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Ryujin Shares Why She Thought She Would NOT Debut With ITZY

Ryujin might be an established idol right now but there was a time when she thought she would not debut with ITZY. Shin Ryu-jin admitted that she believed JYP Entertainment might not include her in the group line-up. However, it wasn’t because she didn’t have what it takes to be an idol. She explained that it had a lot to do with the agency’s point system!

Ryujin Opens Up About Concerns That She Would NOT Debut With ITZY

On September 10, ITZY members Ryujin and Lia were guests on the YouTube channel series ‘Psick Show’. During the interview, the idols were asked about the training process at JYP Entertainment. For instance, the hosts wondered if the agency gave the trainees any special lessons on good character. Interestingly, Ryujin confirmed that she had to take those lessons.

“That’s true. We have lessons [on good character] every two weeks,” she said. “There is a penalty point system in every curriculum during the trainee period. The point system considers things like our singing score, dance score, and our character score.”

Ryujin further explained that she didn’t do well in her lessons and scored badly.

“Actually, I wasn’t amazing. I was ranked in the middle. My character score was also [in the middle]. I was a person who freely expressed my opinion, so my character score was not very good,” she said.

Lia then added that both she and Ryujin had a lot to work on because they had a lot of penalty points.

“I always thought to myself ‘I’m going to get fired this month’. I thought this because I had a lot of penalty points. If you eat something in the practice room, it’s a penalty point,” Lia said.

Ryujin agreed with her fellow ITZY member. “We both got a lot of penalty points for that,” she said. “We got caught eating something in the practice room. Food is prohibited in the vocal room.”

Luckily for Ryujin and Lia, those lessons are now far behind them. Since their debut in 2019, ITZY has made a name for themselves as an established girl group.

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ONEUS Transform Into Mermen in ‘La Dolce Vita’ Story Artwork

The members of ONEUS have dropped the captivating story artwork for their upcoming mini album 'La Dolce Vita'

ONEUS is gearing up for their next comeback and it looks like the members will go through a mystical transformation. The new story artwork for the group’s 10th mini-album ‘La Dolce Vita’ shows the idols as they transform into mermen. It’s an intriguing teaser for the EP hinting at a fantastical turn for Seoho, Leedo, Hwanwoong, Keonhee, and Xion!

ONEUS Turn Into Mermen In Gorgeous ‘La Dolce Vita’ Individual Illustrations

ONEUS has just unveiled the captivating story artwork and individual illustrations for their forthcoming tenth mini-album, “La Dolce Vita.” In these stunning visuals, the group undergoes a mesmerizing transformation into mermaids, evoking a whimsical and enchanting fairy-tale ambiance.

The title track, “Baila Conmigo,” conveys the heartfelt desire to dance with a cherished someone. As anticipation builds for the album’s release, fans can mark their calendars for September 26th at 6 PM KST. This mini-album promises to be a remarkable showcase of ONEUS’s musical prowess and artistic evolution, with the enchanting mermaid concept only adding to the intrigue. As the date approaches, fans are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to immerse themselves in the magical world of ‘La Dolce Vita’.

‘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 originally planned to embark on the ‘ONEUS 1st World Tour [Reach For Us]’ as a six-member group in 2022. However, 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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Look: HYBE’s Girl Group I’LL-IT Reveals Profile Photos

BE:LIFT LAB releases individual profile photos for I'LL-IT members. Credit: Twitter/I'LL-IT

I’LL-IT, HYBE’s new girl group formed through the survival show “R U Next?”, finally reveals their first profile photos.

Posted on the group’s official social media account,  the six members showcased their unique and alluring charms. The photos came days after Yunah, Minju, Moka, Youngseo, Wonhee, and Iroh were announced to be in the debut lineup. 

The oldest member Yunah is seen flaunting her visuals with a mix-match coordination of a frill-decorated dress and a jacket.

Second is Minju, who also gave a glimpse of her distinct style wearing her knitwear outfit and headset.

On the other hand, Moka showed a hip and cute look in a white dress accentuated by a black beanie.

Next is Youngseo, who is characterized by a cat-like figure, chicly posing in her pink dress.

Meanwhile, Wonhee shows a different aura as exhibits her playful personality with her cute expressions in the photos.

