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Genius Korea Uploads Full Transcript of RM’s ‘Intersections’ Interview

RM

Last year, RM, the charismatic leader of the globally acclaimed K-pop group BTS, candidly discussed his deep connection to art on Intersections: The Art Basel Podcast. With Genius Korea recently providing fans a comprehensive transcription of this conversation, we now have a deeper insight into RM’s artistic journey.

Broadcasting from his studio in Seoul, RM, whose real name is Kim Namjoon, shared glimpses of his personal space. “I’m in Seoul, because I live in South Korea, Seoul. And here it’s seven pm. I’m in my studio, this is our label studio. It’s my little studio—and there’s a little painting back over there, so, yeah.”

How RM developed a love for visual art

RM’s foray into the world of art began with a transformative visit to the Chicago Art Institute in 2018. “Yeah, I remember how it started. It was in 2018 which was four years ago,” he reminisced. Not being a club person and having limited friends abroad, RM utilized his free time during tours to explore museums and galleries. This lit a fire in his heart, leading him to admire artists like Monet, Picasso, and Seurat. The thrill of seeing their works in person was evident in his voice.

Discussing the longevity and impact visual artists have, RM shared, “I really love to use expressions a lot, I don’t like to divide the art world, but when I see the painters and the artists; most of them get their fame after their death.” This perspective has influenced his own approach to creativity, as well as the kind of legacy he hopes to leave behind.

As his appreciation for art deepened, he began collecting pieces. His first acquisition was a painting by Korean artist Daiwon Lee. The joy of owning art resonated deeply with him. “Actually, I think it already started by collecting. I think, okay, I have this precious piece in my home and I see it every day; I wake up every day in front of it.”

As the conversation neared its end, RM unveiled plans for a unique personal project. “I’m planning to make a small space of my own private collection and just make a café on the first floor, and set up my collection on the second and third floors. People could always see the collections when they just want to see them.”

His impact on the Korean art scene

RM‘s relationship with art showcases his multifaceted personality. His fervor for art, coupled with his global influence, has introduced a new generation to the world of visual arts. That has brought a lot of joy to those who have been part of the scene for a long time.

Jini Yang, the director of an art gallery called White Cube Seoul, is one of those people. In a recent interview with Vogue Korea, she talked about the evolving Korean art scene. She gave the leader of BTS credit for playing a part in that evolution. 

“The Korean art scene is characterized by deep connections with both the local and the global,” she told the media outlet. “It’s heartwarming to see a broader audience enjoying art, just like people adding the County Museum of Art to their LA travel itinerary to listen to RM‘s audio guide.”

White Cube Seoul is located in the upscale Gangnam-gu district. It’s housed in the same building as the private Horim Art Centre, known for its collection of Korean Modern art and antiquities. Maybe, just maybe, you can bump into RM there if ever you’re in Seoul. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Visual art is a subject he takes very seriously. Source: Instagram/@rkive.

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EVNNE Unveils Debut Trailer Ahead of ‘Target: ME’ Release

The K-pop scene is buzzing with excitement. EVNNE, a promising new boy group, dropped a trailer for their debut mini-album Target: ME. This trailer is a visual feast, as each scene brims with the members’ charms. Every single one of them complements the others. Their expressions, filled with determination and youthful exuberance, capture the raw emotions of their journey. 

EVNNE(이븐) Debut Trailer

The members of EVNNE make a powerful first impression in the trailer. Each one stands alone in a stadium, poised at the starting line of a race track, their faces bearing focused expressions. Their muscles are tense, and they’re raring to burst into action. But when they finally start running, it’s not long before they stop, overcome by the initial burst of exertion. One member even collapses on the track, chest heaving with exhaustion and disappointment written all over his face. This scene is a testament to the members’ drive, symbolizing their pursuit of their dreams; the act of stopping after running also signifies the roadblocks they encounter along that journey.

