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BB Girls Reflect on Long Career and New Beginnings

BBGIRLS, formerly recognized as Brave Girls, are embarking on an exciting new phase in their career under Warner Music Korea. The four-member girl group, consisting of MINYOUNG, YOUJOUNG, EUNJI, and YUNA, has officially unveiled their first single since the rebranding, marking a significant moment in their musical journey.

After a remarkable 12-year journey together, BBGIRLS have introduced a fresh identity and sound through their latest special single album, ‘One More Time.’ This release not only showcases their artistic evolution but also highlights the enduring bond that unites the group members, reflecting their unwavering commitment to their music.

BBGIRLS Discuss New Journey With Warner Music Korea

In a new interview with allkpop, the members of the girl group spoke about their new beginnings with their latest album. When asked about the changes they went through, Minyoung expressed excitement for their ongoing musical adventure.

“The four of us are beginning a new journey as BBGIRLS. We are nervous and excited at the same time,” she said. “It is very exciting to be reintroduced and to also start in a new environment. We, together with our music label, have worked hard in every step of the process to create an album that shows all of our distinct colors well.”

Eunji also shared how the members of the group took their relaunching seriously and took time to choose their first single.

“We took the time to listen to a lot of demos and communicated a lot,” she said. “‘ONE MORE TIME’ was the song that stood out the most, with a strong first impression and the most lasting impression. Also, as the title suggests, this track portrays a message of trying one more time. We believed it would be the most fitting concept for BBGIRLS re-debut.”

As they embark on this new chapter, fans eagerly anticipate what BBGIRLS have in store, eagerly embracing the group’s transformation and looking forward to the music and experiences they will share in the future.

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BTS’ Jungkook, Tomorrow X Together Celebrate VMAs Win With Bang PD

Bang PD hangs out with BTS' Jungkook and TOMORROW X Together. Credit: Instagram/Bang PD

It’s the time to have fun, ARMYs and MOAs as BTS’ Jungkook and TOMORROW X TOGETHER celebrated their first VMAs wins, as well as Yeonjun’s birthday with Bang PD! 

In a series of Instagram Stories uploaded by BIGHIT and HYBE Founder Bang Si Hyuk, the artists are seen having dinner together after the awards show with “Hitman Bang” himself.  

“They tore up the stage tonight,” Bang PD wrote, referring to TXT’s debut performance at the MTV VMAs. 

Aside from the awards, the BIGHIT family also celebrated Yeonjun’s 24th birthday. In another video, the singer is seen blowing out candles on his cake. In the caption, Bang PD wrote: “Happy Birthday, Yeonjun.” 

https://twitter.com/TXTSYBTHK/status/1701877414782202050

Moreover, Bang PD also shared videos of him with BTS’ Jungkook. As seen in his Instagram story, the two were throwing up random hand signs. Interestingly, Bang PD hinted that “There’s a spoiler! A big one,” in the said video. Which left fans guessing what it possibly meant, with many thinking that it’s for another solo release. 

https://twitter.com/_RapperJK/status/1701902427237097797

Prior to this video with Bang PD, Jungkook has already expressed his plans to release his first mini album in November. Additionally, in the Suchwita episode where Jungkook appeared as a guest, he also revealed that he is gearing up to drop new music later this year.

TXT and Jungkook’s VMA wins

With the recently concluded MTV VMAs, TXT made history as they became the first fourth generation group to win at the awards show. There, the group took home the Push Performance of the Year award for their track “Sugar Rush Ride.”

Moreover, TXT also wowed the crowd with the premiere performance of their pre-release single “Back for More”, featuring Brazilian singer Anitta. With this team up, TXT became the first K-Pop group to showcase a genre-fusing collaboration at the VMAs.

On the other hand, their fellow BIGHIT artist, BTS’ Jungkook also bagged his first VMAs win. Though he did not attend the event, the all-rounder singer took home the Song of the Summer title with his viral hit “Seven”, featuring Latto. With this, Jungkook became the first Korean solo artist to win in the category. 

Featured image: Bang PD hangs out with BTS’ Jungkook and TOMORROW X Together. Credit: Instagram/Bang PD

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RED VELVET Irene Might NOT Renew Contract with SM Entertainment

A new report reveals SM Entertainment could lose Irene

SM Entertainment could be losing an important talent. A new report suggests that there is a possibility that Irene will not renew her contract with the agency. If this is the case, the RED VELVET leader could be planning to sign with a different company.

