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RIIZE’s Seunghan Apologizes For Hotel Photo Controversy

Seunghan from RIIZE has taken it upon himself to issue a personal apology for the recent controversy surrounding a hotel photo. The young idol took it upon himself to reach out to fans and explain what had happened. In addition to that, his agency might be getting ready to track down the source of the images.

On August 30, Seunghan took to RIIZE’s official Instagram account to post his apology.

“I’m writing this because I feel I need to tell you this in advance before standing in front of fans. Firstly, I sincerely apologize to fans who support RIIZE,” he wrote. “Because of my personal issues, I caused harm to the team at a very important and critical moment before our debut and disappointed the members and staff.”

“I am also feeling regretful for not being able to apologize quickly because I was scared and anxious,” Seunghan added. “I’m unable to blame anyone else, and all of this happened because of my imprudence. I reflected a lot on my past time and actions.”

Seunghan concluded by promising to do his best as a member of RIIZE.

The hotel photo controversy captured Seunghan sharing an intimate moment with his purported girlfriend from his trainee days. Not surprisingly, it ignited a considerable online buzz. Although SM Entertainment disclosed that Seunghan’s health concerns would lead to his temporary absence from the group’s ‘NPOP’ recording, many believe it was due to the recent uproar.

Seunghan’s decision to apologize directly suggests his understanding of the situation’s gravity and his commitment to addressing it sincerely. The hotel photo incident has not only generated public interest but has also impacted his professional commitments within RIIZE. It serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by K-pop idols in navigating personal matters while in the spotlight, often requiring them to balance their personal lives with their public image and career responsibilities.

RIIZE will release their first single album “Get A Guitar” on September 4, 2023.

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Jo Yuri Grateful For ‘Squid Game’ Season 2 Casting

The former IZ*ONE member admitted that she is grateful and fortunate to be a part of the successful Netflix series

Jo Yuri is truly happy about her latest project. The former IZ*ONE member was recently cast as one of the new actors joining “Squid Game” Season 2. Not surprisingly, the idol spoke about the casting process and admitted she was grateful for the project.

Jo Yuri Admits Being Grateful For ‘Squid Game’ Season 2 Casting

Back in June, it was confirmed that Jo Yuri is one of the new cast members joining “Squid Game” Season 2. She will be joined by former BIGBANG member T.O.P., who will be returning to acting after a six-year hiatus. The rest of the new cast includes Park Gyu-young, Kang Ae-sim, Lee David, Lee Jin-uk, Roh Jae-won, and Won Ji-an.

Although their roles have not been announced, Jo Yuri has opened up about the casting in the Netflix series. In a new interview with Allkpop, the “Glassy” singer admitted she was thrilled to be chosen for the show.

“I was fortunate to have the opportunity to audition for this role, and being able to participate in such an incredible project alongside respected seniors is truly an honor,” Jo said. “I’m fully committed to giving my utmost to deliver my best, so I kindly ask for your ongoing support throughout the journey!”

Jo participated in Mnet’s reality television show “Idol School” where the nine final participants would debut with the newly formed girl group Fromis 9. Unfortunately, she finished in 15th place but Jo didn’t give up hope. She later Mnet’s reality television show “Produce 48” where she finished in 3rd place. As one of twelve successful participants, she went on to be a part of the newly formed girl group IZ*ONE.

Jo Yuri debuted as a solo artist with the single album ‘Glassy’ in October 2021. Since IZ*ONE’s disbandment, she also pursued acting, appearing in the web shows “Mimicus” and “Work Later, Drink Now”. She recently dropped her new album ‘LOVE ALL’ and the title track “TAXI.” The second mini-album was released on August 9, 2023.

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Hyoyeon Discusses Relationship With Other GIRLS’ GENERATION Members

HYO discussed how she and the other GIRLS' GENERATION members communicate

GIRLS’ GENERATION’s Hyoyeon recently offered an unfiltered glimpse into the current dynamics among the group’s members. HYO, who made her comeback with the single “Picture,” appeared on KBS CoolFM’s “Lee Eun Ji’s Music Plaza” on August 29. During her visit, she shared intriguing insights about her career and addressed listener questions.

Hyoyeon Talks About The Difficulties of Communicating With Other GIRLS’ GENERATION Members

One fan inquired about how her fellow group members reacted to her new single, leading Hyoyeon to candidly illuminate the group’s real dynamic. She disclosed that, in reality, they don’t closely monitor each other’s individual schedules due to their incredibly busy lives. This makes it nearly impractical to keep constant tabs on one another.

