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Look: Former NMIXX Member JINI to Debut as Soloist

Ex-NMIXX member JINI updates fans with new photo. Credit: Twitter/JINI

Watch out K-pop fans, former NMIXX member Jini is set to debut as a solo artist soon!

On Thursday, September 14, Jini (formerly romanized as Jinni) announced on her social media account that she will soon embark on a new journey as a soloist. She also dropped the teasers for her first extended play titled An Iron Hand In a Velvet Glove. 

As of writing, additional details, such as release date, concept photos, and tracklist, have yet to be released. Although there’s little information yet about Jini’s solo venture, fans are already anticipating her next move.

Over the previous weeks, the singer has already been hinting about her solo music. 

On September 3, Jini posted a Tiktok clip with the caption “Thanks for waiting for me.” The video featured different moments in her life, including footage of her recording a track and dancing in a studio.

@jiniyxxn

기다려줘서 고마워 #JINI

♬ 오리지널 사운드 – jiniyxxn – jiniyxxn

 

Additionally, on September 12, the idol also teased the fans with a one-minute Youtube video titled “Stay tuned (really).

Following the news of Jini’s much-awaited comeback in the music industry, fans have expressed their excitement. 

“OMG QUEEN IS BACK”, one fan wrote.

Jini’s departure from NMIXX

The announcement of Jini’s solo comeback comes nine months after her departure from both NMIXX and JYP Entertainment. 

As per JYP Entertainment’s statement, Jini terminated her exclusive contract due to personal circumstances. With Jini leaving, the agency said that NMIXX will move forward as a six-member girl group instead. 

However, her departure came as a shock to NSWERS, NMIXX’s fans, especially that Jini was known as one of the members who trained the longest. Moreover, she left not even a year after NMIXX made their official debut. 

NMIXX debuted with the album AD MARE in February 2022. By December 2022, JYPE announced Jini’s departure from the group. Until now, the singer has yet to address the speculations about her departure from NMIXX. 

In May 2023, Jini signed with UAP, which subsequently changed its name to ATOC. With her upcoming album fans are anticipating that Jini will achieve greater heights in her career under the new agency.

Ex-NMIXX member JINI updates fans with new photo. Credit: Twitter/JINI

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MAMAMOO Wheein Announces October Solo Comeback

MAMAMOO member Wheein is preparing for an October solo comeback

Wheein is preparing for an October solo comeback. The MAMAMOO member is gearing up for a new music release. This will be Jung Whee-in’s first comeback more than a year after her first album was dropped under a new label.

MAMAMOO Member Wheein Confirms October Solo Comeback

Media reports on September 14 KST have revealed that Wheein from MAMAMOO is gearing up for her long-awaited solo comeback, scheduled for October 12. This impending release marks her return to the music scene after a hiatus of approximately one year and five months since her last music drop, which was the special birthday single titled “D-Day” released back in April 2022. It is also her second album under the new label The L1VE after she left RBW Entertainment in 2021.

Fans of Wheein and MAMAMOO are undoubtedly excited to witness her solo comeback and eagerly anticipate the music and creativity she will bring to the forefront. As the date approaches, the anticipation and curiosity surrounding her new music continue to build, making her comeback a highly anticipated event in the K-Pop landscape.

The talented members of MAMAMOO have remained actively engaged in a multitude of musical ventures throughout this year. Notably, the MAMAMOO+ sub-unit delighted fans with the release of their unit album titled ‘Two Rabbits’ in August, showcasing their distinctive artistry and musical synergy.

Furthermore, Hwa Sa, one of MAMAMOO’s dynamic members, has continued to captivate audiences with her solo pursuits. Most recently, she unveiled her latest single, “I Love My Body,” on September 6. This track, marked by her unique style and powerful vocals, reinforces her status as a dynamic solo artist, resonating with fans who appreciate her individuality and artistry.

The members’ diverse musical activities not only demonstrate their versatility but also serve as a testament to their enduring commitment to delivering quality music to their loyal fan base, solidifying their presence as prominent figures in the K-Pop industry.

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BB Girls Reflect on Long Career and New Beginnings

BBGIRLS, formerly recognized as Brave Girls, are embarking on an exciting new phase in their career under Warner Music Korea. The four-member girl group, consisting of MINYOUNG, YOUJOUNG, EUNJI, and YUNA, has officially unveiled their first single since the rebranding, marking a significant moment in their musical journey.

After a remarkable 12-year journey together, BBGIRLS have introduced a fresh identity and sound through their latest special single album, ‘One More Time.’ This release not only showcases their artistic evolution but also highlights the enduring bond that unites the group members, reflecting their unwavering commitment to their music.

BBGIRLS Discuss New Journey With Warner Music Korea

In a new interview with allkpop, the members of the girl group spoke about their new beginnings with their latest album. When asked about the changes they went through, Minyoung expressed excitement for their ongoing musical adventure.

