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NCT WISH Books Appearance on Japan’s ‘SMTOWN FIREWORKS 2024’

NCT WISH

NCT WISH is set to perform at a fireworks festival called SMTOWN FIREWORKS 2024. It’ll see fireworks lighting up the night sky in sync with music by some of the agency’s top acts. The festival will be held on April 20th in Huis Ten Bosch, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan.

@huistenbosch_official

＼✨最速抽選先行受付中✨／ 4/20(土)に #ハウステンボス で #SMTOWN_FIREWORKS_2024 を開催🎆 ミニライブに出演する #NCTWISH からのメッセージが届きました💖 専用チケットの最速抽選先行受付は3/3(日)23:59まで‼ 花火もライブもパークのアトラクションも全部楽しもう✨ #WISH #NCTWISH_WISH #SWTOWN #SMTOWN_LIVE #wish #nctwish_wish #WISH #NCTWISH #시온 #리쿠 #유우시 #재희 #료 #사쿠야 #シオン #リク #ユウシ #ジェヒ #リョウ #サクヤ #huistenbosch #はうすてんぼす #佐世保 #長崎 #nagasaki #九州 #テーマパーク #japan #旅行 #インスタ映え #日本

♬ オリジナル楽曲 – ハウステンボス公式 – ハウステンボス公式

NCT WISH plans to energize the festival atmosphere with a dynamic performance that will see them interact with the audience. The group, whose first stage took place at the Tokyo Dome in February, won over fans with their debut single “WISH” and its official music video, which showcases their refreshing, vibrant charm. Their recent appearances on Japan’s leading music shows, including NHK’s Venue 101, Nippon TV’s BUZZ RHYTHM 02, and TV Tokyo’s Music Festival SP, have solidified their presence in the Japanese music scene.

The group also connected with Korean fans at their first official fan meeting, held at the Blue Square Mastercard Hall in Seoul.

‘최초 공개’ NCT WISH – WISH (Korean Ver.) #엠카운트다운 EP.832 | Mnet 240307 방송

NCT WISH received support from BoA

When they appeared on Mnet’s M Countdown for the first time, they received support from BoA herself. The iconic SM Entertainment soloist, who also serves as their overall producer, didn’t just cheer them on. She gave them welcome encouragement and guidance that day. Despite the fact that the pre-recording session took place in the early morning, BoA meticulously directed every aspect of the performance. She focused on their gestures and stage presence, which helped the members immensely. 

Thanks to BoA’s help, they delivered polished performances of “WISH” and the B-side track “Sail Away.” This marked a successful music show debut in South Korea for the group.

최초 공개’ NCT WISH – Sail Away (Korean Ver.) #엠카운트다운 EP.832 | Mnet 240307 방송

NCT WISH‘s “WISH” has seen remarkable success. It topped Korean music charts and secured first place on Japan’s Oricon Daily Single Chart and RecoChoku’s Daily Album Chart. Additionally, the group has led the Chinese QQ Music Japanese Music Video Chart and achieved first place in iTunes Top Albums Chart in seven regions worldwide, demonstrating their international appeal and popularity.

Through their SMTOWN FIREWORKS 2024 performance, NCT WISH will further enchant fans with their unique blend of talent and charm. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Who’s excited to see fireworks go off to the tune of NCT WISH’s music? We are! Source: X/@nctwishofficial.

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GQ Korea Unveils Jungkook-Inspired Cocktails by Pine & Co

One of GQ Korea’s latest features spotlights South Korean hotspot Pine & Co., where bartenders Du Ui-hong (Joe) and Beom-suk Park (Patt) crafted a series of cocktails inspired by BTS’s Jungkook and his debut album, GOLDEN. Located in Seoul, Pine & Co. was established in 2020 with the mission of introducing patrons to various drinking cultures through their diverse selection of cocktails. Their creations are influenced by different things, including art, culture, experiences, and stories, and are distinguished by their commitment to sustainability and innovative techniques.

