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Wonder Girls’ Yubin and Tennis Player Kwon Soon Woo Confirm Breakup

Yubin and Kwon Soon Woo have officially parted ways, marking the end of their relationship. The Wonder Girls member confirmed the news after removing the national tennis player’s photos from her social media account.

Kim Yubin’s Agency Confirms Wonder Girls Member’s Breakup With National Tennis Player Kwon Soon Woo

On October 5, rrr Entertainment, Yubin’s agency, confirmed the news, stating, “It is true that Yubin [and Kwon Soon Woo] recently broke up. They have mutually decided to maintain a supportive friendship.”

The former Wonder Girls member and professional tennis player Kwon Soon Woo had initially confirmed their romantic relationship in May, which had garnered attention and support from their respective fanbases. However, the breakup had been a subject of speculation as observant fans noticed that the couple had deleted their shared photos and unfollowed each other on Instagram.

Kim Yubin, the founder and CEO of RRR Entertainment, first gained prominence as a member of the South Korean girl group Wonder Girls. The group was formed in 2007 under JYP Entertainment and remained active until its disbandment in 2017. Yubin embarked on her solo career in 2018, making her debut with the single “Lady.” Since then, she has continued to release music and expand her presence in the entertainment industry.

Kwon Soon Woo has represented South Korea in the 2017 Davis Cup. He also represented South Korea at the 2022 Davis Cup Finals and recorded his first victory over a top-20 player by defeating world No. 13, Félix Auger-Aliassime. After a six-month hiatus, he returned to the 2023 US Open. Although he was eliminated in the first round out, Kwon had protected ranking.

While the couple’s decision to go their separate ways may come as a disappointment to some fans, it is reassuring to know that they have chosen to remain friends and offer encouragement to each other in their respective endeavors.

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U-KISS’ Hoon, Ex-Girl’s Day’s Hwang Ji Seon Expecting 1st Child

U-KISS' Hoon tied the knot with Hwang Ji Seon. Credit: Website/Soompi

Feeling old yet, 2nd generation K-pop fans? Celebrity couple Hoon and Ji Seon are set to embark on their journey to parenthood as they’re now soon-to-be parents. 

On Thursday, October 4, Hoon of the boy group U-KISS announced that his wife, former Girl’s Day member Hwang Ji Seon, is pregnant with their first child. Alongside the ultrasound photo of the baby, Hoon also wrote an affectionate caption to celebrate the good news.

“An incredibly precious and cherished new life, for which we had been desperately hoping and waiting, has found its way to us,” the 32-year old singer warmly said.

Moreover, Hoon also articulated his promise to be a good father so that their child would grow up healthy and full of love and blessings. “I will do my best as a father for the sake of my wife who has worked hard, and our baby who is growing healthily,” he stated.

According to Hoon, the baby has now reached 27 weeks. 

More about Hoon and Ji Seon

For those who don’t know, Hoon is the youngest member of the boy group U-KISS. Said act made its debut in 2008. However, Hoon was not part of the initial lineup as he was only added to the group in 2011 alongside three more members.

After the group’s contract with NH Media expired in 2021, U-KISS promoted as a three-member group after Hoon, Soohyun, and Seop signed with Tango Music. In June 2023, it was announced that former members Alexander, Eli, and AJ rejoined the group. Moreover, U-KISS recently celebrated their 15th debut anniversary, as well.

On the other hand, Hwang Ji Seon, is known as a former member of the girl group Girl’s Day. After her departure from Girl’s Day, the singer made her comeback with new groups New.FO, and ShaFLA. But both groups only disbanded after some time. Since then, Ji Seon has remained out of the spotlight. 

In May 2022, the U-KISS member shared a handwritten letter announcing his marriage to Hwang Ji Seon. Shortly after, the couple held a private wedding ceremony.

With the couple’s pregnancy announcement, Hoon now joins the “dad line” in U-KISS. In 2016, members Eli and Dongho both became fathers to baby boys. In 2019, former U-KISS member Kibum also revealed that he and his wife welcomed their first son. 

Featured image: U-KISS’ Hoon tied the knot with Hwang Ji Seon. Credit: Website/Soompi

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aespa’s Winter Claps Back at Fan Complaining About Dear U. Bubble Absence

Being a K-pop idol is a great job but it also has a lot of demands. For instance, idols are expected to interact with their fans whenever they can. In the case of Winter, one particular fan tried to get the aespa member to interact with them on Dear U. Bubble. Interestingly, the idol had a classy clapback at the demanding fan.