“The four of us are beginning a new journey as BBGIRLS. We are nervous and excited at the same time,” she said. “It is very exciting to be reintroduced and to also start in a new environment. We, together with our music label, have worked hard in every step of the process to create an album that shows all of our distinct colors well.”

Eunji also shared how the members of the group took their relaunching seriously and took time to choose their first single.

“We took the time to listen to a lot of demos and communicated a lot,” she said. “‘ONE MORE TIME’ was the song that stood out the most, with a strong first impression and the most lasting impression. Also, as the title suggests, this track portrays a message of trying one more time. We believed it would be the most fitting concept for BBGIRLS re-debut.”

As they embark on this new chapter, fans eagerly anticipate what BBGIRLS have in store, eagerly embracing the group’s transformation and looking forward to the music and experiences they will share in the future.

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BTS’ Jungkook, Tomorrow X Together Celebrate VMAs Win With Bang PD

Bang PD hangs out with BTS' Jungkook and TOMORROW X Together. Credit: Instagram/Bang PD

It’s the time to have fun, ARMYs and MOAs as BTS’ Jungkook and TOMORROW X TOGETHER celebrated their first VMAs wins, as well as Yeonjun’s birthday with Bang PD! 

In a series of Instagram Stories uploaded by BIGHIT and HYBE Founder Bang Si Hyuk, the artists are seen having dinner together after the awards show with “Hitman Bang” himself.  

“They tore up the stage tonight,” Bang PD wrote, referring to TXT’s debut performance at the MTV VMAs. 

Aside from the awards, the BIGHIT family also celebrated Yeonjun’s 24th birthday. In another video, the singer is seen blowing out candles on his cake. In the caption, Bang PD wrote: “Happy Birthday, Yeonjun.” 

https://twitter.com/TXTSYBTHK/status/1701877414782202050

Moreover, Bang PD also shared videos of him with BTS’ Jungkook. As seen in his Instagram story, the two were throwing up random hand signs. Interestingly, Bang PD hinted that “There’s a spoiler! A big one,” in the said video. Which left fans guessing what it possibly meant, with many thinking that it’s for another solo release. 

https://twitter.com/_RapperJK/status/1701902427237097797

Prior to this video with Bang PD, Jungkook has already expressed his plans to release his first mini album in November. Additionally, in the Suchwita episode where Jungkook appeared as a guest, he also revealed that he is gearing up to drop new music later this year.

TXT and Jungkook’s VMA wins

With the recently concluded MTV VMAs, TXT made history as they became the first fourth generation group to win at the awards show. There, the group took home the Push Performance of the Year award for their track “Sugar Rush Ride.”

Moreover, TXT also wowed the crowd with the premiere performance of their pre-release single “Back for More”, featuring Brazilian singer Anitta. With this team up, TXT became the first K-Pop group to showcase a genre-fusing collaboration at the VMAs.

On the other hand, their fellow BIGHIT artist, BTS’ Jungkook also bagged his first VMAs win. Though he did not attend the event, the all-rounder singer took home the Song of the Summer title with his viral hit “Seven”, featuring Latto. With this, Jungkook became the first Korean solo artist to win in the category. 

Featured image: Bang PD hangs out with BTS’ Jungkook and TOMORROW X Together. Credit: Instagram/Bang PD

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RED VELVET Irene Might NOT Renew Contract with SM Entertainment

A new report reveals SM Entertainment could lose Irene

SM Entertainment could be losing an important talent. A new report suggests that there is a possibility that Irene will not renew her contract with the agency. If this is the case, the RED VELVET leader could be planning to sign with a different company.

RED VELVET Leader Irene Reportedly Reconsidering Contract Renewal

Recent reports have sparked speculation that Irene may choose not to renew her long-standing contract with SM Entertainment. These rumors have also been linked to the extended hiatus of RED VELVET. The group’s last activity was in June 2023 when they concluded their ‘R to V’ World Tour.

This is troubling news for fans considering that there has only been one member confirmed to stay with SM Entertainment. So far, only Seulgi’s contract renewal has been officially confirmed by the label. Needless to say, fans are curious about the contract statuses of other RED VELVET members.

While SM Entertainment has remained silent regarding Irene, Wendy, Joy, and Yeri‘s contract negotiations, the group had previously hinted at their preparations to release their third full album during a livestream held earlier in August. This cryptic message added to the intrigue surrounding the group’s future plans.

The uncertainty surrounding Irene’s contract decision and the undisclosed status of the other RED VELVET members’ agreements have left fans eagerly awaiting official updates from the label, as they hope for the beloved group to continue their musical journey together. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

Irene recently made headlines when she took on the role of the new muse for 2aN, a Korean makeup brand’s Japanese branch. Irene’s comeback with a new brand endorsement comes after a three-year hiatus from such engagements. Within hours of the announcement, products featuring Irene as a model began flying off the shelves, with several items quickly selling out.

