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Watch: DAY6’s Young K Comforts Fans With ‘Letters With Notes’

Young K in the behind-the-scenes filming for 'Letters with Notes.' Credit: Twitter/DAY6

Rejoice, My Days! Young K of K-pop band DAY6 made his highly-anticipated solo comeback with Letters with Notes on Monday, September 4. 

Alongside his first full-length solo album Letters with Notes, Young K also released the music video for the album’s title track “nothing but.” Said song is an emotional rock ballad about love.

In the “nothing but” music video, the DAY6’s bassist and vocalist acted with labelmate TWICE’s Dahyun. The two portrayed a couple who is on the verge of breaking up. 

Prior to the release of the album, the singer also treated fans with two pre-release tracks: “waited” and “let it be summer.” Moreover, “let it be summer” saw Young K playing his guitar all over beautiful sceneries in its official music video.

 

Eight more tracks make up Letters with Notes. These include “dreamer,” “bungee jumping,” “natural,” “STRANGE,” “SOUL,” “playground,” “babo” and “what is..”

Young K as a solo artist

Undoubtedly, this album proved Young K’s exceptional talent as a musical artist as he took part in composing and writing lyrics for all 11 tracks.

“My mentor, composer Hong Ji-sang, always tells me that I have to make an improvement or at least a change. So I took a stab at many different things this time, trying to pull off diverse genres of music, while writing more metaphorical lyrics.” the singer said in an interview with The Korea Times. 

He also hoped the album can deliver diverse emotions to listeners. “It will be great if it can bring comfort, joy, or something else that they can resonate with… If they can feel something from my music, then that will be enough,” he added.

Additionally, Young K, who released his debut mini album Eternal in September 2021, will also perform on the international stage.

It was announced on DAY6’s social media accounts that Young K will be having his solo concerts in Jakarta and Bangkok this October and December, respectively.

 

Moreover, fans have truly waited a long time for Young K’s solo comeback in the music scene. Letters with Notes is even more special as it is the singer’s first release since he was discharged from military service in April.

When he enlisted, Young K became the first K-pop idol to join the Korean Augmentation to the United States Army (KATUSA), which apparently only recruits about 2,000 men each year.

Shortly after his discharge, he returned as the radio program DJ of Kiss the Radio all while preparing for his album. Young K was the DJ for the show from November 2020 to October 2021. 

Featured image: Young K in the behind-the-scenes filming for ‘Letters with Notes.’ Credit: Twitter/DAY6

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Taeil and Haechan Release Teaser for NCT Lab Project ‘N.Y.C.T’

Taeil and Haechan poses for the concept photos of their duet under NCT Lab. Credit: Twitter/NCT

NCTzens, get ready for this amazing team-up! NCT 127 members Taeil and Haechan are joining forces to release their first NCT LAB track, which will be titled “N.Y.C.T.”

On Monday, September 4, SM Entertainment unveiled more concept teasers for Taeil and Haechan’s upcoming duet. Aside from individual photos, other pictures also showed the two members posing together.  

 

An abbreviation for New York City, “N.Y.C.T” is an R&B pop song. The two vocalists, who are known for their soulful singing, have also participated in composing and writing the song. 

Although it will be officially released on September 7, Taeil and Haechan first performed “N.Y.C.T” during NCT127’s Neo City: Seoul The Link+ concert in October 2022. 

 

Moreover, fans are looking forward for the duet since it served as member Taeil’s first release following a motorcycle accident. Currently, the idol is on hiatus to focus on his recovery.

What is NCT LAB?

NCT LAB is a SM Station series allowing NCT members to release their self-composed solo and unit tracks outside of regular NCT albums.

As of this writing, NCT LAB has a total of seven tracks. 

Additionally, the project was first announced on January 27, 2022. It immediately kicked off a few days after with its first release: “Child” by member Mark.

Meanwhile, its first unit song “coNEXTion (Age of Light)” was sung by members Doyoung, Mark, and Haechan. Said song also featured a performance by Shotaro, who is now a member of RIIZE.  Then, it was followed by another unit song “Rainy Day,” which was performed by Kun, Taeil, and Yangyang. 

 

For the rest of 2022, NCT LAB released two more tracks. Jaehyun showed off his angelic vocals with “Forever Only” while Ten exhibited his powerful dance skills with “Birthday.”

In 2023, Mark and Jaehyun both released their second NCT LAB solo tracks. Mark proved his versatility as a performer with the hit “Golden Hour,” while Jaehyun blessed the fans’ ears yet again with the R&B song “Horizon”.

