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BigHit Music Opens Pre-Orders for TXT’s Summer Photobook

Season of TXT: YOUTH

In their latest release, TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT) invites fans on a vibrant trip to Osaka, Japan through Season of TXT: YOUTH.

[PREVIEW] TXT (투모로우바이투게더) ‘Season of TXT: YOUTH’ Mood Sampler

A candid glimpse

Their 200-page photobook Season of TXT: YOUTH captures the essence of summer and youth, as well as the band members’ carefree spirit. The photobook is more than a collection of pictures; it’s a celebration of the season and the colorful moments of their youth.

The photobook comes bundled with an 80-minute video that showcases the TXT members doing fun missions, going on leisurely walks, and taking time to stop and smell the roses in the picturesque city of Osaka. The behind-the-scenes footage offers a candid glimpse into their time there. It makes fans feel as if they’re right next to the band.

Adding a personal touch to the package, the photobook includes handwritten postcards addressed to MOA (Moments of Alwaysness), the group’s dedicated fanbase. These postcards, along with a set of photocards, enhance the overall experience, making it a must-have for any TXT enthusiast.

In line with BigHit Music‘s commitment to sustainability, the product is eco-friendly. It’s crafted from paper certified by Korea’s Forest Stewardship Council and printed using biodegradable soy ink. This ensures that while fans cherish their favorite moments, they’re also contributing to a greener planet.

[PREVIEW] TXT (투모로우바이투게더) ‘Season of TXT: YOUTH’ SPOT

What’s in “Season of TXT: YOUTH”?

For those who want to get their hands on this summer treat, pre-orders commence from 11:00 AM KST on August 17 and will continue while supplies last. Season of TXT: YOUTH’s official release date is October 11.

The package’s unique design ensures the safety of its contents. Season of TXT: YOUTH includes the main photobook, a ticket, a postcard set with a holder, a set of photocards, a youth keyring with a silver chain, and a digital code card. This digital code card is a gateway to high-definition VODs on Weverse. Fans can easily verify the code to watch the video, be it on mobile, PC, or the Weverse TV app.

However, MOAs should keep in mind that they need a Weverse account to view the content. Every digital code is unique and can be registered to only one account. It’s also crucial to remember that deleting a Weverse Shop or Weverse account means losing access to purchase history.

Season of TXT: YOUTH isn’t just a photobook; it’s an immersive experience filled with adventure, laughter, and memories. Whether you’re a die-hard MOA or just someone who appreciates beautiful photos, this photobook is a summer essential. Get yours while supplies last! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This is just one of the moments preserved in the 80-minute video that comes with the photobook. Source: YouTube/@TXT_bighit.

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Look: Secret Number Confirms August Comeback

SECRET NUMBER shares a behind photo from filming 'Doxa.' Credit: Twitter/SECRET NUMBER

Multicultural girl group SECRET NUMBER will be releasing their seventh single album Star Light on August 24. 

The act first shared a teaser with the phrase “coming soon” on Tuesday, August 15. In the photo, the members were seen putting their hands together. 

 

On Wednesday, August 16, they unveiled the track list for their upcoming release. 

Star Light will have two songs. The title track has the same name as the album, while the b-side is called “Crazy Love.”  Interestingly, members Minji and Jinny are credited for the lyrics of Crazy Love. 

 

Additionally, the group will be making a comeback just three months after they released their sixth EP Doxa in May. 

More about SECRET NUMBER 

The six-member act made their debut in May 2020 with the single “Who Dis?”

Moreover, SECRET NUMBER is known for being a multinational group. Lea is from Japan, Dita is from Indonesia, while Jinny is Korean-American. Meanwhile, members Minji, Soodam, and Zuu are all from Korea. 

In an interview with HelloKpop, the group talked about being diverse as a team. 

“I really enjoy learning and exchanging knowledge of our languages and cultures,” Jinny said. “Also, whenever we visit countries that we’re from, the members that are from that country feel so reliable. They’re like our tour guides.” 

Featured image: SECRET NUMBER shares a behind photo from filming ‘Doxa.’ Credit: Twitter/SECRET NUMBER

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Boy Group Evnne to Debut in September

Jellyfish Entertainment's newest boy group EVNNE confirms debut date. Credit: Twitter/EVNNE

EVNNE, the boy group of Jellyfish Entertainment consisting of Boys Planet contestants, is making their official debut on September 18. 

On Wednesday, August 16, the agency marked the countdown for the group’s debut by unveiling its logo. 

