourages listeners not to lose hope despite the harshness of reality. “Skipping Stones” is an indie rock anthem about resilience and not yielding to hardships.

The title track, “Chasing That Feeling,” is set to be a game-changer. It’s a New Wave song with 1980s vibes. The boys sing about waking up from the deceptive allure of a carefree paradise and choosing to live on their own terms. Through this song, they express their determination to embrace the highs and lows of life.

Produced by the renowned Rock Mafia, a production outfit famous for their work with global stars like Selena Gomez, Miley Cyrus, and Demi Lovato, this track is poised to be a massive hit. TXT‘s leader, Soobin, has expressed his belief that “Chasing That Feeling” will not only resonate with their fanbase but captivate the general public as well.

As the countdown to the release of The Name Chapter: FREEFALL continues, fans worldwide are buzzing with excitement. With such a diverse and promising lineup of songs, this album is set to be another successful release for TXT. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: MOAs can hardly wait for TXT’s new era to begin. Source: X/@BIGHIT_MUSIC.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Here Are All The Winners at the The Fact Music Awards 2023

The winners are here! The prestigious The Fact Music Awards 2023 unfolded on October 10 at Incheon’s Namdong Gymnasium and the event maintained its continuity by featuring the beloved hosting duo of Girls’ Generation’s Seohyun and Jun Hyun Moo. This is the duo’s second successful role as hosts in the previous year.

The Big Winners At The 2023 The Fact Music Awards

As expected, the TMAs brought together a dazzling array of K-pop idols representing various groups and entertainment companies, making it a truly star-studded affair.

SEVENTEEN emerged as one of the most significant winners at this year’s awards ceremony, securing the coveted Daesang (Grand Prize) and earning their place among the ten Artist of the Year (Bonsang) awardees.

https://youtu.be/aFXp-2fOZOc

BTS and Lim Young Woong both enjoyed considerable success, each clinching a remarkable five awards during the event. BTS proudly took home accolades for Best Music (Summer), Fan N Star Most Voted, the Fan N Star Choice Award, with individual members Jimin and V securing the Idol Plus Popularity Award and Best Music (Fall), respectively.

Lim Young Woong stood tall with recognition, winning an Artist of the Year (Bonsang) award, in addition to Best Music (Winter), Fan N Star Most Voted, the Fan N Star Choice Award, and the Fan N Star Best Ads Award. The night was filled with well-deserved accolades and exciting moments for these exceptional artists. Check out the full list of winners at The Fact Music Awards 2023.

The Fact Music Awards 2023 Full List

Daesang (Grand Prize): SEVENTEEN

Artist of the Year (Bonsang): aespa, ATEEZ, ITZY, IVE, Lim Young Woong, NewJeans, NMIXX, SEVENTEEN, Stray Kids, TREASURE

Worldwide Icon: aespa

https://youtu.be/lTfweng8Rjg

Best Performer: IVE

Four Star Award: Stray Kids

Listeners’ Choice: NewJeans

Next Leader: RIIZE, ZEROBASEONE

https://youtu.be/YuA3fJ6NbUE

Best Music (Spring): Lee Chan Won
Best Music (Summer): BTS
Best Music (Fall): BTS’s V
Best Music (Winter): Lim Young Woong

https://youtu.be/dEQspHFhUPA

Idol Plus Popularity Award: BTS’s Jimin

Band Performer of the Year: Jannabi

Solo Performer of the Year: Kwon Eun Bi

https://youtu.be/OCr5lqMhPaE

Fan N Star Most Voted: BTS, Lim Young Woong

Fan N Star Choice Award (Group): BTS
Fan N Star Choice Award (Solo): Lim Young Woong

Hottest: BOYNEXTDOOR, xikers

Fan N Star Best Ads Award: Lim Young Woong

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Everything You Need to Know About BTS’ Jungkook’s ‘Golden Live on Stage’

BigHit Music recently shed light on the details of Golden Live on Stage, a special event set for November 20 to mark the release of Jungkook‘s solo album, Golden. This exclusive gathering, limited to 500 attendees, is a unique opportunity for fans to engage with BTS’ youngest member in an intimate setting.

The event, described by BigHit Music as an album showcase, will feature Jungkook performing tracks from Golden. The setlist will include the hits “Seven (feat. Latto)” and “3D (feat. Jack Harlow),” which was released two weeks ago. However, the opportunity to attend is reserved for members of the official fan club—in other words, those with an ARMY membership—or those who bought a copy of the album via Weverse Shop Global.

@bigddjoon_.r

LIVE CONCERT WHAT THE HELL #jeonjungkook전정국 #kimnamjoon #joonie #3d #latto777 #jackharlow #SEVEN #kookiebts #fyp #hansohee♡ #jungkook

♬ Perfect x Style – lifebymichael

Golden Live on Stage will take place at the Jangchung Arena in Seoul. The raffle system will select 500 lucky fans from the many ARMY Membership holders to attend this special event. Organizers will group attendees for roll call according to their assigned numbers. Those with numbers 1-250 must check in from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM, and those with numbers 251-500 from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Latecomers will not receive entry, so attendees must arrive on time. Importantly, these check-in numbers are only for verifying attendance and do not determine seating order. Seating will be random, and attendees should avoid forming lines based on check-in numbers.

