Category: KPOP NEWS

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

TWICE’s Mina Dishes on Important Skin Care Tips

The TWICE member shared some important skin care tips with ONCEs
The TWICE member shared some important skin care tips with ONCEs

Throughout this year, Mina has maintained a whirlwind schedule. As a member of TWICE, she expertly juggled group activities, participated in MISAMO’s unit debut in Japan, and fulfilled her role as the global ambassador for the skincare brand SK-II. Amid her hectic agenda, Mina has found time to generously share her skincare wisdom, enabling ONCEs to replicate her skin care routines in the comfort of their homes.

MISAMO Member Mina Wants Fans To Take Care of Their Skin

In a recent development, Mina had the opportunity to explore the SK-II SECRET KEY HOUSE exhibition in Japan last month. This captivating pop-up experience unveiled the best-kept secrets of SK-II. Following her visit, Soompi caught up with Mina to delve into her impressions and glean insights into her personal skin care regimen.

Mina described her visit to the SK-II SECRET KEY HOUSE as nothing short of “incredible and immersive.” She found it utterly fascinating to uncover the mysteries surrounding PITERA, SK-II’s signature ingredient. Moreover, the exhibition presented groundbreaking scientific discoveries regarding the causes of seasonal skin issues, enlightening Mina about how her skin responds to the changing seasons. Her firsthand encounter with these revelations undoubtedly adds depth to her skincare expertise, which she generously imparts to her fans.

Mina addressed how her skin’s condition changes with the seasons. “While my skin definitely experiences more dryness during winter, I’ve also noticed that my skin can be dry during summer as well, especially when I spend a lot of time indoors in air conditioning,” she said, “I pay more attention to keeping my skin hydrated with moisturizers and face masks [during summer and winter].”

For fans who are struggling with their skin, Mina had some great advice. “Knowing your skin condition is essential because it helps you to understand how to help your skin,” she said. “I recommend trying out a contactless skin diagnostics and counseling session with the SK-II Magic Scan, which has been very beneficial for me.”

“Personally, my favorite feature of the Magic Scan is that it tells you your skin age,” Mina continued. “I tend to get nervous about my skin age whenever I use the Magic Scan, but it always comes back with positive results!”

She added, “Apart from skincare, do drink lots of water and take the time for sufficient rest. These seem like simple tips, but trust me, they are effective!”

These are all great tips and there is little doubt that ONCEs will be taking them all to heart. In the meantime, Mina is expected to continue promoting with TWICE this year.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

TWICE’s Chaeyoung Admits Jihyo Still Makes Her Feel Awkward

Chaeyoung reveals that she still feels a little awkward around fellow TWICE member Jihyo

TWICE’s Chaeyoung revealed that despite the time she spent together with the group, there is a member she still feels awkward with. Amazingly, Chaeyoung admitted that she still addresses Jihyo formally although they have worked together for more than eight years.

Chaeyoung Opens Up About Fellow TWICE Members on Somi’s ‘Yes Or Hot’

Chaeyoung recently made an appearance on Jeon Somi‘s innovative variety show, “Yes Or Hot,” where guests engage in a unique Q&A session. Their enduring friendship was evident, with Chaeyoung having attended Somi’s recent release party. As they progressed to the second, spicier round of questions, the atmosphere grew more intriguing. Somi wasted no time and probed Chaeyoung about any lingering awkwardness with a fellow member.

Initially, Chaeyoung hesitated to disclose the member’s identity. However, when Somi pressed for a hint by asking for the first letter of the member’s name, Chaeyoung held back, realizing it could unveil too much.

Still, Chaeyoung finally revealed that the member in question was Jihyo, highlighting that she still maintains a formal tone when communicating with her. The TWICE member added that she does this because Jihyo is the group’s leader. Jeon Somi agreed, stating that Jihyo is a cool person.

The candid exchange provided fans with a glimpse into the dynamics within the group, making for an engaging and revealing episode of “Yes Or Hot.” It also revealed more about Chaeyoung who generally tries to keep a low profile compared to the other TWICE members.