Taeil and Haechan’s upcoming duet track will now be NCT LAB’s eight official release.

Moreover, SM Entertainment also confirmed more upcoming NCT LAB songs including a solo track by Kun, and another unit song by Kun, Xiajun, Renjun, and Chenle. Although, details about these upcoming NCT LAB songs have yet to be released. 

In other news, NCT returned as a full group with the fourth album Golden Age and held their first full group offline concert NCT NATION: To The World. Currently, NCT 127 is gearing up to make a comeback with their fifth album, Fact Check, in October. 

Featured image: Taeil and Haechan poses for the concept photos of their duet under NCT Lab. Credit: Twitter/NCT 

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RIIZE Announces Official Fandom Name

RIIZE has finally announced their official fandom name after the release of their single album 'Get a Guitar'

RIIZE, the exciting new musical sensation, recently made a thrilling announcement that sent their fans into a frenzy of excitement. On the 4th of September, the group hosted a spectacular showcase titled “RIIZING DAY: RIIZE Premiere” to commemorate the launch of their debut single album, “Get A Guitar.”

RIIZE’s Official Fandom Name Finally Announced On Social Media

Amidst the electrifying atmosphere of the showcase, RIIZE took a momentous step by introducing their official fandom name, which they proudly christened as “SUNZ.” This announcement was met with resounding cheers and applause from their dedicated supporters in attendance, and it resonated far and wide as RIIZE spread the word through their official social media channels.

RIIZE also shared the news on X with a hopeful message for their fans. “SUNZ, who will always make RIIZE shine brightly from the same place and mature together with RIIZE, please continue to show great support for RIIZE,” it reads.

This momentous occasion marked a significant milestone in RIIZE’s journey, solidifying the bond between the group and their devoted fans, who can now proudly identify themselves as “SUNZ.” As the group continues to captivate audiences with their music and performances, the SUNZ fandom is set to grow and thrive as an essential part of RIIZE’s vibrant and passionate community of supporters.

RIIZE is comprised of seven members namely Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Seunghan, Sohee, and Anton. Shotaro and Sungchan were previous members of NCT before SM Entertainment announced they would be joining the new group. The members’ profiles were released in August 2023. Since then, the upcoming idols dropped their pre-release single “Memories” on August 21. The group officially debuted with their single album ‘Get A Guitar’, which was released on September 4, 2023.

In addition to announcing their fandom name, RIIZE was also confirmed to promote internationally. The group has signed a contract with RCA Records for their promotion and activities in the United States.

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ONEUS Confirms September Comeback With ‘La Dolce Vita’

ONEUS is preparing for a September comeback

ONEUS is getting ready for their next release this year. The boy group has just confirmed that they are preparing for a September comeback. Seoho, Leedo, Keonhee, Hwanwoong, and Xion have just dropped a cool teaser for their tenth mini-album ‘La Dolce Vita’.

ONEUS Set for September Comeback With ‘La Dolce Vita’

On September 4, the official ONEUS YouTube account dropped the logo motion teaser for the group’s September comeback. As a tradition, the boy group unveils a new version of their logo with every comeback. The new logo is more delicate than its predecessors. It suggests that the idols might be going for a lighthearted and fresh comeback later this month.

‘La Dolce Vita’ will be ONEUS’ second effort as a five-member group after RAVN’s departure in October 2022. Seoho, Leedo, Keonhee, Hwanwoong, and Xion had previously made their debut as a five-member group with the mini-album ‘Pygmalion’ in May 2023.

ONEUS made their debut with the EP ‘Light Us’ in January 2019, marking the beginning of their musical journey. Following this, they went on to release an impressive catalog of music, comprising seven mini-albums and the full album ‘Devil’ in January 2021. In March 2020, they also treated fans to the single album ‘In Its Time,’ showcasing their versatility and dedication to their craft.

In a significant development, September 2022 saw the release of their album ‘Malus,’ which served as the centerpiece for their ‘ONEUS 1st World Tour [Reach For Us].’ Originally planning to embark on this global tour as a six-member group, the unfortunate departure of Ravn due to reports of inappropriate behavior led them to adapt their plans. Undeterred, the remaining five members pressed on, commencing the tour in October 2022.

Despite the challenges they faced, ONEUS’s dedication and talent shone brightly throughout their tour, as they delivered an astounding total of 22 shows across four continents. This journey reflects their resilience and commitment to their music, solidifying their place in the hearts of fans worldwide.

