Category: KPOP NEWS

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What Happened to FIFTY FIFTY and ATTRAKT?

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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

The world of K-pop has recently been rocked by a controversy surrounding the popular group FIFTY FIFTY and their agency, ATTRAKT. Known for the catchy song “Cupid,” FIFTY FIFTY is embroiled in a legal battle with their agency, leading to concern and speculation among fans and netizens alike. 

So what happened to FIFTY FIFTY and ATTRAKT?

ATTRAKT’s Response

In response to the cancellation of the girl group’s Barbie OST MV filming and their appearance at KCON LA, ATTRAKT released a statement about the issue. The agency confirmed the cancellation of these scheduled activities, citing internal problems and the ongoing legal dispute as the primary reasons. However, the agency has yet to provide specific details about the nature of these issues, leaving the public in the dark about the exact circumstances leading to these cancellations.

The controversy about what happened to FIFTY FITY has led to widespread speculation about the specific opportunities the K-pop group might have missed out on. Fans have expressed disappointment over the K-pop girl group’s canceled KCON LA appearance, a significant event in the K-pop calendar that would have allowed the group to reach a wider audience. The cancellation of the Barbie OST MV filming was also a major blow because it would’ve boosted the group’s international profile and potentially opened up new opportunities for collaborations and endorsements.

Legal Battle Between FIFTY FIFTY and ATTRAKT Begins

The legal battle between FIFTY FIFTY and ATTRAKT officially started on July 5, with the first hearing held at Central Seoul’s 50th District Court. The group has asked to terminate its exclusive contract with ATTRAKT on the grounds that the agency violated it. The members’ lawyer has cited many grievances, including cloudy accounting practices and disregard for the members’ health. Such allegations could have serious implications for ATTRAKT and potentially lead to significant changes in how K-pop agencies operate.

ATTRAKT CEO Jeong Hong Joon’s mismanagement of the K-Pop group HOTSHOT also resurfaced. He founded K.O Sound, the company under which that ill-fated group debuted. Fans of HOTSHOT expressed concern about Jeong’s style, citing a lack of promotion and poor communication. This led to increased scrutiny and skepticism regarding Jeong’s handling of FIFTY FIFTY‘s situation.

A report by Dispatch has brought several of the group’s claims into question. The report provided text messages showing the group’s producer, Ahn Sung Il, pressuring the CEO to tell them to work on a music video for the upcoming Barbie movie, despite health concerns. This added another layer of complexity to the controversy and raised questions about power dynamics in the K-pop industry and the pressures idols face.

In a new development, The Givers, the producers of FIFTY FIFTY‘s hit single “Cupid,” released a statement addressing allegations made by ATTRAKT. The Givers claimed that ATTRAKT had given them $9,000 to purchase neighboring rights to “Cupid,” not the song’s copyrights. They also stated that the copyrights to “Cupid” are rightfully owed to them and Ahn Sung Il, and that ATTRAKT is spreading misinformation and confusing the public. The Givers ended their statement with a “final warning” to ATTRAKT and reporters, stating they would reveal their innocence in court.

The Controversy’s Impact on FIFTY FIFTY

The controversy has undoubtedly had a significant impact on FIFTY FIFTY. The group’s image may have been tarnished, potentially affecting their future prospects. The cancellation of their KCON LA appearance and the “Barbie” OST MV filming are significant setbacks, and there is speculation that the group may have missed out on other opportunities as a result of the controversy.

Despite what happened to FIFTY FIFTY and the controversy, fans of FIFTY FIFTY remain hopeful. They believe the group’s talent and charisma will help them overcome these challenges. The agency’s assurance that they are working to resolve the issues has also provided relief to the fans. However, the situation remains uncertain, and it is unclear what the future holds for FIFTY FIFTY.

It’s still too soon to determine the controversy’s long-term impact. As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on what happened to FIFTY FIFTY and everyone else involved in it. People are waiting to see what their next steps will be. The controversy highlighted the need for greater transparency and fairness in K-pop, and it is hoped that this situation will lead to positive changes.