Meanwhile, Iroha, the youngest member in the group, also shined with her stunning visuals. 

Dream to debut of I’LL-IT members

In R U Next, 22 female trainees were assessed through seven rounds, with only six officially debuting. Following the conclusion of the survival show, the ILL-IT members looked back on their journey.  

The oldest member Yunah mentioned that overwhelming emotions rushed over her when her name was called in the final episode of ‘R U Next?’.“I will prepare for my debut with the same mindset as when I first started as a trainee. I will continue to show growth even after debut,” she said with determination.

Meanwhile, Wonhee, who ranked first in the survival show, admitted that she found it difficult to become one of the final members. “I was surprised when my name was called, and it didn’t feel real. My trainee life isn’t long, but I’ll do my best to show you a cool side of me,” she exclaimed.

Additionally, Iroha, the group’s youngest member, mentioned that she always felt a mixture of joy, excitement, anxiety, and worry while doing ‘R U Next?’ Committed to giving her best as part of the debuting lineup, she thanked her fans and family. “I just think that I should work harder and become a cool idol in the future,” she said. 

As of writing, BE:LIFT LAB has yet to announce the details for ILL-IT’s official debut. However, fans can communicate with the girl group through their Weverse community. 

Interestingly, they’ll be the agency’s first girl group. In August BE:LIFE LAB, who manages boy group ENHYPEN, was acquired by HYBE.  

Meanwhile, in other news, HYBE has also launched another survival reality show The Debut: Dream Academy. This time, in partnership with Geffen Records, they’re aiming for a global girl group.

Featured image: BE:LIFT LAB releases individual profile photos for I’LL-IT members. Credit: Twitter/I’LL-IT

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Wow! WWD Includes Blackpink’s Jennie in Top 50 Most Influential Women in 2023

BLACKPINK's Jennie poses for her birthday greeting on social media. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

BLACKPINK’s Jennie has been recognized as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Women in 2023 of Women’s Wear Daily (WWD), making her the only K-Pop idol to make it onto the list.

The sensational singer continues to prove her global influence as she joins the list of WWD’s ‘50 Women in Power.’ Such list includes prominent figures in the fashion industry ranging from CEOs, politicians, and celebrities. 

 

Among the list are famous superstars who have built their own beauty brand. Selena Gomez, founder of Rare Beauty; Rihanna, founder of Fenty Beauty, and Scarlett Johansson, founder of The Outset, are some who made it to the list alongside Jennie.

In the feature, Jennie noted that confidence is the key in empowering women. “Women can be powerful by knowing that their voice matters and knowing their own worth. Especially in an industry like mine, being confident in what I believe in is very important. When we’re free to be creative and go for what we want, that’s how we can be powerful!” she said in an interview with WWD. 

Upon the announcement, the singer expressed her gratitude through her personal social media account. “Thank you WWD for including me in this year’s Women in Power’ list,” she said. 

 

A true fashion icon

The year 2023 has been nothing short of exceptional for Jennie’s fashion endeavors. 

Jennie was named as one of the last few Chanel muses handpicked by the legendary Karl Lagerfeld. In 2023, she has been part of two major campaigns:  the Coco Crush fine jewelry in January, and the Chanel 22 bag in March.

According to the data analysis provider Launchmetrics, her presence at the Paris Fashion Week generated a staggering $4.5 Million in Media Impact Value (MIV).  

Additionally, she’s been dubbed as the “Human Chanel.” In May, the rapper also made her highly-anticipated Met Gala debut. There, the idol stunned with an archival Chanel look from the brand’s Fall/Winter 1990 runway collection.

Moreover, Jennie has been named as a global ambassador for Calvin Klein. In May, Jennie released her first CK capsule collection consisting of denim, essentials, and knitwear which were immediately sold out upon its release.

According to Launchmetrics, Jennie’s single post about her Calvin Klein collection topped $2.1 Million MIV. Her campaign with the brand generated a total of $6.8 Million in MIV.

 

Apart from her impact in the fashion industry, Jennie dominates the music world as well. Interestingly, she also made her acting debut with the HBO original The Idol. 

In the WWD interview, Jennie also shared how she aims to transcend genres. “I like to be versatile. Inspirations change all the time. I’m a fan of the ’80s, ’90s, ’70s, everything,” she said. 

