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Is INFINITE Over? A Photo From Their Last Event Has Fans Worried

INFINITE

In K-pop, the popularity of a group can often be gauged by the size of the crowd at their events. So, when a recent photo from a fan event of the second-generation K-pop group INFINITE showed a seemingly small audience, it sparked fan concerns about the group’s standing in the industry.

The photo, posted on INFINITE‘s official Twitter account last August 3, showed the group in a large auditorium with around twenty-five fans, while the rest of the seats were empty. This led to confusion and concern among fans, with many wondering if the group’s popularity was waning.

However, a closer look at the situation reveals a different story. The event was a fan sign, typically with few attendees. For this particular event, only 30 winners were selected to attend, explaining the small number of fans in the photo.

Despite the initial confusion, INFINITE‘s popularity remains strong. The group recently made a successful comeback with their song “New Emotion” after setting up their own company, INFINITE Company, in May 2023. They have been actively promoting their comeback song, including selling out multiple nights of concerts at the KSPO Dome and other locations.

INFINITE is still going strong

Adding to their active schedule, INFINITE will appear on the popular variety show Knowing Bros. A preview of the upcoming episode shows all INFINITE members dancing to their iconic 2011 hit “Be Mine” and teasing their leader, Kim Sungkyu. The episode, set to air on August 12, will bring more laughter and showcase the group’s strong bond and playful dynamics.

＂Knowing Bros＂. Episode 396 preview

The group’s successful comeback and upcoming variety show appearance, suggest that INFINITE is far from over. While initially concerning, the photo from that fan sign is a snapshot of a specific event. It’s not indicative of the group’s overall popularity. Fans can rest assured that INFINITE is still going strong and making waves in the K-pop industry. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The preview for INFINITE’s “Knowing Bros” guesting proves the group is far from over. Source: YouTube/@JTBCEntertainment.

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“I’ll Change My Underwear”: NCT’s Taeyong Posts Perplexing Comment on Yuta’s Cover

In K-pop, social media interactions between idols often create buzz. A comment by NCT‘s Taeyong on fellow member Yuta‘s recent Instagram post did just that.

Known for being more active on SNS than most idols, Taeyong, leader of the SM Entertainment boy group NCT, frequently engages with fans. From liking posts on Instagram to spending hours playing Animal Crossing with them, Taeyong‘s online activities have endeared him to many.

However, his recent comment on Yuta‘s Instagram post has stirred up lively discussions among fans. Yuta had uploaded a cover of Bring Me The Horizon‘s “Happy Song” on his Instagram account and earned praise for his vocals. 

Taeyong, however, left a comment that read, “Let me go change my underwear and come back.” This unexpected comment had NCTzens scratching their heads in confusion. Some even wondered if they had misread or misunderstood what Taeyong wrote.

He used the Korean term “지린다,” which some use to express exhilaration. It can sometimes mean “to expel bodily fluids from oneself due to excitement.” (Get it?) In other words, Taeyong’s use of this term implied that he got so excited by Yuta’s vocal performance that he needed to change his underwear. 

Other stunts Taeyong pulled on SNS

Adding to the intrigue, Taeyong has inadvertently hinted at his presence on Twitter. As part of his promotions for his first solo album, “Shalala,” he shared a screenshot of a tweet from the official SBS Inkigayo Twitter account on Dear. U Bubble. The screenshot displayed a message that appears when someone uses a Twitter account. By sharing the screenshot, Taeyong suggested he might have a secret Twitter account from which he follows fans.

That added a layer of intrigue to Taeyong‘s online activities, fueling fans’ curiosity and excitement. It’s a testament to NCT‘s close-knit relationship and willingness to engage with fans in ways others might consider unconventional. (For idols, anyway.)

As NCT continues to make waves in the music industry, fans can look forward to more amusing and unexpected moments featuring Taeyong, Yuta, and the rest of the group. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Taeyong and Yuta have always had great chemistry, as proven by this photo from a magazine shoot they did before. Source: Twitter/@ellejapan.

