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EXO Baekhyun Delivers Impressive Performance at MLB Season Opener

Baekhyun might be a busy man but he still managed to represent the Republic of Korea this week! The EXO vocalist has turned in an amazing performance at the MLB season opener. Byun Baekhyun sang the American and Korean national anthems at the event and people are truly impressed.

EXO’s Baekhyun Impresses Baseball Fans at MLB Season Opener

It was previously confirmed by Baekhyun’s company INB100 that the EXO vocalist has been chosen to perform both national anthems at the 2024 MLB World Tour: Seoul Series. Baekhyun is also set to sing both anthems without accompaniment, a major challenge for any trained vocalist.

Luckily, Baekhyun was up for the challenge. The official MLB Twitter account shared a video of his performance which proved both his talent and commitment to represent his country. Moreover, Baekyun’s rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” was distinct as it showed off his vocal skills.

Baekhyun’s performance at the MLB season opener was truly memorable as it was immediately followed by the EXO song “Power” being played at Gocheok Sky Dome. It was a cool moment both for the group and their fans.

After an impressive performance, Baekyun is showing no signs of slowing down. He recently kickstarted his first solo concert tour LONSDALEITE with two dates in Seoul. After singing at the MLB season opener, he has taken a flight to Japan as he is scheduled for a two-night show at the Musashino Forest Sport Plaza Main Arena.

Additionally, Baekhyun is set to reunite with the rest of EXO to celebrate the group’s 12th debut anniversary fan concert. Scheduled to take place at the prestigious Incheon Yeongjongdo Inspire Arena on April 14th, the ‘2024 EXO FAN MEETING : ONE‘ fan meeting will be divided into two sessions, accommodating the enthusiastic crowds of EXO-Ls eager to engage with their favorite idols.

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aespa To Participate in ‘Rebel Moon – Part 2: The Scargiver’ EP

The news of aespa’s involvement in the creation of “Songs of the Rebellion,” an EP inspired by the characters of Netflix’s highly anticipated sequel ‘Rebel Moon – Part Two: The Scargiver’ has sparked excitement among fans and music enthusiasts alike.

aespa To Contribute New Song to ‘Rebel Moon – Part 2: The Scargiver’

As reported by Rolling Stone, the K-pop sensation will be contributing their unique talents to the project, with a track titled “Die Trying,” inspired by the character Nemesis and produced in collaboration with Korean-American producer Tokimonsta.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone for aespa, as they join forces with an international lineup of artists to bring the fictional world of “Rebel Moon” to life through music. Tokimonsta expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing the impact of Nemesis’s character on her creative process. The track promises to encapsulate the heroic strength and depth of Nemesis’s persona, resonating with fans of both aespa and the “Rebel Moon” franchise.

Moreover, ‘Songs of the Rebellion’ will feature additional tracks inspired by key characters from the sequel, including “Child of Fire” by Jessie Reyez, inspired by protagonist Kora, and “Ode to Ancestors” by Black Coffee, paying homage to General Titus. Each song is poised to offer a unique musical interpretation of the epic saga, adding depth and dimension to the storytelling experience.

The EP’s release on April 5 will precede the highly anticipated premiere of “Rebel Moon – Part Two: The Scargiver” on April 19, further building anticipation and excitement among fans of the franchise. With its fusion of captivating storytelling and dynamic musical compositions, “Songs of the Rebellion” promises to be a captivating addition to the “Rebel Moon” universe, showcasing aespa’s versatility and creativity on a global stage.

As fans eagerly await the release of both the EP and the sequel, “Rebel Moon – Part Two: The Scargiver,” aespa’s participation underscores their growing influence and impact in the global music scene, cementing their status as trailblazers in the industry.

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Fans Boycott SHINee Minho’s Upcoming Japanese Variety Show Appearance

SHINee fans are clearly unhappy about Minho’s upcoming appearance in what is believed to be a dangerous Japanese variety show. Since then, SM Entertainment has issued a statement addressing their concerns.

SHINee Fans Boycott Minho’s Upcoming Appearance in ‘Dangerous’ Japanese Variety Show

The decision by a group of SHINee fans to voice their concerns regarding Minho’s scheduled appearance on the Japanese variety show, “The Ultimate Sports Men’s Competition 2024,” demonstrates the passionate dedication of K-Pop fandoms and their commitment to the well-being of their favorite artists. By dispatching trucks adorned with critical messages to SM Entertainment‘s headquarters, fans also sought to express their unease and draw attention to potential risks associated with Minho’s participation in the show, which is set to premiere on May 3 on TBS.

