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GOT7’s Yugyeom Announces 5-City International Solo Tour

Yugyeom is set to embark on his own international solo tour this November. The GOT7 member has announced the tour along with the concert dates in five cities across Europe. This is set to be the group maknae‘s second solo concert tour since his departure from JYP Entertainment.

Yugyeom Confirms New International Solo Tour

On September 26, Yugyeom shared an official poster for his upcoming international solo tour. ‘Yugyeom in Europe 2023’ is scheduled to begin on November 1 in Paris and will take him to several European cities, including London, Berlin, Madrid, and Frankfurt, concluding on November 10.

https://twitter.com/yugyeom/status/1706287616612880393

The confirmed cities and tour dates are as follows:

  • Nov 1st: Paris, Bataclan
  • Nov 2nd: London, Troxy
  • Nov 4th: Berlin, Huxleys Neue Welt
  • Nov 7th: Madrid, Sala Black Box
  • Nov 10th: Frankfurt, ZOOM

It is great news for GOT7 fans who were not able to see Yugyeom when he toured Europe last year. Needless to say, AHGASEs based in Europe can’t wait to see Kim Yugyeom again later in November.

The solo tour comes after the exciting announcement that Yugyeom will be joining fellow artists SHINee’s Taemin and GIRL’S GENERATION’s Hyoyeon for the ‘K-MAGIC LIVE’ music event in the Philippines on October 13 at Manila’s Mall of Asia Arena.

Fans eagerly awaiting the opportunity to see Yugyeom perform live in Europe can mark their calendars, as tickets for ‘Yugyeom in Europe 2023’ are set to go on sale on October 6, 2023. This solo tour also promises to be an unforgettable experience for Yugyeom’s fans as they get to witness his talent and charisma on stage.

Yugyeom has been promoting as a solo artist after signing with AOMG in February 2021. However, he later reunited with Jay B, Mark, Jackson, Jinyoung, Youngjae, and BamBam for the self-titled EP ‘GOT7’ in May of the same year. He recently released the single album ‘LOLO’ in July 2023.

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ONEUS’ Leedo Discusses Group Goals and Future Contract Renewal

ONEUS is no longer a rookie group and it looks like their goals have been evolving. Rapper Leedo confirmed that things have changed for the idols since they debuted in 2019. Kim Geonhak also discussed the future of ONEUS and the possibility of renewing their contracts with RBW Entertainment.

Leedo Candidly Discusses ONEUS’ Future

ONEUS is currently preparing for a comeback with their new album ‘La Dolce Vita’ and that means it’s a good time to reflect on the past. In a new interview, Leedo shared that he and his fellow members used to be fixated on becoming “No. 1 group”. However, he confirmed that their group goals have changed since then.

“At first, I was obsessed with the rankings. I was hurt a lot,” Leedo said. “The title of ‘No. 1 singer’ seemed sweet. After participating in the contest program, I came back and realized that if we focus too much on numbers, we can falter musically.

Interestingly, ONEUS’ plans to become a No. 1 group are not the only things that have evolved over time. According to Leedo, he and his group members openly discuss their future which would include the possibility of renewing their contracts.

“There are two years left (in the contract period). I think the members will talk a lot among themselves before they rush to make a decision,” he said. “I think it will be okay for the members to decide among themselves for two years.”

Leedo also addressed the possibility of the ONEUS members pursuing their own careers. “I think I want to continue as a team, but it could end when the contract ends. There are many variables. It’s a matter to think about gradually,” he said cautiously.

It’s an interesting yet hopeful outlook towards the future and fans are certainly wishing ONEUS the best. In the meantime, ‘La Dolce Vita’ will be released on September 26, 2023.

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Why Did TXT’s Yeonjun Cry at the ‘Back for More’ MV Shoot?

TXT‘s Yeonjun, known for his talent and charisma, recently showcased a more emotional side while filming their “Back For More” music video. The reason? A surprise from two of his close friends.

In March 2022, SBS’s Inkigayo announced a fresh lineup of hosts, including actress Roh Jeong Eui, actor Seo Bum June, and Yeonjun. Replacing the former MCs, this trio quickly bonded, earning the affectionate nickname “Jjunijjun.” However, a year into their tenure, Yeonjun was gearing up for TXT‘s world tour, while Roh Jeong Eui and Seo Bum June‘s contracts ended. Despite their professional parting, their personal bond remained unbroken.