Following their homage to fourth-generation K-pop groups Stray Kids and TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT), Pine & Co.’s new concoctions celebrate the essence of GOLDEN through three unique cocktails, each inspired by a specific track from Jungkook’s album. The “Incomplete Alexander” draws inspiration from the album’s title track, “Standing Next To You,” while the taste of the “Bittersweet Negroni” mirrors the complex emotions of “Hate You,” track 7. Lastly, the “Reminiscent Highball” is a nod to the poignant “Shot Glass Of Tears,” track 10.

Complex flavors

To craft the Incomplete Alexander, start by chilling a glass and gathering your ingredients: Bombay cocoa gin, coffee syrup, orange soboro, and umami cream. In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine 45 ml of Bombay cocoa gin—Bombay redistilled with cocoa nibs—and 45 ml of coffee syrup, distilled coffee liquid balanced with sugar. Mix them thoroughly, then strain the mixture into your chilled glass. Next, Whip the umami cream enhanced with salt and glutamic acid for topping. Finally, garnish with a slice of sweet bread and a sprinkle of edible gold.

For the Bittersweet Negroni, you’ll need Bombay gin, Suze, a special Blanc de Blancs vermouth, and Campari foam. Begin by preparing the vermouth: degas Blanc de Blancs champagne and infuse it with chamomile, mint, and wormwood. Meanwhile, prepare the Campari foam by charging two eggs with Campari in a nitrous oxide siphon. In a mixing glass with ice, pour 45 ml of Bombay gin, 45 ml of Suze, and 20ml of your homemade vermouth. Stir well, then strain into a glass. Finally, crown your cocktail with a generous layer of Campari foam.

@joydarramartisano

Highball drink Ingredients: • whiskey • sparkling water or soda or ginger ale recommendation Lemon-dou • lot of ice 🍻👍 #Jk #Jungkook3D #Jungkook #jungkook_seven #bts #btsarmy

♬ original sound – I Purple You💜🇸🇦🇵🇭 – I Purple You💜🇸🇦🇵🇭

A perfect tribute to Jungkook

To assemble the Reminiscent Highball, select a highball glass and cool it in advance. You’ll need Grey Goose vodka, geranium liqueur, and geranium flowers for the final touch. Begin by filling your glass with ice to the brim. Pour in 45 ml of Grey Goose, followed by 15 ml of geranium liqueur, which you can prepare by redistilling geranium leaves with vodka and balancing that with citric acid and sucrose. Top off the cocktail with soda and garnish it with fresh geranium flowers, placing them delicately atop the drink.

These cocktails aren’t just drinks; they’re an homage to Jungkook’s music, offering fans a taste of his artistry through the medium of mixology. They also demonstrate Pine & Co.’s dedication to crafting drinks that are as much about experience and storytelling as they are about taste. Fans have expressed appreciation for Pine & Co.’s gesture, recognizing it as a perfect tribute to Jungkook, who’s known for enjoying a drink or two, as seen in the live broadcasts he did before enlisting in the military. Next time you listen to GOLDEN from start to finish, make one of these cocktails to enhance the experience. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungkook would probably love these cocktails too. Sources: X/@a_girlwitluv and X/@extraRYce.

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ENHYPEN’s Jake Buys Perfume for Fan He Met at Prada Store

ENHYPEN member Jake recently made headlines when he turned a chance encounter at a Prada store into a memorable moment for a fan. On the 29th, a story shared on X (formerly Twitter) by a netizen titled “Today, an Idol Gave a Prada Perfume to a Fan” quickly captured the attention of the K-pop community. The post revealed, “Jake told us to share this story with other ENGENEs, so here I am.”

The fan detailed their unexpected meeting with Jake, saying, “We bumped into each other at a Prada store. When I hesitantly said, ‘I’m an ENGENE,’ we were both surprised. Jake said he wanted to buy something for us but wasn’t sure if he could, then gave us his autograph and left.” However, Jake later returned to the store and bought the fan a bottle of perfume. The fan noted that he used his Minion’s print check card to pay for his purchase.

The perfume in question, Prada Paradoxe, was launched by the luxury brand in 2022 with an ad campaign featuring British actress Emma Watson. In a review of the perfume, Glamour UK described it as, “For Prada Paradoxe, the brand went for that ultimate sexy but sweet, flower power scent. Sitting comfortably in the floral ambery olfactive family, it taps into that sensual feminine energy with only a few spritz. The top notes feature dearly loved bergamot, a citrusy tangerine and pear accord, with the heart of the scent heavy on the neroli and flower blossom, and a vanilla and amber base.”

