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CRAVITY Sets New First-Week Sales Record With ‘SUN SEEKER’

CRAVITY

Starship Entertainment boy group CRAVITY made headlines with their latest album SUN SEEKER. Aside from captivating fans with the catchy title track “Ready or Not,” it shattered sales records, underscoring their growing popularity in the music scene. Isn’t that amazing?

CRAVITY 크래비티 ‘Ready or Not’ MV

The album’s release was met with overwhelming enthusiasm. It sold 157,567 copies on the first day. On day two, SUN SEEKER sold an additional 56,433 copies, bringing its total to 214,000. By the end of its first week, it sold an impressive 273,714 copies, as reported by Hanteo Chart. This surpassed CRAVITY’s previous first-week sales record of 192,018, set by their fifth EP, MASTER : PIECE.

In a candid conversation with CNN Philippines, some members of CRAVITY talked about the album. Allen, the group’s lead rapper, highlighted every member’s individuality, saying, “We’re all unique and we each bring different charms to the table.” 

‘SUN SEEKER’ means a lot to CRAVITY

This synergy of distinct personalities is evident in the songs on the album. SUN SEEKER’s tracks all resonate with the group’s charisma and vibrant energy. Describing the album’s sound, Allen labeled it as bright, pop, and upbeat. He said this sound “really suits our members’ visuals and also suits our voices and how we perform on stage.” 

The songs revolve around determination and self-discovery. Lead dancer Taeyoung elaborated that SUN SEEKER is all about “finding one’s path and strength.” Echoing his sentiments, Allen said, “In this album, we’re telling our LUVITYs to follow your gravity, to seek what attracts you, what makes you want to do what you want to do.” One of the album’s standout tracks, “Vibration,” encapsulates this message perfectly. It emphasizes the happiness people feel when what they’re doing is aligned with their true calling.

Clearly, SUN SEEKER is more than a record-breaking album for CRAVITY. It reflects the group’s dreams, identity, and relationship with their fans. That’s why all nine members were beyond thrilled when they heard it broke records. Congratulations to CRAVITY! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Soon after the album dropped, CRAVITY went on music shows to promote its title track. One of their first stops was Inkigayo. Source: Twitter/@kpop_sbs.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’ Jungkook Talks to KISS FM’s Brady About Missing His Members and More

On September 17, 2023, the airwaves of iHeart Radio’s 1035 KISS FM were filled with anticipation as BTS‘ Jungkook joined Brady for an intimate conversation. Sporting blue denims and a crisp white t-shirt, coupled with a short hairstyle, Jungkook’s presence was magnetic. Though the interview was relatively short at just eight minutes, it was packed with revelations that have since become talking points among the BTS fandom.

It’s no secret that fans miss seeing BTS as a full group. Despite his success as a soloist, Jungkook feels the same way. When asked what he misses about the members, his words, filled with emotion, resonated deeply with fans everywhere.

Brady Talks to Jung Kook of BTS Talk About New Song ‘Seven’

“Of course, each member has his own trait, so I could say what I miss about each of them,” he said, “But more than that, as I worked on my solo project, I missed all the moments we shared together. For example, staying in the waiting room even though we were all doing our own thing. When I went to SUGA-hyung’s concert, and when I performed solo on stage, I just thought that I want to be on stage with all our members. Or I want to hang out with them in the waiting room. I really miss those ordinary moments. I hope that day comes back very soon.”

The conversation took a lighter turn as Jungkook talked about his TikTok. Chuckling, he shared, “It was unexpected. But now that ARMY and many others found my account, I might use it officially. As you know, everything is fast on TikTok. So I can use it to learn what’s trending. I don’t want to get behind in trends. So maybe? I’d assume you will be seeing more from me on TikTok!”

Jungkook reignited fans’ hopes

On the topic of his newfound passion for cooking, Jungkook revealed, “I watched numerous cooking videos online. I tried the recipes, and it naturally became my hobby.” However, after indulging a tad too much, he’s now more diet-conscious.

Discussing his aspirations as a solo artist, Jungkook expressed a desire to showcase his identity and explore different genres and styles. “First of all, it’s a bit contradictory. So, I think it’s important to have a distinct color, but I also want to show various colors as a singer. Genre, style, whatever lyrics, whatever voice, I really want to try various things. So, I wonder how far I can go, and I want to challenge myself. I’m curious.”

Finally, when asked about ARMY, the global fanbase that ardently supports BTS, Jungkook‘s words were deeply touching. “I’d describe them as a ray of light. But it’s more of a feeling than an image. I’d say it’s love, but it’s much bigger than that. When I was going through hard times, I was able to get back on my feet because I had ARMY by my side. So that’s why I can say they’re a ray of light.”

