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MSD Korea Launches HPV Prevention Campaign With SEVENTEEN

MSD Korea

MSD Korea, represented by their CEO Kim Albert, announced on August 17 that they’re partnering with the world-famous K-pop group SEVENTEEN to emphasize the importance of HPV prevention. The partnership aims to leverage the 13-member group’s vast global reach to spread the message of HPV prevention worldwide.

The campaign, which was first unveiled on August 14th, will be accessible through various channels, including Instagram, TV, YouTube, and other digital platforms. It will also be on outdoor mediums. This strategic move ensures that the message reaches as many people as possible, emphasizing the significance of early prevention.

The slogan “Change the Future, Change the World” gives the campaign a powerful message: while we can’t predict the future, we can shape it positively by preventing HPV. The campaign will have four videos, and each will deliver the message of prevention in a unique way. 

SEVENTEEN has three units: the hip-hop team, vocal team, and performance team. Each unit is set to contribute its distinct style to the campaign. Furthermore, SEVENTEEN introduced a signature pose for the campaign, combining the ‘V’ from “prevent” and the ‘W’ from “we.” It reinforces the campaign’s message of, “Let’s create a healthier future together through correct information and prevention against HPV.”

MSD Korea execs speak

SEVENTEEN expressed their gratitude for this collaboration, stating, “We consider it a valuable opportunity to serve as global ambassadors for a campaign aimed at improving public health through HPV prevention.”

Jo Jaeyong, the executive of MSD Korea’s vaccine division, talked about the true urgency of the situation. He mentioned that every minute, one person in the world is diagnosed with an HPV-related disease.

Given that 70% of adults will get an HPV infection at least once, men and women should be informed and proactive. He hopes this campaign will make people see the importance of preventing diseases caused by HPV.

In conclusion, the collaboration between MSD Korea and SEVENTEEN is not just a campaign; it’s a movement. One that aims to change the future by educating and encouraging people to take action against HPV. 

With the power of music and SEVENTEEN’s influence, this campaign is poised to make a significant impact on public health. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: SVT’s Mingyu doing the campaign’s signature pose. Source: Twitter/@svtcontents.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Here’s BTS’ V Promotion Schedule for His Debut Solo Album “Layover”

On August 17, 2023, BigHit Entertainment unveiled a promotional schedule for BTS‘ V‘s solo album Layover.

The schedule indicates that fans can expect to get the first and second teasers for the music video of “Blue” on August 22 and 25. Moreover, a handful of songs that were only available on SoundCloud will finally be available on Spotify and other streaming platforms on August 28. Concept photo three will drop the next day.

As September approaches, the excitement continues to build. September 6 will see the unveiling of “concept photo four,” culminating in the album’s official release on September 8. On the same day, the music video for “Slow Dancing” will also make its debut.

The ARMY, BTS‘ dedicated fanbase, exploded with joy upon hearing the news. They flooded social media with messages of support and anticipation for V’s upcoming releases. ARMYs are particularly excited for the official release of “Winter Bear,” “Snow Flower,” and “Scenery.”

Anticipation for “Layover” is building

One topic that particularly piqued the interest of fans was the absence of a specific release date for the complete “Blue” music video. Given that “Blue” is V‘s first music video to have teasers, fans humorously speculated that the video might drop “out of the blue.”

The presence of the mysterious three dots in the promotion schedule has also sparked widespread speculation. Fans are wondering if these dots could indicate surprise content drops or perhaps the release of the “Blue” music video.

As the anticipation for Layover builds, V has already treated fans to two tracks from the album: “Love Me Again” and “Rainy Days.” Both songs received an outpouring of love from fans globally. As a testament to their success, as of August 15, they secured the top two positions on the Billboard Hot Trending Songs chart. Impressively, the title track “Slow Dancing” went to No. 7 on the same chart even before its official release.

With the album’s release date drawing near, the excitement among ARMYs is palpable. Layover by BTS’ V promises to be a musical journey that fans won’t want to miss. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: BTS’ V looks like he’s made of boyfriend material in the “Layover” concept photos. Source: Weverse.

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Breaking Down the Physical Album and Selcas by BTS’ j-hope

BTS‘s j-hope, known for his unwavering dedication to his fans, recently gave them a deeper glimpse into his life in the military. On July 8, he shared photos from his time as an assistant instructor for new recruits at a training center in Wonju, Gangwon Province. But these photos weren’t just casual snapshots; they were filled with details that gave fans a closer look into his military life.

In the photos he posted, j-hope proudly displayed the insignia on his arm, representing the 36th infantry division. This division is known as the Baekho unit and its symbol is the white tiger. The hat he wore bore the coat of arms or seal of the Republic of Korea Army. On the pocket of his shirt, a patch indicated his rank as a private first class. 