Featured Image: FIFTY FIFTY releases official photos for their first Single Album, “The Beginning: Cupid”. Source: Twitter/FiftyFifty Official Twitter account

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BLACKPINK Jennie’s Performance in “The Idol” Finale Divides Viewers

Jennie from the K-pop group BLACKPINK has sparked mixed reactions with her portrayal of Dyanne in the season finale of HBO’s The Idol. This has led netizens to debate the storyline and treatment of her character.

Jennie’s character Dyanne got limited screen time throughout the show’s five-episode first season. But in the finale, Dyanne’s fate turns for the worse as the record label withdraws their offer for her to sing “World Class Sinner” instead of the female lead, Jocelyn (played by Lily-Rose Depp).

Although the record label’s director promises to help her become a star in the future, viewers see the disheartened Dyanne stepping into an elevator as its doors slide closed, a scene symbolizing the backup dancer’s sad fate. She missed her chance to change her luck in the entertainment industry.

On a positive note, some found solace in the ending, interpreting it as a realistic portrayal of the harshness of the entertainment industry. They acknowledged that unforeseen circumstances often derail dreams and result in unfulfilled promises, regardless of one’s talent. They even drew parallels between what happened to Dyanne and Jennie’s prior experience as a singer.

Although critics bashed the show, Jennie’s performance received defense and praise from BLINKs. They commended her for showcasing her acting skills and daring to do something outside the K-pop industry.

But some simply couldn’t understand why a K-pop star like Jennie signed on to do a minor role in a show that became a lightning rod for controversy. They think Jennie was cast only because HBO higher-ups hoped to rope her loyal fans into watching the show.

What do you think of Dyanne’s fate? Do you want to see Jennie do more acting projects? Sound off in the comments.

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EXO Set to Make Grand Comeback with New Track “Cream Soda”

South Korean-Chinese boy band EXO is set to make a grand comeback with their new single “Cream Soda.” The SM Entertainment group recently unveiled individual teaser images featuring Baekhyun, Chanyeol, Chen, D.O., Kai, Sehun, Suho, and Xiumin.

They also dropped OT8 photos.

“Cream Soda” is the title track of EXO’s upcoming full-length album EXIST, scheduled to drop on July 10 at 6:00 PM KST. The track is an addictive slice of dance-pop, with cheerful brass, drum, and keyboard sounds. As if that wasn’t enough, the members’ vocals present a cool, sexy vibe that will send shivers up and down EXO-L’s spines. Meanwhile, EXIST will have nine songs, each showcasing various charms.

Before the release of “Cream Soda,” EXO had already dropped music videos for pre-release tracks “Let Me In” and “Hear Me Out.” They received a warm welcome from fans worldwide. The latter was wildly successful. It began topping iTunes charts upon its June 30, 6:00 PM KST release.

By July 1 KST, “Hear Me Out” had gone to No. 1 on iTunes in at least 37 different regions, including Argentina, Armenia, Belarus, Botswana, Brazil, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Greece, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Laos, Malaysia, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Oman, Panama, Paraguay, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, Venezuela, and Vietnam. It also reached No. 1 on KuGou Music’s and QQ Music’s digital sales charts in China.

These releases mark EXO‘s first group comeback in more than two years. The anticipation for their seventh full-length album EXIST is high, and EXO-Ls are eagerly waiting for it to drop.

Congratulations to EXO on the success of “Hear Me Out” and best wishes for their upcoming album!

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Lee Jung Jae’s Agency Clarifies Squid Game Actor’s Involvement in T.O.P’s Casting in Season 2

Did Lee Jung-jae convince the producers of Squid Game Season 2 to cast a good friend? The Star Wars: Acolyte actor’s agency has addressed rumors that Lee helped former BIGBANG member Choi Seung-hyun aka T.O.P land a role in the Netflix series.