In a momentous revelation in June 2023, it was unveiled that Jihyo would embark on her solo career by releasing her debut EP titled “Zone” on August 18, 2023. This remarkable endeavor marked her as the second member of TWICE to venture into the world of solo music. Anticipation soared as the lead single, “Killin’ Me Good,” was introduced to fans. On August 25, Jihyo secured her first music show victory as a solo artist on KBS2’s “Music Bank.” The triumph served as a testament to her undeniable talent and further cemented her status in the music industry.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’ V Reacts to NewJeans’ Danielle’s ‘Rainy Days’ Cover

The world of K-pop is no stranger to collaborations, but the recent partnership between NewJeans and BTS‘ V has taken it to another level. This collaboration reached new heights when NewJeans‘ Danielle covered V‘s recent release, “Rainy Days.”

[By Jeans] ‘V – Rainy Days’ Cover by DANIELLE | NewJeans

Danielle, along with her fellow NewJeans members—Haerin, Hanni, Hyein, and Minji—had a unique opportunity to preview tracks from V‘s upcoming solo album, “Layover.” During a meeting with their CEO, Min Hee Jin, they listened to their own songs before being offered a sneak peek at V‘s album. 

“All five of us were gathered together for a meeting with the CEO. We listened to every song from our albums, and then the CEO told us, ‘We’re preparing for V’s album. Do you want to listen to those songs too?’ So we said ‘Yes!’ and listened with lots of excitement,” Danielle shared. The song “Rainy Days” struck a chord with Danielle, reminding her of a nostalgic rainy day from her childhood.

The emotional connection Danielle had to the song led her to film a cover of it. Clad in an oversized cardigan, she delivered a serene version of “Rainy Days.” She captured the essence of V’s original and added her unique touch. She particularly shone on the chorus. Not only were her vocals flawless, but she also displayed emotional depth.

Danielle impressed V

Excitingly, there’s potential for more covers of V‘s songs by the NewJeans members in the future. Danielle expressed the group’s enthusiasm, stating, “‘All the tracks are beautiful and covering them would be so fun,’ we said. So the CEO told us, ‘Then let’s try it!’” This hints at a promising future of collaborations and covers, much to the delight of fans.

V‘s reaction to Danielle‘s cover was so heartwarming. He posted about it on his Instagram Stories, saying that he was “touched” accompanied by a teary-eyed emoji. Furthermore, during a Weverse Live streaming session, V chose to play Danielle‘s cover of “Rainy Days.” Throughout the song, V‘s appreciation was evident. He frequently signaled his approval with two thumbs up, a universal sign of praise, and highlighted his admiration for Danielle‘s singing talent. After the song ended, V simply stated, “It’s so definitive.”

The mutual admiration between Danielle and V showcases the power of music to foster connections. As artists continue to collaborate and cover each other’s work, the K-pop scene can look forward to more such heartwarming moments in the future. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Danielle ate, left no crumbs, and impressed V. Sources: Twitter/@boraboravie and YouTube/@NewJeans.

Categories
K-DRAMA KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BLACKPINK’s Jisoo in Talks To Star in New Zombie Drama

Get ready for the return of Actress Jisoo! The BLACKPINK member is reportedly in negotiations to play the female lead in a new zombie thriller. If Kim Jisoo takes on the role, she will be starring alongside “Deliver Us From Evil” actor Park Jung Min.

Jisoo of BLACKPINK To Take On New Lead Role in Zombie Drama

In an exclusive revelation by YTN, it has been disclosed that the renowned actress Jisoo is set to take on the female lead role in the upcoming K-Drama “Influenza” on Coupang Play. This thrilling series revolves around a couple who, after parting ways, find themselves in a desperate battle for survival against hordes of menacing zombies.