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iKON’s Bobby Announces Solo Album October Release Date

iKON rapper Bobby is also preparing for his first solo concert!

Bobby is gearing up for a major October release. The iKON rapper will be dropping a new solo album next month. In addition to that, he is currently preparing for his first solo concert.

iKON Member Bobby Confirms First Solo Concert and New Album Release

On September 13, 143 Entertainment made a significant announcement regarding the artist’s upcoming endeavors. They revealed that iKON member Bobby is set to embark on his first solo concert titled ‘ROBERT’. The upcoming concert is scheduled to take place at Seoul’s Shinhan Play Square Live Hall on October 15.

In conjunction with this exciting concert news, the agency also confirmed that Bobby has been diligently working on his forthcoming solo album, slated for release on October 10. Fans can eagerly anticipate an extraordinary performance during the concert, where Bobby is poised to present tracks from his eagerly awaited album.

This marks Bobby’s return to the solo spotlight after approximately seven months since the release of his inaugural single album ‘S.i.R.’ under the banner of 143 Entertainment in March. His upcoming concert and album release are sure to captivate fans and continue to establish him as a prominent figure in the music industry.

Bobby Defends Former iKON Leader B.I.

The news comes soon after Bobby made himself heard on an issue that has beleaguered iKON since they moved to 143 Entertainment. The rapper pointed out that fans should stop pushing for OT6 vs OT7 and cease bothering the group’s former leader. In addition to that, he expressed his love for B.I., admitting that they have spoken since his departure.

In related news, it was confirmed by the Korean Intellectual Property Rights Information Service (KIPRIS) that a total of 13 trademarks associated with “iKON” have been officially transferred to its members. This remarkable development extends to Kim Jin Hwan (Jay), Song Yun Hyeong (Song), Kim Ji Won (Bobby), Kim Dong Hyuk (DK), Koo Jun Hoe (Ju-Ne), and Jung Chan Woo (Chan).

The iKON members now officially own all their group trademarks following their split from YG Entertainment

This significant achievement signifies that each member of iKON is now a proud owner of their group’s valuable trademarks, marking a historic moment in their artistic journey and underlining their autonomy in shaping their future endeavors.

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Rookie Group POW Drops Pre-release Single ‘Favorite’

Grid Entertainment’s multinational boy group POW has finally taken its first step into the limelight with “Favorite.” This song, released before their official debut on October 11, marks the beginning of their highly-anticipated journey in the music industry.

The five members of POW—Dongyeon, Hong, Hyunbin, Jungbin, and Yorch—recently held a presscon in Seoul. There, the group introduced themselves and their music to the world. “We’re excited and nervous to meet our fans a month earlier,” expressed Hyunbin. “We’ll grow and improve as we head toward our debut, so please look forward to our journey.” Echoing his sentiments, Thai actor-singer Yorch stated, “We’ve waited a long time for this moment. We’ll give it our best shot.”

The band’s name, POW, isn’t just a catchy moniker. As the leader Jungbin explained, it represents their goal to “blow up the K-pop scene with their innovative and fun energy.” Their single “Favorite” encapsulates this vision. It’s a pop-punk dance tune that exudes innocent, youthful vigor. The lyrics convey the exhilaration of being in love. Accompanying it is a music video inspired by European youth culture. Hyunbin described it as “portraying the dreamlike, beautiful energy of youth our age,” with shots of the picturesque German countryside.

POW (파우) ‘Favorite’ M/V

There’s more to come from POW

As “Favorite” sets the stage for POW‘s official debut, fans can also anticipate an album. Dongyeon revealed that their upcoming EP would encompass a range of concepts, “from first love to spirits of boyhood.”

POW‘s inception has garnered international attention, primarily because they’re the first boy group to be launched by Grid Entertainment. This label is a subsidiary of 131 Label, home to rapper-singer B.I. Adding to their mystique is Yorch‘s history. He previously trained under BTS‘ company, BigHit Music. He was also part of the agency’s ill-fated pre-debut team, called Trainee A. Reflecting on his journey, Yorch said, “I felt lost and wanted to rest when I returned to Thailand. I was discouraged and wanted to give up on becoming a K-pop artist.” However, after several meetings with Grid’s CEO, and bonding with the other members, he joined POW.

The band’s strength, as emphasized by the members, lies in their teamwork. Each member brings a unique flair to the group, but together, they create a beautiful synergy. They look up to the group SEVENTEEN. In fact, Jungbin said, “SEVENTEEN shows a powerful energy onstage. We also hope to become a group that could share bright and encouraging energy.” – K-Pop News Writer

 

 

 

POW (파우) ‘Favorite’ LYRIC VIDEO

Featured Image: Their energy is reflected in their lyric video. Source: YouTube/@POW_Official.

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

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’ 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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