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LE SSERAFIM Reportedly Set for End-of-October Comeback

LE SSERAFIM

October is shaping up to be a big month for K-pop, with several groups announcing their comebacks. Among them, LE SSERAFIM stands out.

iMBC Entertainment has reported that the all-female group, comprising Kim Chaewon, Huh Yunjin, Kazuha, Miyawaki Sakura, and Hong Eunchae, is gearing up to release a new track by month’s end. Sources close to the group hint at the members’ dedication, suggesting they’ve been pouring their hearts and souls into putting their new album together.

The buzz is that this comeback will surpass all their previous ones, setting the stage for a musical experience fans won’t soon forget. This news comes hot on the heels of their August collaboration with Japanese singer-songwriter Imase on the track “Jewelry.”

LE SSERAFIM (르세라핌) ‘Jewelry (Prod. imase)’ LIVE CLIP

LE SSERAFIM has delivered hit after hit

The announcement has sent ripples of excitement across the K-pop community. The group’s devoted fanbase, affectionately known as FEARNOT, has flooded social media with anticipation. However, some are skeptical, given LE SSERAFIM‘s busy schedule. Aside from their ongoing world tour, they will appear at the Asia Artist Awards in December. The girls will fly to Bulacan, Philippines for the ceremony, taking the Philippine Arena stage alongside some of today’s top K-pop acts.

Source Music, LE SSERAFIM‘s agency, remains tight-lipped about the comeback. But if the report is correct, this will mark the group’s first release in five months. Since their 2022 debut, LE SSERAFIM has consistently delivered hit after hit, earning them domestic and international acclaim. And we’re not just talking about their title tracks—“Eve, Psyche & The Bluebeard’s Wife,” a b-side from their UNFORGIVEN album, went viral earlier this year. 

Their ongoing FLAME RISES Tour, which kicked off in Seoul on August 12, has already seen successful shows in cities like Hong Kong, Jakarta, Nagoya, Osaka, and Tokyo. The “Antifragile” singers are set to perform in Bangkok on October 7 and 8, concluding the Asian leg of their tour. The girls have also bagged numerous awards, solidifying their position in the K-pop industry. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: LE SSERAFIM’s upcoming comeback is said to be bigger and better than anything they’ve done before. Source: X/@le_sserafim.

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Kriesha Chu Returns to K-Pop, Signs with New Agency

Kriesha Chu, the first-ever Filipino to make a debut as a K-pop soloist in South Korea, is making a comeback after a three-year hiatus. She gained immense popularity after securing second place on the reality survival show K-pop Star 6: The Last Chance in 2016. Recently, she signed an exclusive contract with NewWay Company and will re-debut under the mononym Kriesha. NewWay Company also manages actors Kim Nam Hee, Lee Won Hee, and former VICTON member Byungchan.

In a statement, NewWay Company expressed excitement about working with Kriesha. They praised her exceptional vocal skills and her bright and lovely charm. They promised to support her in showcasing her talents in various fields. 

Kriesha, now 24, shared her enthusiasm about her return. “As I have announced a new beginning by changing my name to Kriesha, I will work hard to present a good image to the public through various activities.”

Kriesha continues to inspire

Kriesha initially debuted under Urban Works Entertainment in 2017 after her stint on K-pop Star 6. On the show, she had the opportunity to perform for YG, JYP, and Antenna Music execs. Her debut single was titled “Trouble.” She continued to make waves in the industry by releasing new music and appearing on shows like King of Masked Singer and Netflix’s Busted.

However, in 2020, fans observed a noticeable change in her appearance during a press conference for her web drama Ghosts and Sansanda. Rumors that she had plastic surgery were rife, but her former agency clarified that Kriesha was battling a medical condition called lymphedema, which causes tissue swelling due to lymph fluid build-up.

Kriesha‘s journey, marked by her talent and resilience, inspires many. Her fans eagerly await her new endeavors with NewWay Company. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: News of her comeback thrilled Kriesha’s fans to no end. Source: YouTube/@WishFM1075official.

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NCT New Team Releases Pre-debut Single ‘Hands Up’

NCT New Team performs 'Hands Up' during NCT Nation: To the World concert. Credit: Twitter/NCT Japan

2023 is shaping to be a busy year for the NCT New Team!

On Sunday, October 8, the latest act from SM Entertainment released their pre-debut album Hands Up. 