The revelation sheds light on the challenges of maintaining close connections within a highly active and dynamic group like GIRLS’ GENERATION, where each member is pursuing their individual endeavors. HYO’s candid response provides valuable insight into the realities of maintaining strong bonds within a large, busy group.

Interestingly, Hyoyeon admitted she has yet to hear from the other members of the group since her single’s release.

“This time, while preparing for my solo song, I didn’t say anything to them,” she told the host. “After the song was released, I told them it came out asked them to promote it, but there was no feedback… I met one of the members yesterday, and they said it was very cool.”

It may sound cold but the members of GIRLS’ GENERATION are clearly busy with their own schedules. Although it means they don’t bond like other groups, there is little doubt that their friendship is forever.

Hyoyeon also revealed that she doesn’t do a lot when she isn’t promoting as a solo artist. “During my off-season, I am just like anyone else – I even wear the same clothes for five days straight,” Hyoyeon said.

HYO’s new single “Picture” was released on August 22, 2023.

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BAEKHO Drops Intense ‘Elevator’ Teaser

The former NU'EST member feels the tension in the new 'Elevator' teaser

Former NU’EST member BAEKHO is intensifying excitement and intrigue surrounding his upcoming comeback through a remake digital single. He recently released a captivating “Elevator” teaser, featuring him exuding a powerful aura within an elevator, accompanied by an unidentified woman.

BAEKHO Feels The Tension In the New ‘Elevator’ Teaser

On August 30, BAEKHO dropped a new performance film teaser for “Elevator.” In the preview, the former NU’EST member shares a lift with a mysterious woman who can’t help but be drawn to the singer. She also takes glances at his physical attributes while pretending to be disinterested. The video then concludes with the two looking at each other.

It’s an exciting tease for things to come. Needless to say, LOVEs can’t wait for the release of the remake digital single.

Baekho thrilled fans with the announcement on August 21, disclosing his plans to release a remake of Park Jin Young’s 1995 hit, “Elevator.” Additionally, this song is notably famous for its provocative lyrics and has left an indelible mark on the music industry.

The singer’s decision to reinterpret this iconic song from the past has generated immense anticipation among fans and music enthusiasts alike. It’s also an opportunity for the singer to showcase his unique musical style and pay homage to a legendary artist in the K-pop industry.

Kang Dong-ho, who is better known as Baekho, is a versatile South Korean artist known for singing, songwriting, producing, and TV. He is NU’EST‘s lead vocalist and producer and decided to stay with PLEDIS Entertainment after the group’s disbandment in March 2022.

In October 2022, Baekho began his solo career with the release of “Absolute Zero.” Fans eagerly anticipated this new chapter, which allows Kang Dong-ho to showcase his creative musical talents beyond NU’EST.

Baekho’s remake single “Elevator” reimagines J.Y. Park’s infamous track and promises a fresh take on the iconic song. It will also be part of the ‘[bæd] time Project #1 initiative’ and is slated for release on August 31, 2023.

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FIFTY FIFTY To Pursue Exclusive Contracts Dispute with ATTRAKT

The members of FIFTY FIFTY are still determined to suspend their exclusive contracts

The members of FIFTY FIFTY have expressed their decision to pursue their dispute with ATTRAKT. Their decision comes after losing the legal battle to break out of their exclusive contracts with the label.

FIFTY FIFTY Officially Announce Decision To Appeal Judge’s Decision

On August 30 KST, FIFTY FIFTY’s legal representation the Barun Law Firm issued a statement indicating their intentions.

“We have reached a decision to file an appeal against the dismissal of our application for an injunction aimed at suspending the validity of the exclusive contracts,” the statement read. “The appeal will be officially filed soon”

“The court, in its ruling, pointed out the lack of transparency regarding the settlement structure for music and sound source income, as well as the details and items of the advance payment paid by the music producer for the creation of FIFTY FIFTY’s music. It was also unclear whether the CEO breached his duties in relation to this,” it continues.

“Despite the outcome of the provisional injunction, we are set to continue our fight on the major issues in the near future,” the statement added.

It was previously reported that FIFTY FIFTY are planning to appeal the decision. On August 28, a judge decided to reject an injunction aimed at suspending FIFTY FIFTY’s exclusive contracts with ATTRAKT. This decision was prompted by reports stating that FIFTY FIFTY had declined to engage in mediation court proceedings. When the group’s legal representative pursued a traditional trial, the judge swiftly dismissed the request.