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CRAVITY Charms Filipino Fans by Participating in a P-Pop Group’s TikTok Challenge

In a delightful surprise for their Filipino fans, members of the K-pop boy band CRAVITY recently participated in a dance challenge set to the song “GENTO” by P-pop group SB19. This unexpected move came days before CRAVITY‘s first concert in the Philippines, adding to the anticipation and excitement surrounding the event.

In a TikTok video, Hyeongjun and Taeyoung, two members of CRAVITY, showed off their dancing. The video, posted from their label Starship Entertainment‘s practice room, saw them energetically dancing to “GENTO.” The performance was a testament to their talent and a nod to P-pop’s growing global influence.

@cravityofficial

왕눈즈의 춤은 계속된다 2 #CRAVITY #크래비티 #형준 #HYEONGJUN #태영 #TAEYOUNG #GENTO

♬ GENTO – SB19

CRAVITY’s engagement with the “GENTO” dance challenge is part of a larger trend. Other Korean stars, including Minzy from the second-generation girl group 2NE1 (of which the Philippines’ own Sandara Park is a member) and Jacob from The Boyz, took on the “GENTO” challenge too. These interactions highlight the increasing cross-cultural exchanges in the world of pop music.

More “GENTO” from CRAVITY

The band comprises nine members: Allen, Hyeonjun, Jungmo, Minhee, Serim, Seongmin, Taeyoung, Wonjin, and Woobin. They debuted on April 14, 2020, with the title track “Break all the Rules.” At the time their “GENTO” video went viral on TikTok, CRAVITY was preparing a Manila performance as the last stop on their Masterpiece World Tour. 

When they turned up at the New Frontier Theater in Quezon City on August 5, they continued to impress their Filipino fans with their charms, talents, and visuals. They kicked off the concert with a rousing rendition of “Get Lifted” and ended with “Colorful.” Member Serim cut a sizzling figure as he danced and sang to their 2022 single “Vivid.”

One of the show’s highlights was when Hyeongjun and Taeyoung led the rest of the group in a quick performance of “GENTO.”

“GENTO” is a single from SB19‘s latest EP, which dropped last June. The song has gained immense popularity on social media, sparking the dance challenge that Hyeongjun and Taeyoung participated in. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: During the show, one member said they’re grateful Manila is the last puzzle piece that completed their Masterpiece Tour. Source: Twitter/@CRAVITYstarship.

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VANNER: The “Peak Time” Champs Unveil New Teasers for Upcoming Album

VANNER, the winners of the hit reality competition show Peak Time, are back in the spotlight with their forthcoming album VENI, VIDI, VICI. The album’s title is a famous Latin phrase that means, “I came, I saw, I conquered.”  It’s commonly attributed to Julius Caesar in 47 B.C. as a comment on his short war with Pharnaces II of Pontus in Zela. The phrase refers to a swift, conclusive victory.

In the context of VANNER‘s new album, the phrase “veni, vidi, vici” symbolizes their journey in the K-pop scene. The band came into the industry (veni), saw the challenges and the competition (vidi), and with their win on Peak Time, they conquered (vici) the big time. It perfectly encapsulates their struggle, journey, and ultimate victory, making it a fitting title for their album.

The band’s recent teasers have sparked anticipation among their fanbase, who have been awaiting new music since their big win. They debuted in 2019 and faced an uphill battle to get recognition. On Peak Time, the members—Ahxian, Gon, Hyesung, Taehwan, and Yeonggwang—competed as Team 11:00. They all held part-time jobs but still gave the show their all.

VANNER goes global

Since then, VANNER has performed in front of thousands at the Jamsil Arena and signed with CEO Eshy Gazit for their promotions in the United States. Gazit is a partner of Maverick Management under Live Nation and the CEO of Intertwine Music. He played an essential role in promoting K-pop in the United States. He has worked with BTS, MONSTA X, and Tiffany Young.