@strawberlliee

Jake really keeps his promise 😭😭 cr. @cl0ver4j on x #jake #enhypen #fyp

♬ Daddys Home – Hans

The ENHYPEN members love their fans

Netizens’ response to Jake’s gesture was overwhelmingly positive. Many looked back on a live broadcast he did when he revealed his intention to buy an ENGENE something if they ever met in a Prada store—a promise he obviously kept. While some fans expressed concerns over the possibility of unscrupulous individuals taking advantage of his generosity, the incident showcased how much the ENHYPEN members love their fans.

Meanwhile, ENHYPEN recently held an encore concert, FATE+,  at Olympic Park in Seoul’s Songpa-gu on February 23. On February 21, their song “Bite Me” from their fourth mini album DARK BLOOD reached over 100 million views on YouTube. This achievement marks the third music video by ENHYPEN to surpass 100 million views, after “Drunk-Dazed” and “FEVER” from their second mini album BORDER: CARNIVAL.

Jake’s gesture was a real-life plot twist, turning a run-of-the-mill Prada store visit into a fan’s epic tale. It wasn’t just about the perfume; it was about breaking the invisible barrier between idol and fan, proving that sometimes, reality can be as sweet (or should we say “sweet-smelling” instead?) as fiction. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This proves Jake is the kind of guy who keeps his promises. Source: X/@enhypenupdates.

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BTS’s V Posts Emotional Message to Fans on His Instagram Stories

BTS member Kim Taehyung (aka V) is still serving in the military, having enlisted in December last year. While fans eagerly await his return along with the rest of the septet, it’s clear that V misses his supporters just as much.

On March 2, V took to Instagram Stories, posting an old video featuring all seven BTS members practicing the choreography for their hit single “Permission to Dance.” He captioned it with the words, “ARMYs haven’t forgotten about me, right? I’m still breathing, you know? Do you think of us occasionally?” This moment of vulnerability tugged at the heartstrings of fans worldwide. It prompted many to reassure V of their continued love and support.

@mitch_army_bts

@thv ig story update🥰💜 #v #taehyung #thv #bts #btsarmy #foryoupage #foryou #fyp

♬ original sound – Mr. Jeongguk🐰 – Mr. Jeongguk🐰

They took to the fan community platform Weverse to remind V that they’re also counting down the days till he completes his mandatory military service. One fan’s post caught V’s attention. They wrote, “Taehyung–ah, I’m thinking of you as naturally as breathing. You’re always sparkling in my heart, I won’t forget you. So be healthy and comfortable. I’m still here without changing.”

V replied, “Then that’s a relief~ thought it was just one-sided for me.”

The BTS member will drop a new song

Amid this exchange of love and support, V’s agency BigHit Music organized a special event to help V connect with fans. The event, named FRI(END)S Party, is scheduled for March 16 in Seongdong District, Seoul. This get-together aligns with the release of V’s new song, “FRI(END)S,” which is set to hit streaming services on the 15th. Those who attend will get to watch its official music video and leave handwritten letters and voice messages for V. This event, exclusive to BTS’s official fan club members, is intended as a gift to the fans from BigHit Music. 

“FRI(END)S” signifies V’s first new release since he dropped his debut solo album Layover in September 2023. The track is described by his agency as an English pop-soul R&B piece perfect for spring.

V’s military service has been marked by numerous achievements. He began by applying to the Capital Defense Command’s Special Division Team (SDT). He passed the document screening, interview rounds, and physical fitness tests, then enrolled in a five-week basic training course. Upon graduating, he was named an elite soldier. Finally, V went to the Army Administrative School for an additional three weeks of training.

Upon completing his advanced training, V was assigned to the “Ssangyong Unit” in the 2nd Corps of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Army, which is under the Ground Operations Command. V began his service in the military police special task force, directly overseen by the headquarters of the 2nd Corps in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province. He’s set to be discharged on June 10, 2025. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: V proved even the biggest superstars need validation from time to time. Source: X/@BTSx50States.