Currently, BLACKPINK is set to wrap up their Born Pink World Tour. Their two-day concert in Seoul is set for September 16 and 17.

Featured image: BLACKPINK’s Jennie poses for her birthday greeting on social media. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

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BLACKPINK Rose and Taylor Swift Spotted Exiting NYC Recording Studio

Is BLACKPINK's Rosé collaborating with Taylor Swift on an upcoming project?

BLINKS and Swifties just found a reason to celebrate. BLACKPINK member Rosé was spotted leaving a renowned recording studio in New York City. Just moments later, she was followed by Taylor Swift, who left in her own vehicle. Although the two singers were not actually together, fans are already speculating on what they might be working on!

Taylor Swift Spotted Exiting Recording Studio After BLACKPINK’s Rosé

The internet was abuzz when a video showing BLACKPINK member Rosé and Taylor Swift leaving the same location made its rounds on social media. In the video, the “Gone” singer is shown exiting NYC’s Electric Lady Studios. After a few moments, Swift leaves the same location and gets into a separate car.

There’s not much to see here but fans were immediately intrigued by the idea that both artists were in a recording studio together. Needless to say, there were speculations that Rosé and Swift are collaborating on a new project. The rumors were fueled by the knowledge that Swift is currently working on a new album.

Numerous individuals are well-informed about Taylor Swift’s diligent efforts as she readies her upcoming album. It’s worth mentioning that a variety of prominent artists, such as Hayley Williams, Sabrina Carpenter, Cara Delevingne, Gracie Abrams, Sadie Sink, Jack Antonoff, and Margaret Qualley, have been spotted exiting the very same studio.

So what exactly is happening here? Reports confirmed that Swift hosted an album release celebration at Electric Lady Studios on September 9, 2023. There is a huge possibility that Rosé was invited along with a few friends to celebrate the upcoming release. However, it has not been confirmed whether the BLACKPINK member collaborated on a song with the American singer.

Taylor Swift is currently set to release ‘1989 (Taylor’s Version)’ which was a re-recording of her 2014 album.  The album is set to contain five previously unreleased “From the Vault” tracks.

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BTS’ Former Creative Director on Working With Superstars

Behind every successful artist is an equally exceptional team. In the case of BTS, the world-famous K-pop sensation, this couldn’t be truer. Among the many professionals who have contributed to their success, Nicole Kim (Kim Hyun-jung) shines the brightest. After a six-year stint on BTS’ team, she’s moving to Columbia Records, where she’ll serve as the Vice President of A&R (Artist & Repertoire).

All about Nicole Kim

Nicole has had prior A&R experience. From 2017 to 2022, she wore multiple hats at HYBE, including that of A&R head. In this capacity, Nicole was very much involved in BTS’ journey to global stardom. As head of A&R, she led a department that was responsible for collecting songs, leading discussions, planning concepts, and overseeing the production and release of new music. Her leadership saw BTS collaborating with Western acts like Coldplay and Halsey. Moreover, Nicole participated in creating hits like “Dynamite,” “Butter,” and “Permission to Dance.”

Before going to HYBE, Nicole honed her skills at Starship Entertainment and Sony Music Publishing Korea. Her move to an executive role at Columbia Records is a testament to her skills and the global music industry’s increasing fascination with K-pop.

At the Music & Entertainment Fair ‘MU:CON 2023’ in Seoul, Nicole talked to reporters about her experiences. Reflecting on her time with BTS, she emphasized the group’s dedication and talent. “They’re the hardest-working artists I’ve ever met. With outstanding producers like Bang Si-hyuk, the chairman of HYBE, well-matched staff, and supportive fans, everything came together as if the energy of the universe converged,” she said.

The essence of a good song

Having once dreamt of a singing career herself, Nicole has a profound understanding of the music industry’s intricacies. Although K-pop’s visual culture is a key aspect of the genre, she believes good music comes first. “Among the many departments in an entertainment company, I wanted to work in A&R. I still think it’s the most important because an artist’s main job is music production. I believe a well-structured discography leads to a good career.”

