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BAEKHO Drops Intense ‘Elevator’ Teaser

The former NU'EST member feels the tension in the new 'Elevator' teaser
The former NU'EST member feels the tension in the new 'Elevator' teaser

Former NU’EST member BAEKHO is intensifying excitement and intrigue surrounding his upcoming comeback through a remake digital single. He recently released a captivating “Elevator” teaser, featuring him exuding a powerful aura within an elevator, accompanied by an unidentified woman.

BAEKHO Feels The Tension In the New ‘Elevator’ Teaser

On August 30, BAEKHO dropped a new performance film teaser for “Elevator.” In the preview, the former NU’EST member shares a lift with a mysterious woman who can’t help but be drawn to the singer. She also takes glances at his physical attributes while pretending to be disinterested. The video then concludes with the two looking at each other.

It’s an exciting tease for things to come. Needless to say, LOVEs can’t wait for the release of the remake digital single.

Baekho thrilled fans with the announcement on August 21, disclosing his plans to release a remake of Park Jin Young’s 1995 hit, “Elevator.” Additionally, this song is notably famous for its provocative lyrics and has left an indelible mark on the music industry.

The singer’s decision to reinterpret this iconic song from the past has generated immense anticipation among fans and music enthusiasts alike. It’s also an opportunity for the singer to showcase his unique musical style and pay homage to a legendary artist in the K-pop industry.

Kang Dong-ho, who is better known as Baekho, is a versatile South Korean artist known for singing, songwriting, producing, and TV. He is NU’EST‘s lead vocalist and producer and decided to stay with PLEDIS Entertainment after the group’s disbandment in March 2022.

In October 2022, Baekho began his solo career with the release of “Absolute Zero.” Fans eagerly anticipated this new chapter, which allows Kang Dong-ho to showcase his creative musical talents beyond NU’EST.

Baekho’s remake single “Elevator” reimagines J.Y. Park’s infamous track and promises a fresh take on the iconic song. It will also be part of the ‘[bæd] time Project #1 initiative’ and is slated for release on August 31, 2023.

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FIFTY FIFTY To Pursue Exclusive Contracts Dispute with ATTRAKT

The members of FIFTY FIFTY are still determined to suspend their exclusive contracts

The members of FIFTY FIFTY have expressed their decision to pursue their dispute with ATTRAKT. Their decision comes after losing the legal battle to break out of their exclusive contracts with the label.

FIFTY FIFTY Officially Announce Decision To Appeal Judge’s Decision

On August 30 KST, FIFTY FIFTY’s legal representation the Barun Law Firm issued a statement indicating their intentions.

“We have reached a decision to file an appeal against the dismissal of our application for an injunction aimed at suspending the validity of the exclusive contracts,” the statement read. “The appeal will be officially filed soon”

“The court, in its ruling, pointed out the lack of transparency regarding the settlement structure for music and sound source income, as well as the details and items of the advance payment paid by the music producer for the creation of FIFTY FIFTY’s music. It was also unclear whether the CEO breached his duties in relation to this,” it continues.

“Despite the outcome of the provisional injunction, we are set to continue our fight on the major issues in the near future,” the statement added.

It was previously reported that FIFTY FIFTY are planning to appeal the decision. On August 28, a judge decided to reject an injunction aimed at suspending FIFTY FIFTY’s exclusive contracts with ATTRAKT. This decision was prompted by reports stating that FIFTY FIFTY had declined to engage in mediation court proceedings. When the group’s legal representative pursued a traditional trial, the judge swiftly dismissed the request.

Since then, ATTRAKT CEO Jeon Hong Joon disclosed his intention to shift his attention towards pursuing legal action against Ahn Sung Il. The Givers’ head has been accused of orchestrating FIFTY FIFTY’s attempted departure from ATTRAKT. This move signifies ATTRAKT’s commitment to seeking justice in this matter. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.

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Confirmed! Ex-LOONA’s Chuu to Debut as Soloist in October

Chuu updates fans with a new photo. Credit: Twitter/Chuu

Mark your calendars! Former LOONA member Chuu, whose real name is Kim Ji-Woo, is set to finally make her solo debut in October.