In this revealing convo, Jungkook not only shared his personal journey and feelings about BTS but also reignited the hope of millions of fans eagerly awaiting their return. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The interview didn’t last very long, but eight minutes was all Jungkook needed to bare his soul for the KISS FM audience. Source: YouTube/@1035KISSFM.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Breaking Down BTS’ SUGA’s Final Live Broadcast Before His Military Service

BTS‘ SUGA, known for his deep connection with fans, recently held a live Weverse session, marking his final interaction before embarking on his military service journey on September 22. The session was filled with emotions, updates, and a glimpse into SUGA‘s life.

(All SUB) SUGA🔴LIVE [goodbye to armys before military]

“I think it’s been about forty days since I last came here. I gained a bit of weight. I’ve been eating well and resting. I guess I haven’t really been resting. I’ve been filming a lot. I came to show that I am alive!” SUGA shared with fans. Sporting a noticeably shorter hairstyle, he added, “Anyways, I’m not used to my hair! It’s been a while since I’ve had such short hair. The staff didn’t recognize me! They asked me, ‘Who are you?’”

Diving deeper into his recent activities, SUGA revealed why he kept a low profile after wrapping up his world tour. The last time ARMY saw him before this live broadcast was at its three-day finale in Seoul last month. “I never was in that much pain after a tour, but this time, my body hurt so much I couldn’t get up! So I rested for two weeks after the concert. Then Taehyung‘s album came out, and I didn’t want to distract from that. I also spent time with the members. The next thing I knew, one month went by!”

SUGA reassured fans

With two members off in the military, BTS hasn’t performed as a full group in quite some time. But the others kept fans entertained with their solo work. For ARMY, SUGA’s talk show has been a real highlight of this period in the septet’s career. While he won’t be able to film new Suchwita episodes until he’s discharged, he assured fans that he prepared plenty of content to tide them over until his return.

As the broadcast neared its end, SUGA‘s words resonated with love. He replied to a fan’s comment by saying, “Yes, you’re right. The future’s going to be OK. Everything will be OK. Everyone, you don’t need to cry. We’ll be meeting in 2025, right? We promised. I’ll see you all again in 2025.” His words reassured fans that neither he nor the group will disappear for good.

In South Korea, military service is a rite of passage for all able-bodied men aged 18 to 28, spanning about two years. BTS members had the privilege to delay their service until they hit 30. As SUGA turned 30 on March 9, he could delay his enlistment no longer. ARMY worldwide eagerly await 2025, by which time all members of the group will have fulfilled their duties. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: SUGA’s new hairstyle was a hit with everyone, even his fellow BTS member j-hope. Source: Twitter/@boraboravie.

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Chuu Reveals Date for Solo Debut Album Release

Chuu invites fans to join her official membership. Credit: Twitter/Chuu

Mark your calendars, KKOTIs! Former LOONA member Chuu has finally announced that she’s making her official solo debut on October 18. 

On Monday, September 17, the singer shared a 17-second teaser video for her upcoming release. 

In the film-inspired clip, Chuu is seen sporting pink hair as she poses and wink for the camera. She then points to the sky, wherein the release date of her debut mini-album is unveiled. 

Aside from the date, other details such as album name and number of tracks have yet to be disclosed. 

What we know about the solo debut of Chuu so far

After the release of the teaser, fans of Chuu took to social media to express their excitement for her solo debut. 

The still-untitled mini-album will mark several milestones in Chuu’s idol career. One is that it’s her first official release as a soloist. As well as her first album release under her new agency ATRP. 

Moreover, it’s Chuu’s fresh start after the conclusion of her legal battle with former agency BlockBerry Creative. 

It was in December 2017 when Chuu was introduced as the 10th member of LOONA. She was also a member of the group’s third sub-unit LOONA/yyxy, before the group officially debuted as a 12-member act in August 2018. 

However, Blockberry Creative expelled her from the group in November 2022, nearly a year after she filed an injunction to terminate her contract. 

Citing “abuse of power,” the agency accused Chuu of mistreating her staff. But fans and actual staff members came into the defense of the idol.

In August 2023, the Seoul Northern District Court ruled in favor of Chuu on her lawsuit against Blockberry Creative. 

While she wasn’t releasing new music during this legal battle, Chuu has been active in variety shows. She’s confirmed to appear as an MC in the variety show Steel Unit. And she’ll also be participating in Star Girl, alongside (G)-IDLE’s Yugi and BILLLIE’s Tsuki. 

