Category: KPOP NEWS

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EXO’s D.O Fined for Indoor Smoking

EXO's D.O. in the concept photos for 'Hear Me Out.' Credit: Facebook/EXO

Singer D.O., a member of K-pop boy group EXO, has been reportedly fined for indoor smoking after netizens reported him to authorities. 

On Wednesday, September 6, Mapo Public Health Center released a statement about the idol’s violation. Such a statement came after clips of D.O. allegedly smoking indoors circulated on social media. 

In August, EXO released a behind-the-scenes video from the group’s promotions for their album EXIST. In one of the clips where the group was preparing backstage for their Music Core appearance, D.O. was allegedly smoking an electric cigarette at their waiting room. 

 

Eagle-eyed fans were quick to raise complaints about D.O‘s indoor smoking with the Mapo Public Health Center. According to the National Health Promotion Act, smoking in a non-smoking area can cost up to 100,000 KRW. 

 

In response to the complaints, the Mapo Public Health Center confirmed that D.O. has been fined for the violation. 

Moreover, Mapo Public Health Center revealed that D.O. and his agency SM Entertainment weren’t able to provide evidence that the idol was using a nicotine-free electronic cigarette. 

Aside from being fined, the Mapo Public Health Center also assured that the singer “has pledged to faithfully comply with the law as a public figure in the future.”

As of writing, D.O and SM Entertainment have yet to release a statement about the issue. 

D.O’s second solo album 

In other news, D.O. is preparing for his second solo album Anticipation (literal translation). Set for a September 18 release, Anticipation will feature seven songs. 

On Friday, September 7, he also dropped the pre-release song “I Do.” The accompanying music video served as a sequel to D.O’s previous solo track “That’s Okay.” 

Additionally, Anticipation will mark D.O.’s solo comeback in more than two years. He made his solo debut with the album Empathy in July 2021. 

Featured image: EXO’s D.O. in the concept photos for ‘Hear Me Out.’ Credit: Facebook/EXO

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BB Girls’ Yujeong Is Dating ‘Longing for You’ Star Lee Kyu-Han

The K-pop world is abuzz with the news that BB GIRLS’ Yujeong and actor Lee Kyu-Han officially confirmed their romantic relationship. This revelation comes from Warner Music Korea, Yujeong‘s agency, after media outlet TENAsia initially reported on their relationship.

“It’s true that BB GIRLS’ Yujeong and Lee Kyu-Han are in a relationship,” a representative from Warner Music Korea stated. “It seems they are carefully getting to know each other.” Echoing this sentiment, a representative from the actor’s agency, BLADE Entertainment, said, “Lee Kyu-Han and BB GIRLS’ Yujeong are getting to know one another with positive feelings for each other.”

Js together and Ps together Trip! [Rustically : In Ulsan Part.1] | KBS WORLD TV 230214

Interestingly, this confirmation follows denials from both parties. Rumors about their relationship began circulating in July. They worked together on two variety shows, which became the epicenter of these speculations. At the time, their agencies quashed the rumors.

However, fans and viewers of Rustically: In the Secret Island noticed the chemistry between the two. Their genuine camaraderie and friendship on the show did not go unnoticed. Behind the scenes, it’s believed they discreetly explored their feelings. Only when they felt certain did they decide to go public.

What else are Yujeong and Kyu-Han up to?

On the professional front, Yujeong recently made a comeback with her group BB GIRLS, previously known as Brave Girls under Brave Entertainment. Their latest album, One More Time, released on August 3, has been making waves in the K-pop scene. The album features the title track “One More Time” and “Lemonade,” with the former being a vibrant song that samples Rick James’ “Give It To Me Baby.”

 

브브걸 (BBGIRLS) ‘ONE MORE TIME’ OFFICIAL MV

Meanwhile, Lee Kyu-Han is no stranger to the spotlight. The seasoned actor has a very impressive portfolio, having starred in My Lovely Sam Soon, Listen to My Heart, and Graceful Family. He was last seen in the drama Battle for Happiness, which concluded in July. Currently, fans can catch him in the crime thriller Longing for You, where he shares the screen with Na In-Woo and Kim Ji-Eun.

We wish them the best in love and life as they embark on this new chapter. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Yujeong and Kyuhan look good together in a still taken from one of the shows they did. Source: YouTube/@kbsworldtv.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

ONF Set For First Group Comeback After 2 Year Hiatus

All members of ONF are officially back and ready for their first group comeback after being discharged from military service

ONF is set to mark their eagerly anticipated group comeback after a hiatus spanning nearly two years. It will be their first group comeback since all members were discharged from military service.