Several SM Entertainment artists have recently expanded their presence on the Weverse platform, allowing for increased interaction with fans through the fan forum community, free of charge. However, despite this expansion, aespa continue to use the Dear. U Bubble service to communicate with their fans.

Dear. U Bubble is a subscription-based service where fans pay a monthly fee to receive exclusive messages from their favorite idols, as well as the opportunity to send replies. Given the paid nature of this service, fans often have expectations regarding the frequency of messages and interactions.

aespa Fan Tries To Get Winter To Return To Bubble

One fan, in particular, expressed their discontent on Weverse, sharing a screenshot of Winter’s last message on Bubble and urging her to send a new one. They persistently requested messages from a specific time frame between 5:32 pm and 5:54 pm. Despite the fan’s somewhat demanding tone, Winter responded to one of their posts at 6:15 pm, displaying remarkable professionalism and courtesy in her reply.

Winter‘s graceful handling of the situation deserves commendation. Despite the fan’s initial rudeness and insistence, Winter remained composed and responded in a polite manner. Her ability to handle such interactions with grace and professionalism reflects well on her as a star and demonstrates her dedication to maintaining a positive connection with her fans. Kudos to Winter for her exemplary response!

In related news, aespa and American footwear brand Crocs recently teamed up to launch its limited edition “Stomp Clogs”.

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Former UNI.T’s Lee Suji, Actor Ko Hyoung Woo Stun in Wedding Photos

Ko Hyoung Woo shares wedding photos with fiancé Lee Suji. Credit: Instagram/Ko Hyoung Woo

Wedding bells are soon to ring for celebrity couple Lee Suji and Ko Hyoung Woo. And in celebration of their upcoming big day, the former UNI.T member shared stunning wedding photos from their wedding pictorial. 

On Wednesday, October 4, actor Ko Hyoung Woo also shared the beautiful photos on his Instagram alongside a heartwarming caption. 

“I got to marry a loving, warm, pretty, young bride,” he said in the translated post. “Let’s be happy together for a long time. Thank you so much for coming into my life,” the actor added.

In early September, the idol announced her plans of tying the knot. There, Suji expressed how much she’s looking forward to starting a new chapter in her life. 

“More than anything else, I’m so happy to know that the power of love is bigger than anything else,” she said then. Moreover, she also asked for the fans’ continued support. 

At the time, she didn’t disclose her partner, only saying that her groom-to-be is someone friendly and has a warm heart. Hence, the release of her wedding photo with Hyoung Woo left their fans pleasantly surprised. 

For those unfamiliar, Hyoung Woo starred in the series The Battle of Jangsari. 

98z congratulate Suji, Hyoung Woo

Upon seeing the lovely photos, the 98-line, Suji’s age friend group, immediately sent their congratulatory messages for the couple.

In one of her posts, SinB of girl group Viviz gave a flattering remark to the bride-to-be. “Princess like no other,” the idol commented.

Prior to the release of the wedding pictorial, the 98z including Viviz’ Sinbi and Umji, SEVENTEEN’s Seungkwan, and soloist Hello Gloom already celebrated Suji’s milestone with her.

In the photos Suji shared on her personal Instagram account, the friend group gifted her a cake, a bouquet of flowers, and some other presents.

“Thanks to many of you who pray with my friends and congratulate me 100 times, I got great comfort and joy,” the singer wrote in her caption.

Aside from the 98-liners, the couple was also congratulated by other celebrities including model Um Yejin and singer-actress Kim So Ri. 

The couple’s wedding ceremony will be held sometime this October. Congratulations to the couple!

Featured image: Ko Hyoung Woo shares wedding photos with fiancé Lee Suji. Credit: Instagram/Ko Hyoung Woo

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Crazy Horse Paris Shares Official Photos of BLACKPINK’s Lisa

Crazy Horse Paris finally offered a glimpse at the BLACKPINK member's 'Crisis? What Crisis?' solo stage at the cabaret

BLACKPINK’s Lisa has successfully concluded her captivating performances at the renowned Crazy Horse Paris cabaret from September 28 to September 30, leaving an indelible mark on the audience.