The logo of EVNNE featured the letters E and V fused together. Additionally, the name’s meaning, “Evening’s Newest Etoiles,” is also written in the poster. 

“Coming soon,” the agency wrote, alongside the highly-anticipated debut date. However, additional details about the group’s upcoming debut have yet to be disclosed. 

 

Meet EVNNE

In early August, Jellyfish Entertainment announced that they’re forming a seven-member boy group. 

Former Boys Planet contestants Ji Yoon Seo, Keita, Lee Jung Hyun, Moon Jung Hyun, Park Han Bin, Park Ji Hoo, and Yoo Seung Eon were confirmed to be part of the lineup. 

 

According to the agency, these individuals captured the public’s interests despite not making it to the official debut group.

Initially, the group was supposed to be named BLIT. However, they changed the name to EVNNE to avoid potential negative connotations. 

Pronounced as “even,” the new name symbolizes a rising star in the night sky. 

Although there’s no additional details about EVNNE’s upcoming release yet, Jellyfish Entertainment is already making the group’s presence on social media known. 

 

After Boys Planet

Interestingly, EVNNE is not the only group that was formed after the hit survival series. 

Besides EVNNE, Anthonny Iinuma, Haruto Maeda, Takuto Toyonaga, and Yuto Takano will also be debut under the group TOZ. They will managed by YY Entertainment. 

Meanwhile, Wang Zi Hao will also make his debut as a solo artist under the stage name Le’v. 

Boys Planet, which started with 93 trainees, gave birth to the formation of the debut team ZEROBASEONE or ZB1. 

The group’s members include Sung Han-bin, Kim Ji Woong, Zhang Hao, Seok Matthew, and Kim Tae-rae. Ricky, Kim Gyu-vin, Park Gun-wook, and Han Yu-jin are also part of the lineup.

On July 10, ZB1 made their debut with the mini-album YOUTH IN THE SHADE. Shortly after, YOUTH IN THE SHADE set the record for being the best-selling debut album in K-pop history. Over 1,240,700 copies were sold in just 24 hours of sales. 

Additionally, ZB1 is a project group that will promote under WakeOne Entertainment, a CJ ENM subsidiary. 

Featured image: Jellyfish Entertainment’s newest boy group EVNNE confirms debut date. Credit: Twitter/EVNNE

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Here’s Why Ex-after School’s Nana Is Removing Her Tattoos

Nana reveals her tattoos during the 'Glitch' press conference. Credit: Twitter/Nana Archives

Nana, a former member of K-pop girl group After School, is no stranger to being praised for her good looks. 

But in September 2022, she went viral for a different aspect of her visuals: her tattoos.

Wearing a black tube dress, Nana flaunted over seven different tattoos. It was during the press conference for the Netflix series Glitch that the idol-actress revealed that her tattoos were real. “I got the tattoos because I wanted to,” she explained.

Fans were quick to applaud her for being vocal about it given that many South Koreans are still iffy with the idea of having tattoos. 

However, Nana’s tattoos are the talk of the town once again now that she opened up that she’s bidding farewell to them.

In the August 14 episode of Jo Hyunah’s Thursday Night, she said that she’s removing them due to a request from her mother. 

 

Nana’s mom on the actress’ tattoos

Initially, Nana explained that her mother gave full permission with her getting inked. She continued that her mother understood that the tattoos were her emotional and creative outlet during a rough period in her life. 

Additionally, the artist disclosed that getting a tattoo during an emotionally difficult time in her life was a way for her to cope with her struggles. 

 

But recently, her mother expressed her desire in seeing her daughter’s body clean of tattoos once again. 

Instead of getting hurt or angry over her mother’s sentiments, Nana said that she understands where her mother is coming from. The idol-actress guessed that her mother is aware that she’s in a better place now compared to when she got the tattoos. 

Moreover, now that she’s feeling more emotionally stable, it wasn’t difficult for Nana to agree with her mother. 

While some fans are sad that she’s removing her tattoos, others also commended Nana’s great relationship with her mother. 

Featured image: Nana reveals her tattoos during the ‘Glitch’ press conference. Credit: Twitter/Nana Archives

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Look: Snsd’s Hyoyeon Drops Teaser for ‘Picture’

SNSD's Hyoyeon poses for the teaser of 'Forever 1.' Credit: Facebook/SNSD

Save the date because DJ Hyo is releasing new music! 

Girls’ Generation member Hyoyeon released on Wednesday, August 16, the teaser for her highly-anticipated comeback. Featuring red fluorescent lights, the teaser also revealed that the single will be titled Picture, and will be out on September 22. 