On Tuesday, August 29, the artist’s label ATRP confirmed that Chuu is currently preparing to release her first solo album. Given that this will mark her first release as a soloist, she plans to showcase her charm as she embarks on a new beginning.

Although a final date about her solo debut has yet to be announced, Chuu has been teasing the fans with messages likely hinting at her release.

 

“This place is full of loveliness and amazing vitality. This flower field full of flowers to wrap the girl around is filled with sparkling things like musical notes, wings, and wildflowers. The girl looks at another world spread out in front of her with sparkling eyes,” the translation of the post read. 

Following the news, dedicated fans of Chuu have been anticipating this development in her career.  Especially that this upcoming release would mark the artist’s solo music since her legal battle with former agency BlockBerry Creative. 

Chuu and her fresh start

In December 2017, 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. In August 2023, the Seoul Northern District Court ruled in favor of Chuu on her lawsuit against Blockberry Creative. 

Currently, Chuu is an artist under the startup agency ATRP.

“We are very happy to welcome Chuu as our agency’s first artist. We will give full support so that Chuu, who has unlimited potential, can fully display her talent as an artist and continue her activities enjoyably and happily. Please show lots of support and interest for Chuu who is taking a new leap,” the label said about having the singer. 

 

Since then, ATRP has been preparing solo activities for the singer. In July, the agency revealed Chuu’s official fandom and lightstick names. Interestingly,“Kkoti” which translate to “home” is the singer’s fandom name. 

Additionally, Chuu has also been confirmed to appear as an MC in the variety show Steel Unit. She will rejoin the program in its third season after her appearance in the first season. 

Where are the LOONA members now? 

After Chuu filed her injunctions against BlockBerry Creative, other LOONA members also started doing so. In June 2023, all 12 members won their respective lawsuits and left the agency. 

Since then, the members have signed with different agencies. 

Heejin, Kim Lip, Jinsoul, Choerry, and Haseul are now under Modhaus. Interestingly, Modhaus has since launched the ARTMS project. Said project will reportedly refer to the activities of the LOONA members under their agency. 

In July, Odd Eye Circle, the sub-unit composed of Choerry, Jinsoul, and Kim Lip, released their album Version Up. Meanwhile, Heejin is also set to make her solo debut. 

Additionally, former LOONA members HyunJin, YeoJin, Vivi, Go Won, and HyeJu have formed the group LOOSSEMBLE (LOONA Assemble). They’re all under the agency CTDENM. 

Featured image: Chuu updates fans with a new photo. Credit: Twitter/Chuu

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SEVENTEEN’s Jun Reveals Heartwarming Story Behind ‘Lie Lie Lie’ Cover

Jun revealed the reason why he chose to cover Lee Juck's 'Lie Lie Lie' and it dates back to his pre-debut days!

JUN might be an established K-pop idol now but there was a time when the SEVENTEEN member was just a trainee with big dreams. Interestingly, Wen Junhui reflected on his past after delivering a sweet cover of Lee Juck’s “Lie Lie Lie.” The Chinese idol shared how the song helped him connect with a random stranger who left a lasting impression.

Jun Shares Why ‘Lie Lie Lie’ Has a Special Connection To Him 

In a recent episode of Lee Mujin‘s popular musical variety program “Leemujin Service”, JUN sang his own version of some classic songs. The second cover was Lee Juck’s “Lie Lie Lie” and the SEVENTEEN member shared why he chose to sing it.

According to JUN, he had trouble finding the confidence to sing when he was a trainee. In fact, he would often lose his voice when singing to a crowd. Since this would be a major hurdle for a K-pop idol, PLEDIS Entertainment decided to send Jun on a mission to face his fears.

He continued by sharing how he had to find someone in a crowd to listen to him sing. Although JUN was told he only had to sing the first verse, he admitted that finding a listener was difficult. The trainee was sent to the busy streets of Gangnam for almost an hour around lunchtime. Whenever he approached an individual, they would tell him they didn’t have time to listen.