Where are the LOONA members now

With her solo debut confirmed, Chuu is the latest of LOONA members to start anew after leaving their former agency. 

In July, Odd Eye Circle, the sub-unit composed of Choerry, Jinsoul, and Kim Lip, released their album Version Up. 

In September,  HyunJin, YeoJin, Vivi, Go Won, and HyeJu made their debut as the group LOOSSEMBLE (LOONA Assemble). 

Meanwhile, Heejin is also set to make her solo debut.

Featured image: Chuu invites fans to join her official membership. Credit: Twitter/Chuu

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Jay Chang From ‘Boys Planet’ to Debut as Soloist

Jay Chang during his fan meeting in Taipei. Credit: Twitter/Jay Chang

Heads up, K-pop fans! Jay Chang from the survival show Boys Planet is confirmed to be gearing up for his solo debut.

On Monday, September 18, FM Entertainment announced that Jay Chang signed an exclusive contract with their agency. And he’s currently preparing for his official debut in October. 

Additionally, the agency mentioned that the artist took part in the album preparations. “Jay Chang’s participation and contribution are high as it is his debut album,” they said. 

As of writing, details such as album title and final release date of Jay Chang’s solo album have yet to be released. However, FM Entertainment promised fans that they will support Jay Chang so he “can show his potential and versatile talent.”

Jay Chang and his idol journey

Even before joining any survival series, the aspiring idol was already making waves online. In his trainee years, he released his first digital single “Is You.” Apart from that, Jay was also part of the pre-debut group M.O.N.T Arena.

Prior to his participation in Boys Planet, Jay Chang was already a familiar face to some K-Pop fans. The Filipino-American singer has previously competed in the 2018 survival program Under Nineteen. Unfortunately, he was eliminated early on which led him to continue pursuing his idol dreams in Boys Planet.

Despite drawing attention for his charm and excellent vocals, Jay Chang did not make it to the final lineup. In Boys Planet, MNET only intended to form a nine-member global boy group, and Jay Chang placed 10th in the global rankings. 

Which paved the way for Jay Chang to embark on his solo career. 

Where are the participants from Boys Planet now?

With Jay Chang about to debut as a soloist, he now joins the list of the Boys Planet contestants who entered the industry after the series. 

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

Interestingly, ZEROBASEONE sets records as they become the first K-Pop group to have sold over a million copies for their debut album. According to WAKEONE, their agency, the group sold a total of 1.24 Million copies on the first day of its release.

Another boy group produced by Boys Planet is EVNNE, which is set to debut on September 19. The project group consists of seven members including Park Han Bin, Lee Jung Hyun, Moon Jung Hyun, Park Ji Hoo, Yoo Seung Eon, Ji Yeon Seo, and Keita. As announced earlier, the group will be managed by Jellyfish Entertainment.

Meanwhile, four more former contestants of Boys Planet are set to debut as a boy group in 2023. This time, Anthonny, Haruto, Yuto, and Takuto will debut in Japan as TOZ. In an announcement made by YY Entertainment in August, the quartet are expected to debut this September 27 with the album Flare.

Featured image: Jay Chang during his fan meeting in Taipei. Credit: Twitter/Jay Chang

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Rowoon Officially Leaves SF9 After 7 Years

After 7 years with SF9, Rowoon is officially leaving the group to continue pursuing his acting career

Rowoon is getting ready for a new chapter of his life. FNC Entertainment has confirmed that the SF9 member decided not to renew his contract with the group after 7 years. Instead, Kim Seok-woo will continue to pursue his successful acting career.

Rowoon Officially Leaves SF9 To Pursue Solo Activities

On September 18, FNC Entertainment issued a statement regarding SF9’s status. The agency confirmed that the group is moving forward after every member renewed their contracts.

“Hello, this is FNC Entertainment. We’re writing to notify you of SF9’s activities,” the statement read. “SF9’s contract with us came to an end on September 18th, after being promoted as our artist for 7 years since the group’s debut in 2016.”

It is then revealed that although Rowoon renewed his contract, we will no longer promote with SF9.

“All members renewed their contracts with us. However, the group will be starting fresh as an 8-member group except for Rowoon,” the statement confirmed. The company also assured fans that the idol will continue to be active and pursue his acting career.

“Rowoon will be focusing on his individual projects including acting,” they wrote.

FNC Entertainment concluded by stating that Youngbin, Inseong, Jaeyoon, Dawon, Zuho, Yoo Taeyang, Hwiyoung, and Chani will pursue individual activities. They also asked FANTASYs to continue supporting SF9 in their future work.

