Category: KPOP NEWS

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

HYBE Buys Out CJ ENM to Acquire BELIFT LAB, ENHYPEN’s Agency

HYBE

HYBE Corp, the K-pop titan responsible for global sensation BTS, has made another significant move by buying its partner’s stake in BELIFT LAB, the agency behind boy group ENHYPEN. The company recently announced its agreement to buy CJ ENM’s 51.5% share in BELIFT LAB. While the deal’s specifics remain tightly under wraps, this acquisition underscores HYBE’s commitment to expanding its influence in the K-pop domain.

BELIFT LAB, initiated in 2018 as a collaborative venture between HYBE and CJ ENM, was designed to cultivate and promote idol groups. Both companies have praised BELIFT LAB for its “innovation and excellence in K-pop.” 

@heejakeswonki

since they announced that be:lift is now fully owned by hybe, here’s a little compilation of bang shi hyuk pd- nim unwavering love and support for #enhypen

♬ One and Only – ENHYPEN

As a testament to its success, BELIFT LAB celebrated the debut of ENHYPEN in November 2020. This septet originated from the survival show I-LAND and has since succeeded remarkably. Their latest album, DARK BLOOD, was released last May. It sold 1.32 million copies in its first week. This surpassed their previous record set by MANIFESTO: DAY 1 in 2022, which sold 1.24 million in its debut week.

Currently, ENHYPEN is embarking on their FATE World Tour. They’re gearing up for performances in Osaka on September 2 and 3 and will then head to Tokyo for shows on September 13 and 14.

https://twitter.com/sunookitchenrag/status/1689513704537133056

HYBE and its multi-label approach

By gaining full ownership of BELIFT LAB, HYBE emphasizes its strategic multi-label approach. In a statement, HYBE expressed its intent to offer unparalleled support to BELIFT LAB and its artists. Park Jiwon, HYBE’s CEO, said, “We remain committed to fostering a partnership with CJ ENM to further promote K-culture.”

Since its Korean stock market debut in October 2020, HYBE has consistently flexed its corporate strength. Initially best known for debuting BTS, the company diversified its interests. This includes acquiring various labels in Korea and a leap into the global market by buying Scooter Braun’s Ithaca Holdings.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7_TK7nlsyk&t=9s

2022 HYBE BRIEFING WITH THE COMMUNITY

HYBE’s extensive portfolio encompasses ADOR, BELIFT LAB, BigHit Music, HYBE Labels Japan, KOZ Entertainment, NAECO, Pledis Entertainment, and Source Music. Additionally, HYBE America oversees affiliate labels, including the Big Machine Label Group.

Earlier this year, HYBE made headlines when it aimed to acquire its primary competitor in the K-pop scene, the pioneering SM Entertainment. Unfortunately, tech behemoth Kakao intervened, becoming SM’s largest shareholder. Despite this, HYBE likely profited from selling its stake in the company. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Netizens hope this acquisition will lead to bigger and better things for ENHYPEN. Source: Twitter/@ENHYPEN_Charts.

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K-DRAMA KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Hwang Minhyun Confirmed to Lead Drama Based On Webtoon “Study Group”

Hwang Minhyun, a name synonymous with talent, has bagged another significant role. This time, he’s set to appear in the drama adaptation of the popular webtoon Study Group. On August 10, PLEDIS Entertainment confirmed Minhyun‘s participation in the project. Fans are eagerly waiting to see him bring the character of Yoon Ga Min to life.

Not just another high school drama

Study Group is not just another high school drama. It delves deep into the life of Yoon Ga Min, a student with a passion for studying but an undeniable knack for fighting. 

The story unfolds at Yusung Technical High School, notoriously known as one of the worst schools. Here, Yoon Ga Min forms a study group to do well on the college entrance exams. But the journey is anything but easy. Yoon Ga Min faces challenges at every turn. The webtoon’s narrative is a gripping tale of determination, friendship, and the struggles of student life.