In response to the fans’ concerns, SM Entertainment promptly addressed the issue through SHINee’s official social media channels, issuing a statement via PRISM Production. The statement also conveyed the agency’s acknowledgment of the fans’ love and support for SHINee while providing clarity regarding Minho’s involvement in the program. According to the announcement, Minho is slated to participate in only one episode of the recording, scheduled for April 16.

To alleviate fans’ anxieties and ensure Minho’s safety, SM Entertainment emphasized its unwavering commitment to implementing comprehensive safety measures. The agency also assured fans that extensive pre-checks and preparations would be undertaken to safeguard Minho’s well-being throughout the recording process.

This incident underscores the symbiotic relationship between K-Pop artists and their fans, highlighting the importance of open communication and mutual respect. By voicing their concerns constructively, fans also demonstrate their role as stakeholders in the industry and advocate for the welfare of their beloved idols. As SHINee’s dedicated fanbase continues to support the group’s endeavors, SM Entertainment also remains steadfast in its efforts to prioritize the safety and security of its artists, ensuring a harmonious partnership between fans and the agency.

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EXO Members Reunite at Baekhyun’s LONSDALEITE in Seoul Concert

The bond between EXO members continues to remain strong. The active members of the group recently reunited for a truly special event. Suho, Chen, Chanyeol, and D.O. have attended fellow member Baekhyun’s solo concert LONSDALEITE in Seoul, and the “Bambi” singer proudly shared a photo!

Baekhyun Shares EXO Reunion Photo During LONSDALEITE in Seoul

On March 17, fans were delighted to see several EXO members attending Baekhyun’s solo concert in Seoul. Byun Baekhyun later confirmed that he had the chance to see his group members during LONSDALEITE by sharing a reunion photo in his Instagram Stories. The photo featured leader Suho, Chen, Chanyeol, and D.O.

Notably absent from the image was Xiumin, who attended the previous night. EXO-Ls already understand why Kai and Sehun were also unable to attend as they are currently enlisted for military service. Chinese member Lay was also absent due to being overseas for his own solo promotions at the time.

EXO Proving Their Special Bond Yet Again

Although it wasn’t a complete group reunion, Eris were still happy to see the active members of EXO coming together for a special event. LONSDALEITE is Baekhyun’s first solo concert tour since debuting with the group in 2012. It was understandable why his group members were also ready to support him despite their busy schedules. For instance, fans noted that Chanyeol left early during the concert due to another schedule, but still took time to attend Baekhyun’s concert.

EXO poses for their album ‘EXIST.’ Credit: Facebook/EXO

The members of EXO might be busy with their solo efforts but they are also set for another major reunion in April. It was previously confirmed that the group is celebrating their 12th debut anniversary with a special fan meeting. ‘2024 EXO FAN MEETING : ONE‘ will be held in the prestigious Incheon Yeongjongdo Inspire Arena on April 14th. It is a special celebration of the group’s debut anniversary in April 2012.

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NU’EST Reunite For 12th Debut Anniversary Celebration

The reunion of all five members of NU’EST to celebrate their 12th debut anniversary marks a significant moment not only for the group but also for their fans, known as L.O.Λ.E. It’s a testament to their enduring bond and friendship despite the challenges and changes they’ve experienced over the years.

NU’EST Members Reunite for 12th Debut Anniversary

NU’EST member Aron shared the delightful image on his official Instagram account. Fans immediately celebrated the return of the group members as they prove their bond.

NU’EST’s journey has been one of resilience and growth since their debut on March 15, 2012, with the single “Face.” Despite facing obstacles and uncertainties, they remained dedicated to their craft and loyal to their fans, carving out a special place in the hearts of many with their music and performances.

The decision to disband on March 15, 2022, following the completion of their 10-year contract with Pledis Entertainment undoubtedly marked the end of an era for NU’EST. However, their reunion for the 12th debut anniversary dinner serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact they’ve had on the K-pop industry and the strong bond they share as members.

The timing of the reunion is particularly bittersweet as it coincides with Hwang Minhyun’s impending enlistment and commencement of mandatory alternative service duty on March 21. His temporary departure adds a sense of poignancy to the gathering, underscoring the importance of cherishing moments together and celebrating milestones as a group.

