Category: KPOP NEWS

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS K-POP STYLE KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

ATEEZ’s Hongjoong Joins Balmain’s ‘Army’ of Ambassadors

Hongjoong

The world of high fashion witnessed a significant moment on September 5 when ATEEZ’s Hongjoong was named the latest member of Balmain’s “Army.” This announcement by the French luxury fashion house was accompanied by a series of captivating photos showcasing Hongjoong in their Fall/Winter 2023 collection. These photos exude elegance and charm, and are a testament to Hongjoong‘s rising stature in the fashion world.

Balmain’s approach to brand representation is different and resonates with its ethos. Rather than using the conventional term “ambassador,” they created a community known as the “Balmain Army.” This community comprises people who embody the brand’s spirit. The ATEEZ leader’s induction into this elite group solidifies his position in the fashion world and highlights Balmain’s recognition of his influence and unique style.

Hongjoong has long been vocal about his passion for fashion. From a young age, he exhibited a knack for reforming clothes. (In Korea, “reforming clothes” refers to the act of “repairing old clothes so they’ll look new” or “repurposing old clothes, turning them into items like new bags or slippers.”) He once mentioned that he used to play in his mother’s clothing store as a kid. The time he spent doing that ignited a flame that has grown brighter with time. Today, Hongjoong is known for using fashion to express himself. But his love for it goes beyond dressing up; he wants to launch a gender-neutral, inclusive fashion line in the future.

When Hongjoong met Rousteing

Balmain has been a significant influence in Hongjoong‘s fashion journey. Throughout his career as a K-pop idol, he has consistently worn the fashion house’s pieces for various events and performances. ATINYs (ATEEZ’s fans) are aware of his admiration for the fashion house and its creative director, Olivier Rousteing. This was highlighted when Hongjoong revealed that Rousteing personally invited him to attend a Balmain event in Paris. When they finally met face to face, Hongjoong learned that he inspired Rousteing to work on new collections. That made him insanely happy.

ATEEZ(에이티즈) – HONGJOONG’s Balmain Presentation Behind

The relationship between Hongjoong and Balmain has been blossoming for a while, and ATINYs have eagerly anticipated a formal collaboration. Their wishes came true with this announcement, leading to an outpouring of support from ATINYs worldwide. Platforms like Reddit and Twitter are buzzing with congratulatory messages, discussions, and expressions of pride for the ATEEZ leader.

Hongjoong‘s induction into the Balmain Army is a significant milestone in his fashion journey. As he continues to inspire and draw inspiration, fans eagerly anticipate what he and Balmain will do next. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This announcement is a dream come true for Hongjoong, who has loved the fashion house for a while. Source: Instagram/@balmain.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Kang Daniel To Host 2023 Asia Artist Awards With IVE’s Jang Won Young and ZEROBASEONE’s Sung Han Bin

Kang Daniel is sharing hosting duties with IVE member Jang Won Young and ZEROBASEONE's Sung Han Bin at the 2023 Asia Artist Awards

The 2023 Asia Artist Awards (AAA) has announced its official hosts. K-pop superstar Kang Daniel will be hosting the upcoming events along with two fan favorites. IVE member Jang Won Young is returning again this year, and ZEROBASEONE’s Sung Han Bin is making his hosting debut at the event.

Asia Artist Awards 2023 Reveals New and Returning Official Hosts

On September 6th, exciting news emerged as it was announced that the talented trio of Jang Won Young from IVE, Kang Daniel, and Sung Han Bin of ZEROBASEONE would be co-hosting the prestigious 2023 Asia Artist Awards in the Philippines.

This marks Jang Won Young’s third consecutive year as a host at the AAA, underlining her growing reputation as a prominent emcee in the entertainment industry. Her involvement also comes on the heels of IVE’s remarkable achievements at the 2022 AAA. The group clinched the coveted Daesang for Song of the Year. They also won the Best New Artist (Singer) and Hot Trend (Singer) awards on the same year.

Kang Daniel, not to be outdone, secured the Best New Actor and AAA Potential (Actor) awards. It certainly adds to his ever-expanding list of accolades.

Sung Han Bin recently debuted with ZEROBASEONE following his appearance on “Boys Planet.” He and his group are poised to make a significant impact in the K-pop arena. His role as a new MC for “M Countdown” further attests to his rising star status.