Luckily for JUN, one older man stopped to listen to him. When the trainee declared that he would cover “Lie Lie Lie”, the man admitted that he was a Lee Juck fan. After listening to the future SEVENTEEN member, the man even gave some feedback. He reportedly praised JUN for his emotion but told him to practice his pronunciation.

JUN clearly appreciated the feedback and admitted he wanted to reconnect with his listener. “I wanted to thank him again if I have a second chance, but it’s hard to find him,” he admitted.

It’s a great story that confirms a kind gesture is always treasured. Hopefully, JUN will be able to reconnect with his random listener from his pre-debut days. In the meantime, SEVENTEEN is preparing for a comeback in October.

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Wow! Twice’s Jihyo Makes Her Billboard 200 Debut in Top 14

TWICE's Jihyo in the teasers for ZONE. Credit: Facebook/TWICE

TWICE’s Jihyo stunned the music industry with her solo debut album Zone, which was released on August 18. 

Following the release of her solo album, the leader of JYPE’s 9-member girl group set an impressive record as Zone debuts at #14 in Billboard 200. 

The US-based charts announced on Tuesday, August 29, that the solo album of TWICE’s Jihyo recorded a total of 41,000 units in its first week. 

 

With this, Jihyo becomes the only second female K-pop soloist to enter the Top 100 of the Billboard 200. 

Interestingly, Jihyo joins fellow TWICE member Nayeon, who made her No. 7 debut on the Billboard 200 chart in August 2022 with her solo debut album IM NAYEON. Coincidentally, Nayeon and Jihyo are the first two TWICE members to release their solo albums.

Additionally, Jihyo also made history in other Billboard charts including Billboard’s Artist 100 where she debuted at No. 10. She once again became the second female K-Pop soloist to enter the Top 50, following Nayeon who debuted at No. 5 last year.

 

Zone also debuted at No. 2  on Billboard’s World Albums chart. It also  bagged the fourth spot on both the Top Album Sales and Top Current Album Sales charts.

Local album sales tracker Hanteo Chart also shared that Zone sold over 534,585 copies just a week since its release.

With this, Zone became the highest-selling mini album in the first week of its release, making Jihyo the first K-pop female soloist to achieve this feat.

11 years in the Making

Jihyo’s career as an idol was never easy as she once admitted she almost quit as a trainee. The singer trained for 11 years before finally debuting in TWICE.

“I ran away once because it was so hard. I ran away from home,” she said.

Luckily, Jihyo surpassed all the hardships and debuted as a singer. Now, Jihyo actively promotes her first album in various TV programs in the midst of group activities.

The vocalist’s debut solo EP consists of seven tracks including its lead single “Killin’ Me Good,” which continues to thrive on various streaming platforms worldwide.

The title track entered Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart at No. 11, and topped Spotify’s Top Song Debut Global chart.

 

Other tracks in the album are “Closer”, “Waiting On You”, “Room”, and “Nightmare.” Moreover, Zone saw Jihyo collaborating with two artists. The song “Talkin’ About It” featured American rapper 24kGoldn, while she had a duet with Korean soloist Heize for the track “Don’t Wanna Go Back.”

This upcoming September, TWICE is also set to showcase their astounding performances at the Asia and Europe leg of their 5th World Tour Ready To Be.

Featured image: TWICE’s Jihyo in the teasers for ZONE. Credit: Facebook/TWICE

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(UPDATED) STAYs Believe a Hyunjin-Troye Sivan Collab Is Finally in the Works

The K-pop scene is abuzz with whispers of a potential collaboration between Australian actor-singer Troye Sivan and Stray Kids‘ Hyunjin. The seeds of this speculation were sown in May when the two were spotted together at Dua Lipa x Versace‘s “La Vacanza” 2023 Fashion Show. Their camaraderie was evident as they chatted and took pictures, with Hyunjin even making an appearance on Sivan‘s Instagram.