Jisoo is poised to embody the character of Young Joo, the female protagonist, a somewhat sheltered individual who is navigating the complexities of society. Her life takes a tumultuous turn following her breakup with Jae Yoon, portrayed by Park Jung Min. Jae Yoon remains oblivious to her emotional turmoil, leaving Young Joo in disarray. Determined to reunite with Jae Yoon, she ventures outside, only to find herself entangled in the gruesome world of zombies. The harrowing encounter also triggers a profound transformation within her. It also compels Young Joo to confront not only the undead but also her own inner demons.

“Influenza” promises to deliver a gripping narrative filled with suspense and emotional depth. Needless to say, fans are eagerly anticipating Jisoo’s remarkable portrayal of Young Joo in this enthralling K-Drama.

The new drama is set to be Jisoo’s second starring role. She previously had a cameo in the 2015 series “The Producers.” Kim Jisoo then took on her first leading role in the drama “Snowdrop”. Her performance as Eun Yeong Ro was loved by viewers. It also helped her win the Best Actress Award at the 2022 Seoul International Drama Awards.

In March 2023, Jisoo released her solo debut album ‘Me’ with its lead single “Flower”.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Blockberry Creative Files Appeal in Legal Battle Against Chuu

On August 28, the K-pop world was abuzz with the news that Blockberry Creative filed an appeal to overturn the court decision which invalidated artist Chuu‘s exclusive contract with the agency. This move by Blockberry Creative is not just limited to Chuu. The agency has also expressed its intent to pursue legal action against five other members of LOONA who had previously won their injunction applications to suspend their exclusive contracts.

For those unfamiliar with such legal proceedings, an individual or entity in a contractual relationship makes a preliminary injunction request to the court. The petitioner will argue that due to the other party’s actions, continuing under the terms of the contract would cause them irreparable harm. But winning an injunction doesn’t end the legal battle. The petitioner also must prove their full case and argue that the actions of the party they’re suing warrant setting the contract aside.

@rappler

Chuu responds to former agency petitioning to ban her from activities | #kpopnews #fyp #rappler

♬ original sound – Rappler – Rappler

Chuu‘s legal battle with Blockberry Creative began when she filed a lawsuit against her ex-agency in December 2021, citing issues related to a loss of trust and profit settlement. The court attempted mediation in March, but both parties failed to come to an agreement. Her victory came on August 17 when the Seoul Northern District Court ruled in Chuu’s favor, confirming the non-existence of her exclusive contract with Blockberry Creative.

Drama and intrigue are the backdrop to this legal tussle. Chuu, who debuted with LOONA in 2017, was expelled from the group in November 2022. Blockberry Creative claimed that she had assaulted a staff member. Chuu countered this allegation, saying she had “never done anything to embarrass her fans.” Amidst this turmoil, Chuu found a new home with ATRP. She signed a contract with the agency in April.

@chuu.atrp

최강 한화🦅 승리 요정 츄🧡 #CHUU #츄 #한화이글스 #시구

♬ 오리지널 사운드 – chuu_official – chuu_official

The stakes are high for Chuu

Interestingly, the criteria to win a preliminary injunction are stringent. The judge considers factors like the likelihood of success in a main lawsuit, the potential irreparable harm if the contract goes on, the balance of fairness between both parties, and whether suspending the contract aligns with public policy.

In a twist that has fans eagerly awaiting October, Chuu is finally set to make her long-awaited solo debut. The timing of Blockberry Creative’s appeal and Chuu‘s upcoming solo debut has captured the public’s attention, with many keenly observing their next moves. 

@chuu.atrp

여름아 가지마 잘가💦 #CHUU #츄

♬ 오리지널 사운드 – chuu_official – chuu_official

The stakes are high for both parties. If the former LOONA member’s victory stands, Blockberry Creative will bear all litigation costs. Moreover, Chuu wasn’t the only LOONA member to part ways with the agency. Some are now with other agencies and preparing to re-debut. 