AAA 2023 Confirmed For Philippine Arena

Excitement abounds as the 2023 Asia Artist Awards is set to make history by being hosted in the Philippines on December 14th. This marks the first time the prestigious awards show will be held in the country. It promises an unforgettable spectacle for fans and artists alike.

The 2023 Asia Artist Awards is hosted by Star News and co-hosted by the AAA Organizing Committee, TONZ Entertainment, and PULP Live World. This marks an exciting milestone for the awards show, bringing it to the vibrant cultural landscape of the Philippines. Fans and artists can anticipate a memorable event filled with star-studded moments and celebrations of Asian talent. The event is scheduled to take place on December 14 at the Philippine Arena.

Categories
BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

End of an Era: ‘BTS World’ Game to Shut Down After 4 Years

BTS in their promotional content for the 'BTS WORLD' game app. Credit: Twitter/Newmarble

Sad news, ARMYs. BTS WORLD, the mobile game dedicated to the world-renowned K-pop group BTS, will cease its services by the end of December this year. 

On Tuesday, September 5, Netmarble, the company behind the game, announced the impending shutdown of BTS WORLD.  “Thank you for your love and support for BTS WORLD,” they told the users. 

 

“This announcement is to inform that BTS WORLD will be discontinuing its service starting Tuesday, December 26 2023.”, the statement read.

More details about the service termination schedule and rules were mentioned in the post. As of writing, the game is no longer downloadable on Play Store or App Store.

“We greatly appreciate the support and love shown by the Managers towards our game,” Netmarble said. Additionally, they also assured users that they will make sure to minimize the conveniences until the service closes.

First launched in June 2019, BTS WORLD is a story-based mobile simulation game. In it, fans step into the shoes of BTS’ manager where they guide the members from pre-debut to stardom. Moreover, the game featured original soundtrack, exclusive video clip, and new photos of the BTS members.

 

The decision to shut down the game came after the release of its final chapter, Chapter 22, was made available in June 2022. 

 ARMYs’ requests

Sadly, BTS WORLD isn’t the first BTS game to come to an end. In June 2020, Superstar BTS also concluded its services despite the global fandom’s massive support. 

Upon hearing the news of another game closing, ARMYs pleaded with the company to archive BTS’ content created for the game. Given how well-thought of the flow of the game is, some fans are claiming it would be a shame to lose it all. 

As a way to remember the game, some fans created a thread of BTS WORLD’s full story lines, including its stunning soundtrack.

“Please consider creating an archive for all the artist-made content included in the game. it would be a shame to lose all of that for good especially after all the hard work the artists put into it and how much love ARMYs have for all the material,” one fan wrote.

 

Others, meanwhile, thanked the game and its developers. Some fans listed the amount of content that fans got from the platform. While many were applauding how the game gave them “another part of the BTS multiverse storytelling.” 

BTS made their debut in June 2013 with the single “2 COOL 4 SKOOL.” The septet has since established world records and even entered the Guinness World Records Hall of Fame.

In June 2022, the group announced that they’re taking a break to focus on solo releases while other members enlist in the military. 

They marked their 10th anniversary in 2023 with the release of their book Beyond The Story: 10th Year Record of BTS 

Featured image: BTS in their promotional content for the ‘BTS WORLD’ game app. Credit: Twitter/Newmarble

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Sulli’s Posthumous Film To Be Screened At Busan International Film Festival

Sulli’s final project will finally be released. It has been confirmed that part of what was originally conceived as “Persona: Sulli” will be screened at the 28th Busan International Film Festival. In addition, the late actress’ posthumous film will feature her final interview which was originally recorded back in 2019.

Sulli Posthumous Film ‘Dear Jinri’ To Screen At Busan International Film Festival

On September 5th, Senior Programmer Nam Dong Chul participated in the virtual press conference for the 28th Busan International Film Festival, where he revealed an array of exciting details. During the event, he unveiled the list of invited films, highlighted major upcoming events, and introduced special guests. A significant revelation was the premiere of the documentary film “Dear Jinri” which contains the final moments and an exclusive interview with the late Sulli, marking its debut at the festival.

“Dear Jinri” is a feature-length documentary that intimately captures the daily concerns and inner reflections of the renowned actor and artist, Sulli, known by her real name, Choi Jinri, at the age of 25. The documentary takes the form of a candid interview, offering viewers a unique insight into the thoughts and emotions that occupied Sulli’s world.