Another patch on his backpack further emphasized his affiliation with the 36th infantry. The term “조교” on his uniform, which means “assistant instructor,” was accompanied by the words “Republic of Korea Army” (ROKA). Above his rank on his chest, another patch with a sword also denoted his role as an assistant instructor.

Interestingly, j-hope also added a personal touch to his military gear. He used a fan’s gift, sticking it on his backpack, showcasing the deep bond and appreciation he holds for his fans even during his military service.

What else has j-hope been up to?

Aside from his selcas, j-hope also treated fans to new material even as he continued serving in the military. On August 18, he dropped a physical version of his album, Jack in the Box (HOPE Edition). It includes live recordings from his groundbreaking Lollapalooza 2022 performance, minus ones, and a plethora of new concept photos and other special items.

But the excitement didn’t stop there. His fellow BTS members RM, SUGA, Jimin, V, and Jungkook took to YouTube to unbox the physical album, sharing their reactions and support. RM, diving into the lyrics book, revealed his favorite song, “=” (“Equal Sign”), and expressed his unwavering support for j-hope‘s future endeavors. SUGA, on the other hand, was all praises for j-hope‘s visuals, while Jimin urged fans to shower the album with love.

‘Jack In The Box (HOPE Edition)’ Unboxing Video with #RM

‘Jack In The Box (HOPE Edition)’ Unboxing Video with #SUGA

‘Jack In The Box (HOPE Edition)’ Unboxing Video with #Jimin

Much more to look forward to

The younger BTS members, V and Jungkook, also joined the unboxing spree. V was impressed with the photocards, especially the black and white ones. He couldn’t help complimenting j-hope‘s unique photo-taking style. Jungkook was impressed with j-hope‘s dedication to taking new photos for this edition, setting it apart from the digital version released the previous year.

‘Jack In The Box (HOPE Edition)’ Unboxing Video with #V

‘Jack In The Box (HOPE Edition)’ Unboxing Video with #JungKook

j-hope’s Jack in the Box (HOPE Edition) isn’t just an album; it’s a testament to his passion and the bond shared by the BTS members. As fans eagerly await more updates, one thing is clear: j-hope‘s journey is far from over, and there’s much more to look forward to. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: ARMYs swooned when they saw j-hope’s selcas. Source: Instagram/@uarmyhope.

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SM Entertainment, Kakao to Release Nct Webtoon & Riize Web Novel

SM Entertainment's boy groups NCT and RIIZE will be having their webtoon and web novels. Credit: Twitter/SPOTV

SM Entertainment has partnered up with Kakao Entertainment to launch a webtoon and web novel for their K-pop boy groups NCT and RIIZE, respectively. 

On Thursday, August 17, Kakao Entertainment announced the news, saying that the projects will be in commemoration of NCT’s upcoming album and RIIZE’s anticipated debut. 

 

As for NCT, the full group will be releasing their fourth studio album Golden Age on August 28. All 20 members of NCT’s different subgroups; NCT 127, NCT Dream, and WayV, will take part in the album.

 

Additionally, the album will have two title tracks, including the full unit song “Golden Age.” Prior to the album release, NCT will also hold their first-ever offline concert as a full group on August 26. 

As for RIIZE, the seven-piece act will debut on September 4 with the single album Get A Guitar. Interestingly, RIIZE will serve as the agency’s first boy group in seven years following NCT.

 

What we know about NCT’s webtoon and RIIZE’s web novel 

According to a press release, the webtoon about NCT will be titled NCT: Dream Contact, while RIIZE’s web novel is called Rise & Realize. 

For NCT: Dream Contact, it’s going to be an omnibus-style webtoon that has a total of five episodes. It will follow NCT’s concept of people empathizing through dreams and becoming one through music. 

Writers ZQ, Seogeul, and Kim Ho Ae are in charge of the production. NCT: Dream Contact will be released simultaneously in Japan and North America via  via Kakao Webtoon and Kakao Page at August 18, 10 pm. 

On the other hand, Rise and Realize will be a web novel that have a total of eight episodes. It will be released on Kakao Page every Saturday starting August 19. 

Moreover, Rise and Realize will see the members of RIIZE as characters in the novel as they try to overcome growing pains. Writer No Gon and illustrator Nak Di created the novel. 

Furthermore, Kakao Entertainment expressed that it’s a “meaningful” collaboration with SM Entertainment. 

“We plan to continue to carry out various projects on storytelling IP targeting the global market in the future,” they said. 