VANNER has also unveiled the track list for VENI VIDI VICI, giving fans an idea of what they can expect from it. The mini album features a diverse range of songs, each one highlighting the band’s unique musical flair and versatility. According to the teaser image, the album’s title track is “Performer.” The B-sides include “Diamonds,” “Form,” “Savior,” “TBH,” and “Want U Back.”

VENI VIDI VICI marks the group’s first comeback since they took the Peak Time crown, and it’s set to drop on August 21. This step is significant to the band. It reflects their journey and drive to leave a lasting impression on K-pop fans worldwide. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: They’re talented and have a lot of aegyo. Source: Twitter/@VANNERofficial.

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The Boyz Give Deobi a Sneak Peek at the Songs On Part 1 Of “Phantasy”

The popular South Korean boy group, The Boyz, managed by IST Entertainment, are ready to make a comeback to the K-pop scene with their second full-length album, Phantasy Pt. 1: Christmas in August. They’ve recently shared a “track clip” that provides a preview of all the songs on the album. This is a format other bands often refer to as a highlight medley. 

This clip showcases their readiness to embrace summer as the theme of their upcoming album, even if it’s a departure from their usual sound and style. The group’s members—Eric, Haknyeon, Hyunjae, Jacob, Juyeon, Kevin, New, Q, Sangyeon, Sunwoo, and Younghoon—can be seen enjoying the summer sun. All to the tune of their lively new material that perfectly captures the season’s spirit.

THE BOYZ(더보이즈) 2ND ALBUM [PHANTASY] Pt.1 Christmas In August Track Clip

The first part of their second full-length album, Phantasy Pt. 1: Christmas in August, includes six tracks: “Lip Gloss” (title), “Passion Fruit,” “Lighthouse,” “Fantasize,” “Fire Eyes,” and “Fairy Tale.” This clip offers brief snippets of each song, stirring up excitement among fans for the full versions. If you’re curious about the new songs on the album, the track clip will give you a taste of the music, evoking images of laughter, beach trips, and adventures under the open sky.

The Boyz added an exotic touch to their comeback by filming a music video for the title track, “Lip Gloss,” in Siargao, Philippines. The beautiful, scenic landscapes of the island will likely offer a unique visual element to the music video, enhancing the overall experience for fans.

THE BOYZ(더보이즈) ‘LIP GLOSS’ M/V Trailer

More on “Phantasy”

The Boyz have also released movie poster teasers for the album. Each poster features a different band member, adding a personal touch to the teasers. The posters not only highlight the individual styles of the members but also suggest the overall theme of the album.

The forthcoming album, Phantasy Pt. 1: Christmas in August, showcases their versatility through their willingness to experiment with a new sonic palette. As the release date nears, the excitement among Deobi (The Boyz‘s fanbase) continues to rise. 

The Boyz have consistently surprised Deobi (in a good way, mind you) with their albums and singles, and Phantasy Pt. 1: Christmas in August is set to do the same. The boy group’s second full-length effort, with its captivating teasers and unique concept, will definitely make a splash.

Phantasy Pt. 1: Christmas in August will drop on August 7 at 6:00 PM KST. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The group’s new stuff is perfect for the season! Source: Facebook/더보이즈(THE BOYZ).

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Six Stray Kids Members Sign Up for Personal IG Accounts

In a delightful surprise for their fans, six members of the South Korean boy band Stray Kids made personal Instagram accounts. That created a significant buzz, with each member amassing followers like crazy. Bang Chan, Changbin, I.N., and Seungmin each surpassed the 3 million mark, while Felix and Hyunjin garnered over 4 million followers each.

 

Changbin and Felix amuse and impress netizens

Notably, Felix, whose username is @yong.lixx, set a record as the fastest fourth-generation idol to amass more than 1 million followers on Instagram, achieving this feat in one hour and 36 minutes. This milestone, however, had its share of controversy. Some netizens raised suspicions that Felix‘s fans artificially inflated his follower count. Despite these allegations, Felix remains popular on the platform. He currently has an impressive 3.5 million followers. His followers are not just fans but also include notable figures from the entertainment industry. 