Next, the trailer delves into the lives of the members. Each one is shown auditioning on their own in a bid to make a debut. When the trailer premiered online, one fan remarked, “This trailer is almost like a documentary about how the group was formed.” As the trailer progresses, the members start to shine with agile performances and passionate singing. EVNNE elevated the anticipation for their forthcoming debut by conveying a fresh, refreshing atmosphere with outstanding styling and strong individual performances.

EVNNE is coming soon

The trailer culminates with a return to the stadium. This time, the members are running on the race track together. It’s like their unity is giving them the strength and will to keep running passionately toward their dreams.

COMING SOON 🎯 #EVNNE #이븐 #Target_ME

EVNNE is a collaboration between Rain Company, WAKEONE, and Yuehua Entertainment, operating under the Jellyfish Entertainment banner. The group boasts notable Boys Planet contestants like Ji Yunseo, Keita, Lee Jeonghyeon, Mun Junghyun, Park Hanbin, Park Jihoo, and Yoo Seungeon. The group’s name, EVNNE, translates to “Evening’s Newest Etoiles.” As “etoile” is French for “star,” this name symbolizes their goal to shine brilliantly at the highest point in the night sky, attracting fans’ attention.

EVNNE will release their first mini-album Target: ME on September 19 at 6:00 PM across various online and offline platforms. This release is eagerly awaited by fans and music enthusiasts alike, as they anticipate the fresh, innovative sound EVNNE promises to bring to the table. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: They’re running full tilt toward their dreams. Source: Twitter/@EVNNE_official.

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SM Entertainment Artists to Have Own Channels on HYBE’s Weverse

SM Entertainment artists during the SMTOWN 2022 concert in Japan. Credit: Facebook/SMTOWN

It’s official: SM Entertainment artists are moving to HYBE-owned fan community platform Weverse. 

On Tuesday, September 5, Weverse announced that 13 SM Entertainment acts will launch their respective channels on their platform. Their respective channels will simultaneously open on September 12, 2pm KST. 

These artists include Kangta, BoA, TVXQ!, Super Junior, Girls’ Generation, SHINee, and EXO. Red Velvet, NCT 127, NCT DREAM, WayV, aespa, and RIIZE will also join the platform. 

“Everything from dedicated communities to official membership! Get connected with SM ARTISTS on Weverse,” they captioned the post. 

From Kwangya Club to Weverse

SM Entertainment first announced their plans of moving to the fan community app by HYBE in April. “Through the coexistence of our private messenger bubble and the fandom platform Weverse, we are materializing the fan-centered ‘SM 3.0,” the agency said then. 

At the time, SM Entertainment artists were using the private messenger service DearU bubble and Kwangya Club. However, Kwangya Club, which was launched in June 2022, will be closed by September 11. 

 

With this move , SM Entertainment artists are expected to have easier communication with their fans. This is because the platform is known for its community service and livestream options. Moreover, official merchandise of the agency will now be available through the Weverse Shop. 

Additionally, SM Entertainment assured supporters that all fan club memberships purchased from Kwangya Club will also be automatically transferred to their respective Weverse accounts. 

In a press release, Weverse company CEO Choi Joon Won said: “We welcome artists of SM Entertainment, who are loved by fans around the world, to Weverse,”

Although artists signed to companies under HYBE’s multi-label system were the first to trythe app, more K-pop acts have since moved to the platform. In fact, YG Entertainment acts like BLACKPINK, WINNER, and TREASURE are also using the HYBE-owned app.

Featured image: SM Entertainment artists during the SMTOWN 2022 concert in Japan. Credit: Facebook/SMTOWN

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RIIZE’s Shotaro Reflects on Moving From NCT to Rookie Group

Former NCT member Shotaro discussed what it was like making the big move to the latest rookie group RIIZE

Shotaro opened up about his honest reaction to the big change in his career. The former NCT member discussed what it was like to debut in an established K-pop act. Shotaro Osaki then reflected on what he faced when he joined SM Entertainment’s new rookie group RIIZE.