Apparently, Hyunjin made quite an impression on Sivan, who posted on social media about wanting to connect with the South Korean star. The internet was soon flooded with fans offering suggestions on how Sivan could get in touch with Hyunjin. Many even tagged Stray Kids‘ official SNS accounts in their comments, hoping to bridge the gap between them. The buzz eventually reached such great heights that even Spotify’s official account tweeted about the topic.

However, not all reactions were positive. Following his posts about Hyunjin, Sivan took to TikTok to share an unfortunate update. He revealed that he received death threats after publicly expressing admiration for Hyunjin. Despite the negativity, many STAYs (Stray Kids’ fans) held onto the hope of a collaboration, especially since Hyunjin is known to be a huge fan of Sivan‘s work. When quizzed about the possibility of a collaboration, Sivan enthusiastically replied, “That would be sick. I would do that in a heartbeat.”

Is a collaboration in the works?

Adding more fuel to the fire, Sivan recently duetted a fancam of Hyunjin performing Stray Kids‘ “S-Class” on social media. His caption read, “Wow, absolutely love this guy. Would love to sing with him one day.” Fans couldn’t help but be amused by Sivan‘s continued admiration for his “celebrity crush.” Even as some playfully told Sivan to “get in line,” others saw his post as a hint regarding the long-awaited collaboration.

@troyesivan

#duet with @kep1bts ✩ #hyunjin

♬ S-Class (Short Ver.) – Stray Kids

Drawing parallels, fans recalled a similar post by Sivan about singer PinkPantheress. Shortly after expressing his desire to collaborate with her, it was announced that PinkPantheress would feature on the remix of Sivan‘s song “Rush.” Given this pattern, netizens are now speculating that Hyunjin is next. Some STAYs even say they heard Hyunjin‘s distinct vocals in PinkPantheress‘ collaboration announcement video.

Further strengthening these speculations, producer Zhone, known for his work on “Rush,” recently started following Hyunjin on Instagram. With all these clues aligning, it seems fans might soon get the collaboration they’ve been waiting for. Only time will tell if these speculations come to fruition. 

UPDATE: Sivan just made an announcement on TikTok.

The rumors have been confirmed! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Ever since they met at a fashion event months ago, Troye Sivan hasn’t been able to get Hyunjin off his mind. Can you blame him? Source: Twitter/@viraltakes.

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SEVENTEEN Confirms October Comeback With 11th Mini Album

SEVENTEEN, the 13-member Pledis Entertainment K-pop group that has taken the world by storm, is gearing up for another major comeback. According to a recent report by Hankook Ilbo, the group is slated to drop their 11th mini album in October. This news sent waves of excitement throughout their massive fanbase, eagerly anticipating what the group will bring to the table this time.

Seungkwan, the group’s main vocalist, is confirmed to be part of the October comeback promotions. This is particularly noteworthy as CARATS have been eagerly awaiting his return. What’s more, the group’s overall leader S.Coups also plans to return for this comeback. He had temporarily halted his activities due to a torn ACL. But as per Pledis Entertainment’s statement, his involvement will be “flexible and within reasonable limits, ensuring his health and well-being are prioritized.”

In a recent interaction with Elle Man Korea, Wonwoo, another member of SEVENTEEN, shed light on the group’s hectic schedule. Although they had concerts lined up in Seoul on July 21 and 22, they squeezed some studio time into their jam-packed days. Wonwoo shared, “I’m currently going back and forth between preparing for our concert and new album. Even yesterday, after practicing for our concert, I worked on songs that will be included in our next album. Although it’s been really busy working on two different things at once, it’s a lot of fun, and I’m enjoying it.”

SEVENTEEN recorded a ‘shocking’ new album

S.Coups, in a previous interaction with Marie Claire Korea, teased fans with some intriguing details about their next album. He said, “The work in progress is more ‘shocking’ than previously announced. It feels fresh and fun, but this album has a lot of shocking elements. Also, additional ideas based on novel ideas have also been poured out. Yes, we have prepared a lot of interesting content.”