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BTS’s V and Jackie Chan Team Up for SimInvest Commercial

BTS’s V and Jackie Chan took the internet by storm when they appeared in a new ad for SimInvest, an Indonesian investment company. The one-minute commercial begins with V affectionately referring to the legendary Jackie Chan as his “best friend with no limits.” Viewers are treated to scenes of the K-pop idol indulging in the finer things in life, like playing squash and driving a luxury car, before joining the martial arts film legend for dinner. The highlight of the ad is when the two stars share a dance, with V teaching Chan some dance moves and Chan showing V some kung fu moves in return.

The commercial aims to prove that friendships can transcend all kinds of boundaries, including hobbies, generation, favorite sport, favorite food, ethnicity, or distance. This video also symbolizes SimInvest’s commitment to always be a friend to all its users in providing a limitless investing experience.

The campaign’s slogan, “Anywhere, anytime, anyone, experience unlimited experiences with SimInvest,” encourages Indonesians to explore the investment opportunities offered by SimInvest, accessible to anyone with an ID card. This collaboration between V and Jackie Chan aims to inspire more individuals to consider investing as a means to achieve a better financial future. The advertisement has also been featured on OOH screens around Jakarta, including the HI roundabout.

V and Jackie Chan are now #ExperienceLimitlessWithSimInvest

SimInvest execs on the impact of this collaboration

Reflecting on the impact of this collaboration, Ferita Lie, president commissioner of Sinarmas Sekuritas and director of Sinar Multiartha, stated, “Over the last two years, SimInvest has grown very rapidly thanks to the presence of V, who has a loyal fan base among young people. But we can’t stop presenting new things; that’s why we chose Jackie Chan as the second brand ambassador, side by side with V, to represent a more senior group. We are optimistic that Jackie’s figure can be in line with our vision and mission to realize financial inclusion and investment in Indonesia that is more massive and globally competitive.”

Jamial Salim Konpoi, president director of Sinarmas Sekuritas, emphasized that choosing Jackie Chan as a brand ambassador is strategic for enhancing SimInvest’s appeal and building public trust. This partnership reflects the diversity of SimInvest’s clientele. Following the ad’s release, V shared a heartwarming behind-the-scenes video on Instagram, showcasing his natural ability to connect with others, highlighted by his warm interaction with Chan.

@kimsumarie888

Kim Taehyung update his IG story today 03-01-24 with Behind the Scene Clip of Siminvest #Taehyung #JackieChan #Siminvest

♬ original sound – ✨김마리🐻👑 – ✨김마리🐻👑

V expanded SimInvest’s presence on the global stage

Since naming V as its ambassador last March, SimInvest has seen significant growth and increased global recognition, thanks in part to V’s influence. The idol did everything he could to expand SimInvest’s presence on the global stage. He participated in a series of ad campaigns and activities, including his offline fan meeting held in June of the previous year.

SimInvest plans to unveil more content featuring the dynamic duo in the coming weeks, starting with these videos.

Hello from Jackie Chan

Hello from V

Stay tuned for updates! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This collaboration wasn’t on fans’ 2024 bingo card, but they loved it nonetheless. Source: YouTube/@army_bts_do8es.

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BTS’s Jungkook Named Billboard’s Best K-Pop Artist

Billboard has officially declared BTS’s Jungkook as the best K-pop artist of 2024 in its inaugural ranking of the top 100 K-pop stars. The media outler made the announcement to mark the upcoming launch of Billboard Korea in May.

The 2024 Billboard K-Pop Artist 100 marks the first time the US magazine has ranked K-pop artists. The rankings were assembled by the chart teams at Billboard and its Seoul branch, Billboard Korea, which is set to publish its first issue in June. These rankings drew from artists’ activities across the Billboard 200 albums chart, Billboard Hot 100 songs chart, and Billboard Boxscore. The Boxscore tracks tour attendance and revenue, covering the period from January 7, 2023, to December 30, 2023.

Group members were generally listed together unless notable solo activities warranted individual recognition. That’s what happened with Jungkook. This year’s rankings included members from 16 groups: (G)I-DLE, aespa, ATEEZ, BLACKPINK, BTS, ENHYPEN, FIFTY FIFTY, ITZY, LE SSERAFIM, NCT 127, NCT Dream, NewJeans, SEVENTEEN, Stray Kids, TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT), and TWICE.

