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E’LAST Confirms First Major Comeback For October 2023

E'LAST is finally getting ready for their first major comeback of the year
E'LAST is finally getting ready for their first major comeback of the year

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

Kim Mingyu made sure to remind the CARAT about their airport etiquette when spotting SEVENTEEN

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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Fans Raise Concern as YG Entertainment Delays Debut of New Girl Group BABYMONSTER

BABYMONSTER updates fans with a group picture. Credit: Instagram/BABYMONSTER

Fans of upcoming rookie girl group BABYMONSTER might have to wait a little longer as YG Entertainment seemingly appeared to have delayed the group’s debut, which was initially set for September. 

On Saturday, September 23, Naver reported that YG Entertainment is delaying the debut of BABYMONSTER due to “quality enhancement.” Moreover, the group’s debut song will reportedly fall under the strong hip–hop genre. Hence, the agency is reportedly putting more effort into the song. 

Initially, YG Entertainment confirmed in July that their new girl group will debut in September. At the time, the agency shared that the members were already working on the song’s choreography and preparing for the filming of the music video. 

However, with September already drawing to a close, the agency has yet to release teasers or announcements related to BABYMONSTER’s debut. As of writing, the label also didn’t provide an update on the situation. 

Understandably, this delay has left many fans disappointed as they have been anticipating BABYMONSTER’s debut since the start of 2023. Still, most fans remain patient and hopeful with the final unveiling of the group.

What we know so far about BABYMONSTER

Composed of Ruka, Pharita, Asa, Ahyeon, Haram, Rora, and Chiquita, the seven-member girl group were formed through YG Entertainment’s survival show Last Evaluation.

Initially, only five members were supposed to debut. But the agency’s founder Yang Si Hyuk listened to the viewers’ opinions of having all the seven members take part in the group.

Interestingly, the seven members came from various countries. Ahyeon, Haram and Rora are the South Korean members of the group. Meanwhile, members Asa and Ruka are from Japan. Lastly, Thai members Pharita and Chiquita completed the lineup.

Even before making their debut, BABYMONSTER had already earned recognition from K-pop fans due to their “all-rounder” skills. All eight of their Last Evaluation episodes on Youtube have surpassed eight millions views each. 

In May, BABYMONSTER teased the fans with their pre-debut track “DREAM.” Within four months of its release, the music video for the track has already garnered over 50 million views.

Fans’ assumptions over YG’s moves

While fans’ anticipation for the group’s debut becomes higher, the uncertainty gets more extreme as well. With the announcement of the delay, fans cannot help but raise assumptions over YG Entertainment’s moves.

Some fans have speculated that the group’s debut was delayed due to one of its members leaving. Eagle-eyed fans have pointed out that Ahyeon has been missing from the group’s social media content with her last video posted in July.

The group was also seen attending BLACKPINK’s Born Pink finale concert in Seoul, but only six members were present. Based on the photos circulating online, Ahyeon wasn’t in attendance.

With Ahyeon’s absence and the label keeping mum about it, fans continue to worry for the singer. Out of all the members, Ahyeon is considered as one with the most public recognition as she went viral for her cover of Charlie Puth’s “Dangerously.”

On the other hand, some fans are speculating that YG Entertainment is delaying BABYMONSTER’s debut due to their unsettled contract negotiations with the label’s other girl group BLACKPINK. 

Currently, the worldwide sensation superstars are in talks with the agency as their seven-year contract has expired in 2023. Although there are rumors of the members leaving the agency, YG Entertainment remains firm that there’s no final decision yet. 

 

BABYMONSTER is set to be YG Entertainment’s first girl group in about seven years, after BLACKPINK’s debut in 2015.

Featured image: BABYMONSTER updates fans with a group picture. Credit: Instagram/BABYMONSTER

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IVE’s Jang Won Young Debuts Blond Hair in ‘Either Way’ Concept Photos

IVE’s Jang Wonyoung recently surprised fans by debuting a new blond hairstyle in concept photos for their upcoming comeback with the 1st EP album ‘I’VE MINE’. The release of individual teaser videos was followed by these striking ‘Either Way’ concept photos of Wonyoung, instantly sparking excitement among fans worldwide.

Jang Won Young Unveils Blond Hair in New IVE Concept Photos

Jang Wonyoung’s blond hair accentuated her already flawless and elegant facial features, creating quite a buzz in the K-pop community. Her captivating gaze into the camera added to the anticipation surrounding IVE’s upcoming album, as fans eagerly await the new story that the group will convey through their music.