Shotaro Reflects on Moving From NCT to Rookie Group RIIZE

Back in May, SM Entertainment issued a statement regarding Sungchan and Shotaro’s status in NCT. The company revealed that the idols, who joined the group in 2020, will join a new group. Since then, Shotaro and Sungchan went from members of an established group, NCT, to starting over in a rookie group, RIIZE.

But what was it like to make the big change for Shotaro? The Japanese idol discussed his thoughts during RIIZE’s debut event on September 4. First, Shotaro stated that he was proud to have been part of NCT.

“I had been promoting as a member of NCT before and it was such an honor for me to perform in that group,” he said. “I really appreciate the fans and members for supporting me.”

Shotaro continued by admitting he is happy and excited to be a part of RIIZE.

“And now I’m debuting as RIIZE, I’m so happy to debut with the members I practiced with,” he said. “I’m excited for us to show you many things in the coming days. We’re also preparing a lot of things for you, so please look forward to them.”

Jung Sungchan and Osaki Shotaro debuted as part of NCT on October 12, 2020. They were featured as part of the group project NCT 2020 and participated in the album ‘NCT 2020 Resonance Pt. 1’. SM Entertainment initially planned for the two idols to become a part of a new NCT unit.

RIIZE released their debut single album ‘Get A Guitar’ and the title track of the same name on September 4, 2023.

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K-DRAMA KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EXO’s Xiumin, MONSTA X’s Hyungwon Join New Supermarket Drama

The K-pop idols will be joining Lee Shin Young, Choi Jung Woon, Choi Won Myeong, and Lee Sae On

Get ready to dive into the excitement of the upcoming supermarket drama “CEO-dol Mart” (working title), which promises an intriguing storyline and a talented ensemble cast. The upcoming supermarket drama will feature EXO’s Xiumin and MONSTA X’s Hyungwon!

New Supermarket Drama ‘CEO-dol Mart’ Drops First Poster

On the 5th of September, “CEO-dol Mart” unveiled an eye-catching group poster, featuring the lead actors, including Lee Shin Young, EXO’s Xiumin, MONSTA X’s Hyungwon, Choi Jung Woon, Choi Won Myeong, and Lee Sae On.

The series unfolds the captivating narrative that follows the aftermath of Thunder Boys, an idol group, disbanding due to an unexpected incident. These former idols embark on an unexpected journey as they take over the reins of a struggling supermarket.

The newly released poster introduces the five Thunder Boys members: the leader Choi Ho Rang (played by Lee Shin Young), the main dancer Shin Tae Ho (portrayed by Xiumin), the rapper Jo Yi Joon (brought to life by Hyungwon), the vocalist Eun Young Min (played by Choi Won Myeong), and the charismatic youngest member Yoon Sang Woo (portrayed by Lee Sae On). Despite reaching the pinnacle of their careers, they are forced to disband abruptly due to an unforeseen accident. Five years later, they discover the astonishing truth that, on paper, they are the owners of a supermarket.

This captivating storyline follows the journey of these former idols as they transition from living aimlessly to becoming supermarket owners, igniting a remarkable adventure. Alongside the Thunder Boys, the poster also features the experienced part-timer Oh Ye Rim (played by Choi Jung Woon), who brings her wealth of supermarket experience to the table, showcasing remarkable leadership skills. As they navigate this new venture, the Thunder Boys members will also uncover their hidden talents while working at the supermarket, adding depth and excitement to the series. “CEO-dol Mart” is set to be a must-watch drama filled with unexpected twists and heartwarming moments.

“CEO-dol Mart” has not yet been given an official release date. However, the new supermarket drama is set to premiere on TVING.

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Here’s How The Boyz’ Juyeon Reacted to Getting Hit On in Paris

Juyeon, the visual of the popular K-pop group The Boyz, is renowned for his striking looks. But it’s not just his appearance that leaves a lasting impression on other people. His charm and humility are equally captivating. A recent encounter in Paris is proof of this.