Featured image: SM Entertainment’s boy groups NCT and RIIZE will be having their webtoon and web novels. Credit: Twitter/SPOTV

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(G)I-DLE Delays Release of Ep ‘Heat’

(G)I-DLE in a concept photo for their 'I Feel' album. Credit: Facebook/(G)I-DLE

The release of (G)ID-LE’s highly-anticipated all-English EP HEAT has been rescheduled. 

88rising announced the changes on Friday, August 18. 

“We are working hard to put the final touches on the EP to ensure the best quality for (G)I-DLE’s fans around the world,” they explained.

 

Instead of its initial schedule of September 8, HEAT is now slated for an October 5 release. 

Following the news, the Asian-focused music company asked the fans for their continued support and understanding. 

What makes HEAT special? 

One of the reasons why fans are looking forward to HEAT is because it’s in collaboration with 88rising. The said label is home to a multitude of Asian artists, including K-pop stars Chungha and Jackson Wang. 

Additionally, HEAT will also be (G)I-DLE’s first all-English EP since debut. It’s also the first for Cube Entertainment in the company’s 17-year history. 

As for what fans can expect in HEAT, the EP will reportedly talk about “feeling confident and bringing the spirit of an endless summer with you wherever you go.” 

According to 88rising’s executive vice president John Yang, the (G)I-DLE members were “full of excitement and positivity” for their collaboration. 

In July, (G)I-DLE released “I DO,” the first single from HEAT. The music video for the English track features an extraterrestrial being falling in love with a human. 

 

The group also released a second music video “I DO,” which featured Thai actors Tu Tontawan Tantivejakul and Dew Jirawat Sutivanisak. 

HEAT will come after (G)I-DLE’s sixth mini-album I FEEL, which was released in May. 

Featured image: (G)I-DLE in a concept photo for their ‘I Feel’ album. Credit: Facebook/(G)I-DLE

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Fifty Fifty Members Pen Letter to Fans

FIFTY FIFTY posing for the concept photo of 'The Beginning: Cupid' album. Credit: Twitter/FIFTY FIFTY

To say that 2023 has been a rollercoaster ride for girl group FIFTY FIFTY is an understatement. 

The year started with their song “Cupid “ becoming the highest charting hit by a South Korean group in the history of the Billboard Pop Airplay chart. As proof of their popularity, FIFY FIFTY was even tapped to be part of the soundtrack for the live-action movie Barbie. 

But it seemed like all the good luck for FIFTY FIFTY had run out come June 2023. On June 19, the members of the group filed for an injunction to suspend their exclusive contracts with agency ATTRAKT. 

According to the group’s legal representatives, the members cited contract breaches and breakdown of trust for their legal action. 

Read the timeline of what happened to FIFTY FIFTY and ATTRAKT here: FIFTY FIFTY and How a Phenomenal K-Pop Career Can be Destroyed in Weeks; A Timeline

Since then, more allegations and evidence have come out. And on August 18, two months after the FIFTY FIFTY members first sought the suspension of their contracts, the group filed criminal charges against ATTRAKT’s CEO Jun Hong Joon. 

https://twitter.com/fiftyfiftylog/status/1692128551716237740

 

The filing of criminal charges came after the FIFTY FIFTY members were informed by the court that they had no intention of continuing the meditation. Meaning, the group’s legal dispute with ATTRAKT will return to trial. 

FIFTY FIFTY’s message to their fans 

Following the continued legal battle, the FIFTY FIFTY members have finally broken their silence. Handwritten letters in Korean and English were posted on Instagram under the account fifi_fifi1118. 

“Hello, we are Keena, Saena, Sio, and Aran of FIFTY FIFTY. We hope that you will be kind enough to understand us conveying our situation in this way. Thank you,” the caption read.

A representative of the group reportedly confirmed that the members personally wrote the letters. 

https://twitter.com/fiftyfiftylog/status/1692169240088850782

In their message, the group began by apologizing to “everyone who loves [them] for causing much concern.” 

Meanwhile, the group also empathized that their fans might be confused with what’s happening, saying that “misunderstandings and accusations have been snowballing.” 

“Nevertheless, we believe that there is a truth that needs to be uncovered despite these difficulties,” FIFTY FIFTY wrote. 

Additionally, the members shared that while they’re grateful for the love they’ve received, they think it’s best to “right the wrongs that have been forced in our relationship with the agency” 

https://twitter.com/fiftyfiftylog/status/1692147509999636539

Moreover, the group said that it’s been “heartbreaking to see so many untrue stories” circulating and that they hope that the truth would be uncovered soon. 

“We sincerely hope that you do not make too much criticism based on false suspicions and misunderstandings and look at the facts objectively,” they asked fans. 

