Category: KPOP NEWS

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

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

The Name Chapter: FREEFALL

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.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

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.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

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

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

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

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

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

Categories
K-DRAMA K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

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

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

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.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Ryujin Shares Why She Thought She Would NOT Debut With ITZY

Ryujin might be an established idol right now but there was a time when she thought she would not debut with ITZY. Shin Ryu-jin admitted that she believed JYP Entertainment might not include her in the group line-up. However, it wasn’t because she didn’t have what it takes to be an idol. She explained that it had a lot to do with the agency’s point system!

Ryujin Opens Up About Concerns That She Would NOT Debut With ITZY

On September 10, ITZY members Ryujin and Lia were guests on the YouTube channel series ‘Psick Show’. During the interview, the idols were asked about the training process at JYP Entertainment. For instance, the hosts wondered if the agency gave the trainees any special lessons on good character. Interestingly, Ryujin confirmed that she had to take those lessons.

“That’s true. We have lessons [on good character] every two weeks,” she said. “There is a penalty point system in every curriculum during the trainee period. The point system considers things like our singing score, dance score, and our character score.”

Ryujin further explained that she didn’t do well in her lessons and scored badly.

“Actually, I wasn’t amazing. I was ranked in the middle. My character score was also [in the middle]. I was a person who freely expressed my opinion, so my character score was not very good,” she said.

Lia then added that both she and Ryujin had a lot to work on because they had a lot of penalty points.

“I always thought to myself ‘I’m going to get fired this month’. I thought this because I had a lot of penalty points. If you eat something in the practice room, it’s a penalty point,” Lia said.

Ryujin agreed with her fellow ITZY member. “We both got a lot of penalty points for that,” she said. “We got caught eating something in the practice room. Food is prohibited in the vocal room.”

Luckily for Ryujin and Lia, those lessons are now far behind them. Since their debut in 2019, ITZY has made a name for themselves as an established girl group.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

ONEUS Transform Into Mermen in ‘La Dolce Vita’ Story Artwork

The members of ONEUS have dropped the captivating story artwork for their upcoming mini album 'La Dolce Vita'

ONEUS is gearing up for their next comeback and it looks like the members will go through a mystical transformation. The new story artwork for the group’s 10th mini-album ‘La Dolce Vita’ shows the idols as they transform into mermen. It’s an intriguing teaser for the EP hinting at a fantastical turn for Seoho, Leedo, Hwanwoong, Keonhee, and Xion!

ONEUS Turn Into Mermen In Gorgeous ‘La Dolce Vita’ Individual Illustrations

ONEUS has just unveiled the captivating story artwork and individual illustrations for their forthcoming tenth mini-album, “La Dolce Vita.” In these stunning visuals, the group undergoes a mesmerizing transformation into mermaids, evoking a whimsical and enchanting fairy-tale ambiance.

The title track, “Baila Conmigo,” conveys the heartfelt desire to dance with a cherished someone. As anticipation builds for the album’s release, fans can mark their calendars for September 26th at 6 PM KST. This mini-album promises to be a remarkable showcase of ONEUS’s musical prowess and artistic evolution, with the enchanting mermaid concept only adding to the intrigue. As the date approaches, fans are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to immerse themselves in the magical world of ‘La Dolce Vita’.

‘La Dolce Vita’ will be ONEUS’ second effort as a five-member group after RAVN’s departure in October 2022. Seoho, Leedo, Keonhee, Hwanwoong, and Xion had previously made their debut as a five-member group with the mini-album ‘Pygmalion’ in May 2023.

ONEUS originally planned to embark on the ‘ONEUS 1st World Tour [Reach For Us]’ as a six-member group in 2022. However, the unfortunate departure of Ravn due to reports of inappropriate behavior led them to adapt their plans. Undeterred, the remaining five members pressed on, commencing the tour in October 2022.

Despite the challenges they faced, ONEUS’s dedication and talent shone brightly throughout their tour, as they delivered an astounding total of 22 shows across four continents. This journey reflects their resilience and commitment to their music, solidifying their place in the hearts of fans worldwide.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Look: HYBE’s Girl Group I’LL-IT Reveals Profile Photos

BE:LIFT LAB releases individual profile photos for I'LL-IT members. Credit: Twitter/I'LL-IT

I’LL-IT, HYBE’s new girl group formed through the survival show “R U Next?”, finally reveals their first profile photos.

Posted on the group’s official social media account,  the six members showcased their unique and alluring charms. The photos came days after Yunah, Minju, Moka, Youngseo, Wonhee, and Iroh were announced to be in the debut lineup. 

The oldest member Yunah is seen flaunting her visuals with a mix-match coordination of a frill-decorated dress and a jacket.

Second is Minju, who also gave a glimpse of her distinct style wearing her knitwear outfit and headset.

On the other hand, Moka showed a hip and cute look in a white dress accentuated by a black beanie.

Next is Youngseo, who is characterized by a cat-like figure, chicly posing in her pink dress.

Meanwhile, Wonhee shows a different aura as exhibits her playful personality with her cute expressions in the photos.

Meanwhile, Iroha, the youngest member in the group, also shined with her stunning visuals. 

Dream to debut of I’LL-IT members

In R U Next, 22 female trainees were assessed through seven rounds, with only six officially debuting. Following the conclusion of the survival show, the ILL-IT members looked back on their journey.  

The oldest member Yunah mentioned that overwhelming emotions rushed over her when her name was called in the final episode of ‘R U Next?’.“I will prepare for my debut with the same mindset as when I first started as a trainee. I will continue to show growth even after debut,” she said with determination.

Meanwhile, Wonhee, who ranked first in the survival show, admitted that she found it difficult to become one of the final members. “I was surprised when my name was called, and it didn’t feel real. My trainee life isn’t long, but I’ll do my best to show you a cool side of me,” she exclaimed.

Additionally, Iroha, the group’s youngest member, mentioned that she always felt a mixture of joy, excitement, anxiety, and worry while doing ‘R U Next?’ Committed to giving her best as part of the debuting lineup, she thanked her fans and family. “I just think that I should work harder and become a cool idol in the future,” she said. 

As of writing, BE:LIFT LAB has yet to announce the details for ILL-IT’s official debut. However, fans can communicate with the girl group through their Weverse community. 

Interestingly, they’ll be the agency’s first girl group. In August BE:LIFE LAB, who manages boy group ENHYPEN, was acquired by HYBE.  

Meanwhile, in other news, HYBE has also launched another survival reality show The Debut: Dream Academy. This time, in partnership with Geffen Records, they’re aiming for a global girl group.

Featured image: BE:LIFT LAB releases individual profile photos for I’LL-IT members. Credit: Twitter/I’LL-IT

Exit mobile version