The snapshots shared by the members on Instagram offer glimpses into their reunion, sparking joy and nostalgia among fans who have been eagerly awaiting this moment. It’s a heartwarming sight to see all five members come together, reflecting on their journey, and creating new memories to treasure.

As NU’EST embarks on new chapters in their individual careers, their 12th debut anniversary serves as a poignant reminder of the bond they share and the legacy they’ve built together. Though their paths may diverge for now, the spirit of NU’EST lives on in the hearts of their fans, who continue to support and cherish each member’s endeavors.

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EXO Xiumin Looks Fierce in Arena Homme China Cover

Xiumin is proving yet again that he continues to be hot commodity to his Chinese fans. The EXO member has just been confirmed to grace the cover of Arena Homme China this April. However, he isn’t the only EXO member who will appear on a Chinese publication next month!

Arena Homme China Reveals EXO’s Xiumin For April Issue Cover

The Arena Homme China social media accounts posted the upcoming cover for its April issue. It features EXO member Xiumin, who originally debuted as a member of the group’s Chinese sub-unit EXO M. The cover features Xiumin’s profile subtly hidden by a pair of large sunglasses. It’s a fierce image that truly appeals to EXO-Ls around the world.

Xiumin’s magazine cover was soon followed by an interesting announcement as another Chinese publication dropped a teaser for their cover.

EXO Member Chanyeol Confirmed for OK! China Cover

The official Weibo account for OK! China magazine posted a teaser for the April issue. It features EXO member Chanyeol standing with his back towards the camera. Although his face is not revealed, Eris were immediately thrilled to know that the group’s main rapper will grace the cover of the publication.

Chanyeol recently reunited with other EXO members when they attended Baekyun’s solo concert LONSDALEITE in Seoul. He was spotted arriving at the venue with D.O. and sat along with Suho and Chen who were also in attendance. Xiumin had attended the previous day’s concert.

In the meantime, EXO is set to celebrate their 12th debut anniversary in mid-April. The announcement of the ‘2024 EXO FAN MEETING : ONE‘ has sent waves of excitement through the global EXO-L fandom, marking a highly anticipated return for the beloved K-pop group. Scheduled to take place at the prestigious Incheon Yeongjongdo Inspire Arena on April 14th, the fan meeting will be divided into two sessions, accommodating the enthusiastic crowds of EXO-Ls eager to engage with their favorite idols.

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TXT Releases Several Teasers for ‘minisode 3: TOMORROW’

TOMORROW X TOGETHER, aka TXT, captivated fans with a series of six videos teasing their upcoming mini-album, minisode 3: TOMORROW. Released earlier this month, these videos exude a fairy tale-like vibe, offering fans a glimpse into the new album’s enchanting concept. The videos show the members clad in elegant ivory outfits and sparkling paper crowns, setting an otherworldly yet romantic mood.

minisode 3: TOMORROW is set for release in April. It marks the conclusion of the group’s “The Name Chapter” series and heralds the beginning of a new chapter in TXT’s journey. The mini-album weaves together stories from “The Dream Chapter,” “The Chaos Chapter,” and “The Name Chapter.” It delves into themes of failed love, fractured friendships, and temptation—themes TXT has explored since their debut in 2019.

 

TXT released more teasers

Apart from the videos, the group also unveiled the album package image for minisode 3: TOMORROW. It intrigued fans with the line: “Even if we part ways, let’s promise to meet here again.” This line was noteworthy because it had previously appeared in the MV for “Nap of a Star,” the final track of TXT’s debut album, The Dream Chapter: STAR. The inclusion of this line in the album package image for minisode 3: TOMORROW hints at the story TXT will tell with this album and how it connects to their previous releases.

@bethtxtuk

I’m so excited for txt’s new album AND there’s going to be 7 songs on the tracklist, WE CHEERED!! #txt #tomorrow_x_together #tomorrowxtogether #txtcomeback #txtmoa #kpop #kpopfyp #minisode3

♬ End of Beginning – Djo

Adding to the ethereal teasers, TXT also released a new video titled “Light.” It shows all five members in a celestial garden, surrounded by trees, fluttering leaves, and a radiant glow. The presence of a mysterious pair of feet wearing ballet slippers adds an intriguing twist, capturing the attention of viewers. It serves as one more hint at the narrative of minisode 3: TOMORROW.