On September 3, 2023, a European fan shared a delightful story about her unexpected encounter with the K-pop idol in the City of Lights. While exploring the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Montmartre district, she and her friend stumbled upon a “really handsome guy” in a chapel next to the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur. Little did they know, this handsome stranger was none other than Juyeon.

In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), the fan recalled, “I was taking photos when my friend came up to me and said, ‘Look behind me! There’s a really handsome guy!’”

Initially unaware of his identity, the duo continued their tour. However, curiosity got the better of them, and they approached Juyeon and his companion to ask for their Instagram handles. Juyeon‘s response was endearing and surprising. “When we asked him if he had Instagram, he seemed a little surprised, then he said, ‘Um, no.’ He asked where we were from. We said France and he said Korea. We then told him ‘Have a good day!’”

Close encounters with Juyeon

The story took another nice turn when the fan bumped into someone while taking a photo in front of the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur. To her astonishment, it was Juyeon. He recognized her too, and that culminated in a revelation. “He told me, word for word, ‘Actually, I have Instagram.’ Surprised again, I handed him my phone. When Juyeon handed me back my phone, I quickly looked at his photos. I thought to myself, ‘Weird, it looks like a celebrity account,’ until my eyes fell on the account’s name, which was @official_theboyz. I was shocked and started to stammer a little.”

Twitter/@MlissaMichelon1

She told Juyeon that while she didn’t recognize him at first, she knew of the band and loved their music. He responded by calling her a liar—as a joke, mind you. When she asked for a photo, he gave in and even put his best foot forward. “He was very motivated to take beautiful photos because the first time I tried to take my phone back after taking one, he said, ‘Again.’ It was cute and fun,” she wrote. “After taking photos. We thanked him and he asked us not to post them just yet. We said we could wait. We didn’t want to cause him any problems.”

 Twitter/@MlissaMichelon1

The encounter didn’t end there. As the girls deliberated their next destination, Juyeon approached them once more, this time bearing two cups of strawberry granita as a token of appreciation. Their final farewell was marked by Juyeon‘s gracious wave, leaving an indelible mark on their hearts.

What to do when you meet an idol

The fan then offered some wise advice to others lucky enough to meet their idols in public. “If you ever meet a star, don’t jump on him with a video right away! Ask nicely if you can take a photo, and simply enjoy the moment. That way, you and your idol can have a good time without any problems and create a good memory!”

She then addressed Juyeon directly, “Finally, I’d just like to say a few words to Juyeon. Thank you for this simple and precious moment. We’ll remember it! I hope your trip to Paris went well and that you were able to enjoy it without problems. We’ll definitely be coming to The Boyz’s next concert!”

In related news, The Boyz released their second album [PHANTASY] Pt.1 Christmas in August. It features six tracks, including the summery bop “LIP GLOSS,” which has garnered over eight million streams on MelOn. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Two lucky Europeans lived every Deobi’s dream. Source: Twitter/@juyeonleepics.

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Jeon Somi Discusses New Friendship With BTS’ RM

Jeon Somi opened up about meeting BTS leader RM through BIGBANG's G-Dragon

Jeon Somi is opening up about her new friendship with a K-pop superstar. The “Dumb Dumb” singer reportedly discussed how she met BTS leader RM. In addition to that, Somi revealed some interesting details about how she and Kim Namjoon communicate.

Somi Reportedly Talks About New Friendship With RM of BTS

On September 4, an observant netizen took to an online community forum and shared an intriguing post titled, “Jeon Somi Reveals Friendship with BTS’s RM.” In their post, they included a screenshot of an article capturing a noteworthy moment from Somi’s recent fan sign event.