The change in Wonyoung’s hairstyle not only showcases her versatility but also adds an intriguing element to IVE’s overall concept for their upcoming release, further piquing the curiosity of fans and raising expectations for what’s to come.

It’s a welcome change but not one that DIVEs were expecting. After all, Jang Won Young had previously made it clear that she was not interested in changing her hairstyle. One fan tried to convince the idol during IVE’s recent performance at KCON LA 2023. At first, Wonyoung seemed to appreciate the fan’s fake magazine featuring a Photoshopped image of the idol with blond hair. However, she later made her feelings clear when she encountered the DIVE during the concert.

Jang Wonyoung got her start when she placed first in the Mnet girl group survival show “Produce 101”. She debuted as a member of Iz*One in 2018 but the group disbanded on April 29, 2021. Wonyoung would get her second chance at superstardom when she became a part of IVE.

IVE is currently preparing for their first mini album ‘I’VE MINE’ which is set for release next year. The girl group recently dropped the teaser video for the title track “Either Way”. In the meantime, the new EP is set for release on October 13, 2023.

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GF Entertainment Apologizes To Muslim Community for KINGDOM’s Latest Album Art

GF Entertainment issues an apology addressed to the Muslim community following backlash to KINGDOM's new album art

KINGDOM’s agency, GF Entertainment, has decided to recall the albums for their upcoming 7th EP ‘History of KINGDOM Part VII: JAHAN’ due to a controversy surrounding its original design. The album cover received immediate criticism for its resemblance to the Quran’s cover upon its release. In response to the backlash, GF Entertainment has taken the step to address the issue and apologize to the Muslim community. The agency also announced their intention to recall the albums with the offending artwork.

KINGDOM Recalls New EP Pre-Orders Following Backlash

On September 25, GF Entertainment issued an official apology about KINGDOM’s upcoming mini album.

“We’ve recently received feedback concerning the cover of KINGDOM’s 7th mini album, which was originally scheduled for pre-order on the 21st. It has been pointed out that the design bears some resemblance to the Islamic scripture,” the statement read.

“KINGDOM is a group that strives to showcase the richness of world cultures through K-pop, with a strong commitment to promoting cultural diversity and coexistence. We deeply regret that this controversy has arisen due to our lack of awareness and oversight, and we acknowledge our shortcomings in this matter. We offer our sincere apologies to the Muslim community and anyone else who may have felt discomforted by this situation,” it continues.

The statement further states that the company is “taking steps to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.” It then confirms that the agency will “recall and discard all 70,000 copies of the initial album edition and proceed with a reissue.”

Pre-orders for KINGDOM’s new album were initially set for September 21. However, it will now recommence on September 26, 2023. Needless to say, the decision reflects the agency’s commitment to respecting cultural sensitivities and avoiding any unintentional offense.

KINGDOM’s 7th EP is titled ‘History of KINGDOM Part VII: JAHAN’. The upcoming album is expected to be released on October 18, 2023.

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NU’EST Members Reunite For the 1st Time After Disbandment

All five members of NU'EST gathered together for a dinner. Credit: X/Hwang Min Hyun

Drought is over,  L.O.Λ.! All five members of NU’EST had a reunion for the first time since the group disbanded in March 2022. 

On Saturday, September 23, NU’EST members Hwang Min Hyun, Baekho, Ren, Aron, and JR, gathered for a casual dinner. All members also made sure to share the precious moments on their personal Instagram accounts as well.

On his personal X (formerly Twitter) account, Min Hyun also shared some details about their get-together. In the translated post, he told fans: “It’s been a while since we met and we talked a lot!”

When one fan asked if they had a good time, the singer answered:  “Everyone was doing well!”

 

Aside from Min Hyun, Aron also opened up to fans about the group’s get-together. 

Fans’ reactions

Fans, especially the group’s fandom L.O.Λ (pronounced as LOVE), were understandably sentimental upon seeing the photos of the group. What made it more special is that it was the first public appearance of all the five  members together since their disbandment in March 2022.

“NU’EST reunion got me in tears, I am extra sensitive today,” one wrote.

 

Given that NU’EST disbanded over a year ago, fans are delighted to see that the members still have a close bond.

Where are the NU’EST members now?

For those unaware, NU’EST debuted in 2012 under Pledis Entertainment, which is now a sub-label of HYBE CORP. 