ONF Confirms First Group Comeback Later in 2023

Media outlets broke the news on September 8th, signaling a thrilling return for ONF. The hiatus began in December 2021, when all five Korean members embarked on their mandatory military service shortly after the release of their 6th mini album, ‘Goosebumps’. This hiatus, though a necessary pause, left fans eagerly awaiting their return. However, good news arrived in June this year when all members successfully completed their military duties, paving the way for their comeback.

In a heartwarming reunion, ONF came together once more in July to grace the stage at the RBW family concert, ‘RBW 2023 Summer Festival – Over The Rainbow’. This performance served as a teaser for their impending comeback, reigniting the excitement and anticipation among fans.

ONF’s return promises not only a reunion of talents but also the unveiling of new musical endeavors, making it a significant moment for both the group and their devoted fanbase. The countdown to their comeback is now underway, and fans can’t wait to see what ONF has in store for them.

ONF Then and Now

ONF, originally formed as a seven-member group on August 3, 2017, has evolved into a dynamic six-member ensemble. The current lineup comprises talented individuals: Hyojin, E-Tion, J-Us, Wyatt, MK, and U. Unfortunately, the group experienced a significant change in August 2019 when their youngest member, Laun, departed due to personal circumstances, coinciding with the release of their fourth extended play, “Go Live.”

Since their debut, ONF has maintained an impressive discography, including a studio album, a repackaged album, seven extended plays, and two Japanese singles following their Japanese debut on August 1, 2018. Their journey in the music industry has been marked by evolution and artistic growth, making ONF a noteworthy presence in the world of K-pop, with their devoted fanbase eagerly anticipating their every move.

The official date for ONF’s first group comeback has not yet been revealed. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES VARIETY

Seventeen Starts Filming for Na PD’s ‘Youth Over Flowers’

SEVENTEEN during the filming of 'In The Soop' 2. Credit: Facebook/SEVENTEEN

CARATs, the news that we’re waiting for is here! Na Young Seok, aka Na PD, has finally started filming for Youth Over Flowers featuring K-pop group SEVENTEEN. 

On Friday, September 7, the members were spotted at the airport wearing mics and carrying cameras following the conclusion of the group’s two-day FOLLOW concert in Japan. They were also seen with Na PD and several of his staff members, prompting speculations that it’s for the Youth Over Flowers filming. 

 

As the clips circulate on social media, a tvN representative confirmed that the filming is indeed for Youth Over Flowers. 

“We ask for your understanding as we cannot provide specific details in order to ensure a safe and smooth filming process. We will provide more information as it becomes available,” they said. 

Additionally, producers of the show ask for the fans’ support. “If you encounter the SEVENTEEN members around the filming location, please pretend to not have seen them so they can enjoy the trip and film comfortably,” they said. 

SEVENTEEN x Youth Over Flowers

For those unfamiliar, Youth Over Flowers is a travel variety show wherein the staff tricked the cast members into spontaneous trips. 

It first premiered in 2014, with the last edition featuring K-pop group WINNER aired in 2017. This upcoming edition with SEVENTEEN will serve as the show’s return in more than five years. 

Interestingly, SEVENTEEN was the one who suggested having their own Youth Over Flowers series. During the group’s appearance in Na PD’s Youtube series The Game Caterers 2, the group listed down some of their wishes that they’d like the production staff to grant. 

Members Dino and Wonwoo wrote that they want the group to have their version of Youth Over Flowers. They said that the group hadn’t traveled for a vacation recently and that they were huge fans of the show. 

Out of the 60 empty wish coupons, DK was able to pick the coupon for said series. 

Given that the premise of the show is for members to go on an impromptu trip, PLEDIS Entertainment, the group’s agency, shared that they’re not aware of the schedule. 

 

Based on the clips on social media, the members also looked visibly surprised when they were strolling through the airport. 

 

According to some reports of fans, member Mingyu lost his passport at the airport. Some fans also claimed that Na PD even asked them to airdrop footage of the incident as it might be included in an episode of the show. 

 

The filming will reportedly take place in Rome, Italy. 

S.coups’ absence

While fans are already looking forward to how SEVENTEEN’s Youth Over Flowers will turn out, the fun was dimmed by the confirmation that not all members would be able to participate. 

 

S.coups, the group’s leader, had to miss the filming as he’s currently on hiatus. In early August, S.coups had an accident while filming. Although his surgery for his ACL injury was successful, his recovery is supposed to take a while.