As the legal battles continue and Chuu embarks on her solo journey, the K-pop community watches with bated breath, anticipating the next chapter in this riveting saga. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Chuu’s free, but her ex-agency continues to bug her. Source: Twitter/@chuu_atrp.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES VARIETY

Super Junior’s Travel Show ‘Knights of the Lamp’ to Premiere in September

Super Junior releases the poster for 'Knights of the Lamp.' Credit: Twitter/Super Junior

Mark your calendars, ELFS! The upcoming travel variety show Knights of the Lamp, featuring Super Junior members, has finally announced its premiere date. 

According to SM Entertainment, the pilot episode will premiere on September 13. It has a total of four episodes, with each one airing every Wednesday. 

 

First announced in March, Knights of the Lamp will see Super Junior members Leeteuk, Shindong, Eunhyuk, Donghae, Ryeowook, and Kyuhyun travel across Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh. 

Additionally, the variety series will show the idols embark on a quest wherein they will search for a magic lamp that grants their wishes. 

 

Moreover, Knights of the Lamp is a collaboration between Super Junior and the Saudi Arabia Tourism Authority. In the series, Riyadh’s diverse culture and beautiful travel spots will be featured. 

The partnership is not surprising as Super Junior has proven its star power in the Middle Eastern country. Interestingly, the group became the first K-pop act to hold a solo concert in Saudi Arabia. 

In May, Super Junior was officially announced as the ambassador of the Saudi Arabia Tourism Authority. 

 

ELFs’ excitement for a new Super Junior group content

Following the news, fans of Super Junior shared their anticipation for Knights of the Lamp. 

Previously, Super Junior has established themselves as witty idols in their own variety shows Super TV and SJ Returns. In fact, almost all of the members also hosted other variety shows. 

 

On top of Knights of the Lamp being a new show to look forward to, fans are also delighted to have more group content. 

In July, members Donghae, Eunhyuk, and Kyuhyun left SM Entertainment. 

Despite their departure from the agency as individuals, the three will continue participating as members of Super Junior. The group, which debuted in 2005, has renewed its contract with SM Entertainment.

Currently, Kyuhyun is now under the Antenna agency. 

Meanwhile, Donghae and Eunhyuk, the Super Junior sub-unit D&E, are reportedly planning to establish their own label as co-founders. However, this still hasn’t been confirmed. 

Featured image: Super Junior releases the poster for ‘Knights of the Lamp.’ Credit: Twitter/Super Junior

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Seventeen and New Kids on the Block Tease Collaboration

SEVENTEEN and New Kids on The Block in photos shared on their social media accounts. Credit: Facebook/SEVENTEEN & NKOTB

It’s a collaboration we didn’t see coming. K-pop boy group SEVENTEEN and American boy band New Kids on The Block (NKOTB) confirmed on Thursday, August 31, that they’re joining forces for a new release. 

In the seven-second teaser, the names NKOTB and SEVENTEEN were featured while a remix version of “Dirty Dancing” plays in the background. 

 

Based on the caption, NKOTB and SEVENTEEN’s collaboration will be released on September 1. Interestingly, NKOTB originally released their song “Dirty Dancing” in 2008. 

Following the news, SEVENTEEN also shared the teaser in their own account. “CARATs, it’s coming. With NKOTB.” 

 

Fans’ excitement for the collaboration

The confirmation comes days after both NKOTB and SEVENTEEN hinted that they’re collaborating. 

First, the American boy band shared a tweet saying “17.” To which the K-pop boy group replied with an emoji of raising their hands. 

 

Since then, fans of both groups have been expressing their excitement for the project. 

“If true, there is a collaboration for this (me and my dad,” one fan wrote. Meanwhile, another said:  “If there will be a collaboration, then it’s a win for me because both NKOTB and SEVENTEEN are my favorite boy groups.”

Other comments also read: “My boy band loving heart is screaming” and “It’s gonna be one for the books.” 

 

Prior to NKOTB, SEVENTEEN has also collaborated with English singer Anne-Marie for a remix of their single “World.” 

SEVENTEEN’s upcoming activities

The collaboration with NKOTB is just one of the things that SEVENTEEN fans can look forward to in the coming months. 

In October, the group is set to return with their 11th mini-album. Although, final details about that specific comeback have yet to be announced. 