How did Jungkook take the top spot?

Jungkook’s rise to the top of Billboard’s ranking followed the success of his first solo single “Seven (feat. Latto)” and the album GOLDEN, both released in 2023. “Seven (feat. Latto)” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It remained at the top of the Billboard Global 200 for seven weeks, was hailed as the No. 1 Global Song of the Summer, and snagged the Top Global K-Pop Song at the Billboard Music Awards. Furthermore, Jungkook’s musical prowess was evident in his hit Hot 100 collaborations. These included the top-five hit “3D (feat. Jack Harlow),” which received a remix from Justin Timberlake, and “Too Much” with The Kid LAROI and Central Cee.

GOLDEN further cemented his status by debuting at No. 2 on the Billboard 200. It set a record for the largest sales week ever for a K-pop solo act with 210,200 equivalent-unit albums for the chart week dated November 18, 2023. His track “Standing Next to You” is on track to become his longest-running Hot 100 hit, having spent 16 consecutive weeks on the tally thus far. These accomplishments put Jungkook at the top of a list that evaluates activity on the Billboard 200, Hot 100, and Billboard Boxscore touring data over the past year.

Who else is on the list?

Second on the list is Stray Kids’ leader, Bang Chan, followed by Lee Know in third place. The rest of Stray Kids’ members—Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix, Seungmin, and I.N—also made the top 10, in that order. This indicates a strong showing by the group in Billboard’s rankings. Girl group FIFTY FIFTY, which only has one remaining original member, Keena, secured the No. 10 spot.

In anticipation of its May launch, Billboard Korea plans to host a kick-off event in Seoul. This event will celebrate the K-pop artists featured on the 2024 list as guests of honor. It’ll further highlight the global influence of K-pop and its artists. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: BTS’s golden maknae added another feather to his cap. Source: Billboard.

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Actress Park Seulgi Talks About the Thoughtful Gift Park Bogum Gave Her

During a recent episode of MBC’s Radio Star, actress Park Seulgi told a heartwarming story about actor Park Bogum. “I’ve been hosting Park Bogum’s fan meetings for a long time. After Bogum returned from the military, we finally had a fan meeting post-COVID for the first time in a while,” she began. “Bogum personally called me and asked, ‘Sunbae-nim, I’m having a fan meeting for the first time in a while in August, are you available?’ I gushed over how grateful I was that he thought of me amidst the rising stars like Jaejae and Yoo Jaepil, to which he replied, ‘Noona, you must join us. I really want you to be there.’ Wasn’t that touching?”

@alcawena74

Park Seul-gi, “Park Bo-gum, get BTS Jimin’s autograph… It felt like my heart was melting” Heartwarming story (Radio Star) #JIMIN

♬ Closer Than This – Jimin

Why the gift was so meaningful

Park Seulgi continued by describing a gift the actor gave her. “During the two-day fan meeting, after the first day, the manager handed me a gift. Bogum always writes me a letter saying ‘Thank you, sunbae-nim, noona,’ and gives me a beautiful package of cosmetics he endorses as gifts for every fan meeting. There was also an album included. I assumed it was his since Bogum sings well, but it turned out to be BTS Jimin’s. I adore BTS, and he gave me Jimin’s signed CD. It felt like my heart was melting.”

The actress revealed why the gift was so meaningful. “Only my Instagram followers know how much I love BTS Jimin. It seems Bogum noticed that. My first child’s prenatal nickname was ‘Bangtan,’ showing how much I love BTS, and my second child’s was ‘Tantan.’ I was moved to tears when I received it. When I asked Bogum how he could have possibly given me such a gift, he said, ‘I really wanted to do this for you.’ I was thankful that Bogum remembered me and understood me so well.”

Park Seulgi is a hardcore Jimin stan

This isn’t the first time Park Seulgi has openly expressed her admiration for BTS. In 2019, she went on KBS CoolFM’s Park Myung-soo’s Radio Show and joked about her deep affection for the group. “I really like BTS, and recently, I got married to Jimin in a dream,” she laughed. “I like him so much that he comes out in my dreams nowadays.”