However, S.coups flew to Japan to show support for the group’s concert in Tokyo Dome. During the second day, he even appeared onstage during encore to show support for his members. 

On social media, fans were sad to not have all 13 members participate. But they also know that S.coups had to focus on recovery. 

Meanwhile, it will also be Seungkwan’s first major variety film with SEVENTEEN following his return from hiatus.

As of writing, there’s no details yet about the airing of Youth Over Flowers. Stay tuned here for more updates.

Featured image: SEVENTEEN during the filming of ‘In The Soop’ 2. Credit: Facebook/SEVENTEEN

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Watch: HYBE Unveils the 1st Mission for ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’ Participants

A team from 'The Debut: Dream Academy' poses for their first mission. Credit: Twitter/The Debut: Dream Academy

The competition has begun! The Debut: Dream Academy, the survival show between HYBE Labels and Universal Music Group subsidiary Geffen Records, finally kicks off with its first mission.

The 20 participants were split into four groups: two vocal teams and two dance teams that have five members each. For their first mission, the participants were supposed to showcase their singing and dancing skills. 

On Thursday, September 7, the team’s video performances for their “MISSION 1: SHOWCASE” were released on HYBE Labels’ official Youtube channel. 

 

‘The Debut: Dream Academy’ mission 1

First, the Vocal Team A featured contestants Karlee, Lexie, Iliya, Brooklyn, and Manon. The five delivered a mashup performance of Billie Eilish’s “Happier than Ever”, and Robyn’s “Dancing on My Own.” On social media, the five members were praised for filling the song with emotions using their unique tones.

 

On the other hand, Vocal Team B composed of Sophia, Samara, Nayoung, Lala, and Celeste, showed their soulful harmony with a special arrangement of Paramore’s “Still Into You”. 

 

Then, Adela, Daniela, Hinari, Megan, and Ua made up the Dance Team A. They flaunted their intense moves and swag with their cover of “Pink Venom” by the world renowned girl group BLACKPINK.

 

Meanwhile, Dance Team B is composed of Emily, Ezrella, Maki, Mei, and Yoonchae. They also exhibited their stage presence with their performance of “OMG” by the monster rookies NewJeans. 

 

Aside from the team performance videos, individual focus cam videos for all the contestants were also released.

Who’ll move forward?

Fans can cast their votes by visiting the “The Debut: Dream Academy” community in the  fandom platform Weverse. Additionally, viewers can also like the contestants’ individual focus cam videos on HYBE LABELS+ Youtube channel.

After the first mission, only 18 contestants will be continuing their journey in the show as two participants will be eliminated. The top six ranked contestants, meanwhile, will be safe to proceed to Mission 2.

The results of Mission 1 will be announced on September 15. Earlier, HYBE LABELS has announced that the girls are set to compete in a total of three missions, which will also serve as elimination rounds, before the final lineup is revealed at the show’s live finale on November 17.

 

With HYBE and Geffen’s joint venture to look for the next global girl group, the 20 contestants were selected from more than 120,000 submissions all around the world.

Moreover, these candidates come from South Korea, Japan, United States, Australia, Brazil, Philippines, Argentina, Belarus, Sweden, and Slovakia. 

Featured image: A team from ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’ poses for their first mission. Credit: Twitter/The Debut: Dream Academy

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Baskin Robbins Launches Collaboration with RIIZE in South Korea

Ice cream chain Baskin Robbins has announced a “cool” new collaboration with SM Entertainment’s latest sensation, RIIZE. This partnership is a testament to the boy group’s rising prominence in the K-pop industry, especially after their successful deal with the popular clothing site MUSINSA.

RIIZE is SM‘s first new group in three years after the girl group aespa, and their first boy group since NCT. RIIZE has already garnered significant attention as a top-tier rookie group. Their new partnership with Baskin Robbins is a testament to the boys’ rising popularity and a strategic move by the ice cream giant. Its goal is to reach the MZ generation by collaborating with K-pop artists to offer their fans a fresh brand experience.

The highlight of this collaboration is the introduction of the Popping Star RIIZE Ready Pack Mini. This product captures the essence of the boy group’s journey to “grow together (Rise) and realize dreams (Realize).” It combines Blue Soda Sherbet, Blue RIIZE Popping Candy, and creamy Milk Ice Cream. Each Popping Star RIIZE Ready Pack Mini comes with a photocard. As if that wasn’t enough, a Baskin Robbins representative says more products featuring RIIZE will be released.