Notably, “Dear Jinri” is set to have its global premiere as part of the Documentary Showcase featured within the Wide Angle section at the 28th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF). This year’s BIFF is scheduled to unfold over a span of ten days, commencing on October 4th and concluding on October 13th. The festival will then take place in the vibrant setting of the Busan Cinema Center, promising a rich and diverse cinematic experience for attendees.

‘Persona: Sulli’ To Be Released In Korea In Late 2023

On September 6th, Mystic Story, the production company behind “Persona: Sulli,” officially confirmed that the film is scheduled for release in the latter half of this year and unveiled a captivating main poster. “Persona: Sulli” is a two-part endeavor, consisting of the short feature film “4: Clean Island,” with Sulli in the leading role, and the feature-length documentary film “Dear Jinri.” Film enthusiasts can then anticipate a powerful cinematic experience as they delve into the world of the late icon.

Originally conceived as ‘Persona: Sulli,’ this project was initially intended to be part of the second season of the ‘Persona’ anthology series. This innovative series spotlights one actor as the inspiration for five distinct short films, each directed by a different filmmaker. The first season, centered around IU, premiered in 2019 and garnered widespread acclaim. The second season featuring Sulli was initially reported to stream on Netflix.

On October 14, 2019, SULLI’s brother found her dead in her house in Seongnam. The “Real” actress had reportedly committed suicide by hanging herself. She was 25 years old.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Look: Former UNI.T’s Lee Suji Is Getting Married

Lee Suji updates fans with new photos. Credit: Instagram/Suji

Wedding bells are soon to ring for Lee Suji, a former member of the girl group Uni.T, as she announced that she’s tying the knot in October. 

On Tuesday, September 5, Suji happily shared the news through her personal Instagram account. The singer-actress expressed her gratitude through a heartfelt handwritten letter.

“I have met someone that loves me without change, and I will marry in October this year. Since I was young, I had wanted to meet someone that was like my dad. My groom-to-be is someone that is friendly, detailed and has a warm heart, like my dad.” Sooji’s translated post read.

Additionally, the idol relayed how much she’s looking forward to starting a new chapter in her life. “I can’t wait for my life as part of a family in the future. More than anything else, I’m so happy to know that the power of love is bigger than anything else,” she said. 

Moreover, Suji also thanked the fans who have supported and cheered on every single moment of her life.  “Although this small letter cannot contain even an ounce of my gratitude… I’d be so thankful if you would congratulate me. I love you all so much,” the singer said as she finished her message.

Congratulations Lee Suji!

Suji’s Instagram post was flooded with hearts and congratulatory messages from numerous celebrities, including her former Uni.T bandmates and friend group “98-line”.

Lee Hyun-Joo, who was also from Uni.T, commented: “Congratulations my dear Suji.” 

Former GFriend and now Viviz members SinB and Umji, also part of the 98-line, both expressed their excitement over the news. SinB’s translated comment said, “I’m the happiest,” while Umji wrote: “Still kicking a lot! Congratulations.” 

 

Another 98-liner, actress Ha Da-Bin, also congratulated the singer. “I love and adore you my precious Suji. My Suji must be the happiest,” she said. 

Meanwhile, her “unnies” (older sisters) in Uni.T,  Euijin and Yoonjo,  also sent their best wishes to Suji, who was the “maknae” (youngest) in the group.

Lee Suji’s career as a singer and an actress

Lee Suji first debuted in 2015 as a member of The Ark under the stage name Halla. After the group disbanded in early 2016, she became a part of another girl group, Uni.T. 

 

To recall, Uni.T was a nine-member project girl group formed through KBS’s survival show The Unit. The group debuted on May 18, 2018 with the mini album Line. Unfortunately, Uni.T ended their activities and disbanded on October 12, 2018.

Apart from her singing career, Suji also ventured into the world of acting. She has starred in a number of drama series including her lead role in Handmade Love (2020) and a supporting role in Flower Crew: Joseon Marriage Agency (2019).