Rowoon debuted with SF9 in October 2016 with the single “Fanfare”. He immediately began acting the following year, taking on minor roles. In May 2019, he skyrocketed to fame after playing Haru in “Extraordinary You”. From there, Kim Seok-woo actively took part in several shows including “She Would Never Know”, “The King’s Affection”, “Tomorrow”, and “Destined With You”. Rowoon is set to appear in KBS2’s upcoming series “The Wedding Battle” in October 2023.

SF9 recently released their twelfth EP ‘The Piece OF9’ in January 2023. It has not yet been revealed whether the remaining eight members are preparing for another comeback this year.

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Look: TXT’s Soobin Reunites With Bebe Rexha in MTV VMAs 2023

Soobin and Bebe Rexha met each other in person for the first time. Credit: Instagram/Bebe Rexha

With the recently concluded MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), TOMORROW X TOGETHER bagged the Push Performance of the Year award for their track “Sugar Rush Ride.” Aside from that recognition though, the group’s leader Soobin had one more thing to celebrate!

Soobin, known to be an avid fan of Bebe Rexha, got to reunite with his idol at the awards show. The American singer-songwriter even took to Instagram the selfies they took at the event.

In one of Bebe’s backstage interviews at the VMAs, she even congratulated TXT and mentioned Soobin. “I’m excited to see them, say hi and just hang out with them. I’m happy for them,” she stated.

Fanboy Soobin

In Soobin’s Weverse live on September 16, the idol talked about his recent VMAs experience. There, Soobin shared his encounter with Bebe Rexha and reminisced how her music helped him get over tough times.

 “I gained a lot of  strength through her music when I was a trainee and I felt like a lot of those lyrics were talking about me… I still feel the same”, he told MOAs. Upon knowing they were both attending the VMAs, Soobin restlessly sent Bebe a text message, in the hopes that they would meet. 

Additionally, the leader excitedly shared about how their seats were close to each other during the show. And how Bebe looked out for him and his group throughout the night. Also he made sure to let Bebe know he missed her too.

Heartwarmingly, Soobin mentioned how he was really nervous during the awards show but Bebe made him feel relaxed. “Since our seats were close to each other, whenever we’d make eye contact, she’d smile at me and it really made me feel very calm,” he said. “I was really grateful to her,” he added.

Moreover, that’s not the end for Soobin’s fanboy moments during the VMAs!! When he was asked which artist he would want to work on a record with, he naturally said Bebe Rexha without a second thought.

 

Bebe Rexha and Soobin’s friendship 

In 2019, the two had a cute interaction on social media. At the time, Soobin told Bebe Rexha that he is her biggest fan.

A year later, in 2020, TXT and Bebe Rexha also held a joint Instagram live. After that virtual chat, the American singer was all praises for the K-pop group, describing them as sweet and awesome. 

Unsurprisingly, Soobin talked about how nervous he was talking to his idol. He even shared some of his favorite unreleased tracks of Bebe and asked her if she’ll release them in the future. 

 

However, the duo only met each other in-person in March 2023. To commemorate their first encounter, Bebe took to social media to share some adorable photos and clips of them together. “Sweet sweet angel,” she said in the caption.

With several interactions now, fans of both groups couldn’t help but wish for a Soobin-Bebe Rexha collaboration next!

Feautred image: Soobin and Bebe Rexha met each other in person for the first time. Credit: Instagram/Bebe Rexha

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RED VELVET Reportedly Preparing for November Comeback

New reports suggest that RED VELVET is preparing for a November comeback amidst rumors of Irene leaving SM Entertainment

RED VELVET is reportedly busy preparing for a November comeback. The update comes soon after reports that leader Irene is planning not to renew her contract with SM Entertainment.

Is RED VELVET Preparing For A New Comeback Later This Year?

A new report reveals that the girl group is currently in the final stages of preparations for a November comeback. If this is true, fans can look forward to the release of RED VELVET’s 3rd full album, marking their first full album release in six years since ‘Perfect Velvet’ in 2017.

This comeback promises to be a significant moment in the group’s career, generating immense excitement among their devoted fanbase and the K-pop community at large. As they prepare to unleash their musical prowess once again, anticipation is running high for what RED VELVET has in store for their eagerly awaiting audience.

Recent reports have given rise to speculations that Irene might opt not to renew her long-standing contract with SM Entertainment, sparking concerns about the extended hiatus of RED VELVET. The group’s last activity was in June 2023 when they wrapped up their ‘R to V’ World Tour.