The Baskin Robbins controversy

However, this collaboration has not been without its share of controversies. Baskin Robbins, under the SPC umbrella, has faced harsh criticism in the past. In 2022, a tragic incident occurred where a 23-year-old worker died during a factory baking shift for Paris Baguette, another brand under SPC. Their decision to resume operations after the tragedy amid ongoing concerns about workers’ rights and welfare led to public outcry and boycotts against SPC and its brands.

Many fans have disapproved of SM Entertainment’s decision to collaborate with a brand associated with such issues. Brand partnerships can elevate an artist’s image. But they can also be detrimental to an artist if the public dislikes the brand.

While this Baskin Robbins and RIIZE collaboration promises exciting products and experiences for fans, it also serves as a reminder that brand deals in the entertainment industry come with certain complexities and responsibilities. Only time will tell how this controversial partnership with Baskin Robbins will impact RIIZE in the long run. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Doesn’t this collab look awesome? Source: Instagram/@baskinrobbinskorea.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS K-POP STYLE KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Look: Twice’s Sana Stuns as Prada’s New Ambassador

TWICE's Sana attends the Prada Mode Seoul event. Credit: Twitter/Sana

Rejoice, ONCEs! JYP Entertainment revealed on Thursday, September 7, that TWICE member Sana has been named as Prada’s new brand ambassador. 

In the photo, the idol is seen flaunting her visuals as she attended the Prada Mode Seoul event.

Aside from Sana, the luxury brand also posted a series of photos including their other Korean ambassadors. Among those in attendance were NCT’s Jaehyun, Nevertheless actor Song Kang, and Alchemy of Souls actor Lee Jae Wook. Also present were actor-director Koo Kyowhan and model Irene Kim. 

Prior to this, the “Set Me Free” singer notably grabbed attention in the 2022 Milan Fashion Week, where she attended Prada’s Spring/Summer 2023 event. Although Sana has modeled for the brand in the previous years, this is the first time she has been officially named as an ambassador.

Interestingly, Sana is the latest K-pop idol to be tapped by a luxury fashion brand to be their global ambassador. The growing list includes BTS’ V for Cartier, SEVENTEEN’s Vernon for Kenzo, and TWICE’s Dahyun for Michael Kors. Meanwhile, (G)I-DLE’s Miyeon and STRAY KIDS’ Hyunjin and Felix are also ambassadors for Jimmy Choo, Versace, and Louis Vuitton, respectively.

Activities of Sana in 2023

Being a brand ambassador for Prada is the latest among Sana’s partnerships with brands. In 2023, she was also tapped by GRAFF Diamonds, eSpoir, and MISSHA. 

 

Moreover, Sana also debuted as part of TWICE’s first sub-unit MISAMO, alongside Mina and Momo. In July, the Japanese trio released their first mini album Masterpiece. It consists of seven songs including the title track “Do Not Touch”.

Meanwhile, TWICE continues to take the world by storm as the nine-member girl group became the first K-Pop girl group to sell out a stadium show in Sao Paulo, Brazil. To cater to the demand, an additional show has been added. Currently, the girls are busy visiting their global fans with their 5th World Tour Ready to Be.

 

Earlier this year, TWICE also became the first Korean group to win the Breakthrough Award at the Billboard Women in Music Awards 2023.

Featured image: TWICE’s Sana attends the Prada Mode Seoul event. Credit: Twitter/Sana

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

WEI’s Kim Yo Han To Release ‘Blue In You’ Remake For 24th Birthday

Kim Yo Han will be collaborating with musician CHEEZE in a new cover as part of his 24th birthday celebration

Kim Yo Han is preparing something wonderful for his fans on his 24th birthday. The WEi member has just confirmed a new solo single which happens to be a cover of a classic love song. Yohan confirmed that he will release his version of “Blue in You” on his birthday later this month.

Kim Yo Han Announces ‘Blue in You’ Cover To Celebrate Upcoming Birthday

On September 8, the official WEi Twitter account dropped a teaser for Yohan’s upcoming solo effort. Kim Yo Han is set to unveil his second solo digital single, titled “Blue in You,” paying homage to a beloved Korean classic. The original rendition, sung by Kim Hyun Chul and Lee So Ra, graced the airwaves in 1992, serving as the cherished OST for the romantic film ‘The Blue in You’.

The iconic track has resonated deeply with Koreans for decades. Kim Yo Han’s rendition is poised to breathe new life into it, as he collaborates with the talented musician CHEEZE for a mesmerizing duet. Mark your calendars for September 22, 2023, when the enchanting remake will be available on various streaming platforms. “Blue in You” promises to capture hearts once again with its timeless melody and the fresh, emotive voices of Kim Yo Han and CHEEZE.