In 2022, the group’s 10-year contract with the agency was no longer renewed. Which left NU’EST with no choice but to discontinue group activities. 

Since then, the members have been embarking on their solo journeys.

Baekho, who decided to stay with PLEDIS, was the first member to debut as a soloist. In October 2022, he dropped his mini album Absolute Zero with the title track “No Rules.” In August 2023, he made his comeback with the single “Elevator.”

Meanwhile, Min Hyun, who is the only member alongside Baekho to stay with their previous agency, also made his solo debut with his first mini album Truth or Lie in February 2023. Apart from that, he also focused on his acting career, having starred in various dramas including Alchemy of Souls, its second season Light and Shadow, and the recently concluded My Lovely Liar.

Their fellow member Ren, worked on a few musicals since NU’EST’s disbandment. In June 2023, he released his first solo mini-album Ren’dezvous under his new agency, Big Planet Made. Said agency is home to artists Soyou, Lee Mu-Jin, and the trio Viviz.

On the other hand, JR, whose real name is Kim Jong Hyun, also embarked on his solo journey as an artist by dropping his first mini album MERIDIEM in November 2022. Additionally, he also starred in two dramas: Sound Candy and It Was Spring in 2023.

Lastly, the group’s oldest member Aron, made his solo debut in June 2023 with the album Time Difference. In May, the singer held his first Asia tour SPECTRUM OF,  in celebration of his birthday in the same month.

Featured image: All five members of NU’EST gathered together for a dinner. Credit: Instagram/Hwang Min Hyun

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Look: Block B Gets Together Ahead of P.O.’s Military Discharge

All seven members of BLOCK B had a mini-reunion. Credit: Instagram/Park Kyung

Block B’s youngest member P.O. is set to get discharged from his mandatory military service soon. With much excitement, his Block B brothers made sure to get together and celebrate this feat.

On Saturday, September 23, Park Kyung shared a photo of all seven members’ reunion for a celebratory meal through his personal Instagram account. In the caption, he wrote:“Our youngest is going to be discharged soon.”

P.O., who enlisted back on March 28, 2022, will officially be discharged on September 27, 2023. Interestingly, P.O. is the last member to complete his service as Zico, Taeil, B-Bomb, Jaehyo, U-Kwon and Park Kyung were discharged from duty in the previous years.

OT7: Fans’ excitement for the group

With all the seven members now done with their military service, fans took to social media their excitement upon seeing all seven Block B members reunite.

 

Others, meanwhile, are already looking forward to the group’s future activities, especially their much-awaited OT7 comeback. 

https://twitter.com/ReVeluv_OT5/status/1705693119394767140

More about Block B

In 2011, the seven-member boy group debuted under Stardom Entertainment. But in August 203, they moved to another agency, Seven Seasons, after a legal dispute with their initial label. 

Since then, BLOCK B has released numerous hits including “Nilili Mambo,” “HER,” “Very Good,” “Toy,” and “Jackpot.”

However, in 2018, the group’s leader Zico left the company and established his own label, KOZ Entertainment. Then, he gained popularity as a solo artist with his hit tracks like “Any Song,” and“Okey Dokey. One of his most viral song is  the Street Man Fighter single “New Thing.”

In 2021, P.O. also parted ways with Seven Seasons after the expiration of his contract. Shortly after, he signed with a new label Artist Company. 

Meanwhile, members Jaehyo, B-Bomb and U-Kwon did not renew their contracts with the agency as well after its expiration in January 2023. As of writing, only Taeil and Park Kyung are under Seven Seasons.

With the group’s current set-up and enlistment hiatus, Block B has not released new music in more than five years. They had their last full-group comeback in 2018 with the album Re: MONTAGE.

Featured image: All seven members of BLOCK B had a mini-reunion. Credit: Instagram/Park Kyung

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BTS’ Jungkook to Release Digital Single, ‘3D (feat. Jack Harlow)’

BTS‘ golden maknae, Jungkook, is set to drop a new digital single, “3D (feat. Jack Harlow),” on September 29, 2023. BigHit Music, in their official press release, described the song as a “Pop/R&B track with clever expressions of feelings toward an unattainable person from the perspectives of first, second, and third dimensions.” The agency added that fans can expect Jungkook to showcase “an even more mature side” of himself in this release. Jack Harlow, known for his unique rap style, has lent his voice to the track, adding a distinct flavor.