Hands Up has two songs, with the title track having the same name of the album. Described as a dance anthem, “Hands Up” is characterized with synth rhythms and dynamic instrumentation. Additionally, the song aims to highlight the lively spirit of the group. 

Meanwhile, the second track “We Go!” is characterized by pop-infused melodies and guitar arrangements. For this song, the lyrics reflect the idols’ passion for reaching their dreams. 

Although it came as a surprise, fans of NCT New Team welcomed the release with open arms. As it gives the supporters a glimpse of what the group can offer. 

Moreover, the release of Hands Up came days after NCT New Team officially launched their social media accounts. Since then, the members have been releasing photos and teasers. 

Based on their posters, the group marked October 8 and October 19 as special dates. Notably, Hands Up was released on October 8. But as for what will happen on October 19, there’s still no details yet. 

After the release of their single, the group is also set to embark on a pre-debut tour titled LASTART. According to reports, it will have a total of 24 shows across nine Japanese cities. 

Ready for NCT New Team? 

Initially a septet, NCT New Team was formed through the reality show NCT Universe: LASTART. 

On October 2, SM Entertainment announced that Jungmin will no longer debut with the group due to health reasons. 

Following this, the group will only continue with six members: Sion, Riku, Yushi, Daeyoung, Ryo, and Sakuya. 

Following the conclusion of NCT Universe: LASTART, the new unit participated in the NCT NATION concerts in Japan alongside other NCT units. 

Moreover, SM Entertainment has earlier confirmed that the NCT New Team will be the last chapter to NCT’s limitless expansion concept. Previously, it was stated that the group would be called NCT Tokyo. But the agency has yet to unveil the group’s final name. 

As of writing, SM Entertainment has yet to reveal the debut details of NCT New Team.

Featured image: NCT New Team performs ‘Hands Up’ during NCT Nation: To the World concert. Credit: Twitter/NCT Japan

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GOT7’s JAY B Signs With Mauve Company

Mauve Company shares profile photos of new artist JAYB. Credit: Twitter/Mauve Company

JAY B of K-pop boy group GOT7 has signed an exclusive contract with Mauve Company, the agency announced on Friday, October 6. 

According to the agency, the move of becoming the artist’s “precious home” was made “based on deep trust.” 

Now that they’re handling JAY B’s career, Mauve Company promised that they will support the artist’s activities. This includes singing, writing lyrics, composing, and acting. “We will provide full support so that JAY B can develop his capabilities through various activities,” they added. 

Moreover, they asked the idol’s fans for their support as the singer starts a new chapter in his career. 

Following the announcement, Mauve Company also released profile photos of JAY B. There, the artist was sporting a variety of looks from casual to formal. 

 

The solo career of JAY B

JAY B is best known as the leader of the boy group GOT7. Prior to that, he acted in Dream High 2 and made his debut as a member of the duo JJ Project. 

While under GOT7, he and member Yugyeom formed the sub-unit Jus2. He’s also known to write songs as Defsoul or Def., both for GOT7 and the Offshore Crew. 

When GOT7 left JYP Entertainment in January 2021, the leader was the last of the members to sign with another label. Despite being part of different labels, GOT7 members assured their fans that they’ll still release music as a group. 

In May 2021, he signed with H1GHR MUSIC. There, he made his debut as a solo artist with the hit single “Switch It Up.” 

In July 2022, he departed from the R&B and hip-hop label before moving to CDNZA Records. After a year, in July 2023, the singer also left CDNZA Records. 

Currently, JAY B is fulfilling his mandatory military service as he enlisted in February. To note, he hinted his enlistment through his latest album Seasonal Hiatus. He’s expected to be discharged in November 2024. 

Featured image: Mauve Company shares profile photos of new artist JAY B. Credit: Twitter/Mauve Company

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EDAM Takes Additional Security Measures After IU Receives Death Threats

IU poses for her movie 'Dream.' Credit: Twitter/IU

Known as the “Nation’s Little Sister,” it is no surprise that IU is loved and supported by millions of fans globally. However, the singer-actress has received a fair amount of hate throughout her career as well.

On Friday, October 6, EDAM Entertainment, IU’s agency, released an official statement to inform fans about the recent events concerning the singer-actress.

“Recently, the degree of violence toward artist IU has crossed the line. A homicide threat against the artist was received some time ago,” the agency said. 