SEVENTEEN‘s meteoric rise is evident in their previous achievements. Earlier this year, they made history with their mini album FML, which sold over 6.2 million copies. This feat was monumental, and it set a new record for the best-selling Korean album of all time. FML also set a new record for the highest first-week sales of any album in Hanteo history. It became SEVENTEEN’s highest-ranking album on the Billboard 200 as well, debuting at an impressive No. 2.

With such a stellar track record and the promise of a “shocking” new album, the anticipation for their October comeback is palpable. Fans worldwide are counting down the days till they can witness another groundbreaking achievement from SEVENTEEN. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: ‘FML’ was a smash. What will the boys do to top it? Watch this space for updates. Source: Twitter/@WORLDMUSIC AWARD.

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Netizens Suspect RIIZE’s Anton Dated SEVENTEEN’s Vernon’s Sister

With the anticipation building for RIIZE‘s official debut on September 4, fans and netizens are on a quest to uncover every tidbit about the group’s members. Recently, the bond between the group’s youngest member, Anton, and Sofia Chwe, SEVENTEEN‘s Vernon‘s sister, has piqued the curiosity of many. Although she’s not an idol, Sofia has made a name for herself as a YouTube personality and boasts a commendable following. Moreover, her singing prowess is undeniable.

count on me *a lil surprise for my loves*

Anton and Sofia allegedly crossed paths during their school days and became friends. Both born in 2004, they recently graduated from high school. Interestingly, their closeness isn’t a shocking new discovery. Photographs of them together have surfaced in the past, but back then, Anton‘s status as an SM Entertainment trainee was still under wraps. 

https://twitter.com/luismileyy/status/1689387662036094976

The rumor mill began churning when some intriguing photos of the pair, believed to be from Sofia‘s now-deleted Instagram posts, went viral again recently. In one of them, Sofia is spotted donning a bracelet identical to Anton‘s. A friend asked if it was a gift from “him,” and Sofia playfully replied that she “stole it,” prompting Anton to post a sad emoji in the comments. 

Another post, still visible on the girl’s Instagram, shows her posing against a picturesque mountain backdrop. While the post seems unrelated to Anton, a comment inquiring if she visited the spot with “that kid” has led some to believe it might hint at Anton. Sofia, with her characteristic wit, quipped that she was accompanied by her father.

All about Anton

Anton was originally christened Lee Chanyoung. He also answers to the English moniker, Anton Lee. Born under the Aries zodiac sign on March 21, 2004, his Chinese zodiac reveals him to be a Monkey. Towering at an impressive 6’1″, Anton‘s origins trace back to Boston, MA, but he relocated to New Jersey at the tender age of three. 

He also happens to be the son of illustrious singer-producer Yoon Sang and actress Shim Hyejin. Many affectionately address him by his nickname, Brachio. His talents aren’t confined to singing; he once dreamed of becoming a professional swimmer and is good at playing the cello. RIIZE welcomed him into their fold on August 1, 2023. Twenty days later, the boy group released a pre-debut single.

While it’s clear that Anton and Sofia share a close bond, the nature of their relationship remains shrouded in mystery. Many fans believe they’re just friends. Regardless, this speculation further underscores the challenges K-pop idols face in maintaining even a shred of privacy. 

That aside, it’s heartwarming to witness an almost-idol and an idol’s sister forging a bond, especially when they come from different worlds. It’s a testament to how interconnected we all are. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: So many things are coming out of the woodwork as Anton’s official debut with SM Entertainment’s new boy group nears. Sources: Twitter/@pannchoa and @RIIZE_official.

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Kwon Eunbi Shows Off Her Sexy Body in New Calvin Klein Campaign

After a series of unforgettable performances at different Waterbomb events, soloist Kwon Eunbi is making waves as part of Calvin Klein’s “My Calvins” campaign. Her appearances at music festivals, where she was lauded for her physique, already set the stage. Now she’s taking it a notch higher.

On August 28, the “Flash” singer and IZ*ONE alum took to Instagram, unveiling a series of photos from the “My Calvins” campaign. In every photo she posted, Eunbi is the epitome of confidence and charm, clad in a wide variety of Calvin Klein pieces. From bralettes and underwear to denim jackets and jeans, each photograph perfectly captured her elegance and beauty.