Also, FIFTY FIFTY assured that they’re doing this together as a group. “Every one of our members is in this together,” they said. 

As for their future activities, FIFTY FIFTY shared that they’d like to continue being artists “in a trustworthy environment.”

“We will do our best to come back in good shape and return our thankfulness to all of you who have been following us,” they wrote. 

Fans rally behind FIFTY FIFTY

In response to the members’ letter, fans quickly took to social media to show support for FIFTY FIFTY. 

Using the hashtags “We Love You FIFTY FIFTY” and “Hunnies with FIFTY FITY,” fans sent their messages of solidarity. 

https://twitter.com/fiftyfiftylog/status/1692168160550478280

 

“Please keep fighting hard for what you believe in and never give up,” one comment read. “We are wishing for the best possible outcome from all of this.” 

Another wrote: “Truth cannot be hidden, truth doesn’t change with time. We will be right here waiting patiently for you.” 

https://twitter.com/Jjojjo5050/status/1692178948682383737

 

As of writing, ATTRAKT has yet to release a statement about the recent developments. 

Featured image: FIFTY FIFTY posing for the concept photo of ‘The Beginning: Cupid’ album. Credit: Twitter/FIFTY FIFTY

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All 3 Members of Bdc Part Ways With Brandnew Music

BDC updates fans with new group photo. Credit: Twitter/BDC

Boy group BDC is leaving BRANDNEW Music, its agency of four years. 

On Friday, August 18, the label announced that after a “long, in-depth discussion and careful consideration” with the three members, they’ve mutually decided to end the exclusive contract. 

“We sincerely apologize to the fans of BDC, who have always sent such unconditional support to the group, for breaking this news abruptly,” the agency said. 

Moreover, BRANDNEW Music promised that they will “continue to wholeheartedly support” the group in their future activities. 

Additionally, BDC will be releasing a final digital single on August 26, 6pm. After this, the group will be ending all “official promotion as artists under BRANDNEW Music.”

Lastly, the agency also asked the group’s fans for their continued love and support to the members. 

BDC is a trio composed of former Produce X 101 trainees Kim Si Hun, Hong Seong Jun, and Yun Jung Hwan. 

 

The group made their debut in October 2019. They also recently participated in the JTBC idol survival series Peak Time.

Featured image: BDC updates fans with new group photo. Credit: Twitter/BDC

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Watch: Twice’s Jihyo Makes Fiery Solo Debut With ‘Killin’ Me Good’

TWICE's Jihyo in the teasers for 'Zone.' Credit: Twitter/TWICE

God Jihyo is in the house! The TWICE leader officially made her solo debut on August 18 with the release of her album ZONE. 

Meanwhile, Jihyo’s solo debut title track “Killin’ Me Good” is a tempo R&B song that talks about the ups and downs of a relationship. In the music video, she went from being giddy in her relationship to navigating a breakup. 

 

Additionally, Jihyo not only impressed the audience with her powerful vocals, but also with her sleek dancing skills. 

One main point of her choreography was a motion resembling a finger gun. “You’re killin’ me, killin’ me good,” she sings pointedly in the title track. “You’re makin’ me feel something new / Hey, you’re makin’ me feel so brand new.”

“Killin’ Me Good” is written by J.Y. Park and composed by Marc Lo, Melanie Fontana, Lindgren, and GG Ramirez. 

Jihyo’s solo debut 

Following the release of her album, Jihyo’s fellow TWICE members showed their support for her solo track by doing the “Killin’ Me Good” challenge. 

Aside from “Killin’ Me Good,” ZONE also has six other tracks. To which, Jihyo participated in penning the lyrics and composing for the B-side songs. 

It also featured two collaborations. Jihyo worked with American singer 24kGoldn for the song “Talkin’ About It,” while she worked with Korean soloist Heize for the song “Don’t Wanna Go Back.”

In an interview with Grammy, the TWICE vocalist revealed that she’s “nervous and excited” for her solo debut. 

Additionally, she also talked about her involvement in the creation of the songs for her solo album.

“I wanted to diversify as much as possible so that listeners can have fun while listening to my album. Each song has a different genre and feel to it,” she said. 

Despite having doubts at first, Jihyo said that she’d regret it more if she didn’t give her all in this solo release. “I wanted to focus on the process and I wanted to focus on doing my best,” she said. 

Jihyo is the second member of TWICE to make a solo debut, following Nayeon. Meanwhile, Jihyo shared that Nayeon also gave her  some advice on being a soloist.

Currently, TWICE is embarking on their READY TO BE concert tour, wherein they made history as the first K-pop girl group to sell out at a stadium in North America.