Featured image: Lee Suji updates fans with new photos. Credit: Instagram/Suji

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Why SEVENTEEN’s New Japanese Track Feels Familiar to J-Pop Fans

The Japanese music scene is unique in the sense that greatest hits albums are a dime a dozen. This trend isn’t commonly seen in other countries, but it extends even to K-pop acts. SEVENTEEN’s new track “Ima – Even If The World Ends Tomorrow” is a prime example of that. Extracted from the group’s first greatest hits album, this track marks a significant milestone in their illustrious career. Interestingly, while the track was produced by their usual crew—Bumzu, Woozi, and Hwang Hyun, it sounds like it could’ve come from a J-pop artist. 

SEVENTEEN (Ima -Even if the world ends tomorrow-) Official MV

About SEVENTEEN’s new Japanese track

“Ima – Even If The World Ends Tomorrow” incorporates elements of Japan’s vibrant rock scene, with its emphasis on guitars and instrumental sections. Its fast tempo, guitar solo, and melodic flow are reminiscent of anime opening songs. But what makes this track remarkable is its breezy, almost spontaneous vibe. That makes it unlike any other song in SEVENTEEN’s catalog, even their previous Japanese-language releases.

Meanwhile, AKB48, a household name in the J-pop industry, is characterized by its unique sound. It has been described as being built on catchy melodies and harmonious vocals. Their songs are usually about friendship, positivity, and youth. Their stage presence is enhanced by energetic choreography that appeals to a wide demographic. Like SEVENTEEN, their discography spans genres, from ballads to pop-rock. 

Drawing a parallel between the two groups and their respective sonic palettes, both AKB48 and the Pledis Entertainment boy group prioritize catchiness and positivity in their work. Furthermore, both use their large roster to their advantage. Many of AKB48’s songs are aligned with Japan’s rich rock music legacy, and “Ima – Even If The World Ends Tomorrow” is in that vein too.

It’s very J-pop

Its J-pop influence is palpable—and that hasn’t escaped the keen ears of AKB48 devotees. When it was performed on Japanese music show CDTV for the first time, they took to social media to say it echoes the AKB48 sound. One fan even called SEVENTEEN an all-male version of AKB48.

Some drew parallels to the group’s classics, while others said it’s reminiscent of their 61st single, “Doushitemo Kimi ga Sukida.” Notably, the center of that song was Honda Hitomi, a Japanese idol who was in the K-pop girl group IZ*ONE from 2018 to 2021.

Some also suggested that SEVENTEEN’s new Japanese-language hit sounds like music from groups handled by Johnny & Associates, a prestigious entertainment agency in Japan. It specializes in boy groups like Hey! Say! JUMP, Naniwa Danshi, Snow Man, Six Tones, Travis Japan, and more.

Both the AKB48 sound and SEVENTEEN‘s “Ima – Even If The World Ends Tomorrow” perfectly capture the lively, optimistic spirit of J-pop. That means it has the potential to do really well in the Japanese music charts. After all, it has all the elements J-pop lovers want to hear in the music they listen to. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: SEVENTEEN posed for a groufie after performing on CDTV, a top Japanese music show. Source: Twitter/@pledis_17jp.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

tripleS Wins First ROTY Award at the Brand of the Year Awards

The 2023 Brand of the Year Awards, held on September 4, was a dazzling display of South Korea‘s best and brightest in entertainment. Organized by the Korean Consumer Forum, this event honors those who have significantly impacted brand value, based on factors like consumer votes and expert insights. This year, the ceremony celebrated a diverse group of stars—K-drama actors, K-pop idols,  radio DJs, and even YouTubers. With over 8,019,000 voters participating in online and phone-based surveys, the winners truly represented the voice of the general consumers.

Among the evening’s highlights was the crowning of tripleS as winners of the Female Rookie Award. This accolade is a testament to the indelible mark they’ve made since debuting. Their success story is further echoed by a fan’s comment on Reddit, stating, “Deserved, they had an insane year. I hope they’re proud of themselves for all they’ve achieved in such a short but significant period of time!”

In addition to tripleS‘ big win, other notable winners included BLACKPINK‘s Jisoo for Female Solo Artist and Lim Young Woong for Male Solo Artist. The K-drama segment saw Kim So Yeon and Lee Dong Wook bagging top honors for their roles in the acclaimed Tale of the Nine-Tailed 1938. The award ceremony also highlighted comedians, MCs, radio DJs, and variety shows.

What’s next for tripleS?