Moreover, the October comeback will see the return of Seungkwan, who’s been on hiatus since July. 

Aside from that, SEVENTEEN will also have their Japan dome tour for their FOLLOW concert. 

Featured image: SEVENTEEN and New Kids on The Block in photos shared on their social media accounts. Credit: Facebook/SEVENTEEN & NKOTB

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

TOMORROW X TOGETHER to Release ‘The Name Chapter: FREEFALL’

On August 29, Sports Chosun stirred excitement among K-pop enthusiasts with the announcement that TOMORROW X TOGETHER, commonly known as TXT, is preparing to release new material on October 13. The media outlet said that the quintet is gearing up for their comeback promotions and putting the finishing touches on The Name Chapter: FREEFALL. In response to fans’ anticipation, their company BIGHIT MUSIC initially stated, “The comeback schedule will be officially announced later.” 

As promised, later in the day the agency put out a teaser for The Name Chapter: FREEFALL on August 30 KST. This album is the group’s third regular release. They will release it on October 13, 2023, and pre-orders will start on August 30.

TXT (투모로우바이투게더) The Name Chapter: FREEFALL

Amidst the buzz, TXT members Soobin and Hueningkai couldn’t resist sharing a few tidbits about the album. Leader Soobin, trying to contain his excitement, shared, “Our new song? OK, I’ll tell you this much. I almost have a really big spoiler. But I’ll tell you this, there are multiple songs, and we’re currently recording them. And there’s this b-side track which is my new favorite song.” Hueningkai, with his characteristic cute tone, added, “There are a lot of good songs on this album. We’ve been constantly listening to the final versions after receiving them.”

Pre-ordering ‘The Name Chapter: FREEFALL’

BIGHIT MUSIC has also provided details on how fans can pre-order the album. Starting from 11:00 AM KST on August 30 to 11:59 PM KST on October 12, the album can be pre-ordered from various stores. Some of those stores are Aladin, Ktown4u, Music Korea, Sponge Music, and Weverse Shop. It will be available in three versions: REALITY, MELANCHOLY, and CLARITY. Each version comes with a unique package box. It contains a Bluespring card, lyrics poster, sticker pack, and more.

The Name Chapter: FREEFALL follows TXT‘s collab with the Jonas Brothers, “Do It Like That.” It also marks their first release since January’s The Name Chapter: TEMPTATION. 

Anticipation is soaring

The excitement is palpable among MOAs (TXT‘s fans), who have made #TXT_IS_COMING_BACK a trending topic. In addition to this news, TXT has been nominated for two awards at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards, which will be held on September 12 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. Further showcasing their global appeal, TXT recently wrapped up their second world tour, ACT: SWEET MIRAGE, at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan.

With members dropping hints and the promise of returning with better performances and hot new tracks, the anticipation for The Name Chapter: FREEFALL is soaring. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: MOAs can hardly wait to dive into TXT’s new era. Source: Twitter/@txtarchivee.

Categories
KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Stray Kids’ Bang Chan Talks About Their Hot New Track ‘Social Path’

Stray Kids recently dropped the official music video for their pre-release Japanese track “Social Path (feat. LiSA).” This video offers fans a unique window into the group’s lesser-known rebellious side, revealing a different kind of allure. The narrative, masterfully interwoven into the track, sees them harnessing superpowers to take on the world.

Stray Kids 『Social Path (feat. LiSA)』 Music Video

Bang Chan, the group’s leader, shared his thoughts on working with Japanese music icon LiSA: “This time, I had the honor of collaborating with LiSA-senpai. I feel honored to have had the opportunity to collaborate with LiSA-senpai, an artist whom we deeply respect. This song has become even more exceptional and special for me through this collaboration.” 

He further delved into the song’s lyrics, stating, “The lyrics are based on my own experiences. But as I was writing them, I thought that others might have gone through similar things. I’ve endured a lot myself, and I believe there are people out there who are still enduring hardships. The lyrics are meant to convey the message, ‘I understand what you’re going through.’ I listen to LiSA-senpai’s songs often, and they give me a lot of strength. I sincerely hope that this song, which we created together with LiSA-senpai, can give all of you a lot of power and strength as well.”