@hmh_little_warehouse

Mong anh Hwang Minhyun xác nhận vào vai em Yoon Ga-min ạ 🥹🥹🥹 #황민현 #hwangminhyun #studygroup #yoongamin #윤가민 #kdrama #minhyunholic🍑

♬ 맛 Hot Sauce – NCT DREAM

At first glance, Yoon Ga Min seems like the quintessential model student. He has glasses and a neat appearance. But although he comes across as an intellectual, the truth is he’s near the bottom of his class in terms of grades. But there’s more to him than meets the eye.

For one thing, he’s fiercely determined. He’s dead set on attending college and works hard towards that goal. But when adversity strikes and his study group friends are bullied, he doesn’t hesitate to shed his “model student” persona. He defends his friends, revealing his formidable fighting skills.

A departure for Minhyun

This role is a departure from Minhyun‘s previous characters. He’s showcased his acting prowess in dramas like JTBC’s Live On and tvN’s Alchemy of Souls. He’s currently winning hearts in My Lovely Liar. With Study Group, Minhyun is set to explore a new dimension of his acting capabilities.

As anticipation builds, fans are eager to see how Minhyun will interpret his multifaceted character. With filming scheduled to commence later this year, updates are eagerly awaited. Until then, fans can catch Minhyun in My Lovely Liar and stay tuned for more news on Study Group. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Besides his new K-drama, Minyhun is also about to embark on an international tour called UNVEIL. Source: Twitter/@MINHYUN_PLEDIS.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’ V Serenades ARMY in “Love Me Again” MV, Fans Analyze His Lyrics and MV

BTS‘ V, also known as Kim Taehyung, dropped his newest solo track, “Love Me Again” accompanied by a mesmerizing music video. This release is fans’ first peek at his solo album, Layover, which is set to drop on September 8. The video features close-ups of V as he sings the R&B track passionately.

The song’s lyrics resonate with themes of longing and lost love. Lines like “I think about you all the time / Where you are, who you’re with / Lost without you, baby / I wish you would love me again” evoke a sense of yearning. This sentiment is further amplified by the music video’s setting and V‘s choice of attire. 

V ‘Love Me Again’ Official MV

Fans have been dissecting every frame of the “Love Me Again” music video, eager to uncover any hidden meanings or messages. V, known for his unique sense of style and impeccable fashion choices, left an indelible mark with his fits in the video. Set against the alluring backdrop of a dimly lit cave, V‘s attire was a stark contrast to his environment. The BTS star donned two sequined turtlenecks, one long-sleeved in a radiant red and the other sleeveless in a lustrous golden hue. 

At first glance, those turtlenecks might seem like a mere reflection of V‘s fashion sense, especially since they’re from the CELINE Men’s Fall 2022 Collection. But fans believe there’s more to those clothes than meets the eye. The way the sequined tops glint and shine, even in the subdued lighting, could symbolize V‘s yearning to be acknowledged by the one he loves. His sartorial choices seem to parallel the song’s themes of lost love and the desire to get it back.

Intense discussions among fans

The lyrical content of “Love Me Again” has also sparked intense discussions among fans. One line, in particular (“Now you’re in California, I’m still waiting for us”) ignited a flurry of speculations. Many are theorizing that this could be a subtle nod to BLACKPINK‘s Jennie, who is known to have a home in Los Angeles, California.

Moreover, some fans have drawn parallels between the lyrics of V‘s “Slow Dancing” and Jennie‘s “You & Me.” In “Slow Dancing,” V sings, “Stay with me ’til the end of the day. Maybe we could be slow dancing until the morning. We could be romancing the night away,” which some believe could be a response to Jennie‘s lines in “You & Me“: “I love you and me dancing in the moonlight. Nobody can see, it’s just you and me.” 

The impact of “Love Me Again”

People have spotted the two idols in similar outfits and locations, leading to speculation about their dating. Still, such theories must be approached with caution. The world of K-pop is rife with rumors, and while fans are passionate about connecting the dots, it’s crucial to differentiate between fact and fiction. What’s undeniable, though, is the impact of V‘s solo releases. The “Love Me Again” music video swiftly garnered over 9.1 million views on YouTube, securing its spot as the No. 1 video on YouTube’s Trending for Music.

https://twitter.com/SA_BTS_UPDATES/status/1689705430266544129

V‘s solo venture follows successful releases from other BTS members. “Love Me Again” is more than just a song; it’s a testament to his artistry. As we await the release of Layover, one thing is sure: V’s album will surely knock everyone’s socks off. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Some fans believe V’s shining, shimmering outfits carry a deeper meaning. Source: YouTube/@HYBELABELS.