Crazy Horse Paris Shares Official Photos of BLACKPINK Lisa From Cabaret Show

The news of Lisa’s participation in the cabaret generated significant anticipation and intrigue, particularly regarding the nature of her performances. Fans who were fortunate to witness her shows in Paris promptly shared their experiences across various social media platforms.

To satiate the growing curiosity surrounding Lisa’s performances, Crazy Horse Paris has released official photos of the BLACKPINK member in action.

During her five special shows at Crazy Horse Paris, Lisa showcased her talents through a combination of solo acts and collaborative group performances with the cast.

Due to the cabaret’s strict no-recording policy, only those in attendance had the privilege of witnessing Lisa’s mesmerizing performances firsthand. However, Lisa has generously offered glimpses of her sultry acts at the cabaret on her Instagram, giving fans around the world a taste of her remarkable talents and the electrifying atmosphere of Crazy Horse Paris.

“Such an amazing experience at Crazy Horse Paris. Thank you everyone for making this happen. Call me whenever you need someone to fill a spot,” Lisa wrote.

https://twitter.com/crazyhorseparis/status/1709629051973833034

Lisa clearly enjoyed performing at the cabaret and it might have a lot to do with the support she received. BLACKPINK members Jisoo, Jennie, and Rosé reportedly attended her performances along with Lisa’s family and friends. With that in mind, it’s clear that the Thai idol has all the support she needs in all her endeavors.

In related news, fellow BLACKPINK member Jennie may have confirmed that she is currently preparing for a solo album. Interestingly, the star of “The Idol” may have revealed her solo effort during a conversation with legendary R&B artist Usher.

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BLACKPINK Jennie Seemingly Confirms Solo Album in Recent Usher Interaction

BLACKPINK’s Jennie recently engaged in a conversation with global superstar Usher at a Chanel event in Paris, and their exchange has ignited excitement and speculation about Jennie’s future in music, especially in light of discussions surrounding the group’s contract renewal with YG Entertainment. Could Jennie Kim release a solo album in the near future?

Did BLACKPINK Member Jennie Tell Usher She Is Currently Working on A Solo Album?

Jennie is set to release a special single titled “You & Me” following her captivating performance of the song at the BORN PINK shows, which resonated deeply with the audience. However, it appears that this single may not be the only surprise in store for fans.

Amidst the anticipation of her new single and ongoing contract negotiations, Jennie seems to have future plans already in motion. The intriguing revelation emerged during her attendance at the Chanel fashion show on October 3, where she interacted with various celebrities, including Usher.

A video clip capturing their conversation has sparked enthusiasm for Jennie’s upcoming endeavors. In the video, Usher discusses the possibility of the idol’s future album and expresses his interest in collaborating with Jennie. While it’s not uncommon for stars to express a desire to collaborate with idols, it was Jennie’s response that stirred excitement. She shared, “Right now, I’ve started working on mine…” Although she didn’t explicitly mention an album, her response strongly suggested that she is indeed working on a musical project, aligning with Usher’s earlier remarks.

Jennie’s potential collaboration with Usher and her ongoing musical pursuits are generating anticipation and curiosity among fans, who eagerly await further updates on her exciting journey in the music industry.

For now, YG Entertainment has not yet confirmed whether Jennie is releasing any new music other than “You & Me”. However, BLINKs are already anticipating an official announcement in the next few weeks.

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P1Harmony’s Soul Suffers Leg Injury During Pre-Concert Soundcheck

Haku Shota will still participate in P1Harmony's concerts despite suffering a leg injury

Soul will be taking precautions due to a leg injury during a recent P1Harmony concert. But despite the setback, Haku Shota has been confirmed to honor his commitment to participate in the “2023 P1Harmony LIVE TOUR [P1ustage H : P1ONEER]” concert dates as originally scheduled.

Soul Determined to Join P1Harmony Concerts Despite Recent Leg Injury

On October 4, FNC Entertainment confirmed the news and shared that Soul sustained the leg injury during a soundcheck rehearsal. Currently, the P1Harmony member is in the process of recovery. However, in consideration of his injury, he will limit his movements during the performance to prevent further strain on his leg.