TXT (투모로우바이투게더) minisode 3: TOMORROW – Concept Clip ‘Light’

TXT’s minisode 3: TOMORROW is poised to be a significant addition to the group’s discography. Fans are eagerly awaiting the album’s release at 6;00 PM KST on April 1, ready to dive into the latest chapter of TXT’s evolving story. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Fans got even more excited for the album when the newest teaser dropped. Source: YouTube/@HYBELABELS.

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RIIZE Confirmed for Spring Comeback, Changes Official Lightstick

RIIZE—currently composed of Anton, Eunseok, Shotaro, Sohee, Sungchan, and Wonbin—is gearing up for a spring comeback. Their agency, SM Entertainment, has recently confirmed that the group is set to release new material in April. Their last release, the single album Love 119, dropped in January.

With “Love 119,” RIIZE won their first music show trophy on M Countdown. They also became the first boy group that debuted in the 2020s to score a win on Inkigayo, with 6,167 points, beating out songs by ITZY and Lim Jae Hyun. RIIZE joins other K-pop artists who are preparing to return to the music scene in April, including their seniors SEVENTEEN and TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT).

RIIZE win 1st place with Love 119 on SBS INKIGAYO 240121

The controversial hand shape

The anticipation for RIIZE’s comeback was further fueled by a teaser their agency shared earlier this month. The teaser hinted at the upcoming release of the group’s official lightstick. However, not everyone was happy with the design, which featured a hand with the index finger and thumb pointing outward. Some fans thought it looked too much like Epik High’s “Park Kyu Bong” lightstick.

Concerns arose over the design potentially causing issues for the group in Japan,  where the gesture of the index finger and thumb pointing outward connotes cursing. After fans let SM Entertainment know what they thought of the design via their KWANGYA 119 platform, the agency decided to revise it. They later posted a new teaser for the lightstick. This one omitted the controversial hand shape. All it said was, “Official fanlight will be released in April.”

RIIZE will embark on a worldwide tour

Looking ahead, RIIZE is set to hold their first fan concert since their debut at the Jamsil Indoor Stadium on May 4 and 5. Following these performances, they will embark on a worldwide tour, visiting cities across the globe including Hong Kong, Los Angeles, Manila, Singapore, Taipei, and Tokyo. 

2024 RIIZE FAN-CON TOUR ‘RIIZING DAY’ GREETING MESSAGE

This tour will further solidify their international appeal and fanbase. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Are you ready for RIIZE’s return? Source: X/@yantong321.

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Felix Struts His Stuff on the Louis Vuitton Fall/Winter 2024 Runway

When Stray Kids’ Felix participated in Louis Vuitton’s Paris Fashion Week show, he marked his official debut in the high fashion world. The event showcased the luxury brand’s ready-to-wear fall 2024 line and saw Felix don a distinctive ensemble. The K-pop idol wore furry white gloves, sleek white and silver pants, and a textured white turtleneck. He carried a gray handbag in one hand as he strutted down the runway. His blonde hair was a frosty shade of platinum, which matched the icy vibe of his outfit.

The show celebrated Nicolas Ghesquière’s tenth anniversary as the artistic director of women’s collections at Louis Vuitton. According to WWD, the “collection, while not exactly a greatest hits compilation, could be read as a distillation of his work at the house. There were futuristic takes on sportswear, like a graphic two-tone windbreaker with a curved zipper, or a silver flight suit with scarification marks.”

Felix at the Women’s Fall-Winter 2024 Show in Paris| LOUIS VUITTON

Meanwhile, Nicole Phelps of Vogue wrote, “The jackets heavily embroidered with metallic threads and embellished with cabochon stones recalled the frock coats of the Louis XVI collection for spring 2018 he presented in the medieval part of the Louvre. Sparkling skirts that bubbled below the knees seemed to be a callback to spring 2021, a pandemic-time show he staged without an audience. And the swirling asymmetric hems of the spectacular fringy evening numbers evoked the deconstructed scuba-suit dresses from his resort 2017 show in Rio.”

There were plenty of K-pop stars in the audience, including BLACKPINK’s Lisa, NewJeans’ Hyein, and TWICE’s Nayeon. Hollywood celebrities Ana de Armas, Chloë Grace Moretz, and Sophie Turner were also seen checking out the brand’s offerings.