Even as Yeonjun continued his MC duties with new partners, BOY NEXT DOOR‘s Woonhak and actress Park Ji Hu, the camaraderie of the “Jjunijjun” trio remained strong. A behind-the-scenes video from TXT‘s official YouTube channel captured a poignant moment: Yeonjun‘s discovery of a coffee truck on set, a gift from Roh Jeong Eui and Seo Bum June. Aside from photos of the trio, the truck bore a touching message.

[EPISODE] TXT (투모로우바이투게더) ‘Back for More (with Anitta)’ MV Shoot Sketch

What did the message say?

“The thing about our Yeonjunie… Everyone obviously knows this, but he’s really handsome, has great skin, sings really well, dances really well, he’s cool, dresses well, is well-mannered, is witty, speaks English well, is loyal, and is someone with a really beautiful heart,” the note began.

Detailing Yeonjun‘s endearing quirks and preferences, it continued, “Sometimes, he might shake his butt and tell you to take pictures with him while putting his finger up his nose, but he does that because he feels close to that person, so please understand him. Also, Yeonjunie likes the non-fried Shin Ramen, he likes spam, he likes meat. He likes rice, he likes his work, and he likes people. So please give Yeonjunie a lot of love and support.”

Concluding with heartfelt wishes, the message read, “Our Yeonjun and the TXT members, I hope your body and mind will always be healthy, and please stay together for a long, long time. Good luck on your comeback, too. Yeonjun, we love you. P.S. Everyone reading this message, please support and encourage our Yeonjun and TXT members by telling them you love them and that they’re always working hard. Pat their butts and their heads.”

JJuNiJJun friendship 💜💙 (Yeonjun, Jeongeui and Bumjune )

It brought Yeonjun to tears

The profound sentiment behind these words brought Yeonjun to tears, especially given his recent message to the “Jjunijjun” group chat, sharing his current challenges and longing to reunite. Rather than just meeting up, his friends sent this coffee truck as a tangible token of their unwavering support.

The trio’s consistent gestures of support, from gifts to social media shoutouts, underscore that their bond transcends professional commitments. Their friendship, forged in the limelight, thrives behind the scenes. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Tears sprang to Yeonjun’s eyes when he saw what his friends had done. Source: YouTube/@TXT_bighit.

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TXT Drops ‘The Name Chapter: FREEFALL’ Concept Teaser

TXT unveiled the first glimpse of their concept for The Name Chapter: FREEFALL. Released on September 25 at midnight KST, the concept teaser sets the stage for their next full-length album, due out on October 13 at 1:00 PM KST. The teaser explored the nature of hope, ending with these words: “Sometimes magical moments can be found in the most unmagical places.” Finally, a bright blue flower stood out, capturing fans’ attention.

The Name Chapter: FREEFALL continues the story that began in the boys’ last album. Previously, TXT touched upon the youth’s susceptibility to temptation. This new album follows a group of boys who once fled reality but now choose to confront it. Netizens determined that the blue flower in the teaser is the star-shaped borage flower. It served as a focal point of the teaser, sparking curiosity about its connection to the new album’s narrative.

TXT (투모로우바이투게더) The Name Chapter: FREEFALL Concept Teaser

What are borage flowers?

Borage flowers symbolize courage, positivity, spirituality, and transformation. They seem to be a central motif for TXT‘s comeback. The group appears to be using borage flowers to convey a deep, meaningful narrative about facing challenges and the concept of growth. The teaser suggests a new, transformative beginning for the group. They’re moving from being easily swayed by temptation to facing reality. That requires courage and hope, making the borage flower an appropriate symbol.

Borage flowers get their name from the Celtic word “borrach,” meaning “courage.” They often appeared in art and literature mainly because of their unique shape and vibrant color. In medieval times, borage flowers symbolized a knight’s courage, and they appeared in different books and poems alongside illustrations of knights or soldiers. Greek myths claim that these flowers surrounded Zeus’s palace, and warriors ate them to enhance their courage.

TXT set a personal record

In other news, TXT recently released a pre-release single, “Back for More (feat. Anitta),” which they debuted to much acclaim at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards. Their upcoming album, The Name Chapter: FREEFALL, has already set a personal record, surpassing 2.35 million stock pre-orders in just eight days. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The teaser suggests a transformative journey for the boys. Source: YouTube/@HYBELABELS.