Due to the horrifying threat, EDAM Entertainment revealed that increased the number of security guards assigned to IU. Moreover, they also dispatched police to the agency’s building, Kakao Entertainment building, and the artist’s home to ensure her safety.

Furthermore, EDAM Entertainment also mentioned that despite the unnecessary negative attention the news may receive, they ultimately decided to issue a statement to serve as a warning against malicious forces and to prevent government authorities from being dispatched again for such threats.

Update on IU and her legal battles

Apart from that, the agency also provided an update on the status of the civil and criminal lawsuits against online users for their alleged defamation against the singer. 

Earlier this year, IU was accused of plagiarism after a certain Youtuber claimed that six of her previous tracks were copied off of other people’s works. The alleged plagiarized songs were said to be “Good Day,” “Red Shoes,” “Bbibbi,” “pitiful,” “Boo,” and “Celebrity.”

Following the lack of reasonable proof for such accusations, EDAM Entertainment made necessary actions by keeping track of the list of suspects attacking and circulating rumors against IU.

“We will hold the accuser strictly liable for damages as soon as the accuser’s personal information is confirmed,” the agency warned. Additionally, they emphasized that there’ll be a non-leniency rule against any illegalities against IU.

With the numerous rumors and accusations IU has faced since her debut in 2008, fans voice out their concern for her safety. Thankfully, EDAM Entertainment continues to make the necessary actions to protect the singer.

Featured image: IU poses for her movie ‘Dream.’ Credit: Twitter/IU

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5 Members of Pentagon Leave Cube Entertainment

PENTAGON poses during their concert in Hong Kong. Credit: Facebook/PENTAGON

Five members of K-pop boy group PENTAGON have left CUBE Entertainment, the agency announced on Monday, October 9. 

In their statement, the label confirmed that members Yeo One, Yan An, Yuto, Kino, and Wooseok have decided to not renew their exclusive contracts with the company. 

“We had very long and candid talks with the Pentagon members ahead of the termination of their exclusive contracts,” CUBE Entertainment said in a press release, according to Korean media. 

Moreover, the agency expressed their gratitude for the members who have been with them for seven years. Additionally, CUBE Entertainment also expressed their wishes for the idols’ happiness as they take the next step of their career. 

With this, only four members of the group remain in the agency: Hui, Jinho, Hongseok and Shinwon. 

According to Korea JoongAngDaily, the contracts of Hui, Jinho, and Hongseok were put on hold because of their military services. Meaning, they have separate ending dates for their contract compared to the other members. 

What’s next for PENTAGON? 

Despite leaving CUBE Entertainment, several members have clarified that they will continue promoting with the group. 

“As a member of PENTAGON, I will always try and grow up so that PENTAGON can shine in any situation,” Yeowon said. 

Following the news, UNIVERSE, the group’s fandom, couldn’t help but share their sentiments on social media. 

Many are awaiting for messages from the other PENTAGON members, as well as the plans of those who left CUBE Entertainment. 

Others also couldn’t help but lament that this wouldn’t have happened if the agency treated the group properly. Throughout the group’s career, fans have called out CUBE Entertainment for allegedly not promoting the group correctly.

PENTAGON debuted as a 10-member group in October 2016. In September 2018, E’Dawn, now Dawn, left the group and agency after his relationship with singer HyunA was revealed.

The group is known for songs “Shine,” “Spring Snow,” “Feelin’ Like,” and “DO or Not.” 

Featured image: PENTAGON poses during their concert in Hong Kong. Credit: Facebook/PENTAGON

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Look: Stray Kids Named as the ‘Next Generation Leaders’ by Time Magazine

Stray Kids during their promotional activities for 'S-CLASS.' Credit: Facebook/Stray Kids

From topping charts to winning awards, Stray Kids continue to take over the world with their thunderous music. With their undeniable success, the “S-Class” singers are now honored as one of the “Next Generation Leaders” by TIME magazine.

On Thursday, October 5, the American news magazine unveiled that the K-pop boy group is one of the acts included in the annual list of  “Next Generation Leaders.” Following this announcement, Stray Kids now become the third third K-pop act to achieve this feat. Other acts featured in the list were BTS in 2018 and NewJeans in May of 2023.

In the TIME article, Stray Kids has been recognized for their unique color. The article stated that despite the initial criticism towards the band’s grunger headbanging anthems, Stray Kids has still managed to stand out in the industry. “Instead of shifting to pander to expectations for Korean boy groups, Stray Kids embraced their distinct sound”, TIME explained.