This release follows Jungkook‘s summer smash, “Seven (feat. Latto).” It left an indelible mark in pop-culture history and showcased the depth of Jungkook‘s artistry. Given his previous single’s success, fans eagerly await the release of “3D (feat. Jack Harlow).”

정국 (Jung Kook) ‘3D’ Hero Film 01

The buzz around this single began when Jungkook gave a significant hint at the 2023 Global Citizen Music Festival in New York City. During the rehearsals, a video showcased random clips of the singer. The video ended with “JUNGKOOK” and “3D” written in bold fonts. Fans, in their excitement, recorded and shared the video online before the actual performance. 

Jungkook officially unveiled it after performing “Seven,” “Still With You,” “Euphoria,” and solo versions of BTS‘ “Dynamite” and “Permission to Dance.” It was later revealed to be the second of two teasers for the song when BigHit Music uploaded both to YouTube.

정국 (Jung Kook) ‘3D’ Hero Film 02

Jungkook talks ‘3D’

After the festival, Jungkook went live on Weverse. He shared, “It’s been a while. I’m coming on for a bit to see you guys. You saw the video released, right? ‘3D’ featuring Jack Harlow. And today, I had the Global Citizen stage… and I tossed out the idea of releasing the video after the performance, and it really happened. Ah, but who took a video of the rehearsal and posted it? You can’t do that; it was supposed to be a surprise.”

Discussing his time away from Weverse, he mentioned, “Of course, I’ve been busy, but there were actually a few times where I had the time to go on live. But… people will lose their curiosity and excitement if I come on too often, so… Of course, this friendly and family-like vibe is nice, but as a singer, I decided not to.”

Reflecting on his performance, Jungkook added, “I’m in New York, but thank you to everyone who came to see me for Global Citizen. And, of course, for those in Korea, thank you for supporting me from afar. How was the stage today? I didn’t get to monitor it properly; I just skimmed through it once. I hope you all liked it. Ah, but the stage itself… my condition is always better during the rehearsals than performances.”

He teased his new single and plans, saying, “Anyways, ‘3D’ is coming out soon, so look forward to it. It’s a completely different style from ‘Seven.’ It’s also almost Chuseok, and there’s a reason things have to happen so fast; it’s for all of you. What could be coming afterward? I’m so curious. Think of it like a Chuseok present! Because it’s Chuseok in Korea. You’re curious, right? Keep being curious. You’ll get good news soon. Thank you again so much for today, and look forward to ‘3D.’ I’ll promote it well, so please support me!” – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This is one of the concept photos Jungkook’s label posted on X. Source: X/@BIGHIT_MUSIC.

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2PM’s Taecyeon Reflects on Long Career and Ultimate Acting Goal

The 'XO, Kitty' star discussed his career that has spanned over 15 years and his plans on achieving his acting goal

There is little doubt that Taecyeon is one of the most successful icons of K-pop. After all, the 2PM member has been in the industry for over 15 years. In addition to that, Ok Taecyeon is lauded for being a talented actor. Now, the “Vincenzo” star is reflecting on his amazing career and discussing his ultimate acting goal.

Ok Taecyeon Discusses 15-Year Career and Ultimate Acting Goals

Before his solo ‘SpecialTY’ fan meeting in Manila, Ok Taecyeon conducted a press conference where he discussed his experiences in the acting and music industries, his acting projects, and more. The multi-talented artist, who debuted with 2PM in 2008, shared that even though it feels like their debut was just yesterday, he has since ventured into solo music and acting.

“15 years… For some people, it is a long time, but for me, it’s very quick. I’ve learned a lot of things from my experiences,” Taecyeon said.

Taecyeon acknowledged the challenges of being both a group member and a solo artist, emphasizing that he finds it easier in terms of responsibility to be part of a group. “When you’re a solo artist, you will be the only one taking care of everything,” he said.

In addition to his intentions to continue promoting with 2PM, the “XO, Kitty” star admitted he wants to go further in his acting career. He admitted that he has an acting goal in the future. “I want to expand my spectrum as an actor. I want to try to take on more roles,” Taecyeon said.

Regarding his acting endeavors, Taecyeon expressed his desire to explore roles that allow him to showcase his physique, hinting at his readiness to take on physically demanding roles in the future. “Maybe a boxer,” he said.

There is little doubt that Taecyeon will be able to achieve his acting goal in the future. Fans are also hoping to see more of the idol and the rest of 2PM in more promotions. In the meantime, his latest series “Heartbeat” is now streaming on Amazon Prime.

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