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PLEDIS Entertainment Apologizes for Beijing Edition of ‘SEVENTEEN Right Here’ Video

As SEVENTEEN gears up for their comeback with their new mini album SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN, the group’s agency PLEDIS Entertainment has been releasing teaser videos featuring various cities all over the world. Each city’s teaser shows the smiling chamomile flowers from SEVENTEEN’s album artwork for SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN floating around a famous landmark from that city. In the Paris teaser, the flowers are shown floating on the Seine River, while in the New York teaser, the flowers bounce up and down the streets of Times Square.

@seventeen17_official

SEVENTEEN Right here! #NewYork #SEVENTEEN #세븐틴 #SEVENTEENTH_HEAVEN

♬ 오리지널 사운드 – SEVENTEEN – SEVENTEEN

However, the Beijing version sparked controversy. The video showed the flowers growing all over the Great Wall of China, leading to backlash on social media. Fans expressed dissatisfaction, citing a lack of understanding of the country’s culture on the part of PLEDIS Entertainment. In response, the agency quickly addressed the situation, deleted the teaser, and released a statement.

Their statement read, in part, “We immediately deleted the Beijing version of the video. We apologize for making the fans uncomfortable, and we’ll be more careful in the future. We’ll try to create content that fans from many countries, cultures, and regions can all enjoy together.”

CARATS remain unhappy with PLEDIS

Despite the agency’s apology, fans had mixed reactions. Some were satisfied that the agency addressed a sensitive issue quickly. Others pointed out the agency’s inconsistency regarding other controversies. For instance, when Joshua, a member of SEVENTEEN, was embroiled in a dating rumor with influencer/model Mi Young, the agency remained silent despite significant backlash against the idol. Since the rumors surfaced, Joshua has faced unwarranted hatred on social media. Fans are now trying to protect Joshua from this hate. They’re also urging the agency to respond as swiftly to any unwarranted hate towards their artists. They want PLEDIS Entertainment to handle such cases the way they handled the album controversy.

SEVENTEEN‘s mini-album, SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN, is set to release on October 23. Fans await the release, hoping for a successful comeback for the group. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Their teaser missed the mark. Sources: X/@pledisnews and @svtcontents.

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Jennie and Jisoo Will Reportedly Set Up Their Own Agencies

Jennie and Jisoo, two prominent members of the renowned girl group BLACKPINK, reportedly put up their own talent agencies, as reported by media outlet News1 on the 25th. However, discussions with the group’s agency, YG Entertainment, regarding BLACKPINK‘s activities continue. It seems that the agencies founded by these two members will focus primarily on their solo endeavors.

https://www.tiktok.com/@winterxxviii/video/7281190148623158533?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=6908322787502065153

The BLACKPINK members’ plans

According to an executive from Sports Seoul, multiple music insiders have revealed that another BLACKPINK member, Rosé, has renewed her contract with YG. The remaining three—Jennie, Jisoo, and Lisa—are in the final stages of discussing a “separate yet together” strategy. This would allow them to work with agencies other than YG but continue to participate in group activities for half the year. This strategy mirrors the agreement Super Junior members Donghae, Eunhyuk, and Kyuhyun have with SM Entertainment.

A previous report suggested that Lisa, the Thai member enjoying immense international popularity, is moving to a foreign agency. She was said to have received an offer worth billions of KRW. Others say she and Jisoo, who is reportedly interested in an acting career, signed with domestic (Korean) agencies. Insiders have mentioned that foreign investors have already poured significant funds, recognizing Jisoo‘s potential as an actress and Lisa‘s influence in the Southeast Asian market.

However, YG Entertainment was quick to respond to the Sports Seoul report. The agency issued a statement saying nothing is confirmed regarding BLACKPINK’s contracts or their future as a group, Interestingly, there was only a 13-minute gap between the News1 exclusive and YG’s response.

@bp_tiktok

BLACKPINK WORLD TOUR [BORN PINK] SEOUL FINALE HIGHLIGHT CLIP #BLACKPINK #블랙핑크 #WORLDTOUR #BORNPINK #SEOUL #FINALE #YG

♬ How You Like That – BLACKPINK

An evolving story

BLACKPINK debuted in 2016 and spent the next seven years churning out hits. The girls captivated fans worldwide with “Boombayah,” “Ddu-Du Ddu-Du,” “How You Like That,” “Pink Venom,” and more. Given the group’s impact and popularity, all eyes are on the outcome of these negotiations.