Earlier this week, Netflix announced eight more actors who will be joining Squid Game Season 2. The new cast members included Park Gyu-young, Jo Yu-ri, Kang Ae-sim, Lee David, Lee Jin-uk, Choi Seung-hyun, Roh Jae-won, and Won Ji-an.

Although fans were delighted to learn that T.O.P is returning to acting, others thought that the casting was dubious and were convinced that lead star Lee Jung-jae convinced the producers to cast Choi Seung-hyun in Squid Game Season 2.

Since then, Lee Jung-jae’s agency Artist Company released a statement addressing the rumors.

“Some of the reports that claim actor Lee Jung Jae was involved in the casting of Squid Game 2 are not true,” the statement read. “The casting of a project is the authority of the director and the production company.”

“In particular, actor Lee Jung Jae understands more than anyone that due to the great interest in Squid Game 2, many actors work hard to make an appearance, and [the cast members] are decided through audition,” it continued.

“Accordingly, we would like to reiterate that it is not true that actor Lee Jung Jae was involved in the casting of Squid Game 2,” the statement concluded.

It was previously confirmed that ZE:A member Yim Siwan, Park Sung-hoon (The Glory), Kang Ha-neul (The Pirates: The Last Royal Treasure), and Yang Dong-geun (Connect) will also join Squid Game Season 2. Their roles in the series are still undisclosed.

Squid Game Season 2 will bring back Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun, Wi Ha-joon, and Gong Yoo. The second season has not yet been given an official release date but is already expected to premiere on Netflix in 2024

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RED VELVET’s Yeri Opens Up About Her Mean Character in “BITCH X RICH”

Yeri is opening up about her most challenging acting project so far. The RED VELVET member spoke about playing a mean character in the new series BITCH X RICH. In addition to that, Kim Ye-rim discussed the differences between being an idol and an actress.

Yeri Reveals Why She Accepted The Role of A Mean Character in BITCH X RICH

Cosmopolitan Korea recently shared the stunning photos from Yeri’s photoshoot for the magazine’s July issue. In the accompanying interview, the RED VELVET maknae discussed her new show BITCH X RICH where she plays the cruel queen bee Baek Jenna.

When the interviewer commented on Yeri’s cruel acting in the murder mystery, the Dear Diary singer admitted that she wanted to take on a challenge.

“I tried this [drama] as I wanted to expand the spectrum of my acting,” Yeri said. “As it’s a character I haven’t done before, people were very surprised. I did my lines thinking most importantly about my tone, speed, and rhythm.”

“Rather than a kid who just plays around, I had to look like a princess,” she added with a laugh. “An authoritative character who speaks slowly and seeks power over people. Since she’s the complete opposite of me, I worried about how to portray that image.”

Yeri also discussed the differences between being onstage with RED VELVET and acting.

“As RED VELVET, I’ve promoted for a long time, have many hit songs, and am recognized wherever I go,” she said. “But with acting, I’m a complete rookie. But I really like that. Because I can learn a whole lot.”

“Also, since it’s a job where you work really closely with the director, assistant director, filming director, and lighting director, I like that you can work in a friendlier way,“ Yeri added.

“I really like working in that way. Even people I meet for the first time feel like family after filming and being together for two to three months,” she continued.

RED VELVET recently completed their R to V world tour and Yeri shared how she and the members felt about meeting REVELUVs from different countries.

“As this was our first world tour in awhile, it was a tour where you could feel everyone trying hard to enjoy themselves,” she said.

“It was fun that the fans’ vibes were different in each city, but the one thing in common was that I could hear them singing along to Korean lyrics in every performance,” Yeri continued. “I got goosebumps. I felt really thankful and it was so meaningful.”

Yeri’s full interview will be featured in Cosmopolitan Korea’s July 2023 issue.

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Controversy Surrounds Choi Yena’s “Hate Rodrigo” Music Video Following Backlash

K-pop soloist Choi Yena faced an online backlash after her recently released music video, “Hate Rodrigo,” was set to private on Thursday, stirring up controversy and speculation among fans.