Their fans can look forward to seeing the tripleS subunit Acid Angel from Asia (AAA) attend the 29th Chungcheongnam-do ParaGames on September 7 at 6:00 PM KST. As confirmed by the tripleS Discord server, they’ll be performing at this particular event.

tripleS AAA, Generation [THE SHOW 221115]

AAA made waves with their debut on October 28, 2022. Comprising Gong Yubin, Jeong Hyerin, Kim Yooyeon, and Kim Nakyoung, their mini album <ACCESS> achieved commercial and critical success. Notably, “Generation” was nominated for first place on SBS M’s The Show, and <ACCESS> got the No. 1 spot on the iTunes US K-pop album chart.

However, it’s not all celebrations for the group. The debut album of tripleS‘s sub-unit EVOLution, initially slated for release on October 4 KST, has been postponed to October 11. The delay is due to the Asian Games and Chuseok holiday. Despite this unfortunate twist in their schedules, EVOLution, featuring Kamimoto Kotone, Kim Chaeyeon, Kim Nakyoung, Kim Soomin, Kim Yooyeon, Koma Mayu, Kwak Yeonji, and Lee Jiwoo, promises to be another feather in tripleS’ cap. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The girls achieved so much in a short time. Source: Twitter/@tripleSGLOBAL.

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Genius Korea Uploads Full Transcript of RM’s ‘Intersections’ Interview

Last year, RM, the charismatic leader of the globally acclaimed K-pop group BTS, candidly discussed his deep connection to art on Intersections: The Art Basel Podcast. With Genius Korea recently providing fans a comprehensive transcription of this conversation, we now have a deeper insight into RM’s artistic journey.

Broadcasting from his studio in Seoul, RM, whose real name is Kim Namjoon, shared glimpses of his personal space. “I’m in Seoul, because I live in South Korea, Seoul. And here it’s seven pm. I’m in my studio, this is our label studio. It’s my little studio—and there’s a little painting back over there, so, yeah.”

How RM developed a love for visual art

RM’s foray into the world of art began with a transformative visit to the Chicago Art Institute in 2018. “Yeah, I remember how it started. It was in 2018 which was four years ago,” he reminisced. Not being a club person and having limited friends abroad, RM utilized his free time during tours to explore museums and galleries. This lit a fire in his heart, leading him to admire artists like Monet, Picasso, and Seurat. The thrill of seeing their works in person was evident in his voice.

Discussing the longevity and impact visual artists have, RM shared, “I really love to use expressions a lot, I don’t like to divide the art world, but when I see the painters and the artists; most of them get their fame after their death.” This perspective has influenced his own approach to creativity, as well as the kind of legacy he hopes to leave behind.

As his appreciation for art deepened, he began collecting pieces. His first acquisition was a painting by Korean artist Daiwon Lee. The joy of owning art resonated deeply with him. “Actually, I think it already started by collecting. I think, okay, I have this precious piece in my home and I see it every day; I wake up every day in front of it.”

As the conversation neared its end, RM unveiled plans for a unique personal project. “I’m planning to make a small space of my own private collection and just make a café on the first floor, and set up my collection on the second and third floors. People could always see the collections when they just want to see them.”

His impact on the Korean art scene

RM‘s relationship with art showcases his multifaceted personality. His fervor for art, coupled with his global influence, has introduced a new generation to the world of visual arts. That has brought a lot of joy to those who have been part of the scene for a long time.

Jini Yang, the director of an art gallery called White Cube Seoul, is one of those people. In a recent interview with Vogue Korea, she talked about the evolving Korean art scene. She gave the leader of BTS credit for playing a part in that evolution. 

“The Korean art scene is characterized by deep connections with both the local and the global,” she told the media outlet. “It’s heartwarming to see a broader audience enjoying art, just like people adding the County Museum of Art to their LA travel itinerary to listen to RM‘s audio guide.”

White Cube Seoul is located in the upscale Gangnam-gu district. It’s housed in the same building as the private Horim Art Centre, known for its collection of Korean Modern art and antiquities. Maybe, just maybe, you can bump into RM there if ever you’re in Seoul. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Visual art is a subject he takes very seriously. Source: Instagram/@rkive.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EVNNE Unveils Debut Trailer Ahead of ‘Target: ME’ Release

The K-pop scene is buzzing with excitement. EVNNE, a promising new boy group, dropped a trailer for their debut mini-album Target: ME. This trailer is a visual feast, as each scene brims with the members’ charms. Every single one of them complements the others. Their expressions, filled with determination and youthful exuberance, capture the raw emotions of their journey. 