RED VELVET Leader Irene Reportedly Reconsidering Contract Renewal

Recent reports have sparked speculation that Irene may choose not to renew her long-standing contract with SM Entertainment. These rumors have also been linked to the extended hiatus of RED VELVET. The group’s last activity was in June 2023 when they concluded their ‘R to V’ World Tour.

This is troubling news for fans considering that there has only been one member confirmed to stay with SM Entertainment. So far, only Seulgi’s contract renewal has been officially confirmed by the label. Needless to say, fans are curious about the contract statuses of other RED VELVET members.

While SM Entertainment has remained silent regarding Irene, Wendy, Joy, and Yeri‘s contract negotiations, the group had previously hinted at their preparations to release their third full album during a livestream held earlier in August. This cryptic message added to the intrigue surrounding the group’s future plans.

The uncertainty surrounding Irene’s contract decision and the undisclosed status of the other RED VELVET members’ agreements have left fans eagerly awaiting official updates from the label, as they hope for the beloved group to continue their musical journey together. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

Irene recently made headlines when she took on the role of the new muse for 2aN, a Korean makeup brand’s Japanese branch. Irene’s comeback with a new brand endorsement comes after a three-year hiatus from such engagements. Within hours of the announcement, products featuring Irene as a model began flying off the shelves, with several items quickly selling out.

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iKON’s Bobby Announces Solo Album October Release Date

iKON rapper Bobby is also preparing for his first solo concert!

Bobby is gearing up for a major October release. The iKON rapper will be dropping a new solo album next month. In addition to that, he is currently preparing for his first solo concert.

iKON Member Bobby Confirms First Solo Concert and New Album Release

On September 13, 143 Entertainment made a significant announcement regarding the artist’s upcoming endeavors. They revealed that iKON member Bobby is set to embark on his first solo concert titled ‘ROBERT’. The upcoming concert is scheduled to take place at Seoul’s Shinhan Play Square Live Hall on October 15.

In conjunction with this exciting concert news, the agency also confirmed that Bobby has been diligently working on his forthcoming solo album, slated for release on October 10. Fans can eagerly anticipate an extraordinary performance during the concert, where Bobby is poised to present tracks from his eagerly awaited album.

This marks Bobby’s return to the solo spotlight after approximately seven months since the release of his inaugural single album ‘S.i.R.’ under the banner of 143 Entertainment in March. His upcoming concert and album release are sure to captivate fans and continue to establish him as a prominent figure in the music industry.

Bobby Defends Former iKON Leader B.I.

The news comes soon after Bobby made himself heard on an issue that has beleaguered iKON since they moved to 143 Entertainment. The rapper pointed out that fans should stop pushing for OT6 vs OT7 and cease bothering the group’s former leader. In addition to that, he expressed his love for B.I., admitting that they have spoken since his departure.

In related news, it was confirmed by the Korean Intellectual Property Rights Information Service (KIPRIS) that a total of 13 trademarks associated with “iKON” have been officially transferred to its members. This remarkable development extends to Kim Jin Hwan (Jay), Song Yun Hyeong (Song), Kim Ji Won (Bobby), Kim Dong Hyuk (DK), Koo Jun Hoe (Ju-Ne), and Jung Chan Woo (Chan).

The iKON members now officially own all their group trademarks following their split from YG Entertainment

This significant achievement signifies that each member of iKON is now a proud owner of their group’s valuable trademarks, marking a historic moment in their artistic journey and underlining their autonomy in shaping their future endeavors.

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Rookie Group POW Drops Pre-release Single ‘Favorite’

Grid Entertainment’s multinational boy group POW has finally taken its first step into the limelight with “Favorite.” This song, released before their official debut on October 11, marks the beginning of their highly-anticipated journey in the music industry.

The five members of POW—Dongyeon, Hong, Hyunbin, Jungbin, and Yorch—recently held a presscon in Seoul. There, the group introduced themselves and their music to the world. “We’re excited and nervous to meet our fans a month earlier,” expressed Hyunbin. “We’ll grow and improve as we head toward our debut, so please look forward to our journey.” Echoing his sentiments, Thai actor-singer Yorch stated, “We’ve waited a long time for this moment. We’ll give it our best shot.”