Featured image: TWICE’s Jihyo in the teasers for ‘Zone.’ Credit: Twitter/TWICE

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Look: Purple Kiss to Release ‘Festa’ in September

Purple Kiss while promoting 'Sweet Juice.' Credit: Facebook/PURPLE KISS

Ready for a new era with PURPLE KISS? 

RBW Entertainment announced on Wednesday, August 16, that the six-act will be releasing their single album Festa on September 5. 

The short teaser featured the group’s logo set against a pastel blue door. Additionally, the promotional schedule are also in pastel pink backdrop. 

 

Interestingly, the agency has earlier teased that PURPLE KISS will be switching up their concept for this upcoming release. 

“You’ll be able to see new charms that PURPLE KISS has not yet shown before, so please give their comeback lots of interest and anticipation,” RBW Entertainment said in a press release.

Since the group’s debut in 2021, PURPLE KISS has explored series of concepts ranging from geeky to high-teen and horror. 

It’s Festa time! 

According to the promotional schedule, the group will be releasing concept photos and videos, track list, and highlight medleys. 

Also, the lyric posters and music video teasers will be out before the album release. 

Festa will serve as PURPLE KISS’ first comeback in more than six months. The group released Cabin Fever in February. 

Currently, PURPLE KISS is composed of Na Go-eun, Dosie, Ireh, Yuki, Chaein, and Swan. Member Park Ji Eun left the group in November 2022. 

Moreover, rapper Yuki has also recently became a member of EL7Z UP. Said project group was formed through the idol survival series Queendom Puzzle. 

Despite being part of the final lineup, EL7Z UP members are also allowed to continue promotions under their original group. 

Featured image: PURPLE KISS while promoting ‘Sweet Juice.’ Credit: Facebook/PURPLE KISS

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

RM Assures Armys That BTS Will ‘Be Back for Sure’ in 2025

BTS during filming 'Yet to Come' music video. Credit: Facebook/BTS

Following BTS’ hiatus from group activities in June 2022, the members have been focused on their solo ventures. But despite these series of individual releases, ARMYs couldn’t help but miss seeing the seven members together. 

On August 12, RM held a livestream wherein he opened up about BTS reconvening as a full group, as well as his thoughts on their hiatus and solo activities. 

 

RM’s statement came after he read a heartfelt letter from a fan who expressed how BTS meant a lot to them. In their message, the ARMY also shared how they’ll patiently wait for 2025 to see the group as a whole  again. 

In response, the BTS leader assured the group’s supporters that the members are also looking forward to them reuniting. 

“What I’m thinking these days when I’m doing my solo projects is, this is just like a vacation to get back to where I was,” he said. “Which is BTS and ARMY. So all this solo (work) is just a journey.” 

But RM also emphasized the significance of these individual ventures. “It is a very important journey for chapter two. But it’s a journey to get back home safe. And eventually, we’ll get back and reunite together in 2025. 

BTS’ love for ARMYs 

RM also took the opportunity to convey how BTS never took their fans’ support and love for granted. He added that even with their solo ventures, ARMYs are always put into consideration. 

“I hope our songs and solo projects could be  another reminder to you guys of how important ARMY was has been, and will be in our lives at the same time,” he said. 

The rapper continued that all the other BTS members are also deeply appreciative of their dedicated throng of supporters. 

“This is a greatness of love. When I face this kind of love, I feel like it’s irresistible. And that’s what makes me go through all those trials and hardships and shits happening in life,” RM added. 

What the BTS members have been up to 

Since June 2022, all seven members of BTS have had their solo releases. 

Jin released his single “The Astronaut” in October 2022, while RM released his solo album Indigo in December 2022. 

Meanwhile, Jimin featured on BIGBANG Taeyang’s “Vibe” and released his solo debut album Face in March 2023. 

On the other hand, Suga started his web talk show Suchwita. He also released the album D-Day in April 2023 and embarked on his solo concert world tour. 

As for j-hope, he released Jack In The Box in July 2022 and headlined Lollapalooza festival. After that, a Disney+ documentary series about these solo projects was also released. 

Then, Jungkook collaborated with Charlie Puth for “Left and Right.” In July 2023, he released his single “Seven.” 

Lastly, member V has participated in series In the Soop: Friendcation and Jinny’s Kitchen. Now, he’s about to make his solo debut with the album Layover, which will be out on September 8. 

Also, two BTS members, Jin and j-hope are currently serving in the military. Furthermore, Suga has also started the military enlistment process. 

Featured image: BTS during filming ‘Yet to Come’ music video. Credit: Facebook/BTS

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