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GOT7 Unveils New Official Light Stick Ver. 3

It’s almost time to get a new AHGABONG. GOT7 has just unveiled the first look of their latest official light stick Ver. 3. Not surprisingly, the unexpected announcement already has IGOT7s wondering if the idol group are preparing for a comeback concert.

GOT7 Confirms New Light Stick Version 3

GOT7 has sent their fans into a frenzy of excitement with the unveiling of the highly anticipated third iteration of their official light stick. The AHGABONG Version 3 immediately sparked a global wave of anticipation, with fans eagerly marking the days until its official release.

The new design boasts a sleek black base that exudes elegance. Its upper portion resembles a bird, an homage to GOT7’s devoted fanbase IGOT7 or AHGASE. The second official nickname for the fandom translates to “baby bird” in Korean. This upper section is adorned with captivating green illumination, perfectly aligned with the group’s official fandom color. To add to its allure, the handle proudly features the unmistakable GOT7 logo, making it an essential item for fans to own and cherish.

It’s certainly an awesome update from GOT7 considering that the idols haven’t released a group effort since May 2022. Needless to say, AHGASEs are now wondering if this means the boy group will reunite for a new project. After all, why would the idols release a new lightstick if it wouldn’t be used in a concert? Could there be a comeback concert in the future? Keep checking this page for more updates on this story.

In the meantime, GOT7 fans can circle September 8, 2023, on their calendars.  This is the date of the official debut of the official light stick Version 3. The exciting release is scheduled for a Friday afternoon, ensuring that fans have something to look forward to at the end of the week.

In related news, member Mark Tuan recently dropped his latest music video for the song “Everyone Else Fades.”

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BTS’ V Delights Netizens in Chaotic ‘Running Man’ Promo

BTS‘ V is gearing up for his first solo appearance on SBS’ Running Man as part of the promotional activities for his first solo album, Layover. The initial promo suggests that ARMY are in for a treat, with the episode promising to be a comedic spectacle. For the uninitiated, Running Man is a staple in Korean entertainment. It’s a fun variety show where participants engage in a series of humorous and challenging games to win the ultimate prize.

[Trailer] BTS’s V on Running Man 😍 | Coming Soon to Viu for FREE!

V’s first solo flight

The show enjoys immense popularity not only in Korea but also wherever Hallyu content is consumed. While BTS as a group had graced the Running Man set during its 300th episode in 2016, this marks the first time V is appearing solo, causing a surge of excitement among fans.

A recently released promo showcases V‘s duality. It begins with the “Rainy Days” singer stepping out of a car and striding down a red carpet, exuding the aura of a global superstar. Dressed in a black velvet ensemble with his blonde hair styled to perfection, V embodied the international music icon he is. The scene then shifts to V being handed a paper detailing the game’s rules, revealing his character as the affluent owner of lands in eight regions of the fictional “Running Country.”

The promo also shows V meeting the other cast members. The atmosphere is electric and the awe in their eyes is palpable as they greet the singer-songwriter. In a light-hearted moment, he reveals he was told to dress fancy for the show, leading to a humorous exchange with Ji Suk-jin. The comedian bent his head so V could whisper to him, “Your nose hair is showing.” The cast laughed uproariously at that. Fans are reacting similarly to the promo. Here’s what they’ve said:

Will the ‘Running Man’ cast beat him?

Later in the promo, V changes into a more casual outfit. He dons a yellow t-shirt and jeans. As the landowner, he holds the power to determine taxes in each region, much to the shock and dramatic despair of the regular cast members. This episode’s narrative revolves around the cast’s attempts to negotiate tax reductions with V, who proves to be a tough negotiator. BTS fans worldwide are excited to see if the Running Man cast can wrest the upper hand from him or not. 

Mark your calendars for a riveting episode of Running Man airing on September 10 at 6:15 PM KST. He’s also set to appear in Suchwita as the last member of BTS to grace SUGA’s beloved talk show. 

[슈취타] EP.18 TEASER

With BTS‘ V at center stage, the upcoming episodes of both promise to be unforgettable. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: V really took his job as “landowner” seriously. Source: YouTube/@ViuSingapore.

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EDAM Entertainment Confirms IU Plagiarism Accusations Have Been Dismissed

EDAM Entertainment has officially concluded the plagiarism case concerning IU, providing a final update on the matter. The agency released a statement on September 4, disclosing that the investigative agency had rendered a decision to dismiss the criminal allegations against IU on August 24. The dismissal was based on the determination that the alleged actions did not constitute a criminal offense.