The article highlighted Jeon Somi’s revelation to her fans about her newfound friendship with RM of BTS. According to her, this connection had only recently blossomed, with their initial encounter occurring at G-Dragon’s exclusive ‘PEACEMINUSONE X Nike’ private dinner event. It’s worth noting that PEACEMINUSONE is G-Dragon’s renowned brand, sparking speculations that he might have played a pivotal role in introducing Jeon So Mi and RM to each other.

What piqued the curiosity of fans even more was Jeon Somi’s disclosure that she often engaged in conversations with RM in English. This linguistic connection added an extra layer of intrigue to their blossoming friendship. The revelation stirred excitement within both Somi’s and BTS’s fandoms, further cementing the dynamic nature of the K-pop industry’s interpersonal relationships.

Somi soared to nationwide recognition when she secured the coveted first position on the competitive reality show “Produce 101,” which led to her membership in the eleven-member project girl group, I.O.I. Following the disbandment of I.O.I, she inked a contract with YG Entertainment’s subsidiary, The Black Label. This pivotal move marked the commencement of her solo artist career, with her debut taking place on June 13, 2019. Recently, Jeon Somi signed with Universal Music Japan and is preparing for her Japanese debut.

Meanwhile, RM recently revealed he would “not be taking on any projects in the near future.” This is in connection with his approaching mandatory military service.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Watch: DAY6’s Young K Comforts Fans With ‘Letters With Notes’

Young K in the behind-the-scenes filming for 'Letters with Notes.' Credit: Twitter/DAY6

Rejoice, My Days! Young K of K-pop band DAY6 made his highly-anticipated solo comeback with Letters with Notes on Monday, September 4. 

Alongside his first full-length solo album Letters with Notes, Young K also released the music video for the album’s title track “nothing but.” Said song is an emotional rock ballad about love.

In the “nothing but” music video, the DAY6’s bassist and vocalist acted with labelmate TWICE’s Dahyun. The two portrayed a couple who is on the verge of breaking up. 

Prior to the release of the album, the singer also treated fans with two pre-release tracks: “waited” and “let it be summer.” Moreover, “let it be summer” saw Young K playing his guitar all over beautiful sceneries in its official music video.

 

Eight more tracks make up Letters with Notes. These include “dreamer,” “bungee jumping,” “natural,” “STRANGE,” “SOUL,” “playground,” “babo” and “what is..”

Young K as a solo artist

Undoubtedly, this album proved Young K’s exceptional talent as a musical artist as he took part in composing and writing lyrics for all 11 tracks.

“My mentor, composer Hong Ji-sang, always tells me that I have to make an improvement or at least a change. So I took a stab at many different things this time, trying to pull off diverse genres of music, while writing more metaphorical lyrics.” the singer said in an interview with The Korea Times. 

He also hoped the album can deliver diverse emotions to listeners. “It will be great if it can bring comfort, joy, or something else that they can resonate with… If they can feel something from my music, then that will be enough,” he added.

Additionally, Young K, who released his debut mini album Eternal in September 2021, will also perform on the international stage.

It was announced on DAY6’s social media accounts that Young K will be having his solo concerts in Jakarta and Bangkok this October and December, respectively.

 

Moreover, fans have truly waited a long time for Young K’s solo comeback in the music scene. Letters with Notes is even more special as it is the singer’s first release since he was discharged from military service in April.

When he enlisted, Young K became the first K-pop idol to join the Korean Augmentation to the United States Army (KATUSA), which apparently only recruits about 2,000 men each year.

Shortly after his discharge, he returned as the radio program DJ of Kiss the Radio all while preparing for his album. Young K was the DJ for the show from November 2020 to October 2021. 

Featured image: Young K in the behind-the-scenes filming for ‘Letters with Notes.’ Credit: Twitter/DAY6

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Taeil and Haechan Release Teaser for NCT Lab Project ‘N.Y.C.T’

Taeil and Haechan poses for the concept photos of their duet under NCT Lab. Credit: Twitter/NCT

NCTzens, get ready for this amazing team-up! NCT 127 members Taeil and Haechan are joining forces to release their first NCT LAB track, which will be titled “N.Y.C.T.”