Since then, ATTRAKT CEO Jeon Hong Joon disclosed his intention to shift his attention towards pursuing legal action against Ahn Sung Il. The Givers’ head has been accused of orchestrating FIFTY FIFTY’s attempted departure from ATTRAKT. This move signifies ATTRAKT’s commitment to seeking justice in this matter. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.

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Confirmed! Ex-LOONA’s Chuu to Debut as Soloist in October

Chuu updates fans with a new photo. Credit: Twitter/Chuu

Mark your calendars! Former LOONA member Chuu, whose real name is Kim Ji-Woo, is set to finally make her solo debut in October.

On Tuesday, August 29, the artist’s label ATRP confirmed that Chuu is currently preparing to release her first solo album. Given that this will mark her first release as a soloist, she plans to showcase her charm as she embarks on a new beginning.

Although a final date about her solo debut has yet to be announced, Chuu has been teasing the fans with messages likely hinting at her release.

 

“This place is full of loveliness and amazing vitality. This flower field full of flowers to wrap the girl around is filled with sparkling things like musical notes, wings, and wildflowers. The girl looks at another world spread out in front of her with sparkling eyes,” the translation of the post read. 

Following the news, dedicated fans of Chuu have been anticipating this development in her career.  Especially that this upcoming release would mark the artist’s solo music since her legal battle with former agency BlockBerry Creative. 

Chuu and her fresh start

In December 2017, Chuu was introduced as the 10th member of LOONA. She was also a member of the group’s third sub-unit LOONA/yyxy, before the group officially debuted as a 12-member act in August 2018. 

 

However, Blockberry Creative expelled her from the group in November 2022, nearly a year after she filed an injunction to terminate her contract. In August 2023, the Seoul Northern District Court ruled in favor of Chuu on her lawsuit against Blockberry Creative. 

Currently, Chuu is an artist under the startup agency ATRP.

“We are very happy to welcome Chuu as our agency’s first artist. We will give full support so that Chuu, who has unlimited potential, can fully display her talent as an artist and continue her activities enjoyably and happily. Please show lots of support and interest for Chuu who is taking a new leap,” the label said about having the singer. 

 

Since then, ATRP has been preparing solo activities for the singer. In July, the agency revealed Chuu’s official fandom and lightstick names. Interestingly,“Kkoti” which translate to “home” is the singer’s fandom name. 

Additionally, Chuu has also been confirmed to appear as an MC in the variety show Steel Unit. She will rejoin the program in its third season after her appearance in the first season. 

Where are the LOONA members now? 

After Chuu filed her injunctions against BlockBerry Creative, other LOONA members also started doing so. In June 2023, all 12 members won their respective lawsuits and left the agency. 

Since then, the members have signed with different agencies. 

Heejin, Kim Lip, Jinsoul, Choerry, and Haseul are now under Modhaus. Interestingly, Modhaus has since launched the ARTMS project. Said project will reportedly refer to the activities of the LOONA members under their agency. 

In July, Odd Eye Circle, the sub-unit composed of Choerry, Jinsoul, and Kim Lip, released their album Version Up. Meanwhile, Heejin is also set to make her solo debut. 

Additionally, former LOONA members HyunJin, YeoJin, Vivi, Go Won, and HyeJu have formed the group LOOSSEMBLE (LOONA Assemble). They’re all under the agency CTDENM. 

Featured image: Chuu updates fans with a new photo. Credit: Twitter/Chuu

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SEVENTEEN’s Jun Reveals Heartwarming Story Behind ‘Lie Lie Lie’ Cover

Jun revealed the reason why he chose to cover Lee Juck's 'Lie Lie Lie' and it dates back to his pre-debut days!

JUN might be an established K-pop idol now but there was a time when the SEVENTEEN member was just a trainee with big dreams. Interestingly, Wen Junhui reflected on his past after delivering a sweet cover of Lee Juck’s “Lie Lie Lie.” The Chinese idol shared how the song helped him connect with a random stranger who left a lasting impression.

Jun Shares Why ‘Lie Lie Lie’ Has a Special Connection To Him 

In a recent episode of Lee Mujin‘s popular musical variety program “Leemujin Service”, JUN sang his own version of some classic songs. The second cover was Lee Juck’s “Lie Lie Lie” and the SEVENTEEN member shared why he chose to sing it.

According to JUN, he had trouble finding the confidence to sing when he was a trainee. In fact, he would often lose his voice when singing to a crowd. Since this would be a major hurdle for a K-pop idol, PLEDIS Entertainment decided to send Jun on a mission to face his fears.