Picture will serve as Hyoyeon’s first solo release in over a year following her EDM mini album DEEP. The EP was released in May 2022. 

Hyoyeon made her solo debut in 2018 under the moniker DJ Hyo. Her solo singles include “Sober,” “Punk Right Now,” “Second,” and “Dessert.” 

In a radio interview with Super Junior’s Donghae and Eunhyuk, Hyoyeon opened up about her decision to pursue a career as a DJ. She said that she wanted to combine her hobbies for dancing and listening to a wide range of music. 

“Because I danced before, the music I listened to has a broader spectrum, genre-wise. I wanted to share the songs I like; I wanted to do mixing. I was learning it as a hobby myself, and I heard from other people that I know a lot of songs, that I know the flow well. So because I kept hearing that I’m good, as I learned more, it felt like…it was mine,” she said.

Currently, Hyoyeon is one of the only four Girls’ Generation members that is still under SM Entertainment. 

Sunny recently left the agency after 16 years. Meanwhile, members Seohyun, Tiffany, and Sooyoung left in 2019. 

Although under different agencies, the eight members reunited in August 2022 to release the album Forever 1. It was in celebration of the group’s 15th debut anniversary. 

Girls’ Generation is known for songs “Genie,” “Gee,” “Lion Heart,” and “Oh!” among others. 

Featured image: SNSD’s Hyoyeon in the teaser of ‘Forever 1.’ Credit: Facebook/SNSD

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Exo’s Chen to Hold Belated Wedding Ceremony in October

Chen poses for EXO's 'Cream Soda' teasers. Credit: Facebook/EXO

Chen of K-pop group EXO will be holding a wedding ceremony with his wife in October, three years after first announcing their marriage. 

SM Entertainment confirmed the news to Korean media on Wednesday, August 16. 

According to the agency, the wedding ceremony has been delayed due to circumstances, such as Chen’s military enlistment and his wife’s childbirth. 

Additionally, the label didn’t provide an exact date for the ceremony. However, they added that the couple is currently “quietly preparing” for it. 

In January 2020, Chen first announced that he’s marrying his non-celebrity girlfriend, who was also expecting their first child. Chen and his wife welcomed their first child in April 2020. In January 2022, Chen’s wife gave birth to their second daughter while the idol was in the military. 

Chen’s activities as EXO 

When Chen first announced his relationship, the news was met with mixed reaction from the fans. Some even demanded that the idol leave EXO and even sent protest trucks outside of the agency. 

Despite these sparse negative reactions, Chen still continues his activities as an EXO member. 

The group recently made their comeback with their seventh full-length album EXIST.  EXO is also airing the fourth season of their hit variety show Travel the World on a Ladder. 

As for his solo activities, he released his third mini-album Last Scene in November 2022. 

 

Currently, he’s gearing up to release his first Japanese album Polaris, which will be out on August 17. Chen will also embark on his first solo Japanese tour starting August 19. 

In June, Chen with EXO members Baekhyun and Xiumin had a legal battle with agency SM Entertainment. 

Featured image: Chen poses for EXO’s ‘Cream Soda’ teasers. Credit: Facebook/EXO

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“Queendom Puzzle” Names the Seven Members of EL7Z UP

The curtains have finally fallen on Mnet’s Queendom Puzzle, revealing the top seven idols who will grace the stage as members of the new girl group, EL7Z UP. This spin-off of the hit survival show Queendom saw many female idols, including those from active girl groups, fiercely competing for a coveted spot in this unique project group.

The stakes were high. Not only will EL7Z UP release an album, but they’re also slated for a global tour and a special performance at the 2023 MAMA Awards. Interestingly, they don’t have to step away from their original commitments to do all of that. These idols can continue to shine with their original groups or as solo artists, alongside their new roles in EL7Z UP.

The final episode, aired on August 15, was a culmination of talent, hard work, and anticipation. The results were a blend of global and Korean votes, with each accounting for 50% of the final decision. Votes poured in through the Mnet Plus app and, for Korean fans, via text messages.

So, who are the chosen seven?

Topping the list was H1-KEY‘s Hwiseo, who secured a staggering 444,495 votes. Not only did she clinch the top spot in the final lineup, but she also maintained her lead from the semi-finals. Hot on her heels in second place was woo!ah!‘s Nana, with 430,450 votes. She too held her position from the semi-finals, showcasing consistent support from fans.

당신이 퍼즐한 최상의 조합 EL7Z UP! 영광의 자리에 앉은 퀸은?