For Nicole, the essence of a “good song” lies in how it resonates with the artist and the audience. “From the perspective of popular music, a good song is one that lies at the intersection of the story the artist wants to express and what the fans want.” 

She also shed light on the creation of hits like “Dynamite” and “Permission to Dance,” emphasizing the importance of aligning a song’s message with an artist’s beliefs, identity, and values. “Dynamite” originally had explicit lyrics commonly used in foreign songs. It was revised many times to suit BTS. “Permission to Dance” was originally about a romantic relationship, but its message was changed to convey freedom and hope instead. “It was important to send a positive message as the pandemic was coming to an end,” she explained.

Nicole Kim looks to the future

Nicole believes that the secret sauce for global success is “originality.” She opined, “From the U.S. perspective, it’s more important for artists to express their own unique color rather than imitating American elements. You can introduce your music to people through a widely used language. But that doesn’t mean artists are abandoning their unique colors and roots. K-pop cannot be strictly defined by the Korean language or songs involving Korean composers.”

Drawing parallels between her own journey and BTS‘s ascent, she reminisced about the challenges she faced in her early days. She recalled, “Around 2017, when I first requested meetings with U.S. affiliates, there were times I couldn’t even get a response.” But given BTS‘s monumental success, the global music industry had to take notice.

Looking to the future, Nicole expressed her eagerness to explore content beyond K-pop, signaling yet another exciting chapter in her dynamic career. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: After six years at HYBE, Nicole is transferring to Columbia Records, where she’ll be VP for A&R. Source: Instagram/@official_love_nicole.

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BTS V Wants To Play A Villain in Acting Comeback

Kim Taehyung is eager for his acting comeback

It has been a long time since fans saw V as an actor but it looks like the BTS member is ready for an acting comeback. Kim Taehyung has just admitted he is considering a return into acting. Interestingly, V revealed that he is interested in playing a villain for a change!

V Admits Being Drawn To Villains When Watching New Films

Fans already know that V has a knack for acting. He previously played a small yet important role in KBS2’s “Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth”. But since then, Kim Taehyung has not returned to acting, choosing to focus on his career as an idol and a member of BTS.

Still, that doesn’t mean we won’t get to see Actor Kim Taehyung again in the future. In a new interview with Rolling Stone, V discussed why he was drawn to villains in films.

“I’m someone who just really loves watching movies,” he said. “Whenever I do, I find myself naturally drawn more to the villain characters rather than the heroes.”

Kim added that a great villain is what makes a film a masterpiece.

“I think that villains play a very big role in making that overall picture complete; they really have to sell their own charisma to make the movie come to life,” he said. “If the villain doesn’t really have depth to their character, or if there’s no chemistry between the characters, then the hero can’t really shine either.”

V also admitted that he is hoping to get the chance to play a villain one day.

“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.

This is interesting news considering that ARMYs always view V as one of the good guys. On the other hand, it would be great to see him make his acting comeback in a villainous role. With that in mind, fans are already anticipating his return to acting in the future.

V is currently promoting his solo album ‘Layover’ and released a new music video for the track “Slow Dancing.”

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BLACKPINK’s Rosé Stars in RIMOWA’s ‘Never Still’ Campaign Video

The BLACKPINK member is one of the global endorsers for RIMOWA and Rosé just got her own campaign video for the brand

Rosé has already established herself as a global superstar as a member of BLACKPINK and as a solo artist. So it’s no surprise that the “Gone” singer was chosen to be one of RIMOWA’s new global ambassadors. In a new campaign video for the brand, Roseanne Park reflects on what home means to her and it’s not what most people expect.

BLACKPINK Singer Rosé Reflects On What Home Means In New RIMOWA Campaign Video

On September 8, the renowned vocalist and fashion icon of BLACKPINK, Rosé, was introduced as the latest global ambassador for the prestigious luxury travel luggage brand, RIMOWA. This collaboration represents a seamless blend of style, opulence, and the spirit of exploration, echoing the unique individuality and worldwide influence embodied by both Rosé and the brand.

Following the initial buzz generated by this revelation, a carefully curated set of promotional visuals has been unveiled, culminating in a captivating campaign video that provides an intimate glimpse into Rosé’s interpretation of the concept of “Home.” This concept, much like her career, is fluid and ever-evolving.