In the year leading up to the contract renewal, BLACKPINK embarked on the BORN PINK tour. Spanning approximately a year, the tour covered 34 cities with 66 performances and attracted a staggering 1.8 million fans. This makes it the largest-scale tour for a K-pop girl group. They also headlined major festivals like the Coachella Festival in the US and Hyde Park in the UK.

Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving story. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: What do you think of this news, BLINKs? Source: X/@globalmyeon.

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EXO’s D.O. Becomes a Farmer in Teaser for New Variety Show

Lee Kwang Soo, EXO’s D.O., Kim Woo Bin, and Kim Ki Bang are set to bring humor and camaraderie to the small screen with their upcoming variety show “You Reap What You Sow.” The show recently unveiled a teaser video and posters, giving fans a glimpse into the quartet’s comedic farm life.

Do Kyungsoo Becomes a Farmer in Delightful New Show

In the teaser, the four friends are seen navigating the challenges of farm life on a vast 500-pyeong (about 17,792 square feet) field. Despite their lack of farming experience, they display lively chemistry and engage in chaotic moments that promise laughter. The teaser includes scenes of their first harvest celebration, farming struggles, and D.O.’s mouth-watering mukbang moments, showcasing their diverse talents.

Two posters were also released, featuring the cast in rural attire and striking hilariously awkward poses. The first poster captures their playful and comical side, while the second poster highlights their genuine smiles against the scenic farm backdrop.

Produced by PD Na Young Suk, “You Reap What You Sow” adopts a lighthearted documentary style as it follows the four stars on their farming adventure in the countryside. With their collective inexperience in farming, viewers can also look forward to a series of humorous mishaps as they tackle the challenge of plowing a small field together.

The show’s tagline, “A Comic Documentary of Real Besties’ Facation (Farming Vacation),” hints at the heartwarming and comedic moments viewers can expect as these close friends embark on a unique farming journey. The show’s premiere is also eagerly anticipated by fans hoping to see the chemistry and camaraderie of Lee Kwang Soo, D.O., Kim Woo Bin, and Kim Ki Bang.

Not surprisingly, EXO-Ls are already hyped up about the idea of seeing D.O. as a farmer. Luckily, fans will finally be able to see it happening next month. “You Reap What You Sow” will premiere on October 13, 2023.

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E’LAST Confirms First Major Comeback For October 2023

E’LAST is getting ready for their first major comeback of the year! The boy group has just confirmed that they will be releasing new music in October. This is set to be the idols’ first album to be dropped since last year’s ‘Roar’!

E’LAST Confirms First Major Comeback Since ‘Roar’

E’LAST thrilled fans with a social media announcement on September 24, regarding their highly anticipated upcoming release. The group is set to make their mark on the October music scene with the launch of their 4th mini album, titled “iDENTIFICATION,” scheduled for October 17, 2023.

Since dropping the teaser, E’LAST also shared the official scheduler for their upcoming release. It confirms that they will begin releasing concept photos on September 27. The concept videos will then commence on October 6 while the track list will be unveiled on October 12. Finally, fans can hear the highlight medley on the 13th.

This comeback marks E’LAST’s first significant return of the year, following their earlier release of the digital single “Thrill.” Their previous 3rd mini album, ‘Roar,’ had made its debut in April 2022. Fans are eagerly anticipating the group’s new mini album and the fresh music it will bring to their growing discography.

‘iDENTIFICATION’ will be E’LAST’s first release without Seungyeop who is currently serving in the military. In January 2023, it was confirmed that Seungyeop would enter the mandatory military service at the 28th Infantry Division Military Enlistment Training Center.

E’LAST made their debut in June 2020, with their first EP ‘Day Dream’ with the title track “Swear.” The group’s debut EP held a special significance as it featured contributions from members Rano, Baekgyeul, Won Hyuk, and Wonjun, who were actively involved in writing and composing songs for the album. E’LAST, under the banner of E Entertainment, proudly holds the distinction of being the first group to emerge from the agency. Their name, E’LAST, is derived from the term “Everlasting,” symbolizing both “Eternity” and “Infinity,” reflecting the group’s ambition and commitment to leaving an enduring mark in the world of K-pop.