Kim Yo-han is currently a member of WEi but he was part of another boy group in the past. He is a former member of X1, finishing first on “Produce X 101”. He made his solo debut with the digital single “No More” on August 25, 2020. WEi recently released their sixth EP ‘Love Pt. 3: Eternally’ on June 29, with the title track “Overdrive”.

Yohan dabbled in acting at a young age, playing a child extra in “Queen Seondeok” in 2009. He also appeared in variety shows like “Chick High Kick” and had cameo roles in “Zombie Detective” and “Mouse”. He officially debuted in acting through “A Love So Beautiful”.

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’ SUGA and Taylor Swift Have Something in Common

BTS‘ SUGA, also known by his second stage name, Agust D, has carved his name into the annals of music history. 

He has become one of only two artists with at least three number-one albums on iTunes in over 100 countries. This monumental achievement places him alongside American pop star Taylor Swift, who has four albums—Speak Now, 1989, Lover, and Reputation—that achieved this distinction. Trailing behind BTS’ SUGA and Taylor are Adele and Beyoncé, who each have two. 

SUGA is the first artist in history to have all of his albums reach the top spot on iTunes in over 100 countries. He also saw three of his singles—“Daechwita,” “Haegeum,” and “People Pt.2”—reach No. 1 on iTunes in over 100 countries.

SUGA’s journey to this achievement began with his first mixtape, Agust D, released in 2016. It was a raw, unfiltered reflection of his thoughts, tracing his path from obscurity to stardom. He put out another mixtape titled D-2 in 2020. Bannered by the hit single “Daechwita,” this mixtape captured the essence of his experiences as a 28-year-old. SUGA completed the trilogy when he released his first studio album D-DAY earlier this year.

BTS’ SUGA accomplished many things

But his accomplishments aren’t limited to the charts. He recently concluded a world tour that took him to countries like Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, and Thailand. SUGA has also penetrated fashion and sports. In January 2023, he was unveiled as the brand ambassador for the luxury fashion house Valentino. By April, he was representing the NBA as an ambassador.

Fans also got an intimate look into his life with the documentary SUGA: Road to D-DAY, available on Disney+. This documentary chronicled the process of putting together his first studio album. But amid all SUGA’s success, a sad note was struck when BIGHIT MUSIC announced that he would soon enlist in the South Korean military.

While the announcement was made shortly after his tour ended last month, there has been no word from BIGHIT MUSIC or SUGA himself regarding his enlistment date. In fact, things have been so quiet that some fans believe BTS’ SUGA enlisted quietly, without all the fanfare that accompanied Jin’s and j-hope’s enlistments. 

If they’re right, all SUGA’s fans can do now is pray for his safe return. They can also take comfort in the fact that he left them with this achievement before he enlisted. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: SUGA made iTunes history this year. Congratulations, Yoongi! Source: Weverse.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

RIIZE’s Eunseok Confirmed as Special MC on ‘Show! Music Core’

RIIZE member Eunseok is ready for his first solo endeavor as a special MC on MBC's 'Show! Music Core' later this week!

Eunseok is set to make a special appearance as a guest MC on “Show! Music Core.” The RIIZE member has just been confirmed as a special MC in the MBC variety show later this week!

RIIZE Member Eunseok Announced as ‘Show! Music Core’ Special MC This Week

Reports have unveiled that Eunseok will be taking on the new role. He would mark his debut as a music show host on MBC’s “Show! Music Core” scheduled for September 9, 2023. Fans are eagerly anticipating the chance to witness the RIIZE member’s unique charms as he graces the stage as an MC, making this a highly anticipated moment for both the artist and his supporters.

Eunseok, alongside Shohei and Seunghan, was revealed as the newest member of SM Entertainment’s trainee team SM ROOKIES in July 2023. It was later confirmed that Eunseok and Seunghan will join RIIZE while Shohei is expected to debut in NCT Tokyo. Since then, fans have been anticipating Eunseok’s debut as an idol.

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

In related news, RIIZE has announced that they are changing their fandom name just two days after the official announcement. Originally announced as SUNZ, SM Entertainment has decided to change the fan club name to BRIIZE following intense backlash. With the fandom finally getting a fresh redo, RIIZE and their fans are prepared for what lies ahead as the boy group begins promoting their debut single. In the meantime, the official fan club is set to open on September 12, 2023.

Exit mobile version