The band’s name, POW, isn’t just a catchy moniker. As the leader Jungbin explained, it represents their goal to “blow up the K-pop scene with their innovative and fun energy.” Their single “Favorite” encapsulates this vision. It’s a pop-punk dance tune that exudes innocent, youthful vigor. The lyrics convey the exhilaration of being in love. Accompanying it is a music video inspired by European youth culture. Hyunbin described it as “portraying the dreamlike, beautiful energy of youth our age,” with shots of the picturesque German countryside.

POW (파우) ‘Favorite’ M/V

There’s more to come from POW

As “Favorite” sets the stage for POW‘s official debut, fans can also anticipate an album. Dongyeon revealed that their upcoming EP would encompass a range of concepts, “from first love to spirits of boyhood.”

POW‘s inception has garnered international attention, primarily because they’re the first boy group to be launched by Grid Entertainment. This label is a subsidiary of 131 Label, home to rapper-singer B.I. Adding to their mystique is Yorch‘s history. He previously trained under BTS‘ company, BigHit Music. He was also part of the agency’s ill-fated pre-debut team, called Trainee A. Reflecting on his journey, Yorch said, “I felt lost and wanted to rest when I returned to Thailand. I was discouraged and wanted to give up on becoming a K-pop artist.” However, after several meetings with Grid’s CEO, and bonding with the other members, he joined POW.

The band’s strength, as emphasized by the members, lies in their teamwork. Each member brings a unique flair to the group, but together, they create a beautiful synergy. They look up to the group SEVENTEEN. In fact, Jungbin said, “SEVENTEEN shows a powerful energy onstage. We also hope to become a group that could share bright and encouraging energy.” – K-Pop News Writer

 

 

 

POW (파우) ‘Favorite’ LYRIC VIDEO

Featured Image: Their energy is reflected in their lyric video. Source: YouTube/@POW_Official.

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Phunky Studios Slaps Yoo Junwon with a Mega 3 Billion Won Lawsuit

In a shocking turn of events, Phunky Studios, the production company behind the MBC survival show Fantasy Boys, has taken legal action against Yoo Junwon. The suit comes after the trainee’s sudden exit from the group, right on the cusp of his debut. The Seoul Central District Court has confirmed receipt of the case, with the production company demanding a staggering 3 billion KRW in damages.

Yoo Junwon‘s journey in the limelight began when he clinched first place on the show. This victory paved the way for his inclusion in the debut group. However, his happiness was short-lived. Just a month before the group’s much-anticipated launch, the budding idol suddenly decided to leave.

Yoo Junwon had troublesome parents

PocketDol Studio, responsible for managing the group, shed light on the behind-the-scenes turmoil. They revealed that they and Yoo Junwon’s parents had engaged in extensive contract discussions, revisiting the terms over ten times. “Our company discussed the contract with him and his parents over ten times immediately after the program ended. Despite the contract being written according to the standard terms recommended by the Fair Trade Commission, his parents requested a revision of the contract,” they said. The bone of contention? An increased profit distribution rate, justified by Yoo Junwon‘s first-place finish in the program’s voting compared to other members.

The studio further elaborated, “If we adjust the profit distribution rate differently for members based on the final voting rank, there could be an issue of fairness. We explained sufficiently every time why we couldn’t do that. However, Yoo Junwon‘s parents unauthorizedly took Yoo Junwon out twice and finally notified that he would not join the team.”

Fantasy Boys remains undeterred

Despite the void left by its first-place winner, Fantasy Boys remains undeterred. The group is still on track to make its official debut on September 21 KST, featuring the remaining 11 members. Fans can hardly wait for their debut album, NEW TOMORROW, set to drop on September 16.

In K-pop, controversies aren’t unusual. However, this lawsuit’s magnitude and its circumstances sent shockwaves throughout the industry. As the legal battle begins, fans and industry insiders alike are hoping for a resolution that serves the best interests of all involved. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Junwon went from center to defendant real quick. Source: Twitter/@nugubgs_.

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BTS’ Jungkook Wins ‘Song of the Summer’ at 2023 MTV VMAs

On September 13th, BigHit Music proudly announced a monumental achievement for BTS’ Jungkook. His first solo single, “Seven (feat. Latto),” was proclaimed Song of the Summer at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards, held at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. This accolade isn’t just a testament to the song’s global appeal and marks Jungkook as the first Korean soloist to win in this category.