“During a pre-concert fan event (soundcheck) at the ‘2023 P1Harmony LIVE TOUR [P1ustage H: P1ONEER]’ in Sydney, Soul suffered a leg injury and immediately sought medical attention at a hospital. Soul has been diagnosed with ‘patellar tendinitis’ and is currently receiving outpatient treatment. He is making a speedy recovery and is in good health,” the statement read.

“While he can carry out his daily activities without any problems, medical specialists have advised him to avoid intense exercise and strenuous movements to ensure a full recovery,” it continues.

Interestingly, the agency confirmed that they had discussed all options with Soul who is determined to participate in P1Harmony’s schedules. In conclusion, FNC Entertainment agreed to let the rapper join the concerts.

“As Soul is determined to go on stage, after consulting with medical professionals, we’ve decided to proceed with the scheduled ‘2023 P1Harmony LIVE TOUR [P1ustage H: P1ONEER]’ dates with Soul while making necessary adjustments [to minimize his movements]. In consideration of the leg injury and Soul’s safety as our top priorities, some aspects of the performances will be adjusted, and Soul will be performing while seated until he makes a full recovery. We kindly ask for your understanding regarding this matter,” the statement confirmed.

Fans of P1Harmony can still look forward to the concert while wishing Soul a swift and full recovery.

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Ex-TO1 Member Oh Seong Min to Debut in One Pact

ARMADA Entertainment introduces Oh Seong Min as a ONE PACT member. Credit: Twitter/ONE PACT

Former Boys Planet contestant and TO1 member Oh Seong Min will start anew as he’s confirmed to be part of the upcoming rookie boy group ONE PACT. 

On Wednesday, October 4, ONE PACT’s agency ARMADA Entertainment introduced Oh Seong Min as the group’s second member.

He’ll be joining fellow Boys Planet contestant Yoon Jong Woo. 

Interestingly, ONE PACT would be Oh Seong Min’s second group as he was previously part of the group TO1. There, he promoted under the stage name Jerome. 

For those unfamiliar, TO1 was formed through Mnet’s reality show To Be World Klass. Initially named as TOO, the group made its debut in April 2020. However, the group didn’t gain that much popularity as its management CJ ENM and n.CH Entertainment got involved in legal disputes. Because of this, several members left the group, which lead to lineup changes. 

In June 2022, Jerome announced his departure from TO1, alongside Minsu and Woong Gi. 

Although they left TO1, they remained to be part of WAKEONE Entertainment. Several months after leaving the group, Oh Seong Min participated in Boys Planet wherein he finished in 35th place. 

What we know so far about ONE PACT

In late September, ARMADA Entertainment announced their plans of debuting a new idol group. 

The group will be called ONE PACT, which is a fusion of the words “one” and “impact.” Furthermore, the group name is meant to signify the act’s goal of being united to make a significant impact. 

According to Korean media, the agency has teased that the members of ONE PACT will have members with diverse personalities and charms. 

Aside from Oh Seong Min and Yoon Jong Woo, ARMADA Entertainment has yet to provide details on the other members.

Additionally, the agency also hasn’t confirmed the final number of members, as well as target debut date for the group. 

Moreover, ONE PACT will join the list of growing Boys Planet contestants who entered the industry after the series. 

First, the formed group who won in the show are now promoting as ZEROBASEONE, or ZB1. Consisting of Zhang Hao, Sung Han Bin, Seok Matthew, Ricky, Park Gun Wook, Kim Taerae, Kim Gyu Vin, Kim Ji Woong, and Han Yu Jin, ZB1 debuted in July with their first mini album Youth in the Shade.

Another boy group produced by Boys Planet is EVNNE, who made their debut in September. Meanwhile, four more former contestants of Boys Planet are set to debut as the boy group TOZ.  in 2023.

Featured image: ARMADA Entertainment introduces Oh Seong Min as a ONE PACT member. Credit: Twitter/ONE PACT

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Police Clears MAMAMOO’s Hwasa Over Alleged Obscene Performance

Hwasa in the concept photo of MAMAMOO's 2023 Season's Greetings. Credit: Facebook/MAMAMOO

Seoul police have decided not to pursue charges against Hwasa from K-pop girl group MAMAMOO regarding her supposed obscene performance.

The Seongdong Police Station confirmed the news on Wednesday, October 4. According to a Soompi report, the police announced that they would not be referring Hwasa’s case to the prosecution. 