His followers include Korean-Thai actor “Noeul” Nuttarat Tangwai, Thai actresses June Wanwimol and “Milk” Pansa Vosbein, Japanese performers Ryusei Kainuma and Taiki Sato, Chinese-American dancer Ellen Min of the dance duo Ellen & Brian, and American YouTuber Zach Hsieh. This diverse following demonstrates that his popularity extends beyond the realm of K-pop.

 

Changbin has been lauded for his unique Instagram handle, @jutdwae. It’s a creative blend of his nickname, “Man of Principles” or “Jutdae” (줏대) in Korean, and the name of his SKZOO character, “Dwaekki.” But it’s not just a simple fusion of the two words. 

The term “Jutdwae” (좆돼)  means “to be f****d” or “to end up in a bad situation.” This username choice even prompted fellow band member Hyunjin to comment on Changbin‘s first Instagram post, expressing his amusement. Changbin‘s response to Hyunjin‘s comment and subsequent post in their group chat asking Hyunjin what he was doing added humor to his Instagram debut.

 

The Stray Kids impact

While most Stray Kids members have embraced Instagram, Han and Lee Know chose to keep it at arm’s length for now. In a message shared via Bubble, Han expressed that he’s currently not ready to join the other six on the platform. But he did tell fans not to worry, because he’ll keep using the group’s official social media account. “I don’t know much about personal social media accounts, so I’ll make one when I can show you a lot of things!” 

Meanwhile, Lee Know said he prefers talking to fans on Bubble. “This is more comfortable for me, so I still don’t have thoughts about making an IG. Rather than talking about IG, please recommend me something for lunch,” he asked in a recent message. 

Despite not having a personal Instagram account, Lee Know has found ways to connect with fans on the platform. He recently updated Stray Kids’ official Instagram account with a doodle and selfies, claiming the account as his own in the caption. This playful interaction showcases Lee Know‘s unique approach to engaging with fans, even without a personal Instagram account.

Despite the varying paths chosen by the members, Stray Kids‘ presence on Instagram has made a significant impact. As they continue to connect with fans and express their individuality using this platform, the world is waiting with bated breath for what they’ll share next. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Stray Kids dropped a performance video for “PARTY’S NOT OVER” the same week the members made personal Instagram accounts. Source: Twitter/@Stray_Kids.

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Korea Fair Trade Commission Investigates Photo Card Sales by Entertainment Agencies

In a recent development, the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) has initiated an investigation into four entertainment agencies—HYBE, JYP, SM, and YG. Known as the “Big Four” in the K-pop scene, these agencies face allegations of overproduction and forced sales of idol photo cards.

Photo cards, the size of business cards, are printed photos of idol group members. Often including previously unreleased photos and sometimes even handwritten signatures, these cards are typically included in physical albums. However, their excessive variety has led to criticism and suspicions of forced sales practices by these agencies.

The KFTC conducted an on-site investigation at YG Entertainment last August 2, following similar probes at the JYP and SM Entertainment buildings on August 1 and July 31, respectively. Notably, HYBE wasn’t spared. The KFTC also sent a team to the HYBE premises on August 3. This move was a response to a surge in complaints about the overproduction of photo cards for idol albums.

For instance, the popular boy group NCT, managed by SM Entertainment, reportedly released nearly 50 different versions of photo cards. These cards are sold randomly, compelling fans to purchase multiple albums to obtain the cards they want. This practice has provoked outrage among concerned netizens, with many saying it has become too extreme. The cost of one album typically ranges from 15,000 to 40,000 KRW.