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BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS Island Game Developers Respond to Fans’ Concerns About Jimin

BTS Island: In The SEOM, an official mobile game that’s an integral part of BTS’ IP, came under fire for its portrayal of BTS member Jimin. 

【BTS Island: In the SEOM】 1st Anniversary Special Video

This game, which hit the market on June 28, 2022, takes direct inspiration from real-life incidents involving the BTS members. All seven members actively participated in designing their characters and provided input regarding the gameplay and storyline. Since its release, the game has enjoyed immense popularity among fans. It’s considered a fun way for baby ARMY to learn about the group’s history and the dynamics between the members.

However, some scenes in the game show Jimin‘s character expressing self-doubt. In one particular scene, Jimin‘s character is shown doubting whether he’s worthy of being in the group. He even said he might leave, only to be reprimanded by SUGA’s character. This narrative has not resonated well with fans, leading to widespread criticism on social media platforms, especially Twitter. 

Screenshots from the game, shared by ARMY, highlight moments in which Jimin’s character voices insecurities about his dancing and singing. These screenshots quickly went viral, leading to trending taglines such as “APOLOGIZE TO JIMIN” and “RESPECT JIMIN.” Fans have voiced their concerns about the negative impact this narrative could have on Jimin‘s real-life image.

Transitioning to another perspective, some fans have pointed out that the game’s narrative might be drawing from real-life incidents. During BTS’ early years, Jimin reportedly felt left out at times, with SUGA being one of the members who encouraged him to persevere. Most fans believe that the game’s portrayal is an exaggerated and misleading representation of the actual dynamics between the two. They argue that the mobile game misrepresents the supportive relationship between SUGA and Jimin, especially given that Jimin has often named SUGA as one of his biggest supporters since the beginning of their careers.

BTS Island: In the SEOM was updated

In response to the backlash, some ARMYs shared a screen recording of the scene in question. This recording paints a different picture. It shows SUGA’s character consoling Jimin and encouraging him to practice more. The whole scene suggests playful banter between the two instead of a serious confrontation. This video cleared up many misunderstandings, but the initial portrayal still remains a point of contention for many fans.

Despite these clarifications, the uproar has highlighted the importance of accurate representation in media, especially when dealing with real-life personalities. Fans demand that game developers be more responsible. They believe that although creative freedom is essential, it shouldn’t come at the cost of misrepresenting real-life relationships and dynamics. HYBE has yet to officially address the controversy. However, someone from the team behind the game responded to a K-ARMY.

Furthermore, recent updates to BTS Island: In The SEOM suggest it was changed in response to the feedback.

ARMYs hope that something like this won’t happen again, especially not to Jimin, who has more than done enough to prove he truly deserves to be in BTS. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: BTS Island: In the SEOM celebrated its first anniversary back in July. Source: YouTube/@btsislandintheseom3031.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

ATEEZ’s Mingi Surprises ATINY With Emotionally Charged, Self-Written Song

Song Mingi, a cherished member of the globally renowned K-pop group ATEEZ, has graced fans with a touching musical gift. At midnight KST on August 10, he unveiled a song that had been shrouded in mystery. This untitled masterpiece was first introduced to ATINY during a YouTube live broadcast he did in June.

[Special Clip] ATEEZ(에이티즈) 민기 ‘무제’

ATEEZ’s dedicated fanbase welcomed the song’s official release with overwhelming admiration and joy. Mingi’s prowess as a songwriter shone through in it. Not only did he co-compose the music, but he also took the lead in writing the lyrics. He poured his heart and soul into every line.