In 2021, BTS‘s chart-topping hit “Butter” had secured this title, underscoring Jungkook‘s immense popularity both as a member of BTS and as a soloist. The Song of the Summer award is determined by fans’ votes and carries significant weight in the industry. Notably, this isn’t his first brush with the MTV VMAs. Last year, he was nominated for his collaboration with Charlie Puth. His nomination for Song of the Summer this year, for the second straight time, had fans buzzing with anticipation. His win further cements his global stature as a soloist.

“Seven (feat. Latto)” hasn’t just been a hit at award shows. According to a recent chart released by Billboard on September 12, the song ranked No. 37 on the Hot 100. Impressively, right after its debut, it rocketed to the top of this chart and has consistently stayed in the upper ranks for eight straight weeks. Finally, the song ranked first in Global (excluding the US) and second in Global 200 for eight straight weeks. The only other K-pop track to achieve similar success in ‘Global (excluding the US)’ is BTS‘ “Dynamite.”

What will Jungkook do next?

But the accolades don’t stop there. Jungkook is set to make another significant mark on the global stage. He will headline the 2023 Global Citizen Festival in Central Park, New York, on September 23. This festival, organized by the New York-based international civic group Global Citizen, has been a platform since 2012 to raise awareness about pressing issues like climate change, extreme poverty, and famine. Fans earn free tickets to this event by taking actions that help end extreme poverty. BTS did “Permission to Dance” and “Butter” at the 2021 edition of this festival. Jungkook will be the first K-pop soloist to headline it, joining other notable headliners like Lauryn Hill and the Red Hot Chilli Peppers.

In a press release, Jungkook expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I’m really excited to perform at the Global Citizen Festival as a headliner. I’m happy to be part of a festival that has a good motive. I’m looking forward to performing at the festival.”

With such accomplishments, Jungkook continues to break barriers and set new records in the world of K-pop, proving that his immense talent truly knows no bounds. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungkook didn’t have to attend the VMAs to make waves at the ceremony. Source: Twitter/@Dazed.

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BTS V Reveals How Unexpected Netflix Show Changed His Mind About Acting

The BTS member claims that one Netflix show made him want to continue acting

BTS’s V recently disclosed that his perspective on acting underwent a transformation thanks to a popular Netflix show. It’s been seven years since V marked his acting debut in the K-drama “Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth”. Nevertheless, Kim Taehyung has affirmed his keen interest in returning to the world of acting, inspired by a beloved series available on the popular streaming platform.

BTS Member V Shares Love for Unexpected Netflix Show

The BTS member was recently a guest on IU’s talk show “IU’s Palette” where they discussed his solo album ‘Layover’. However, the two also touched upon some of V’s other interests which include acting. When IU asked whether he has plans for his acting career in the future, Kim Taehyung confirmed that he does. In addition to that, V admitted that he wants to try working on a thriller for a change.

Perhaps the coolest revelation during the interview is when V shared how a Netflix show changed his perspective on acting. “Do you know the Netflix series ‘The End of the F***ing World’? My thoughts on acting completely changed after I watched that,” Kim Taehyung stated.

IU quickly admitted that she also loves the series. V immediately continued that he wanted to take on a role similar to James in the Netflix series.

“When people ask me, ‘Is there a role you want to play?’ I tell them this protagonist of ‘The End of the F***ing World’,” he said.

This isn’t the first time that the BTS member admitted he is eager to return to acting. It was previously reported that V wants to play the bad guy for a change when he continues pursuing his acting career.

“I’ve told a lot of my friends and people around me that I now have this ambition to play a villain at least once,” he said.

V is currently promoting his solo album ‘Layover’.

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‘SBS Super Concert’ in London Officially Cancelled

The SBS Super Concert in London was scheduled to feature some of the best K-pop acts including TXT, The Boyz, ITZY, and ZEROBASEONE

The much-anticipated SBS Super Concert scheduled to grace London, England has been met with cancellation. The cancellation of the event, in collaboration with KPOP Lux, was announced officially on September 13 by SBS.

SBS Officially Announces KPOP LUX SBS Super Concert in London Has Been Cancelled

Although the precise reasons underpinning this unfortunate decision remain veiled, SBS expressed their deep remorse for any letdown it might have caused to fans. They reaffirmed their commitment to fostering opportunities for international K-Pop enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the music they adore.