On Monday, September 4, SM Entertainment unveiled more concept teasers for Taeil and Haechan’s upcoming duet. Aside from individual photos, other pictures also showed the two members posing together.  

 

An abbreviation for New York City, “N.Y.C.T” is an R&B pop song. The two vocalists, who are known for their soulful singing, have also participated in composing and writing the song. 

Although it will be officially released on September 7, Taeil and Haechan first performed “N.Y.C.T” during NCT127’s Neo City: Seoul The Link+ concert in October 2022. 

 

Moreover, fans are looking forward for the duet since it served as member Taeil’s first release following a motorcycle accident. Currently, the idol is on hiatus to focus on his recovery.

What is NCT LAB?

NCT LAB is a SM Station series allowing NCT members to release their self-composed solo and unit tracks outside of regular NCT albums.

As of this writing, NCT LAB has a total of seven tracks. 

Additionally, the project was first announced on January 27, 2022. It immediately kicked off a few days after with its first release: “Child” by member Mark.

Meanwhile, its first unit song “coNEXTion (Age of Light)” was sung by members Doyoung, Mark, and Haechan. Said song also featured a performance by Shotaro, who is now a member of RIIZE.  Then, it was followed by another unit song “Rainy Day,” which was performed by Kun, Taeil, and Yangyang. 

 

For the rest of 2022, NCT LAB released two more tracks. Jaehyun showed off his angelic vocals with “Forever Only” while Ten exhibited his powerful dance skills with “Birthday.”

In 2023, Mark and Jaehyun both released their second NCT LAB solo tracks. Mark proved his versatility as a performer with the hit “Golden Hour,” while Jaehyun blessed the fans’ ears yet again with the R&B song “Horizon”.

Taeil and Haechan’s upcoming duet track will now be NCT LAB’s eight official release.

Moreover, SM Entertainment also confirmed more upcoming NCT LAB songs including a solo track by Kun, and another unit song by Kun, Xiajun, Renjun, and Chenle. Although, details about these upcoming NCT LAB songs have yet to be released. 

In other news, NCT returned as a full group with the fourth album Golden Age and held their first full group offline concert NCT NATION: To The World. Currently, NCT 127 is gearing up to make a comeback with their fifth album, Fact Check, in October. 

Featured image: Taeil and Haechan poses for the concept photos of their duet under NCT Lab. Credit: Twitter/NCT 

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RIIZE Announces Official Fandom Name

RIIZE has finally announced their official fandom name after the release of their single album 'Get a Guitar'

RIIZE, the exciting new musical sensation, recently made a thrilling announcement that sent their fans into a frenzy of excitement. On the 4th of September, the group hosted a spectacular showcase titled “RIIZING DAY: RIIZE Premiere” to commemorate the launch of their debut single album, “Get A Guitar.”

RIIZE’s Official Fandom Name Finally Announced On Social Media

Amidst the electrifying atmosphere of the showcase, RIIZE took a momentous step by introducing their official fandom name, which they proudly christened as “SUNZ.” This announcement was met with resounding cheers and applause from their dedicated supporters in attendance, and it resonated far and wide as RIIZE spread the word through their official social media channels.

RIIZE also shared the news on X with a hopeful message for their fans. “SUNZ, who will always make RIIZE shine brightly from the same place and mature together with RIIZE, please continue to show great support for RIIZE,” it reads.

This momentous occasion marked a significant milestone in RIIZE’s journey, solidifying the bond between the group and their devoted fans, who can now proudly identify themselves as “SUNZ.” As the group continues to captivate audiences with their music and performances, the SUNZ fandom is set to grow and thrive as an essential part of RIIZE’s vibrant and passionate community of supporters.

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 addition to announcing their fandom name, RIIZE was also confirmed to promote internationally. The group has signed a contract with RCA Records for their promotion and activities in the United States.

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