Purple Kiss‘ Yuki made an impressive leap, moving up three places from the semi-finals to secure the third spot. Lovelyz‘s Kei and WJSN‘s Yeoreum took the fourth and fifth places, respectively. Both demonstrated their unwavering popularity throughout the show.

글로벌 프로젝트 그룹 ‘EL7Z UP’에 합류한 마지막 멤버!

Rocket Punch‘s Yeonhee, with 358,059 votes, was the sixth member to be announced. She managed to climb to her current spot from her previous ranking in the semi-finals. Rounding out the seven members was CLC‘s Yeeun, who garnered 350,517 votes.

Good luck to the EL7Z UP members

The journey to the finale was filled with surprising twists and turns. For instance, Cherry Bullet‘s Bora, who had ranked high in the initial episodes, faced a shocking elimination. Such moments added to the suspense and unpredictability of the show.

In conclusion, congratulations are in order for the debut members of EL7Z UP. Their journey has just begun, and the world eagerly awaits their contributions to the music industry. As for fans who wish to relive the excitement, all episodes of Queendom Puzzle are available with subtitles on Viki.

Good luck to Hwiseo, Nana, Yuki, Kei, Yeorum, Yeonhee, and Yeeun—the EL7Z UP girls! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: After several weeks, we have the EL7Z UP lineup! Source: Twitter/@iamtheGuj.

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“WELCOME HOME GYM-IN” Trends as BTS’ Jimin Returns to Instagram

BTS‘ Jimin recently set social media ablaze with a fresh post on Instagram Stories. The t-shirt he wore in his post caught the attention of fans worldwide. It was a beige tee with “AGUST D D-DAY” emblazoned across the front. Fans realized he wore SUGA’s concert merch to go work out, so they freaked out on social media. This caused “WELCOME HOME GYM-IN” to trend on Twitter.

Jimin’s fans, affectionately known as ARMY, were happy to see him return to social media. One fan expressed their elation with, “The world is a happy place again!” Another fan chimed in, celebrating his use of emojis, “We love Instagrammer Jimin.” Their overwhelming sentiment was clear: ARMY missed Jimin and they were ecstatic about his return.

A ripple effect

But Jimin‘s impact isn’t limited to social media. He’s also making waves in music. Recently, he broke artist and song chart records on Spotify, the world’s premier music streaming platform. On August 11, he became the first (and so far only) Korean/K-pop soloist to mark 150 days on the Global Daily Top Artists chart. Jimin also secured his 21st week on the Global Weekly Top Artists list. 

His single “Like Crazy” also made waves. As of August 9, it celebrated its 75th day on the Spotify USA Daily Top Songs chart. It surpassed Lisa’s “Money” and set the record for longest-charting hit by a K-pop solo artist. Moreover, the track has stayed in the Top 50 of the Global Daily Top Songs chart for 131 days, further solidifying its position as the longest-charting song by a K-pop soloist in the Top 50.

The success of “Like Crazy” has had a ripple effect on Jimin‘s album FACE. Just a few days ago, it became the most streamed album by a Korean solo artist in Spotify’s history. Now, having earned a staggering 933 million streams in 141 days, FACE clinched another title: the most streamed album of 2023 by a K-pop act on Spotify.

In a related accolade, Genius recognized “Like Crazy” as the best K-pop male song of 2023.

How deeply fans missed Jimin

Finally, a recent poll conducted from August 6 to 12 proclaimed him the idol who looks best in a rash guard. In addition to the overwhelming response to his Instagram story and music, that poll reveals a deeper narrative. It’s not just about a celebrity’s accolades or online presence; it’s a testament to how deeply Jimin was missed by his fans. 

Every comment, tweet, and vote underscores a collective yearning for his presence, showcasing the profound bond between an artist and his admirers. Jimin‘s brief hiatus only served to remind fans of the joy and inspiration the singer brings into their lives. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jimin continues to endear himself to listeners worldwide. Source: SBS.

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Kim Sejeong’s Ethereal Beauty Is on Full Display in “Door” Concept Photos

Kim Sejeong, a renowned actress and singer, recently unveiled the mesmerizing KEY version of her teaser images for Door, her first full-length album. Scheduled for release on September 4, 2023, at 6:00 pm KST, this album signifies her return to the K-pop realm after a hiatus of two years and five months.

Although Kim Sejeong has garnered acclaim for her acting prowess, she’s no stranger to the K-pop world. She previously graced stages as a member of K-pop groups I.O.I, Gugudan, and its sub-group Gugudan SeMiNa. Her concept photos, radiating a dreamlike, ethereal aura, left fans spellbound, leading many to dub her a “living fairy.”