EVNNE(이븐) Debut Trailer

The members of EVNNE make a powerful first impression in the trailer. Each one stands alone in a stadium, poised at the starting line of a race track, their faces bearing focused expressions. Their muscles are tense, and they’re raring to burst into action. But when they finally start running, it’s not long before they stop, overcome by the initial burst of exertion. One member even collapses on the track, chest heaving with exhaustion and disappointment written all over his face. This scene is a testament to the members’ drive, symbolizing their pursuit of their dreams; the act of stopping after running also signifies the roadblocks they encounter along that journey.

Next, the trailer delves into the lives of the members. Each one is shown auditioning on their own in a bid to make a debut. When the trailer premiered online, one fan remarked, “This trailer is almost like a documentary about how the group was formed.” As the trailer progresses, the members start to shine with agile performances and passionate singing. EVNNE elevated the anticipation for their forthcoming debut by conveying a fresh, refreshing atmosphere with outstanding styling and strong individual performances.

EVNNE is coming soon

The trailer culminates with a return to the stadium. This time, the members are running on the race track together. It’s like their unity is giving them the strength and will to keep running passionately toward their dreams.

COMING SOON 🎯 #EVNNE #이븐 #Target_ME

EVNNE is a collaboration between Rain Company, WAKEONE, and Yuehua Entertainment, operating under the Jellyfish Entertainment banner. The group boasts notable Boys Planet contestants like Ji Yunseo, Keita, Lee Jeonghyeon, Mun Junghyun, Park Hanbin, Park Jihoo, and Yoo Seungeon. The group’s name, EVNNE, translates to “Evening’s Newest Etoiles.” As “etoile” is French for “star,” this name symbolizes their goal to shine brilliantly at the highest point in the night sky, attracting fans’ attention.

EVNNE will release their first mini-album Target: ME on September 19 at 6:00 PM across various online and offline platforms. This release is eagerly awaited by fans and music enthusiasts alike, as they anticipate the fresh, innovative sound EVNNE promises to bring to the table. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: They’re running full tilt toward their dreams. Source: Twitter/@EVNNE_official.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

SM Entertainment Artists to Have Own Channels on HYBE’s Weverse

SM Entertainment artists during the SMTOWN 2022 concert in Japan. Credit: Facebook/SMTOWN

It’s official: SM Entertainment artists are moving to HYBE-owned fan community platform Weverse. 

On Tuesday, September 5, Weverse announced that 13 SM Entertainment acts will launch their respective channels on their platform. Their respective channels will simultaneously open on September 12, 2pm KST. 

These artists include Kangta, BoA, TVXQ!, Super Junior, Girls’ Generation, SHINee, and EXO. Red Velvet, NCT 127, NCT DREAM, WayV, aespa, and RIIZE will also join the platform. 

“Everything from dedicated communities to official membership! Get connected with SM ARTISTS on Weverse,” they captioned the post. 

From Kwangya Club to Weverse

SM Entertainment first announced their plans of moving to the fan community app by HYBE in April. “Through the coexistence of our private messenger bubble and the fandom platform Weverse, we are materializing the fan-centered ‘SM 3.0,” the agency said then. 

At the time, SM Entertainment artists were using the private messenger service DearU bubble and Kwangya Club. However, Kwangya Club, which was launched in June 2022, will be closed by September 11. 

 

With this move , SM Entertainment artists are expected to have easier communication with their fans. This is because the platform is known for its community service and livestream options. Moreover, official merchandise of the agency will now be available through the Weverse Shop. 

Additionally, SM Entertainment assured supporters that all fan club memberships purchased from Kwangya Club will also be automatically transferred to their respective Weverse accounts. 

In a press release, Weverse company CEO Choi Joon Won said: “We welcome artists of SM Entertainment, who are loved by fans around the world, to Weverse,”

Although artists signed to companies under HYBE’s multi-label system were the first to trythe app, more K-pop acts have since moved to the platform. In fact, YG Entertainment acts like BLACKPINK, WINNER, and TREASURE are also using the HYBE-owned app.

Featured image: SM Entertainment artists during the SMTOWN 2022 concert in Japan. Credit: Facebook/SMTOWN

Exit mobile version