IU’s Agency Reveals Plagiarism Accusations Have Been Officially Dismissed

In their statement, EDAM Entertainment reiterated the fact that IU was not involved in the composition of the five songs that were central to the plagiarism allegation. Additionally, it was clarified that IU also did not participate in composing the specific portion of the sixth song that had drawn the accuser’s concern.

“Currently, we have requested a full investigation into posted videos and texts that libel the accuser and [IU] by submitting to the investigative agency the information on the relationship among the defendants in the cases filed,” the statement read. “Furthermore, we will continue to relentlessly pursue acts that damage the character and reputation of [IU] until the end to prevent their recurrence, and will strict civil and criminal liability in accordance with the ‘zero tolerance principle.'”

This conclusion marks the end of a contentious chapter for IU, reaffirming her innocence and emphasizing her non-involvement in the alleged plagiarism. With this matter resolved, IU can now focus on her artistic endeavors and continued success in the music industry, while her fans can breathe a sigh of relief.

On May 10, a Korean citizen filed a lawsuit alleging that IU plagiarized the works of other artists. The suit claimed that the “Blueming” singer had plagiarized a total of six songs. Since then, EDAM Entertainment has vehemently denied the allegations and announced they are taking legal action. In the meantime, IU’s first concert film titled “IU Concert: The Golden Hour” will premiere later in September.

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Former TEEN TOP Leader C.A.P. Opens Up About Abuse From Other’s Members’ Fans

The former leader of TEEN TOP revealed that fans blamed him for the group's problems

C.A.P. may have been the leader of a popular boy group but that doesn’t mean the idol was immune to bullying. The former TEEN TOP member revealed that he was often disrespected by fans. According to Bang Minsu, he was often abused during fan signing events.

C.A.P. Reveals TEEN TOP Fans’ Abusive Behavior

The former TEEN TOP member recently took part in a casual interview. In the candid YouTube interview, C.A.P. candidly shared his emotional journey during his tenure with TEEN TOP. He shed light on the challenges he faced, particularly at fan signing events. Contrary to the common assumption that all group members receive equal adoration, he admitted to grappling with the sense of being the least favored member.

“I was fine with not having a lot of fans,” he said. “But, I struggled with fans of other members being hostile toward me.”

Bang Minsu went on to share what these “admirers” would say to him.

“They’d say, ‘You’re the reason TEEN TOP isn’t getting more popular,’ or ‘It’s your fault that my bias isn’t getting all the attention.’ They’d make it very clear to me at fan sign events and whatnot that they hated me,” he said.

It’s a shocking revelation considering that most stans prefer a particular member and would support them more than the rest of the group. However, it is unexpected to know that there are admirers who would say abusive things to the other group members.

For C.A.P., he is putting that time behind him. TOP Media had previously announced that Bang Minsu decided to leave TEEN TOP following his recent controversy. The agency confirmed that the group will continue promoting with four members. In the meantime, C.A.P. issued an apology for his actions.

TEEN TOP recently released the album ‘4SHO’ on July 4. It would be their first album after C.A.P’s departure and their first release in four years.

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Seventeen’s Joshua, DK, and Dino Featured on New Kids on the Block’s ‘Dirty Dancing’ Remix

DK,Dino, and Joshua for SEVENTEEN's photobook 'The Name; 17.' Credit: Facebook/SEVENTEEN

Boy band fans unite!  K-pop boy group SEVENTEEN and American boy band New Kids on The Block (NKOTB) joined forces for a remix version of the track “Dirty Dancing.” 

Initially released in 2008, “Dirty Dancing” was part of NKOTB’s album The Block. To celebrate the 15th anniversary of the album, the band will be releasing a special edition album titled The Block Revisited. According to Billboard, the revisited LP will feature bonus materials from its initially star-studded tracklist. 

On Friday, September 1, NKOTB released a reimagining of the 2008 single, which featured a remix by Dem Jointz and SEVENTEEN members Joshua, DK, and Dino. 

 

All three of the SEVENTEEN members also had their lyrics in English, with member Dino even showcasing his rapping skills. 

The collaboration between SEVENTEEN and New Kids on the Block was first teased in late August. The American boy band shared a tweet saying “17,” to which the K-pop boy group replied with an emoji of raising their hands. 

SEVENTEEN members’ reaction on ‘Dirty Dancing’ remix 

Since the collaboration was confirmed, both fans of the group have expressed their excitement for the release. 

Aside from the fans, the SEVENTEEN members involved in the collaboration were also looking forward to working with NKOTB. 