Mingi, the music man

Mingi has been hands-on in ATEEZ’s discography since their career began. He showcased his writing ability on their first mini album, Treasure EP. 1: All to Zero. Mingi co-wrote five of its six tracks, including its two singles, “Pirate King” and “Treasure.” 

Since then, Mingi has contributed to all of the group’s albums. He excels in crafting poignant lyrics that tackle diverse themes, including dreams, friendship, and youth. His unique ability to articulate feelings that are hard to capture solidified his reputation as an emerging powerhouse lyricist of the fourth generation.

[ENG/CC] ATEEZ LIVE – Mingi’s Unreleased Song

In a separate interview, he opened up about how he catalogs his ideas. “I write down a lot of them as memos on my phone, and I always go back to them to see if they match what we’re going through as a group. That’s how I write my lyrics,” he explains. “Sometimes I’ll think of it as writing a script to really get into that persona.”

In addition to his songwriting, Mingi is also a burgeoning producer. He once gave fans a quick peek at his creative process and the studio where he works.

ATEEZ(에이티즈) log_1DAY VLOG #MINGI_1

More than a piece of music

In K-pop, where artists often collaborate with various songwriters and producers, Mingi‘s choice to take a hands-on approach with this song showcases his dedication and passion for music. As the song continues to gain traction, it serves as a reminder of the bond between ATEEZ and their fans. 

Mingi‘s surprise release is more than a piece of music. It’s a heartfelt message from an artist to his fans, expressing gratitude, love, and the myriad emotions that come with being a worldwide star. With its emotional depth and beautiful composition, the song is bound to leave a lasting impression on all who listen. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Mingi has written songs for ATEEZ since debut. Source: Twitter/@ATEEZofficial.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Theblacklabel Apologizes for Plagiarism Issue on Jeon Somi’s ‘Fast Forward’ MV

Jeon Somi in the teasers for her 'Game Plan' album. Credit: Twitter/Jeon Somi

THEBLACKLABEL will edit some scenes involving an animated character in Jeon Somi’s “Fast Forward” music video after viewers accused it of plagiarism. 

“Fast Forward,” which is the title track of Somi’s new EP Game Plan, was released on Monday, August 7. 

 

Following its release, several viewers pointed out that the animated character in Somi’s music video resembles an artwork of the famous Japanese cartoonist Rumiko Takahashi. 

In the ”Fast Forward” music video, the manga-styled character appeared to be a representation of the idol. 

However, fans were quick to raise the similarities between Somi’s animated character and the artwork on Takahashi’s manga series Urusei Yatsura. 

 

Viewers alleged that the two had the same style and color scheme. According to online users, only the direction the character is facing and the hairstyle are the differences.

Hence, viewers accused the company of ripping off the known character. It also sparked debate on whether the agency has permission to use the design commercially. 

THEBLACKLABEL reacts

Soon afterwards the allegations went viral, THEBLACKLABEL issued an apology on Wednesday, August 9. 

The agency said that they have decided to “delete and modify the scene” after they  “discovered that the animated character in the video had similar appearances to a different character’s artwork.” 

 

Additionally, THEBLACKLABEL shared that they will replace said scenes as soon as possible. “We sincerely apologize for being unable to take a closer look and for causing concern,” they said. 

The label also assured fans that they will be “more careful in the future” to prevent instances like this from happening again. 

Game Plan is Jeon Somi’s first comeback in two years, following her studio album XOXO in October 2021. 

Jeon Somi entered the K-pop industry through the 2015 survival program Sixteen. She also participated in the first season of Produce 101 in 2016, wherein she became a member of the project girl group IOI. 

After IOI disbanded, Jeon Somi chose to venture in her solo career. 

Featured image: Jeon Somi in the teasers for her ‘Game Plan’ album. Credit: Twitter/Jeon Somi

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Here Are the K-Pop Groups Performing at World Scout Jamboree Concert

IVE poses during the filming of 'I AM' music video. Credit: Facebook/IVE

More than 15 artists are expected to perform at the 2023 World Scout Jamboree’s K-pop Super Live Concert! 