More on ‘Golden Live on Stage’

Before entering the venue, attendees must present an ID and a QR code from the Weverse app. For Korean nationals, acceptable IDs include a youth ID card, residence card, driver’s license, or certain mobile IDs. Non-Koreans may bring a passport or residence card. Student IDs, photocopies, and mobile ID screenshots are unacceptable. The IDs they present must match the details they gave in their applications. Those with non-English names may need additional verification. Along with their IDs, attendees should also bring the official BTS lightstick, otherwise known as the ARMY Bomb. 

If you want to attend this event, act quickly. The application window opened at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, October 10, and will close at 3:00 PM on Thursday, October 12. ARMY Membership holders aged 14 and above can apply, but they can submit only one application. Those with multiple or unauthorized applications will be disqualified. For security reasons, BigHit Music discourages sharing screenshots of applications. Only those whose applications follow the proper format will be eligible. Applicants must also consent to the collection and use of their data. They will announce the lucky winners after 6:00 PM on Friday, October 13.

@thequeendarlah

San nakakabili ng ganitong tabo?🤣 #Jungkook #BTS_Jungkook #BTS #HallyuTalkPH #EntertainmentPH #TiktoktainmentPH @jungkook

♬ 3D – Alternate Ver. – Jung Kook

With the Golden Live on Stage applications already underway, ARMYs filling out the form are now hoping to be among the chosen ones. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungkook’s showcase will be held at the same venue where BTS taped special stages for M Countdown in 2022. Source: X/@BIGHIT_MUSIC.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

MAMAMOO’s Hwasa Reportedly Visited a Bridal Shop

Is Hwa Sa tying the knot soon? The MAMAMOO member has raised eyebrows and sparked speculation about her relationship status following an intriguing visit to a prominent bridal shop in Seoul. In addition to that, Hwasa’s cheeky note for the establishment seemingly confirmed she will soon be off the market!

Hwa Sa Pays Unexpected Visit To A Bridal Shop

On October 10, 2023, Bridal Kong, a prestigious bridal boutique in the South Korean capital, posted a photograph of Hwasa’s autograph, and the artist expressed her gratitude to the store in her note. “To Bridal Kong, a place which gives you wings. Thank you,” the MAMAMOO member wrote.

In her autograph, Hwasa made a subtle reference to a Korean saying that suggests the right dress can give one wings. The bridal shop reciprocated with thanks to Hwasa for her visit, accompanied by an unexpected addition – a winking face emoji in their social media tags.

The use of the winking emoji alongside promotional tags for the store and its brands has fueled speculation about Hwasa’s intentions. While many celebrities often rent bridal gowns for high-profile events and red carpet appearances, these gowns are typically custom-designed for such occasions due to their extravagant nature. With the year-end season approaching, some suggest that Hwasa may have visited the shop to seek attire for a gala concert or an event.

However, it is worth noting that celebrities often do not personally visit shops for such arrangements. Instead, stylists typically bring a selection of options to the artist’s private studio. Therefore, it is relatively unusual to see celebrities physically visiting bridal shops for such orders.

Hwasa’s visit to the bridal shop has ignited curiosity and speculation, particularly in light of her known five-year relationship with an older businessman who is 12 years her senior. This visit raises questions about the nature of her relationship and potential future plans, including the possibility of wedding bells. It remains to be seen whether this is a casual fitting for work or a hint at more personal developments in Hwasa’s life.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

DPR Live Announces Decision to Promote Under Birth Name Hong Da Bin

Renowned rapper DPR LIVE is embarking on a significant transition in his music career. Under his new label, CTYL, DPR LIVE has chosen to embrace his birth name, Hong Da Bin, signifying the commencement of an exciting new chapter in his musical journey. According to the rapper, he intends to begin promoting under his birth name in a quest for authenticity.

DPR LIVE Announces Change of Name

Hong Da Bin initially entered the music scene in 2017, adopting the stage name DPR LIVE. His recent live broadcast on Instagram hinted at the challenges he faced in balancing his personal identity with his stage persona, sparking curiosity among his fans about the journey ahead.

“It was challenging to encompass all the semiotic aspects of my worldview within the construct of DPR,” he said. “There are numerous things I desire to communicate from the perspective of Hong Da Bin as an individual.”

DPR LIVE’s emergence in the hip-hop domain began with the release of his single “Know Me” which swiftly garnered attention. His ability to collaborate with illustrious artists such as Hwa Sa, LOCO, Beenzino, Jay Park, Gray, and Crush solidified his position as a musical prodigy. Beyond collaborations, he undertook a remarkable world tour, touching down in 42 cities across Europe, North and South America, and Asia, which even included a performance at the renowned Coachella Valley and Arts Festival.

DPR LIVE’s decision to embrace his real name, Hong Da Bin, within his professional career hints at a new era marked by deeper authenticity and a broader spectrum of storytelling through his music. Fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating the remarkable journey that lies ahead as Hong Da-bin, formerly known as DPR LIVE, continues to create and inspire with his exceptional talent.

For now, it is unclear whether Hong Da Bin will return to promoting under the name that made him famous. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

Exit mobile version