The anticipation for her September comeback is palpable. Since announcing her return, Kim Sejeong has been consistently feeding the excitement of her fans. She teased them with a “coming soon” image, followed by a mysterious black-and-white teaser the next day. She then posted a comeback scheduler on August 10, giving fans a glimpse of what to expect leading up to the album’s launch.

Social media is abuzz with reactions from Sesangs (Kim Sejeong‘s ardent fans). Many are eagerly awaiting the LOCK version of her teasers. 

Kim Sejeong has a lot up her sleeve

Kim Sejeong‘s last batch of new material dropped in March 2021 with the mini-album I’m. Sejeong delighted fans with a special remake album and contributed her vocals to Love, Maybe, an OST for the 2022 drama Business Proposal, in which she also starred.

Beyond her musical achievements, Kim Sejeong has showcased her versatility with performances in popular dramas like the aforementioned Business Proposal and The Uncanny Counter. In the latter, she plays Do Ha-na, a “grim reaper” of sorts. She earned praise for executing the demanding action sequences her role requires.

As she gears up for her album launch, Kim Sejeong isn’t stopping there. She’s also preparing for her first solo concert tour. It will take her to 11 cities, commencing in Seoul on September 23-24, 2023. Fans across Asia and Oceania, from Tokyo to Sydney, can look forward to seeing her live. The tour’s finale is set for November 19, 2023.

Kim Sejeong‘s return to the K-pop scene is shaping up to be a monumental event. With her ethereal concept photos for Door and an upcoming concert tour, her fans have a lot to be excited about. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Sejeong really does look like a fairy. Source: Twitter/@0828_kimsejeong.

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Meet the Japanese Idol Who Left Her Group to Join the Korean Band “QWER”

Lee Siyeon‘s musical journey is a testament to the power of dreams and determination. While many Japanese artists go to South Korea to chase stardom, Siyeon did the opposite. She first made her mark in Japan as a member of the renowned idol group NMB48, based in Osaka’s Namba district. With millions of CDs sold, NMB48‘s influence in the J-pop scene is undeniable.

Siyeon’s introduction to NMB48‘s fans was memorable. At a 2021 concert in Osaka, she delivered a solo performance of “Yume wa Nigenai,” a song originally by NMB48 trainees from 2018. Despite being a trainee (or “kenkyuusei” as they’re called in Japan), Siyeon showcased her talent on stage, a privilege she might not have had if she pursued her dreams in South Korea.

#NMB48 Lee Siyeon “Yume wa Nigenai” di NMB48 Live 2021

However, her journey wasn’t without challenges. Initially auditioning for NMB48 the previous year, the COVID-19 pandemic hindered her plans. Undeterred, Siyeon auditioned again, and this time, she made it. Her love for the 48 Groups was evident from a young age, and she aspired to reach the top of NMB48 and perform in the prestigious Kouhaku Uta Gassen, a yearly New Year’s Eve TV special in Japan.

But now she has her sights set on making it big in the Korean music industry. Siyeon joined the girl band QWER, a project started by YouTuber Kim Gyeran. As its main vocalist, Siyeon completed the band’s lineup, marking a new chapter in her musical journey. Here’s proof of her undeniable talent: a soul-stirring rendition of BoA’s “Meri Kuri.”

メリクリ (Meri Kuri)/ BoA – Covered by NMB48 Lee Siyeon

About the group Lee Siyeon joined

QWER has already created a significant buzz in the K-pop world, even before their official debut. The members’ unique stage names, particularly that of Nyangnyongnyeongnyang, the guitarist and keyboardist, caught the attention of many. Also referred to as Hina in the group’s YouTube videos, she has been a significant talking point because she has four million TikTok followers. Known for her cosplaying, her real identity was a mystery until the QWER project began.

Under Kim Gyeran’s guidance, the members currently live and practice together in preparation for their official debut. With such dedication and talent, QWER promises to bring a fresh, unique wave of music and performances to the global K-pop stage.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aEQ3VbIqIgw

NMB48 Lee Siyeon’s First Swimsuit Gravure released on 2023.05.08

Lee Siyeon’s transition from NMB48 to QWER highlights the fluidity of the music industry across borders. Her story serves as an inspiration for many, proving that with passion, perseverance, and talent, dreams can become reality. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Siyeon graduated from NMB48 after receiving backlash for a photoshoot. Source: Twitter/@48RequestHour.

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