Hello to Hallyu: The big photocard controversy

A cause for concern

The photo card craze has led to increased spending among fans and caused concern among parents. Parents have expressed frustration over their children’s obsession with collecting photo cards. In several cases, fans may purchase dozens to hundreds of albums for the sake of their desired cards. Some even spend a lot on products they don’t usually consume. For instance, parents have reported buying boxes of soda cans and pizzas from specific brands just to obtain photo cards of certain idols.

if you collect photocards this is how you can justify it

The value of idol photo cards varies greatly, with rare ones being highly sought after and listed at higher prices. For example, a limited-edition photo card of BTS‘ Jungkook was reportedly sold for nearly 1700 USD, and some have even claimed to see it listed for as much as 5000 USD on certain platforms. This has sparked a discussion on the ethics of such practices, with critics arguing that it promotes overspending among young fans.

5 Most Expensive K-Pop Photocards EVER!

SEVENTEEN’s The8 vs. photo cards

Some idols share the critics’ concerns. In November of last year, SEVENTEEN‘s The8 sparked a conversation about the K-pop photo card industry that caught the attention of many. The discussion began when a fan expressed concern about not being able to get his photo card. The8 responded by urging them to reflect on their reasons for wanting the photo card, which led to fans sharing their motivations for collecting photo cards. The8 expressed concern about the negative emotions fans might experience in such situations.

https://twitter.com/8rchivemedia/status/1589635320026660865

In response to the issue, The8 proposed a practical solution: fans could print their own photo cards. He even pledged to take more selfies to support this idea. However, he also cautioned fans against publicizing his comments, fearing potential repercussions from his agency. His sentiments reflect a wider perspective among some idols who place the well-being of fans above the commercial elements of the industry.

The tip of the iceberg

Photo cards are just the tip of the iceberg as far as the KFTC is concerned. It has been conducting a series of investigations into other issues surrounding entertainment agencies. Earlier in July, they examined violations of subcontracting laws by HYBE, SM, and YG. These agencies were said to have outsourced the production of albums and goods to external companies. The KFTC is also looking into unfair contract practices between entertainers and their agencies.

As the probe continues, industry insiders predict that Cube Entertainment could be the next agency to come under scrutiny. The entertainment industry awaits the outcome of the KFTC’s investigation, which could reshape the practices surrounding the production and sale of idol photo cards. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The more members a group has, the more photo cards they’ll drop. NCT reportedly released almost 50 cards once. Source: Twitter/@polar_shops.

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Jellyfish Entertainment to Launch New Boy Group with “Boys Planet” Alums

Seven contestants from the Mnet audition show Boys Planet will form a new boy band, BLIT, under Jellyfish Entertainment, the agency announced. The contestants in question didn’t make the debut team but gained global popularity through the show. 

Recognizing their potential, Jellyfish Entertainment got their agencies—Rain Company, WAKEONE, and Yuehua Entertainment—to let all seven debut in a new project group. According to reports, the members moved in together last month and are preparing to debut later this year.

Meet the BLIT members from WAKEONE

Lee Jeonghyeon, a Korean trainee who represented WAKEONE on Boys Planet, has been honing his skills as a performer for more than three years. Known for being a quick problem solver, especially when it comes to Rubix cubes, Jeonghyeon often frowns when he concentrates. Luckily, that doesn’t ruin his visuals. Rather, it highlights his confident jawline.

이정현 LEE JEONG HYEON I K그룹 @타임어택 1분 자기소개 

Next is Park Hanbin, who competed on LOUD before trying his luck on Boys Planet. With a training period of over two years, Hanbin is a multilingual trainee who’s fluent in Korean and knows a little English. He’s known for his ever-present smile and enjoys reading essay books, walking along the Han River, and watching movies in his free time.

박한빈 PARK HAN BIN I K그룹 @타임어택 1분 자기소개

Park Jihoo, was a H1GHR Music trainee when he went on Boys Planet. He signed with WAKEONE soon after the show ended. All in all, he has been training for over two years. He enjoys exercising, gaming, playing basketball and soccer, and songwriting. Jihoo’s favorite song is “Drops” by FKG feat. Tom Bailey and Zico from Block B is his role model.