Member Changbin then talked about the group’s ambitions for the future. “The goal is to continuously pioneer new subjects and to have our music be recognized as a ‘Stray Kids’ genre,” he said.

With the group straying away from expectations, they have now proved themselves as a recipe for global success. 

Composed of Changbin, Bang Chan, Felix, Seungmin, Han, Hyunjin, Lee Know, and I.N., Stray Kids made their debut in 2018. They produced numerous hit tracks such as “Maniac, “God’s Menu” and “Case 143” to name a few. 

 

Throughout their career, the group’s trend-setting influence has allowed them to clinch the No.1 spot on the Billboards 200 for three of their albums. These albums are MAXIDENT, ODDINARY, and the recently released 5-STAR.

STAYs proud of SKZ’ Time recognition

With yet another accomplishment written under their name, their fans, STAYs, can’t help but feel proud to be fans of SKZ.

“You’ll always see their souls in their work. They are a whole genre!,” one fan wrote. Meanwhile,  another stated: “They make their own music loved by all around the world.”

 

Moreover, fans couldn’t help but be impressed as it’s the latest addition to the growing list of the group for 2023 alone.  To note, Stray Kids became the first K-pop group to headline the LollaPalooza Festival in Paris. As well as bagging the “Best K-Pop” award at the 2023 MTV VMAs.  Currently, the group from JYP Entertainment is also nominated at the 2023 MTV Europe Music Awards.

And fans are even more excited as the group is soon to release new music. Stray Kids is set to drop their next EP Rock-Star on November 10. 

Featured image: Stray Kids during their promotional activities for ‘S-CLASS.’ Credit: Facebook/Stray Kids

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Watch: The Ark, UNI.T Reunite in Lee Suji’s Wedding

Euna shares photo of The ARK's reunion during Lee Suji's wedding. Credit: Instagram/Euna Kim

Idol-turned-actress Lee Suji has tied the knot with actor Ko Hyoung Woo, and her former groups The Ark and UNI.T are there to celebrate the joyous occasion!

On Saturday, October 7, the couple happily exchanged vows to mark the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. 

As it was a once in a lifetime event, some of Suji and Hyoung Woo’s celebrity friends gathered to share their well wishes to the newlyweds. To everyone’s surprise, Suji’s former groups The Ark and UNI.T even had a reunion performance!

After the wedding, former The Ark member Euna Kim even shared one highlight of the ceremony. On her personal Instagram account, the singer posted a clip of the The Ark members harmoniously singing their debut track “The Light.” Together with the bride Suji, the group blessed the attendees with a nostalgic performance.

Moreover, Euna Kim mentioned in her caption that the reunion performance was a special song to commemorate Suji’s special wedding day. The singer also shared that the members only had limited time to rehearse but went smoothly thanks to their bond. “We only had 30 minutes of practice and yet the years we spent together paid off,” she said.

Moreover, the dazzling celebration was even made more special with another performance from Suji’s other former group, UNI.T. In a clip shared by one of the attendees, the UNI.T members were seen singing blissfully in front of the couple. Additionally, members Hyunjoo and Yebin also posted photos of the group with Suji and Hyoung Woo.

The ARK, UNI.T, and other attendees in Lee Suji’s wedding

Although both The Ark and UNI.T have disbanded, both groups have shown off the strong friendship between members, as proven by their presence at Suji’s wedding. Apart from these groups, other celebrities were in attendance as well.

Suji’s age friend group, the 98-line, were among the celebrities who attended the event.  Some of the 98z who were spotted on the occasion were Viviz’ Sinb and Umji, SEVENTEEN’s Seungkwan, and soloist Ungjae, also known as HELLO GLOOM. 

Seungkwan even relayed his congratulatory message for the newlyweds through a song. Even without Suji’s request, the idol heartily offered to sing “The Reason,” making the evening more magical.

Undoubtedly, the enchanting performances from the singers appeared as an irreplaceable gift for the couple. Congratulations and best wishes Suji and Hyoung Woo!

Featured image: Euna shares photo of The ARK’s reunion during Lee Suji’s wedding. Credit: Instagram/Euna Kim

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Dior Men Names BTS’ Jimin the Face of Its Spring 2024 Campaign

BTS member and Dior global ambassador Jimin is set to dazzle as the face of Dior Men’s Spring 2024 campaign. This is a significant milestone for the South Korean superstar, as it’s his first campaign since he became the global ambassador for the French luxury brand last January. Soon after the big reveal, Jimin graced the cover of L’Officiel Hommes Malaysia, where the interviewer likened his ambassadorship to an invite to the White House. 