“Despite our efforts to ensure the smooth hosting of the 2023 KPOP LUX SBS Super Concert in London, we regret to inform you that it has been cancelled due to unavoidable local circumstances,” the statement read.

The cancellation rings particularly disheartening for K-Pop aficionados in England, who had eagerly anticipated an event that promised a thrilling blend of music, dance, and the distinctive K-Pop essence. Beyond the promise of mesmerizing performances, the SBS Super Concert sought to facilitate cultural exchange and mutual appreciation between South Korea and England.

SBS Super Concert Already Had Some of K-Pop’s Finest Acts

A stellar lineup had been poised to grace the stage, featuring a roster of esteemed K-Pop groups and soloists including TXT, The Boyz, ITZY, ZEROBASEONE, ONEUS, WEi, BILLLIE, xikers, Choi Ye Na, and Dream Catcher. Each of these artists commands a substantial global fan base, guaranteeing an electrifying concert experience that many K-Pop devotees had eagerly anticipated.

While this cancellation is undoubtedly a disappointment, fans can take solace in the hope that future opportunities to celebrate K-Pop will arise, fostering a stronger bond between South Korea’s vibrant music culture and admirers across the world.

https://twitter.com/LuxSbs1859/status/1682048188407226368

The SBS Super Concert was previously held in Madrid, Spain where it proved to be a huge success in July. The previous event also featured amazing performances from SHINee, Enhypen, IVE, ATEEZ, STAYC, Cravity, and xikers.

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CNBLUE’s Yonghwa Recalls ‘We Got Married’ Stint With SNSD’s Seohyun

CNBLUE's Yonghwa and SNSD's Seohyun during their last day of filming 'We Got Married.' Credit: YouTube/MBC

Rejoice, Goguma couple shippers! Yonghwa of CNBLUE has just gifted their fans some crumbs from his and SNSD’s Seohyun’s virtual marriage on the reality variety show We Got Married.

On Monday, September 11, the vocalist appeared as a guest on MC Kangnam’s Youtube show My Neighborhood Friend Kangnami. In the episode, Kangnam brought back Yonghwa’s previous work with the youngest member of SNSD. 

In 2010, Yonghwa and Seohyun, or the YoungSeo couple, acted as newlyweds for We Got Married. Nicknamed as “Goguma couple” (sweet potato couple), the two idols garnered popularity and support due to their enthralling chemistry. 

During their We Got Married stint, the two gained attention for their supposed innocent love as Seohyun didn’t have romantic relationships prior to that.

Additionally, the YoungSeo couple were also known for being musically-inclined. With this, the two even composed their own song and performed it in front of a crowd. 

Unsurprisingly, fans even rooted for the couple’s relationship in real life.

Yonghwa looks back on his YoungSeo stint 

Reminiscing about the past, Yonghwa revealed that despite people thinking it was all an act, their “marriage” was largely unscripted. 

Moreover, the singer also unveiled the story behind their lost “couple ring.” Yonghwa clarified that his viral clip of searching for the ring during a live performance on Music Core was real.

“It’s really real. The ring I bought with Seohyun at a fancy stationery store was cheap. So it easily corroded and it fell. But I didn’t lose it. As soon as the stage was over, I searched for it and that is what came out,” he said in the show.

On social media, fans of the virtual couple expressed their excitement on having the YoungSeo days being talked about. Especially since it’s been nearly 13 years since Yonghwa and Seohyun starred in the series. 

More about WGM

For those unaware, We Got Married is an MBC reality show that allows male and female celebrities – from idol group members, actors, or TV personas – to take part in a virtual marriage for a certain period of time. The couples are given tasks which help develop their relationship. 

Other famous couples who also appeared in the show include BTOB’s Yook Sungjae and Red Velvet’s Joy, f(x)’s Victoria and 2PM’s Nickhun, and actor Namkoong Min and singer Hong Jin Young, among many others.

With the series’ first launch in February 2008, WGM aired for a total of four seasons before its final episode in May 2017. With its immense popularity, the show inspired several spin-offs, including a global edition.

Featured image: CNBLUE’s Yonghwa and SNSD’s Seohyun during their last day of filming ‘We Got Married.’ Credit: YouTube/MBC

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