In a video, Joshua, Dino, and DK opened up about how it’s like working with an American band. 

 

Joshua, who grew up in America, revealed that her mother used to love NKOTB and that “Dirty Dancing” was one of his favorite songs. 

“It’s fascinating to make music with them,” he said. “It’s amazing that we got to do a remix with them. I really love this song.” 

For his part, DK shared that it’s an “honor” for them to be featured in the remix. “I hope it turns out to be a great collaboration,” he said. 

Additionally, he also left a message to their fans: “I hope you love and enjoy ‘Dirty Dancing.’”

Meanwhile, Dino opened up about how he prepared for his part in the remix. “I think a lot about the vibe when recording. And if it’s in a different language, I’ll try to make sure I sound as natural as possible.”

Like DK, the youngest member also hoped that their fans would enjoy the remix. “All of us really worked hard on this track. And this was an honor for us as well.” 

SEVENTEEN’s upcoming activities 

The collaboration with NKOTB came after SEVENTEEN released their first compilation album Always Yours.

Currently, SEVENTEEN will have their Japan dome tour for their FOLLOW concert. 

Additionally, the group is set to return with their 11th mini-album in October. Final details about that specific comeback have yet to be announced as of writing. 

Moreover, the October comeback will see the return of Seungkwan, who’s been on hiatus since July. 

Featured image: DK, Dino, and Joshua for SEVENTEEN’s photobook ‘The Name; 17.’ Credit: Facebook/SEVENTEEN

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RIIZE Makes Highly-Anticipated Official Debut With ‘Get a Guitar’

Following the buzz from their pre-releases “Siren” and “Memories,” RIIZE, the new boy group from SM Entertainment, has officially stepped into the limelight with their debut title “Get a Guitar.” 

“Get a Guitar” is a vibrant blend of funky guitar rhythms and retro synthesizer sounds. The song’s lyrics are a poignant depiction of music as a universal language—how the sound of a guitar can bring people together. It’s actually more than a song; it’s a narrative of the group’s journey, emphasizing their shared aspirations and dreams.

RIIZE 라이즈 ‘Get A Guitar’ MV

The music video also showcases the group’s acting and dancing skills. Aside from scenes of the boys executing their choreography, viewers are treated to glimpses of them embarking on a quest to find the perfect guitar. Theirs was a highly-anticipated debut, with RIIZE recording 1,032,144 million stock pre-orders for their first album. Such numbers indicate the album stock produced before its release, reflecting the immense anticipation from fans.

Earlier in August, the group teased fans with live broadcasts, pre-release tracks, and other types of content. But their official introduction to the world was marked by a press conference in Seoul on September 4. Here, the seven members—Anton, Eunseok, Seunghan, Shotaro, Sohee, Sungchan, and Wonbin—not only interacted with fans and the press. They also announced their collaboration with RCA Records in the US.

More on the RIIZE-RCA partnership

SM Entertainment’s collaboration with RCA Records for RIIZE‘s debut signifies a well-prepared launch. It also hints at the group’s chance at international success. Joseph Chang, CBO of SM and CEO of Kakao Entertainment America, expressed excitement for this partnership. envisioning a bold new chapter in K-pop. Echoing Chang’s sentiments, Peter Edge, Chairman and CEO of RCA Records, praised RIIZE for their versatility and talent.

John Fleckenstein, COO of RCA Records, sees RIIZE as a global pop act, highlighting their diverse cultural representation with members from Korea, Japan, and the US. Fleckenstein believes “Get a Guitar” leans more towards a western pop sound, setting them apart from their South Korean peers. Moreover, RIIZE‘s approach to connecting with fans through social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter is reminiscent of western artists, a departure from the traditional K-pop debut strategy. Their record-breaking achievement of amassing one million Instagram followers in merely four days underscores this unique approach.

RIIZE 라이즈 : Introduction Film

The name RIIZE, a fusion of “rise” and “realize,” encapsulates their ethos of continuous growth and recognizing achievements. Their association with RCA Records, home to global superstars, positions them for international acclaim. This collaboration also marks SM’s maiden venture with Sony in the US.

RIIZE‘s debut comes amidst significant changes within SM Entertainment, following a power tussle between its board and founder Lee Soo-man. With Kakao now holding a significant stake in SM, the future looks promising for the entertainment giant and its new sensation. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: RIIZE’s highly-anticipated debut marks SM’s first project without its founder Lee Soo-man. Source: Twitter/@RIIZE_official.

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