He continued by sharing how he had to find someone in a crowd to listen to him sing. Although JUN was told he only had to sing the first verse, he admitted that finding a listener was difficult. The trainee was sent to the busy streets of Gangnam for almost an hour around lunchtime. Whenever he approached an individual, they would tell him they didn’t have time to listen.

Luckily for JUN, one older man stopped to listen to him. When the trainee declared that he would cover “Lie Lie Lie”, the man admitted that he was a Lee Juck fan. After listening to the future SEVENTEEN member, the man even gave some feedback. He reportedly praised JUN for his emotion but told him to practice his pronunciation.

JUN clearly appreciated the feedback and admitted he wanted to reconnect with his listener. “I wanted to thank him again if I have a second chance, but it’s hard to find him,” he admitted.

It’s a great story that confirms a kind gesture is always treasured. Hopefully, JUN will be able to reconnect with his random listener from his pre-debut days. In the meantime, SEVENTEEN is preparing for a comeback in October.

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Wow! Twice’s Jihyo Makes Her Billboard 200 Debut in Top 14

TWICE's Jihyo in the teasers for ZONE. Credit: Facebook/TWICE

TWICE’s Jihyo stunned the music industry with her solo debut album Zone, which was released on August 18. 

Following the release of her solo album, the leader of JYPE’s 9-member girl group set an impressive record as Zone debuts at #14 in Billboard 200. 

The US-based charts announced on Tuesday, August 29, that the solo album of TWICE’s Jihyo recorded a total of 41,000 units in its first week. 

 

With this, Jihyo becomes the only second female K-pop soloist to enter the Top 100 of the Billboard 200. 

Interestingly, Jihyo joins fellow TWICE member Nayeon, who made her No. 7 debut on the Billboard 200 chart in August 2022 with her solo debut album IM NAYEON. Coincidentally, Nayeon and Jihyo are the first two TWICE members to release their solo albums.

Additionally, Jihyo also made history in other Billboard charts including Billboard’s Artist 100 where she debuted at No. 10. She once again became the second female K-Pop soloist to enter the Top 50, following Nayeon who debuted at No. 5 last year.

 

Zone also debuted at No. 2  on Billboard’s World Albums chart. It also  bagged the fourth spot on both the Top Album Sales and Top Current Album Sales charts.

Local album sales tracker Hanteo Chart also shared that Zone sold over 534,585 copies just a week since its release.

With this, Zone became the highest-selling mini album in the first week of its release, making Jihyo the first K-pop female soloist to achieve this feat.

11 years in the Making

Jihyo’s career as an idol was never easy as she once admitted she almost quit as a trainee. The singer trained for 11 years before finally debuting in TWICE.

“I ran away once because it was so hard. I ran away from home,” she said.

Luckily, Jihyo surpassed all the hardships and debuted as a singer. Now, Jihyo actively promotes her first album in various TV programs in the midst of group activities.

The vocalist’s debut solo EP consists of seven tracks including its lead single “Killin’ Me Good,” which continues to thrive on various streaming platforms worldwide.

The title track entered Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart at No. 11, and topped Spotify’s Top Song Debut Global chart.

 

Other tracks in the album are “Closer”, “Waiting On You”, “Room”, and “Nightmare.” Moreover, Zone saw Jihyo collaborating with two artists. The song “Talkin’ About It” featured American rapper 24kGoldn, while she had a duet with Korean soloist Heize for the track “Don’t Wanna Go Back.”

This upcoming September, TWICE is also set to showcase their astounding performances at the Asia and Europe leg of their 5th World Tour Ready To Be.

Featured image: TWICE’s Jihyo in the teasers for ZONE. Credit: Facebook/TWICE

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(UPDATED) STAYs Believe a Hyunjin-Troye Sivan Collab Is Finally in the Works

The K-pop scene is abuzz with whispers of a potential collaboration between Australian actor-singer Troye Sivan and Stray Kids‘ Hyunjin. The seeds of this speculation were sown in May when the two were spotted together at Dua Lipa x Versace‘s “La Vacanza” 2023 Fashion Show. Their camaraderie was evident as they chatted and took pictures, with Hyunjin even making an appearance on Sivan‘s Instagram.

Apparently, Hyunjin made quite an impression on Sivan, who posted on social media about wanting to connect with the South Korean star. The internet was soon flooded with fans offering suggestions on how Sivan could get in touch with Hyunjin. Many even tagged Stray Kids‘ official SNS accounts in their comments, hoping to bridge the gap between them. The buzz eventually reached such great heights that even Spotify’s official account tweeted about the topic.