Who did Stray Kids’ do ‘Social Path’ with?

LiSA, born Risa Oribe, is a celebrated Japanese singer and songwriter from Seki, Gifu. Affiliated with the label Sacra Music under Sony Music Artists, she draws inspiration from artists like Avril Lavigne, Oasis, and Rihanna. Recently, Netflix premiered a documentary titled LiSA Another Great Day, spotlighting her illustrious career. In 2022, her hit single “Issei no Kassai” was chosen to be the theme song of the 2022 FIFA World Cup broadcasts by Abema TV and TV Asahi. In May 2023, LiSA announced her contribution to the Japanese dub of the animated movie Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, marking her first foray into creating theme songs for Hollywood films.

After this collaboration, Stray Kids is set to drop their first Japanese EP on September 6. This EP will feature “Social Path (feat. LiSA)” and the Japanese version of “Super Bowl.”

From their Korean hits to Japanese tracks, Stray Kids continues to expand their musical horizons, collaborating with iconic artists and delivering powerful messages through their songs. With “Social Path,” they continue to prove their versatility, immense talent, and commitment to connecting with fans worldwide. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: ‘Social Path’ mirrors Bang Chan’s experiences. Source: Twitter/@CaptainCB97s.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

IZ*ONE Alum Honda Hitomi Announces Graduation From AKB48

On August 31, fans of the renowned J-pop supergroup AKB48 received a shock. Honda Hitomi, a beloved member and one of its superstars, announced her graduation from the group. She wrote, “I, Honda Hitomi, will graduate from AKB48. As the representative of Tochigi prefecture in Team 8, I have been in AKB48 for about 10 years now.”

“I served as the group’s center twice, as a member of Team 8. I was a member of IZ*ONE, and was given the chance to be a senbatsu member,” she continued. “With these experiences, I have grown day by day. I feel confident that all of this will serve as my foundation and illuminate my future. I’m grateful to Akimoto-sensei, who has helped me grow up to this point, to the fans who always support me, to the staff, to the members, and to everyone who has worked hard in their work. I was able to spend happy days with everyone.”

Furthermore, Hitomi conveyed her gratitude for the love she received during her time with AKB48. She mentioned, “I will be leaving such a blessed environment I am truly grateful for, but I will never forget the love I received from everyone. I will continue to challenge various things and expand my potential. The single that will be released on September 27 will be the last single I will participate in, so I will be participating in all the talk sessions that have been announced. Regarding graduation performances and such, we will let you know as soon as they are decided.”

According to an official blog post by AKB48, Hitomi‘s activities with the group will persist, including the Budokan concerts, handshake events, and online talk sessions until January 2024.

What will Hitomi do next?

IZ*ONE, where Hitomi was a member, carved a niche in the K-pop scene, amassing an international fanbase known as WIZONE. However, the group disbanded on April 29, 2021, after the expiration of their exclusive contract. Despite this, all the members, including Hitomi, continue to make their mark in the entertainment world.

Hitomi, a multifaceted talent, isn’t merely a singer and songwriter. She’s also an actress, model, and radio host. After IZ*ONE‘s disbandment, she returned to Japan and made a comeback with AKB48 with the song “Nemohamo Rumor.” Earlier this year, rumors circulated about Hitomi joining Mnet’s survival show Queendom Puzzle, but they were quickly debunked. 

HONDA HITOMI IS BACK !!!!!

With her graduation from AKB48 on the horizon, speculations are rife about Hitomi joining former IZ*ONE bandmate Miyawaki Sakura at HYBE, the label behind global sensations like BTS.

As Hitomi embarks on this new chapter, fans eagerly await her next move, confident that her past experiences will guide her to even greater heights in the industry. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Hitomi, aka Hiichan, made the surprising announcement in a since-deleted YouTube video. Source: Twitter/@48RequestHour.

Exit mobile version