DJ Park Myung-soo also shared that he has a lot of nightmares, but no actors or actresses would come out in his dreams because he “doesn’t have a particular interest in them.” Park Seul-gi’s story became a joke during the show, since she is already married to a producer at an advertising company.

The fact that Park Bogum remembered how much Park Seulgi loves Jimin and made the effort to get her a gift she’d really like showcases the depth of their friendship. It also exposes Bogum’s true nature, proving that he’s not just sweet and caring on-cam—he’s also that way in real life. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Bogum’s thoughtful gesture left quite the impression on her. Source: Instagram/@parkseulgirowa.

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SM Entertainment Issues Statement Regarding SHINee Taemin and Onew Signing With New Company

SHINee poses while preparing for their album 'Hard.' Credit: Facebook/SHINee

The news of SHINee’s Taemin and Onew’s impending contract expirations with SM Entertainment has sent shockwaves through the K-pop community, sparking a flurry of speculation and anticipation regarding the future trajectory of these beloved artists’ careers. Now, the agency has issued a statement addressing the group members’ contracts.

SHINee’s Taemin and Onew Reportedly Leaving SM Entertainment

According to reports from reputable news outlets such as News1 and YTN, Taemin’s exclusive contract with SM Entertainment is set to conclude by the end of the month, also marking a significant milestone in his professional journey. While the details of his future plans remain shrouded in mystery, sources suggest that Taemin will continue his solo endeavors under the auspices of a new agency, while maintaining his group activities with SHINee under SM Entertainment’s management.

Meanwhile, industry insiders have also hinted at Onew’s impending departure from SM Entertainment, with reports indicating that his exclusive contract is also slated to conclude in the first half of the year. With both Taemin and Onew poised to embark on new chapters in their careers, fans are also eagerly awaiting further announcements regarding their future affiliations and projects.

In a surprising turn of events, SPOTV News has reported that Taemin is in talks to sign with Big Planet Made Entertainment, adding an unexpected twist to the unfolding narrative. However, representatives from the agency have also remained tight-lipped about the potential recruitment, refraining from divulging any concrete details or confirming the speculation.

SM Entertainment Addresses SHINee Contract Renewal

It didn’t take long before SM Ent decided to address the news. In an official statement, the company confirmed that group activities will continue.

“SHINee’s activities will continue at SM Entertainment without change, and contracts for individual activities will be decided according to each member’s wishes.”

“We are positively discussing with Minho and Key about not only group activities but also individual activities, and Onew is exploring various options. Our exclusive contract with Taemin expires in March. Taemin’s next course of action following his contract expiration has not been confirmed yet, and we heard that he is considering various options.”

The prospect of Taemin and Onew parting ways with SM Entertainment after 16 years of collaboration marks a significant milestone in their respective journeys as artists. Since their debut as members of SHINee in 2008, the duo has also played an integral role in shaping the landscape of K-pop, delighting fans with their chart-topping hits and captivating performances.

From Onew’s soulful solo endeavors to Taemin’s electrifying solo releases, their contributions to the music industry have been nothing short of extraordinary. As they stand on the precipice of new beginnings, fans are filled with a mixture of excitement and nostalgia, reflecting on the countless memories and milestones shared over the years.

As the countdown to their contract expirations draws nearer, all eyes are also on Taemin and Onew as they prepare to embark on the next chapter of their illustrious careers. Whatever the future may hold, one thing is certain: the legacy of SHINee will continue to shine brightly, illuminating the hearts of fans around the world for years to come.

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Stray Kids’ Hyunjin Is Milan Fashion Week’s Top Influencer

On February 29, 2024, Stray Kids’ Hyunjin made headlines by securing the top spot on the Most Visible Influencers by Estimated Media Value (EMV) list during Milan Fashion Week. Remarkably, he achieved this significant digital milestone with just one Instagram post. 

This feat was highlighted by Lefty, an influencer marketing platform known for optimizing strategy and automating workflows. STAYs were thrilled, because the other celebrities on the list engaged with their brands through multiple posts, ranging from two to 25 times.