The music video is part of Choi Yena’s second single album titled “Hate XX,” which features a collaboration with (G)I-DLE member Yuqi on the song. Alongside “Hate Rodrigo,” the album includes the B-sides “Bad Hobby” and “Wicked Love.” This release follows Choi Yena’s previous single, “Love War,” which came out in January.

The controversy arose due to the song’s title, “Hate Rodrigo,” which led to assumptions that it was a diss track directed at singer-songwriter and “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series” star Olivia Rodrigo. Moreover, the music video features actual images of Olivia Rodrigo and contains numerous references to her music videos.

Choi Yena, credited as a lyricist and co-composer of the song, addressed the controversy during a guest appearance on “TheKstarNextDoor.” She clarified that her intentions behind the song were not to express genuine hatred but to convey a sense of jealousy toward Olivia Rodrigo’s success. Yena explained that the phrase “hate her” was chosen metaphorically to represent feelings of envy.

Following the backlash, the music video for “Hate Rodrigo” has been made private on YouTube, and several TikTok videos featuring the song have been deleted. Yuehua Entertainment, Choi Yena’s agency, reportedly responded to a request from Olivia Rodrigo’s team to privatize the music video due to the controversy and potential copyright issues. 

Observant netizens also noticed the removal of many of Yena’s TikTok videos, particularly those utilizing the hashtag #Hate_Rodrigo.

Interestingly, Choi Yena’s “Hate Rodrigo“ release coincides with Olivia Rodrigo’s announcement about her upcoming sophomore album, “Guts,” set to be released in September.

As the situation unfolds, fans and the public closely follow the developments surrounding the controversy and the response it has garnered.

Featured Photo Credit: YENA Official Twitter

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SM Entertainment Announces Upcoming Reality Show NCT Universe: LASTART

In an exciting announcement, SM Entertainment revealed its plans to launch a reality show titled NCT Universe: LASTART, through which they will handpick new members for their highly popular boy group, NCT.

The show, set to commence on July 27, aims to provide a transparent and captivating glimpse into the process of selecting members for the upcoming NCT NEW TEAM.

The name LASTART is a clever combination of “LAST” and “START.” It symbolizes the conclusion of NCT‘s infinite expansion concept while signifying the beginning of a fresh chapter with the new team. The press release from SM Entertainment to Herald Pop shed light on the show’s premise and objectives.

Viewers will have the chance to witness the intricate procedures involved in member composition, rigorous training, intensive practice sessions, and, ultimately, the formation of the final team. The show is set to captivate global audiences, as it will be broadcasted on multiple platforms, including ENA and TVING in Korea, Nippon TV in Japan, and KOCOWA+ in North, Central, and South America.

As anticipation builds for NCT Universe: LASTART, fans worldwide eagerly await the unveiling of talented new members who will contribute to the continued success and evolution of the esteemed NCT family.

Featured Photo Credit: NCT Official Twitter Account

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Stray Kids Hailed As New Brand Ambassadors for Brand SLBS

Mobile accessory brand SLBS has chosen Stray Kids as their new brand ambassadors, as Slash B Co., Ltd. announced on June 28. The popular boy group will collaborate with the Galaxy-exclusive accessory company for their upcoming campaign, “STAR to GALAXY.“

SLBS is an esteemed partner of Samsung Electronics’ mobile accessory partnership program, known for its eco-friendly accessory lineup called Eco Friends. Stray Kids will work closely with SLBS to create collaborative accessories that will be available for a range of Samsung devices, including the Galaxy Z-flip series, Z-fold series, S-series, Buzz, Watch, Tablet, and more.

In the News Nate report, Jeong Yong-chae, CEO of Slash B’Slash Co., Ltd. Kids Samsung Gangnam, shares: “We look forward to the synergy between Stray Kids, a global trend group that has taken over the Billboard with K-POP, and SLBS, an innovative and sensuous fashion tech brand.”

To celebrate this partnership, SLBS STUDIO will launch at the end of this month in Samsung Electronics’ flagship store in Gangnam. 