Jimin responded by thanking the brand for the opportunity. “I feel very grateful and blessed to have become an ambassador for a prestigious global brand. I hope I can take this opportunity to learn more about fashion and contribute something to Dior,” he said at the time.

Last September, Jimin appeared at the Lady Dior Celebration Exhibition in Seoul. He turned heads in a beige, knee-length trench coat, a crisp white full-sleeve shirt, and grey trousers. Finally, a cool silver statement necklace added a sparkly touch to his ensemble. His regal bearing prompted the fans to call him a Disney prince. 

Dior Men’s Spring 2024 campaign

Alasdair McLellan photographed the Spring 2024 campaign. Some of the photos are striking black-and-white shots in which Jimin wears preppy sweaters, streamlined suits, and zippered shirts. Other images, in color, capture him posing in a lush forest. In those photos, he donned one of two fits: a light blue twisted turtleneck sweater paired with a backpack in the house’s iconic motif, or a navy suit adorned with brooches evoking ceremonial insignia with Dior emblems.

Dior Men’s artistic director, Kim Jones, recalled his early interactions with the BTS member. “I’ve seen the rise and rise of [Jimin]. He has an amazing style and character; that’s why I wanted to have him for the campaign.” Jones’ admiration for Jimin and his style isn’t isolated. BTS‘ working relationship with Dior goes back to 2019 when Jones designed stage outfits for their Love Yourself: Speak Yourself world tour.

The much-anticipated Dior Men ad campaign featuring Jimin will debut in print this Tuesday. Ronnie Cooke Newhouse art-directed the campaign, Ellie Grace Cumming styled it, Dior’s creative and image director Peter Philips handled the makeup, and Benjamin Muller did the hair. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jimin has always worn pieces from Dior, which makes him the perfect person to lead its new campaign. Source: Instagram/@voguehongkong.

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Everything We Know About BTS’ Jungkook’s Solo Album

BTS‘ Jungkook made waves on October 3, 2023, when he announced the release date for his debut solo album, Golden. The album is set to feature 11 tracks, with the English singles “Seven (feat. Latto)” and “3D (feat. Jack Harlow)” among them.

Why ‘Golden’?

The term “golden” holds special significance for Jungkook, who has been dubbed the “golden maknae” of BTS due to his multifaceted talents. This nickname has been a significant part of his journey, from inspiring a fan chant for “Euphoria” to being the title of his travel vlog series, Golden Closet Films. Now, “golden” is more than just a descriptor; it’s the title of his debut album. A press release described it as capturing the “golden moments of Jungkook as a solo artist,” emphasizing the vocals that will charm ARMY worldwide.

On October 4, BigHit Music rolled out the promotional timeline for the album as pre-orders began. Concept photos dropped on October 6, 7, and 8. Fans eagerly anticipate Jungkook‘s upcoming performance on KBS2’s Music Bank, scheduled for October 13. The tracklist is coming on October 16, and the title track’s poster will follow on October 17. 

The excitement doesn’t stop there. Starting October 20, a fresh track from Golden will drop daily, culminating on October 30. An album preview is slated for October 31, paving the way for the title track’s teaser on November 2 and the grand release of the official music video on November 3.

A landmark release

Adding to the anticipation are mysterious “COMING SOON” slots on the schedule for November 6, 8, 16, and 20. BigHit Music filled one of these slots with news of Jungkook‘s Golden Live On Stage, a live performance in Seoul‘s Jangchung Arena on November 20. This concert promises to feature songs from Golden and share behind-the-scenes tales of its creation.

Jungkook has also planned special events for fans. The Pre-order Customer Video Call Fansign event is on November 11, where fans can hop on a quick video call with Jungkook. They must buy specific versions of Golden on Weverse Shop Global to participate. A second event offers them a chance to win an autographed poster signed by Jungkook. To be eligible, fans must buy at least one copy of Golden on Weverse Shop Global and enter the raffle. Winners for both will be notified through Weverse.

Golden promises to be a landmark release, showcasing Jungkook‘s evolution as an artist. With so much to look forward to, the anticipation is sky-high. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungkook has released three sets of concept photos for ‘Golden.’ Source: X/@BIGHIT_MUSIC.

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