However, not all reactions were positive. Following his posts about Hyunjin, Sivan took to TikTok to share an unfortunate update. He revealed that he received death threats after publicly expressing admiration for Hyunjin. Despite the negativity, many STAYs (Stray Kids’ fans) held onto the hope of a collaboration, especially since Hyunjin is known to be a huge fan of Sivan‘s work. When quizzed about the possibility of a collaboration, Sivan enthusiastically replied, “That would be sick. I would do that in a heartbeat.”

Is a collaboration in the works?

Adding more fuel to the fire, Sivan recently duetted a fancam of Hyunjin performing Stray Kids‘ “S-Class” on social media. His caption read, “Wow, absolutely love this guy. Would love to sing with him one day.” Fans couldn’t help but be amused by Sivan‘s continued admiration for his “celebrity crush.” Even as some playfully told Sivan to “get in line,” others saw his post as a hint regarding the long-awaited collaboration.

@troyesivan

#duet with @kep1bts ✩ #hyunjin

♬ S-Class (Short Ver.) – Stray Kids

Drawing parallels, fans recalled a similar post by Sivan about singer PinkPantheress. Shortly after expressing his desire to collaborate with her, it was announced that PinkPantheress would feature on the remix of Sivan‘s song “Rush.” Given this pattern, netizens are now speculating that Hyunjin is next. Some STAYs even say they heard Hyunjin‘s distinct vocals in PinkPantheress‘ collaboration announcement video.

Further strengthening these speculations, producer Zhone, known for his work on “Rush,” recently started following Hyunjin on Instagram. With all these clues aligning, it seems fans might soon get the collaboration they’ve been waiting for. Only time will tell if these speculations come to fruition. 

UPDATE: Sivan just made an announcement on TikTok.

The rumors have been confirmed! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Ever since they met at a fashion event months ago, Troye Sivan hasn’t been able to get Hyunjin off his mind. Can you blame him? Source: Twitter/@viraltakes.

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SEVENTEEN Confirms October Comeback With 11th Mini Album

SEVENTEEN, the 13-member Pledis Entertainment K-pop group that has taken the world by storm, is gearing up for another major comeback. According to a recent report by Hankook Ilbo, the group is slated to drop their 11th mini album in October. This news sent waves of excitement throughout their massive fanbase, eagerly anticipating what the group will bring to the table this time.

Seungkwan, the group’s main vocalist, is confirmed to be part of the October comeback promotions. This is particularly noteworthy as CARATS have been eagerly awaiting his return. What’s more, the group’s overall leader S.Coups also plans to return for this comeback. He had temporarily halted his activities due to a torn ACL. But as per Pledis Entertainment’s statement, his involvement will be “flexible and within reasonable limits, ensuring his health and well-being are prioritized.”

In a recent interaction with Elle Man Korea, Wonwoo, another member of SEVENTEEN, shed light on the group’s hectic schedule. Although they had concerts lined up in Seoul on July 21 and 22, they squeezed some studio time into their jam-packed days. Wonwoo shared, “I’m currently going back and forth between preparing for our concert and new album. Even yesterday, after practicing for our concert, I worked on songs that will be included in our next album. Although it’s been really busy working on two different things at once, it’s a lot of fun, and I’m enjoying it.”

SEVENTEEN recorded a ‘shocking’ new album

S.Coups, in a previous interaction with Marie Claire Korea, teased fans with some intriguing details about their next album. He said, “The work in progress is more ‘shocking’ than previously announced. It feels fresh and fun, but this album has a lot of shocking elements. Also, additional ideas based on novel ideas have also been poured out. Yes, we have prepared a lot of interesting content.”

SEVENTEEN‘s meteoric rise is evident in their previous achievements. Earlier this year, they made history with their mini album FML, which sold over 6.2 million copies. This feat was monumental, and it set a new record for the best-selling Korean album of all time. FML also set a new record for the highest first-week sales of any album in Hanteo history. It became SEVENTEEN’s highest-ranking album on the Billboard 200 as well, debuting at an impressive No. 2.

With such a stellar track record and the promise of a “shocking” new album, the anticipation for their October comeback is palpable. Fans worldwide are counting down the days till they can witness another groundbreaking achievement from SEVENTEEN. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: ‘FML’ was a smash. What will the boys do to top it? Watch this space for updates. Source: Twitter/@WORLDMUSIC AWARD.

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