“After summoning Hwasa as a defendant, investigating the content and development process of the performance [of that day], and comprehensively reviewing the statements of those involved, [we found it] difficult to acknowledge the criminal charges,” the police was quoted as saying. 

With this, no charges would be filed against Hwasa. The development came almost five months since her controversial performance.

Fast facts on case against Hwasa

On May 12, Hwasa performed at the Sungkyunkwan University Festival. It was 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” was deemed disturbing and inappropriate by several viewers. Which resulted in the university’s Student Parents and Human Rights Protection Solidarity filing a complaint against the singer at the Seongdong Police Station on July 10. 

According to reports, the complainant claimed that Hwasa’s performance was “enough to evoke a sense of shame and disgust among the audience.” 

In September, the Seoul Seongdong Police Station revealed that they had summoned Hwasa to question her about the controversial performance. Her agency, P NATION, confirmed the report. Moreover, the label emphasized that their artist fully cooperated with the police during the investigation. 

Based also in earlier reports, if the singer was found guilty, she would’ve faced a maximum sentence of one year in jail or a fine of 5 million Korean won. 

Moving forward with her career

Following the news about the police dropping Hwasa’s case, P NATION released a brief statement that they’re currently checking the information. As of writing, Hwasa has yet to personally address the development in her case. 

However, it can be recalled that the singer previously spoke about how the controversy has been affecting her. “I don’t usually react much to malicious comments but it’s too harsh this time round,” she said then. 

Such experience, she explained, gave her the inspiration for her latest single “I LOVE MY BODY.”

Featured image: Hwasa in the concept photo of MAMAMOO’s 2023 Season’s Greetings. Credit: Facebook/MAMAMOO

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Look: SNSD’s Taeyeon and (f)x’s Amber Liu Reunite at Paris Fashion Week

Taeyeon and Amber were sitting together at a Paris Fashion Week event. Credit: Instagram/Rain Magazine

Here’s a small treat for you, 2nd generation stans! SNSD’s Taeyeon and f(x(’s Amber Liu just had a brief reunion at the Paris Fashion Week. 

On Monday, October 2, the prestigious Louis Vuitton Women’s Spring-Summer 2024 show was held. There, fans were delighted to see Taeyeon of Girls Generation and Amber Liu of f(x) sitting beside each other.

Taeyeon’s attendance in the event was expected as she was sent as the Korean ambassador for the luxury house. But to fan’s surprise, Amber was also at the show.

Additionally, the K-pop stars were also captured having a little chit chat and a quick hug, which warmed the hearts of fans. Moreover, several fashion magazines also took the chance to interview both stars. 

Given that it’s been awhile since the two idols were seen together, fans couldn’t help but gush over their reunion. 

Others have pointed out that the last time the pair was seen together in public was eight years ago. To note, Taeyeon and Amber worked together for the track “Shake That Brass,” which was released in 2015.

On social media, some fans wrote that they were even getting emotional seeing the two together again. Which also prompted other fans to look back at Taeyeon and Amber’s bond when the latter was still under SM Entertainment. 

Amber and Taeyeon’s activities now

Amber Liu was once a prominent member of the girl group f(x) under SM Entertainment. However in 2019, the group announced an indefinite hiatus following the expiration of their contracts with the agency. 

Since then, Amber has embarked as a solo artist and focused her promotions in China. Although f(x( has been inactive for years now, the members reassured their fans that the group did not disband.

Recently, Amber’s fellow f(x) member Krystal Jung opened up how she’s hoping for a group reunion in the future. Additionally, she also disclosed that they didn’t even expect that the 2015 album 4 Walls was going to be their last. 

For those unfamiliar with f(x), they debuted as a five-member group in September 2009. They rose to fame for songs “Electric Shock,” “Hot Summer,” and “Nu Abo.” In October 2019, member Sulli passed away. 

On the other hand, Taeyeon remains as one of the leading artists of SM Entertainment. Aside from doing group activities with SNSD, she has also been active as a soloist. In  August, the vocalist just finished the Asian leg of her fifth concert tour, The Odd of Love.

Featured image: Taeyeon and Amber were sitting together at a Paris Fashion Week event. Credit: Instagram/Rain Magazine

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