The much-awaited K-pop finale concert was initially scheduled for August 6 at an outdoor campsite in Saemangeum, North Jeolla Province. However, it was postponed due to the heat wave warning, extreme weather conditions, and safety issues. 

Now, the Friday, August 11 concert will be held at the Seoul World Cup Stadium with a new lineup for the show. 

Prior to the Seoul World Cup Stadium, the organizers first thought of conducting the rescheduled concert at the Jeonju World Cup Stadium. But the venue was moved again after all the participants of the Jamboree had to leave the Saemangeum campsite due to the threats of Typhoon Khanun. 

According to the Jamboree’s organizing committee and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the new MCs for the event will be Gong Myung, ITZY’s Yuna, and NewJean’s Hyein. 

Meanwhile, K-pop acts MAMAMOO, NCT DREAM, ITZY, IVE, NewJeans, and The Boyz are confirmed to be part of the new lineup. 

 

Additionally, ZEROBASEONE, MONSTA X’s Shownu x Hyungwon, KARD, and fromis_9 will also be performing. Other groups include P1Harmony, The New Six (TNX), Xikers, ATBO, Libelante, and dance crew HolyBang. 

Lastly, soloists Kwon Eun Bi, Jo Yu Ri, and Kang Daniel will also be taking the stage. 

“These top artists will vibrantly showcase the essence and charm of K-culture at a concert that will bring together 40,000 young scouts from 150 countries around the world,” Park Bo Gyoon, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism said in a press release. 

Featured image: IVE poses during the filming of ‘I AM’ music video. Credit: Facebook/IVE

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

SM Entertainment Denies Knowing of Exo Baekhyun’s Plans for Own Agency

EXO's Baekhyun in the teaser images for 'Let Me In.' Credit: Facebook/EXO

Following EXO’s Baekhyun’s recent revelations, SM Entertainment released a statement of their own to address the idol’s claims. 

On Tuesday, August 8, Baekhyun responded to a series of rumors surrounding his career through a live broadcast on Instagram.

What Baekhyun said

In the livestream, the vocalist opened up about his recent legal dispute with SM Entertainment. He said that he’ve “always wanted to inquire about accounting.” And that there were incidents during Lee Soo Man’s absence that “piqued [his] curiosity.” 

Aside from Baekhyun, EXO members Chen and Xiumin moved to terminate their exclusive contracts with SM Entertainment in June. The EXO-CBX sub-unit cited unclear handling of earnings and slave contracts as their motivation. 

However, both parties have reached a settlement after an almost three-week legal battle. 

Additionally, Baekhyun pointed out that they reached an “amicable compromise.” He also emphasized that he now has a “good relationship” with SM Entertainment.  

 

Moreover, Baekhyun also revealed that he started the company One Signature with his friend Kasper. The idol explained that it aims to produce good choreographers and dancers. 

The singer also mentioned that SM Entertainment is aware of his plans and encouraging his new venture. 

SM Entertainment reacts

Yet, the agency claimed that they’ve never heard anything about Baekhyun’s plans. And that they only found out about it through the reports. 

“Although we are flustered by the [sudden news], we trust that [Baekhyun] will keep the promises he made during our mutual agreement,” the agency said in a press release. 

 

Furthermore, SM Entertainment also clarified that the existing contracts of Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin have not expired. In fact, the agency said that Baekhyun’s existing agency with them runs until January 2024. 

The label also asserted that EXO will continue their group activities and Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin can also pursue solo activities. 

 EXO released their seventh full-length album EXIST in July. It served as EXO’s first album as a full-group in two years. It has a total of nine songs, with “Cream Soda” as its title track. 

Currently, EXO is airing the fourth season of their hit variety show Travel the World on a Ladder.

Featured image: EXO’s Baekhyun in the teaser images for ‘Let Me In.’ Credit: Facebook/EXO

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Blackpink’s Lisa to Be Inducted Into Asian Hall of Fame

BLACKPINK shares a photo of Lisa for her birthday. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

Lisa of K-pop girl group BLACKPINK continues to prove she’s a trailblazer in the entertainment industry! 