Louis Vuitton Fall-Winter 2024 Show | LOUIS VUITTON

Fashionable Felix

During a recent live broadcast on Instagram, Felix shared some behind-the-scenes tidbits from the show. “Nicholas prepared two large bouquets of flowers, and they were white. He prepared them for me before the show. He sent them to my waiting room, so I took a photo of them. It was sweet of him to send flowers, because in a sense it showed that he cared. He really wanted to cheer me on before the show.”

Felix also gave a shout-out to Squid Game star Jung Hoyeon, who opened the show and joined him onstage for the finale. “On the runway, Hoyeon–nim took really good care of me and taught me quite a lot. I’m thankful to Hoyeon–nim for teaching me how to walk on the runway. I received feedback and tips on how to do it, which was quite helpful.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MFSe5WEn2h0

[MULTI SUBS] 170324 StrayKids Felix Instagram live 스트레이키즈 필릭스 인스타라이브

Felix’s relationship with Louis Vuitton began in August 2023 when he was announced as a house ambassador. Ghesquière praised Felix for his “unique personality” and “audacious sense of style.” Prior to his Paris Fashion Week appearance, he attended Ghesquière’s 2024 cruise show for Vuitton. Ghesquière also styled Felix for the Lollapalooza music festival in Paris.

Fashionable Felix wasn’t the only member of Stray Kids who participated in fashion-related events last month. I.N. went to the Alexander McQueen show while Seungmin attended a Loewe event. Finally, Hyunjin was seen at the Versace show in Milan, where he posed for photos with actress Anne Hathaway. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: When Felix walked the runway, he drove 4.4 million USD in earned media value (EMV) for Louis Vuitton. Source: X/@voguebusiness.

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Karina’s Apology for Dating Reminds Fans of AKB48’s Minami Minegishi

aespa’s Karina apologized to her fans after Dispatch exposed her relationship with actor Lee Jae Wook.

Earlier this month, she posted a handwritten letter on Instagram in which she addressed the news and fans’ reaction to it. She apologized for disappointing them.

Most fans rallied behind Karina in the comments, telling the K-pop star she didn’t have to apologize because she didn’t do anything wrong. Others criticized SM Entertainment, Karina’s agency, for what they perceived to be SM’s poor handling of the crisis. They believe the agency shouldn’t have let Karina write the letter in the first place.

The case of Minami Minegishi

Some compared Karina’s apology letter to the case of Minegishi Minami, a former member of the J-pop girl group AKB48. In 2013, she was caught after spending the night at the home of Alan Shirahama, the leader of boy group Generations from Exile Tribe. A few hours after the weekly tabloid Shukan Bunshun published its report about the incident, AKB48 announced that Minegishi would be demoted to trainee status as punishment. The idol eventually posted a video on the group’s official channel, in which she apologized profusely to fans for what happened. What’s more, she shaved her head for the video (in Japan, shaving one’s head is an act of contrition).

The Most Tragic Case Of Breaking The Idol “NO DATING” Ban

At the time, Japan Times writer Ian Martin published an article saying, “What is happening here is the protection of fans’ fragile fantasies automatically trumps the basic human right to a life outside that fantasy framework. Though as lawyer Hifumi Okunuki pointed out in a Japan Times article on Jan. 22, such an arrangement is probably illegal under Japanese labor laws.”

Minami Minegishi’s case is similar to Karina’s in the sense that both incidents revolve around the pressures and societal expectations idols face. In Japan and South Korea, idols must maintain the illusion that they’re pure as the driven snow—which includes avoiding dating or even talking about it. It’s exceedingly rare for idols to date publicly. Karina may not have had to shave her head, but the fact that she too felt compelled to apologize says a lot.

When did Karina start dating?

Dispatch was the first to report that Karina and Lee Jae Wook started dating after a Prada show in Milan last January. The publication said the couple would usually meet in Lee Jae Wook’s neighborhood and take late-night walks together.

Karina debuted with aespa in 2020. Their group is known for the hits “Black Mamba” and “Next Level.” Meanwhile, Lee Jae Wook debuted as an actor in 2018 and has since appeared in several K-dramas such as Extraordinary You and Alchemy of Souls. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The incident involving Minami Minegishi happened over a decade ago. It’s kind of sad that things haven’t changed much since then. Sources: X/@rinaoutsold, YouTube/@Sandwellnews.

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