The studio will showcase Stray Kids’ adorable animal characters, known as SKZOO, along with eco-collaboration accessories and a captivating theme experience space—and fans can’t get enough, taking to Twitter to share snippets of the products.

Stray Kids fans can look forward to more updates and exciting developments as the collaboration with SLBS progresses. 

Congratulations, Stray Kids!

Featured Photo Credit: Stray Kids Official Twitter

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JYP Entertainment and Republic Records to Launch Joint K-pop Girl Group Project “A2K”

JYP Entertainment and Republic Records, a renowned American music label, have announced their collaborative project “A2K,” set to debut on JYP’s official YouTube channel starting on July 13. This joint venture aims to create a K-pop girl group under the K-pop idol training system, marking the first collaboration between the two labels.

The project will document the selection process of candidates from various nationalities through auditions held in five major cities across the United States. JYP Entertainment will share clips on YouTube, offering viewers a glimpse into the diverse talents vying for a spot in the group.

After the initial selection, the candidates will undergo a rigorous boot camp in Los Angeles, where they will be evaluated based on four essential qualities of a K-pop star: singing, dancing, entertaining, and displaying an upright character. 

Only those who pass the Los Angeles boot camp evaluation will proceed to the JYP Entertainment headquarters in Seoul.

 

Once in Seoul, the candidates will undergo intensive K-pop idol training and face three different competition rounds. These rounds will determine the final members who will have the opportunity to debut as part of the girl group.

The selected finalists will have the unique opportunity to work in both Korea and the United States, benefiting from the combined expertise and support of JYP Entertainment and Republic Records.

Park Jinyoung, the producer of JYP, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “A2K is the biggest project for JYP and myself. We want to discover true artists and performers who will become leaders in the music industry. Our goal is to provide them with the necessary training and guidance.”

Monte Lipman, CEO of Republic Records, praised Park Jinyoung’s contributions to the music industry and emphasized the potential for global success.

He stated, “Park Jinyoung, a K-pop icon, continues revolutionizing the music industry and popular culture. With JYP’s values and musical expertise, artists discovered through this collaboration can become global superstars in the international music market.”

Fans and music enthusiasts can anticipate an exciting journey as “A2K” unfolds, witnessing the creation of a new K-pop girl group with the combined efforts of JYP Entertainment and Republic Records.

Featured Photo Credit: Popbase Official Twitter

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BTS’ Jungkook Announces Solo Digital Single “SEVEN” For July Release

It’s official: Jungkook is releasing new music next month! The BTS maknae has announced that his new solo digital single SEVEN is set for release in July.

Jungkook Confirms Solo Digital Single “SEVEN” For July Release

On June 30, the official BTS social media accounts shared the announcement teaser for Jungkook’s new track. BIGHIT Music also issued a statement confirming the song’s release date.

“We are pleased to inform you about the release of SEVEN the solo digital single by BTS member Jungkook,” the statement read.

“SEVEN is an invigorating ‘summer song’ that is sure to have you experience the full breadth of Jungkook’s charm,” it continued. “We hope that SEVEN will bring your summer fun to the next level.”

The statement further adds that Jungkook will be promoting his solo digital single.

“As Jungkook kicks off his official solo activities, we ask you to extend your utmost anticipation and support for his digital single and many other activities to come,” it concludes.

It was also revealed that SEVEN will be released on July 14, 2023, at 1 p.m. KST.

This is great news for fans who have been waiting for new music from Jungkook for a long time.

There were previous reports suggesting that the BTS member will release a new album in July. However, BIGHIT Music clarified that the release schedule had not yet been decided. Luckily, it looks like everything was finalized just in time.

The release of the solo digital single comes at an interesting time considering that Jungkook had previously addressed his impending military service enlistment. According to the Dreamers singer, he plans to gradually cut his hair shorter so fans will get used to seeing him with a short hairstyle before announcing his enlistment.

There are speculations that all the remaining BTS members, including Jungkook, will enlist by the end of the year so the group can resume group activities by 2025. However, this has not yet been confirmed by BIGHIT Music. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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