This collaboration with Calvin Klein isn’t simply a testament to Eunbi’s growing popularity. It’s also a strategic move for her career. While some might be concerned about her album sales, the reality is that certain things are different for soloists. This includes metrics for success. If you’re a soloist, you don’t measure success solely by the number of digital or physical albums you sell. As a soloist, your goal is to receive invitations to events, land roles in dramas and movies, and secure sponsorship deals. That’s how you make big money, and Eunbi is clearly on the right path.

Eunbi is a force to be reckoned with

A testament to Eunbi’s popularity is her recent performance at The Cass Cool Festival in Gwacheon. Some footage from this event, where she flaunted her figure in a striking blue outfit, garnered a whopping 600,000 views on YouTube in two days. Clips and photos from the event have since flooded social media platforms like Instagram and X (formerly known as Twitter).

230819 권은비 KWONEUNBI Full Ver

In other news, Eunbi made a triumphant return to the music scene last August 2 with her newest single album, “The Flash.” This track not only climbed the charts, but it also helped her secure her first-ever music show win.

Whether it’s her performances, music, or modeling ventures, Eunbi is a force to be reckoned with. With her recent Calvin Klein campaign, she has once again proven her versatility and star power. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Sizzling’ doesn’t even begin to cover how hot she looks in these ‘My Calvins’ photos! Source: Twitter/@keitadj3.

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Bang Chan Seemingly Responds to STAYs’ Concerns About ‘Chan’s Room’

Stray Kids‘ leader, Bang Chan, has been a consistent figure in the world of live broadcasts. Since 2019, fans eagerly awaited his weekly YouTube Live show, Chan’s Room, where he chatted with fans, played songs, and sometimes hosted guests. Due to the way he hosted it, STAYs came to regard the show as a safe place.

However, since May 14, 2023, the popular broadcast has been noticeably absent from the internet. This hiatus coincided with an episode in which Bang Chan shared his experiences at the Music Bank show in Paris. In that episode, the idol revealed his surprise at some of his peers not greeting their sunbaes, which he considers basic manners. 

Although he didn’t name names, fans worldwide speculated on possible culprits, with groups like IVE being mentioned. This led to some artists facing severe criticism, while Bang Chan was praised for being honest. Following the controversy, Bang Chan took to Instagram to apologize. He clarified he never intended to target specific artists and expressed regret for any offense caused.

The hiatus of Chan’s Room has led to STAYs criticizing JYP Entertainment, with many believing the company is behind the decision. A clip from a fan meeting seemed to confirm these suspicions, with Bang Chan saying, “I can’t do Chan’s Room anymore. So, uh, I actually want to, but the company said no.”

 

Did Bang Chan address the controversy?

This news ignited a firestorm of criticism towards JYP Entertainment, with plenty of fans trending hashtags like #JYPELeaderOfDisappointment, and #JYPEPROTECTSKZ. Some directed their ire at Division 1, the JYP Entertainment department in charge of managing Stray Kids. They did this with the hashtag #DIVDISBAND. Other fans mobilized protest trucks to express their anger.

In a recent twist, Bang Chan seemingly addressed STAYs’ concerns on the fan community platform Dear U Bubble. He posted a photo of himself with a towel wrapped around his head. He also wrote, “Why upload now? Because it’s my decision lol.” He further emphasized, “Everything is my decision, my rules—hahahahahahahaha.” Some believe that was his way of saying that pausing his broadcasts was his decision. Others aren’t convinced.

https://twitter.com/rainbecomestars/status/1696618833191051721

While some fans remain skeptical, many hope for a resolution that sees the return of Chan’s Room. A harmonious relationship between Bang Chan, Stray Kids, their management, and the fans wouldn’t go amiss, either. But only time will tell whether that’ll happen or not. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Bang Chan made fans worldwide happy through Chan’s Room, so they’re all fighting to get it back. Source: Twitter/@sweetestdua.

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