박지후 PARK JI HOO I K그룹 @타임어택 1분 자기소개

Mun Junghyun has been training for over two years as well. He loves eating delicious food, listening to music, reading novels, and singing. Junghyun likes the way his ears look, and his favorite song of all time is “Burn it Up” by Wanna One. He looks up to Kang Daniel as his role model.

문정현 MUN JUNG HYUN I K그룹 @타임어택 1분 자기소개

Next, those from other agencies

Yoo Seungeon represented Yuehua Entertainment on Boys Planet. He charmed fans with his ability to mimic Doraemon. His hobbies include composition, gaming, listening to music, and playing sports. He’s quite confident about his eyes and nose, and his role models are BTOB’s Yook Sungjae, EXO’s Baekhyun and D.O., and HIGHLIGHT’s Yang Yoseob.

유승언 YOO SEUNG EON I K그룹 @시그널송 ‘난 빛나 (Here I Am)’ 개인 직캠 평가

Ji Yunseo, a Korean trainee who represented Yuehua Entertainment on Boys Planet, is known for his unique ability to do two-fingered push-ups. He loves exercising, playing soccer, watching movies, and writing songs. His confident body parts are his shoulders, long arms, and legs, and his favorite song is “Dragon” by TEMPEST.

지윤서 JI YUN SEO I K그룹 @시그널송 ‘난 빛나 (Here I Am)’ 개인 직캠 평가

Lastly, Terazono Keita, one of the Japanese trainees on Boys Planet, has been training for almost nine years. He spent most of that time at YG Entertainment and even competed in the survival show YG Treasure Box. Keita went on to debut in Ciipher under Rain Company. His specialty is his ability to sleep for three days in a row, and he enjoys writing songs. He has “Rhythm Ta” by iKON on heavy rotation, and he looks up to BIGBANG as his role model.

G Group | #케이타 #KEITA ♬Kill This Love – BLACKPINK(블랙핑크) @K vs G 그룹 배틀

How fans feel about BLIT

Many fans couldn’t hide their excitement about the news, but not everyone is happy. Many were also angry that Rain Company didn’t say anything about Keita’s participation in this project group. Korean netizens wondered what this would mean for Ciipher. Furthermore, when word broke out that BLIT would debut with Jellyfish Entertainment, many shared their worry about the company’s reputation. In particular, they compared it to ZEROBASEONE being signed under WAKEONE, another company with a less-than-stellar track record.

Others called the group’s name “interesting,” because one typo is all it needs to become an NSFW word. While it’s exciting that these seven trainees will finally get their moment in the sun, it’s not surprising that netizens are wary about some of the details. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Meet the members of BLIT! Source: Twitter/@keitaindonesia.

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Industry Insider Reveals How Much BLACKPINK Will Get if They Stay With YG

The South Korean girl group BLACKPINK is currently in the spotlight. Not just for their excellent performances during their ongoing world tour but also for their much-anticipated contract renewal with their agency, YG Entertainment. BLACKPINK consists of Jennie, Jisoo, Lisa, and Rose and has significantly contributed to YG’s operating profit, accounting for more than 80%. This makes their contract renewal a topic of interest for fans and industry insiders.

The band’s contract with YG Entertainment, which began on August 8, 2016, is due for renewal this month. However, due to the band’s packed world tour schedule, the announcement might be delayed until September. This has led to speculation and anticipation among fans and investors.

According to Cha You-Mi, a security researcher at Mirae Asset, each member of BLACKPINK could receive a down payment between 1 billion and 1.5 billion KRW (approximately 769,036 to 1.15 million USD). This estimate is based on previous deals with bands like BIGBANG and TWICE.

The renewal agreement is expected to maintain the current profit distribution, where BLACKPINK receives 80% of the operating profit while YG gets 20%. This shift in favor of the artist is common after contract renewals. Despite the decreased company share, the overall benefits outweigh this concern. A contract renewal could positively affect YG’s stock price, given BLACKPINK’s significant contribution to the company’s revenue.