This development is disconcerting for fans, especially as only one member’s continued affiliation with SM Entertainment has been confirmed so far, which is Seulgi’s contract renewal. The contract statuses of the other RED VELVET members, namely Irene, Wendy, Joy, and Yeri, remain undisclosed.

While SM Entertainment has maintained silence regarding these negotiations, the group dropped hints during a livestream in August about their preparations for releasing their third full album, further fueling anticipation and intrigue surrounding their plans.

With Irene’s contract decision shrouded in uncertainty and the undisclosed status of the other members’ agreements, fans are anxiously awaiting official updates from the label, hoping for the continuation of RED VELVET’s musical journey together. Stay tuned for further developments in this ongoing story.

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ITZY’s Lia Breaks Silence in Handwritten Letter for Fans After Hiatus Announcement

Lia is officially on hiatus. JYP Entertainment has made an official announcement confirming that the ITZY member will not join the rest of the group in upcoming activities. Soon after the statement was released, Lia broke her silence by sharing a handwritten letter addressed to MIDZYs.

On September 18, JYP Entertainment issued a statement confirming that Lia “underwent consultation and examination as she is experiencing extreme tension and anxiety about carrying out her scheduled activities.” The agency stated that the ITZY member “received medical advice that she needs rest and treatment.” They further confirmed that “Lia will not participate in scheduled activities starting today and will take a break for the time being to focus on her treatment.”

Lia Pens Heartfelt Letter For MIDZYs Following Hiatus Announcement

Since then, Lia posted a heartfelt message for her fans. In the letter posted on ITZY’s official Instagram account, she expressed her concern for MIDZYs.

“Since MIDZY worries about me more than anyone else even when I am a little sick, I was worried that you would be heartbroken and sad when you heard the news.” she wrote. “But at the same time, because MIDZY knows and believes in me more than anyone else, I was able to muster the courage, knowing you would understand and wait for me.”

Lia then reflected on her career before pointing out that she needs time for herself. “Of course, those times must also be filled with our memories and happy moments we spent together. Although they were such precious times, I came to realize that I’ve been gradually losing myself while running up to this point,” she wrote.

“To that end, I felt like I needed to take some time off to love and fill myself first,” Lia continued. “As I always say, I sincerely hope that MIDZY will be happy. I will work to return in good health in order to repay how much MIDZY wait and worry for me.”

Not surprisingly, fans were fully supportive of Lia’s decision. With that in mind, MIDZYs are wishing the ITZY member well and look forward to her return.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’ Suga to Enlist in Military on September 22

SUGA in the filming for 'AMYGDALA' music video. Credit: Facebook/BTS

It’s official, ARMYs! BIGHIT Music revealed that SUGA of K-pop boy group BTS will be starting his mandatory military service on September 22.

In a statement on Weverse on Sunday, September 17, BIGHIT Music confirmed the news.

Additionally, the agency announced that no official events will take place in line with SUGA’s enlistment. They also didn’t disclose the exact location and time for it. 

“We kindly ask fans to refrain from visiting SUGA at his workplace during the period of his service,” They wrote. “Please convey your warm regards and encouragement in your hearts only.” 

Moreover, BIGHIT Music also reminded fans to be mindful of unauthorized tours and package products that illegally use their artist’s intellectual property. In line with this, the agency said that they will take appropriate matters for these circumstances. 

In conclusion to their announcement, the agency asked fans to patiently wait for the idol until he returns and finishes his service. 

More details about the enlistment of SUGA 

SUGA, whose real name is Min Yoongi, will be the third member of BTS to enlist. Jin started his military service in December 2022, while j-hope in April. 

In August, BIGHIT Music first announced that SUGA has already started his military enlistment process. 

The announcement about SUGA’s military enlistment came a day after he wrapped up the encore shows for his D-DAY world concert tour. 

Additionally, Korean media has previously reported that SUGA might fulfill his service as a social service agent. 

For those unfamiliar, a social service agent is an alternative form of military service from the usual active-duty soldiers. Such circumstances are due to a number of factors such as health complications.

While this hasn’t been confirmed by BIGHIT Music yet, fans also attribute the possibility to SUGA’s previous shoulder injury. In November 2020, he underwent a surgery for it. 

Since BTS announced in June 2022 that they’re taking a break from group activities, the members have been focused on solo endeavors.

In October 2022, BIGHIT Music announced that all seven members of the group will be enlisting in the military and that they’re “honored to serve.” 

BTS is expected to reconvene as a full group again “around 2025.”

Featured image: SUGA in the filming for ‘AMYGDALA’ music video. Credit: Facebook/BTS

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