The 2023 Asian Hall of Fame has announced that Lisa, whose real name is Lalisa Manoban, is one of its inductees . 

Established in 2004, the Asian Hall of Fame aims to advance “Asian and Indigenous leadership, achievements, and service to the United States and around the world.” 

 

Aside from Lisa, 15 other people are also being inducted to the legacy platform. 

This year’s nominees also include Far*East Movement, Freddie Mercury, Johnny Cash, and Ryuichi Sakamoto, among others. 

 

According to its website, one of the criteria for an individual to be inducted is that they should have “transformed multicultural, multiracial, and multigenerational ambassadorship for generations to come.” 

Moreover, the Thai-born rapper-dancer is the first K-pop idol to be inducted into the Asian Hall of Fame. She is being honored as a “cultural icon.” 

The induction ceremony will be on October 21, 2023 in Los Angeles. 

Lisa’s iconic achievements

Indeed, Lisa’s induction comes as no surprise as the idol has been breaking records left and right. 

In May 2023, the BLACKPINK member became the K-pop soloist with the most Guinness World Records in history. 

Currently, Lisa has seven records. She was able to surpass PSY’s five records.  Some of Lisa’s records include: 

  • most followers on Instagram for a K-pop artist
  • fastest solo K-pop female artist to reach one billion streams on Spotify 
  • first solo K-pop winner at the MTV Video Music Awards 

Lisa made her debut as a member of BLACKPINK in August 2016. She made her solo debut in September 2021 with the release of her single album Lalisa. 

Additionally, BLACKPINK also holds several Guinness World Records, including being the most viewed channel on YouTube. 

Furthermore, the group’s seven-year contract with YG Entertainment is set to expire by August 2023. However, Lisa is rumored to no longer renew with the agency. 

Featured image: BLACKPINK shares a photo of Lisa for her birthday. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Ciipher: Four Members Officially Quit the Group as Netizens Blame Rain Company

In a recent and unexpected development, four members of the renowned K-pop group Ciipher have decided to leave the band. On August 9, Ciipher‘s label, Rain Company, announced that Dohwan, Tag, Tan, and Won ended their contracts. This decision, described as mutual, was reached after a series of discussions.

As for the remaining members, Hwi, Hyunbin, and Keita, they have chosen to stay with the company and continue their work in showbiz. They plan to regroup and continue promoting as a trio someday. They’re also set to meet fans through various activities. For instance, Keita is getting ready for his first solo fan meeting in Japan on August 19.

While the official statement from Rain Company underscored the mutual respect and understanding underpinning this decision, fans voiced their concerns and frustrations. Many are directing their ire at the company. Accusations of mismanagement and mistreatment are being leveled at its founder, the seasoned idol Rain.

One of the problems is the limited interaction between Ciipher and the public. There are noticeable gaps between posts on the group’s social media platforms, such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Ciipher also doesn’t have accounts on Dear U Bubble and Weverse, where they can engage with fans more intimately and regularly. 

Rain‘s track record with managing idol groups has also come under scrutiny. Netizens have accused him of neglecting groups like MADTOWN and MBLAQ. They’re concerned that Ciipher is receiving the same poor treatment they did.

What’s next for the Ciipher members

After dropping a mini-album called The Code in 2022, Hyunbin and Keita went on the survival show circuit. Hyunbin competed on MBC’s Fantasy Boys, while Keita joined Mnet’s Boys Planet. He was all set to do it with Tag, but the latter dropped out of the show before filming began. 

Soon after word of their departure broke out, Dohwan, Tag, and Won reached out to fans on social media.

Tan went live on Instagram to air his sentiments.

 

Last week, Jellyfish Entertainment confirmed that Keita will debut in EVNNE, a seven-member boy group with six other Boys Planet alums. As of this writing, it’s unknown what Dohwan, Tag, Tan, and Won plan to do next.

This exodus of Ciipher members from Rain Company is a pivotal moment in the K-pop scene. As their fans await more news, there remains a collective hope that things will turn out well for the boys. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Here are the boys in happier times. May they all find success post-Ciipher. Source: Twitter/@RAIN_Ciipher.

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