As a global brand ambassador for Versace, Hyunjin’s presence brought significant attention to the luxury brand. According to Lefty, the week ended with a total EMV of 149 million USD. Versace’s global brand ambassador emerged as the event’s most influential figure, with that one post from Hyunjin generating an astounding 4.02 million USD in EMV and an impressive 37.4% engagement rate. These numbers underscore the K-pop idol’s unparalleled influence and proves that Versace did the right thing by partnering with him.

@skzeditroom

Congrats to @Versace for having Hwang Hyunjin #HyunjinxVersace #Hyunjin #Versace #mfw24 #HyunjinxVersaceFW24 #hyunjinedit #hwanghyunjin #milanfashionweek #versacefw24 #현진 #straykids

♬ 락 (樂) LALALALA – Stray Kids

Hyunjin is making waves in fashion

Versace itself reaped substantial benefits from this partnership, becoming the top brand of Milan Fashion Week with an EMV of 19.9 million USD. This success was largely due to its association with Hyunjin. His role as Versace’s global brand ambassador, starting on July 20, 2023, was historic. He became the first K-pop industry icon to represent the Italian luxury brand in such a capacity.

Meanwhile, as Hyunjin makes waves in fashion, his group, Stray Kids, continues to do so in music. They laid out all their plans for the year, including their fourth fan meeting, through their STEP OUT 2024 video. They’re also set to perform at Italy’s I-Days Milano music festival on July 12, 2024. They will perform in front of 80,000 spectators, becoming the first fourth-generation male K-pop act to headline this big event. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: No other celebrity’s impact came close to Hyunjin’s. He’s truly in a league of his own. Source: X/@ElleMenThailand.

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Sakura Adds Personal Touch to LE SSERAFIM’s ‘M Countdown’ Stage

LE SSERAFIM’s Sakura has not only dazzled fans with her performance skills but also with her adeptness at crocheting, transforming her hobby into stunning accessories and stage outfits. She took up crocheting last year, finding it the perfect activity to occupy her during downtime in waiting rooms. She became so good at it that she even crafted hats for TWICE’s Mina, Sana, and Momo. Each hat took her about three to four hours to complete, showcasing her dedication and focus. She also made a special present for someone’s dog.

What else has Sakura made?

Sakura’s focus is evident in how she once spent five continuous hours crocheting on a flight to the US without any distractions. Her dedication was highlighted last week when she revealed that she had crocheted her top for a Music Bank performance of LE SSERAFIM’s new single, “Easy.” (It’s the title track of their third mini album.)

‘EASY'(LE SSERAFIM SAKURA Fancam) @뮤직뱅크(Music Bank) 240223

The top, which she made with various crochet techniques to incorporate the song’s title into its design, impressed fans. Many said it looked professionally made. When Sakura posted photos of herself wearing it on Instagram, they showered her with comments and likes, praising her craftsmanship and fashion sense.

The admiration for Sakura’s crocheting talent also extended to LE SSERAFIM’s “Smart” performance on M Countdown, where each member appeared in beautifully crocheted tops and skirts, complete with matching accessories. Initially, fans believed Sakura had crafted every piece. It was later clarified, however, that she had made only some of the items. 

‘최초 공개’ LE SSERAFIM – Smart #엠카운트다운 EP.831 | Mnet 240229 방송

Sakura later shared pictures of the pieces she did make, further showcasing her talent and adding a personal touch to LE SSERAFIM’s stage. 

Dedication can lead to proficiency

The ability to use one’s artistic vision to create something from nothing is both challenging and rewarding. Crocheting involves mastering various stitches and techniques. Beginners typically start with simpler projects, such as scarves or dishcloths, to become acquainted with the yarn and hook. The fact that Sakura can now produce items that she and others can wear indicates she has reached at least an intermediate, if not advanced, level. This skill, like any, has a learning curve. Despite that, Sakura’s rapid advancement in crafting complex items within a year demonstrates that dedication can lead to proficiency.

Sakura’s contributions to the group’s aesthetics highlight her creativity and dedication. This endeared her even more to fans around the world. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Sakura made her skirt and Kazuha’s headband. Amazing, right? Source: X/@sserasainte.

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