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SEVENTEEN’s Mingyu Calls Out Fan For Violating Airport Etiquette

SEVENTEEN’s Mingyu has garnered attention for addressing a fan’s lack of airport etiquette. The issue of fan behavior at airports has been a hot topic of debate among netizens in recent months, with videos from airports worldwide depicting idols being mobbed and large crowds gathering, despite their companies’ scheduling statements. Still, Kim Mingyu made sure to remind one stealthy CARAT to follow the rules at the airport.

Mingyu Calls Out CARAT Who Kept Filming SEVENTEEN At The Airport

Recently, SEVENTEEN was spotted at an airport in Europe, where they had been filming for “Youth Over Flowers” and participating in other schedules. Many fans had expressed their desire for the members to enjoy their time abroad without any intrusion into their privacy. However, footage of the members leaving Europe began to circulate.

One particular fan kept filming Mingyu until he decided to make sure they got the message. The SEVENTEEN member discreetly pointed to the sign once again to emphasize the message and remind the fan not to record the idols.

Not surprisingly, Mingyu has since received praise for “calling out” a fan who was recording the members even after airport staff had pointed out a notice prohibiting filming. The action resonated with fans and garnered positive attention, highlighting the importance of respecting idols’ privacy and following airport etiquette.

SEVENTEEN is currently preparing for an October comeback later this year. The 13-member boy group will be dropping their 11th mini album ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN’ which will be released on October 23, 2023. But before dropping the new EP, the idols will also be calling in CARATs to celebrate a special festival.

PLEDIS Entertainment has confirmed that a second SEVENTEEN STREET will be opened in Seongsu. The upcoming festival includes an art wall, food, and a cafe. SEVENTEEN STREET in Seongsu will be open from October 4 to 9, 2023.

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Netizen Breaks Down Park Gunwook’s Impressive Rapping on ‘Knowing Bros’

On September 23, the popular variety show Knowing Bros aired its Chuseok special. The episode featured a star-studded lineup, including ZEROBASEONE’s Kim Jiwoong and Park Gunwook. It was filled with laughter and entertaining moments, but Gunwook stole the show with his rapping.

형님들의 마음을 뒤흔드는 건욱의 아형 헌정 자작 랩💙 | 아는 형님 402회 | JTBC 230923 방송

An entertaining and relevant rap

Gunwook, visibly flustered while dancing with Seo Janghoon, looked significantly more relaxed as he performed a freestyle rap about Knowing Bros. It was evident that Gunwook had put considerable effort into crafting his rap, ensuring it was entertaining and relevant to the show. 

Netizen @dearpgw made a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter) about how much they enjoyed Gunwook’s rap. They believed it showcased the rookie idol’s great talent, incredible efforts, and his sense to seize the opportunity and make himself shine.

Gunwook’s rap included references to various members of the show, such as Heechul, Kang Hodong, Kim Youngchul, Lee Jinho, Lee Sangmin, Lee Soogeun, Min Kyunghoon, and Seo Janghoon. He cleverly incorporated their catchphrases, characteristics, and notable achievements into his rap, earning admiration and respect from fans and viewers.

Gunwook takes his craft seriously

For instance, Gunwook acknowledged Kang Hodong‘s time as a top Korean traditional wrestler. He likened the comedian to kaisendong, a donburi dish made of a variety of seafood, as a way to show that Hodong is a man of many talents. He also mentioned Seo Janghoon‘s admirable basketball career and association with Yonsei University, showing deep respect for his achievements.

Additionally, Gunwook chose the instrumental of “Nas Is Like” by Nas for his rap, reflecting his admiration for the hip-hop legend. Nas, known for his album Illmatic, is regarded as one of the greatest rappers of all time. During his time on the survival show Wild Idol, Gunwook referred to Nas as his “textbook.” This highlighted Gunwook’s sincerity and dedication to rap, as well as his extensive study of hip-hop history, from old school to new.

Park Gunwook‘s appearance on Knowing Bros was delightful. Aside from showcasing his charms, it also allowed him to prove how seriously he takes his craft. His ability to merge talent and wit sets him apart in the K-pop world. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Gunwook stole the show with his rapping. Source: X/@haobinha.

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