Within the artistic framework of RIMOWA’s “Never Still” campaign, this video serves as a bridge between the campaign’s artistic essence and Rosé’s personal journey. She, as a multifaceted artist, constantly pushes the boundaries of artistry and self-expression.

As Rosé beautifully articulates in the campaign, home transcends mere physical space; it embodies a feeling, a connection, a collection of experiences, and a sense of familiarity that is forged through the eyes of a wanderer who carries fragments of her journeys within her. This collaboration not only showcases Rosé’s global appeal but also celebrates the essence of meaningful travel and the stories we accumulate along the way.

RIMOWA’s latest campaign also features athlete Lewis Hamilton and soccer prodigy Kylian Mbappé. All three celebrities received their own campaign video as part of the brand’s promotional releases.

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MAMAMOO’s Hwasa Reveals Why She Reconsidered Joining P Nation

Hwasa is officially a part of P Nation. Back in June, the MAMAMOO member confirmed that she is joining the agency founded by PSY. However, this wasn’t always the case as Ahn Hye-jin initially refused to join the company. Interestingly, Hwasa has revealed the reason why she reconsidered and agreed to join the label.

Hwasa Shares How PSY Convinced Her To Join P Nation

In a recent episode of “Radio Star” where she was a guest, Hwa Sa discussed the recent controversy during the U.S. leg of MAMAMOO’s “MY CON” world tour. The scandal over her “R-rated” performance at a university festival made her a target for negative attention. It was a difficult time for the idol who admitted, “I got so many hate comments, so I was a little down.”

At that point, Hwasa wasn’t expecting to hear from PSY after she had turned down his initial offer to join P Nation. However, she revealed that he still reached out to her during that rough time. Interestingly, it was a song that was intended to brighten her spirits.

“I’d been so down, but the song lifted my spirits,” Hwasa admitted. “I didn’t know why I was so drawn to the song, but I thought, ‘This is great. I think this is what I needed for my next song.’”

The song turned out to be a demo for “I Love My Body” and Hwasa’s wish did come true. She later changed her mind and joined P Nation after realizing she worked well with PSY.

“We clicked better than I expected. I thought I wouldn’t work well with him,” she admitted.

It’s certainly a good thing that Hwasa reconsidered her decision and chose to sign with the agency. Her latest release “I Love My Body” is a celebration of one own’s figure and accepting everything about it.

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BTS Jin Reminds Park Myung Soo of ‘World Wide Handsome’ Title

BTS member Jin is determined to keep his 'World Wide Handsome' title

Jin might be busy with completing his military service right now but the BTS member still found time to defend his ‘World Wide Handsome’ title. The “Moon” singer recently reached out to Park Myung Soo to remind the comedian about his title.

Jin Got Sulky When Park Myung Soo ‘Forgot’ About Him Being ‘World Wide Handsome’

In the latest episode of Park Myung Soo‘s web series “Halmyungsoo”, the comedian shared the recent text messages from Jin. In the messages, the BTS member was troubled because of something Park had said in another episode.

“I got a text message from Jin. ‘Hyung-nim, I’m disappointed,’” Park revealed while having a meal. He further explained that the BTS member had seen one of his segments where he chose the most good-looking celebrity in real life. The comedian had chosen someone other than Jin, which greatly troubled the idol.

“Jin watched my show. When I was asked who’s the most good-looking celebrity I’ve seen in person, I didn’t say it was him. So I think he got sulky,” Park said.

“I sent a long message saying I was sorry,” he continued. “He said, ‘Hyung-nim, when I get discharged, I will absolutely appear on your show again.’”

The comedian added that he was grateful that Jin contacted him even while serving in the military. Park further explained why he didn’t choose the original ‘World Wide Handsome’ during the segment.

“To be honest, of course, Jin is good-looking. Out-of-this-world [handsomeness] wasn’t included. Why are you sulking? Don’t be like that,” he said.

Jin is currently on mandatory military service. He enlisted as an active-duty soldier on December 13, 2022. Before his enlistment, Kim Seokjin released his debut solo single “The Astronaut”. The song, which he co-wrote with the British rock band Coldplay, was dropped on October 28, 2022. Jin is set to be discharged from military service on June 12, 2024.

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