The impact of BLACKPINK’s contract renewal

The renewal process isn’t just about numbers. It also reflects the evolving relationship between the artist and the agency. In the case of BLACKPINK, the renewal is seen as a positive signal, especially considering the girl group’s strong ticket-selling power and worldwide popularity. However, rumors have surfaced about individual members potentially exploring opportunities with overseas agencies or setting up their own. The members have not provided official confirmation, adding to the intrigue surrounding the renewal.

The impact of BLACKPINK‘s contract renewal extends beyond the entertainment industry. Analysts and ordinary netizens are monitoring the situation, with some expressing concerns about the amount and others emphasizing the importance of the ratio for future settlements.

As the world awaits YG’s official announcement, the anticipation and speculation build, adding to the mystique of one of South Korea’s most beloved K-pop acts. Whether the renewal will lead to a new chapter in BLACKPINK‘s success story or mark a turning point in their relationship with YG remains to be seen. Either way, the outcome will resonate throughout the scene and beyond. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: BLACKPINK made history when they performed for Vietnamese BLINKs over two days. Source: Twitter/@BLACKPINK.

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Jungkook Opens Up About Religion in Latest Live Broadcast

BTS‘ Jungkook has always been a figure of admiration and intrigue among fans. But like many K-pop idols, he doesn’t share a lot of personal information with them. As a result, there has been plenty of speculation about various aspects of his life, including his religious beliefs. In a recent Weverse live broadcast, he surprised fans by answering one of their long-standing questions.

Jungkook‘s religious views have been a subject of curiosity for many. Some have speculated that he might be Christian based on specific details and observations. For instance, Jungkook attended the School of Performing Arts in Seoul (SOPA), a faith-based school known as “South Korea’s first and only Christian-based high school with special purposes in performing arts.” The school’s curriculum includes mandatory services every Wednesday afternoon and a Bible-teaching class once a week.

Additionally, fans noticed that Jungkook prays before meals. Although that practice isn’t exclusive to Christianity, it’s commonly associated with it. Once, Jungkook covered the classic Christmas song “O Holy Night.” Its lyrics reference Christ’s birth, which fueled these speculations.

BTS Jungkook ‘Oh Holy Night’ Lyrics

But Jungkook‘s religious practices have not been confined to Christianity alone. During Chuseok, he prayed like a Buddhist and has also been spotted at the Buddhist temple Ganghwa Bomunsa. He also wore a Mala beaded bracelet on several occasions, such as live broadcasts, music video shoots, and photoshoots. A Mala beaded bracelet is from Buddhist and Hindi traditions and has meditative and spiritual significance. It can have up to 54 crystals, gemstones, seeds, or wood beads. Some believe that Jungkook could be Muslim, although not much evidence supports this claim.

Jungkook’s religious beliefs

During his recent Weverse Live, Jungkook finally addressed the topic of religion, explaining that he isn’t religious since he was never pressured to be. He revealed that his father’s family is Christian, but his mother’s was Buddhist. This revelation helps explain why Jungkook appears to follow some practices from both religions. He identifies as non-denominational or non-religious, which means he embraces aspects of different faiths without adhering to a specific one.

Jungkook‘s openness about his religious beliefs reflects a broader trend within BTS. Members like RM have publicly stated their lack of religious beliefs. The group’s leader has confirmed that he is an atheist, while SUGA has said he has no religion but prays during challenging times.

Jungkook‘s frank discussion about religion adds a new layer to understanding the Korean superstar’s personality and values. His approach to religion is personal and nuanced, reflecting a thoughtful and open-minded perspective. 

In a world where every detail of a celebrity’s life is dissected and scrutinized, Jungkook‘s honesty and willingness to share his thoughts on such a sensitive topic are commendable. His words remind us that personal beliefs are multifaceted and unique to each individual. Embracing different aspects of various faiths can be a meaningful and enriching experience. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungkook’s musings on religion caused a stir, but the man himself is an unbothered king. Source: Twitter/@boraboravie.

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