Category: KPOP NEWS

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‘Peak Time’ Winner Vanner Confirms Augsut Comeback

VANNER poses during the PEAK TIME encore concert in Seoul. Credit: Twitter/VANNER

K-pop boy group  VANNER is set to make a comeback, four months after winning the JTBC audition competition show PEAK TIME. 

On Tuesday, August 1, VANNER released a teaser image of a flag with their logo. It also revealed that their first mini-album will be called Veni Vidi Vici, which is a Latin phrase for “I came, I saw, I conquered.” 

Additional details about the album have yet to be released, but Veni Vidi Vici will be out on August 21. 

 

What is PEAK TIME? 

Composed of Taehwan, Gon, Hyeseong, Sunggook, and Yeonggwang, VANNER competed on the show PEAK TIME as Team 11:00.

The group, which made their debut in 2019, was known for working part-time jobs while pursuing their dreams as an idol group. 

 

PEAK TIME is a competition show wherein already-debuted but lesser-known boy groups or members compete for a bigger platform. A total of 24 teams competed. 

The show ran from February to April, with VANNER being hailed as the winner.

It was hosted by Lee Seunggi, and had Super Junior’s Kyuhyun, Jay Park, Tiffany Young as some of its judges. 

As a result of finishing first place, VANNER’s prize was getting an album produced and promoted. 

Additionally, VANNER, together with the other PEAK TIME teams who made it to the top six, BAE173, DKB, M.O.N.T, SEVENTUS, and TEAM 24:00, held a concert tour. 

The top six teams also released a special concert single titled “Your Time.”

More about VANNER

After winning PEAK TIME, VANNER signed a three-year contract with Klap Entertainment.

The agency shared that they will be in charge of the group’s album production, promotions, and management duties. 

Currently, the group is starring in their reality program Picnic Time. It is a spin-off program of PEAK TIME, and will see VANNER in their real-life travel vlogs. 

Featured image: VANNER poses during the PEAK TIME encore concert in Seoul. Credit: Twitter/VANNER

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Here Are the Members of SM Entertainment’s New Boy Group Riiize

SM Entertainment introduces the members for their new boy group RIIZE. Credits: Instagram/RIIZE

This is not a drill: SM Entertainment has finally introduced the members of their highly-anticipated new boy group RIIZE! 

The agency launched the group’s official Instagram account on Tuesday, August 1, wherein they introduced the official seven members of RIIZE. 

 

RIIZE is composed of Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Won Bin, Seung Han, So Hee, and Anton. 

Based on the member profiles posted, Shotaro and Eunseok are both 22 years old, Sunchan and Won Bin are 21, while Seung Han, So Hee and Anton are all 19.

Shotaro and Sungchan were former NCT members who were removed from the group in May.

SM Entertainment’s CEO Jang Cheol-hyuk explained that the two, together with SMROOKIES Eunseok and Seunghan will be part of a new boy group instead. 

RIIZE will be SM Entertainment’s first boy group in seven years following NCT. The agency’s latest group to debut was the female act aespa. 

What we know about RIIZE so far

According to SM Entertainment, RIIZE is a combination of the words “rise” and “realize.” 

The group is aiming for a September debut, but there’s no final details yet. The agency also said that RIIZE is currently wrapping up the filming of their music video. 

Additionally, SM Entertainment earlier revealed that the group’s musical genre will be “emotional pop.” They also teased that RIIZE will write “a new chapter of music history.” 

Meanwhile, other photos and information for RIIZE and its members will be unveiled on August 4. 

Known as one of the leading K-pop agencies, SM Entertainment is also home to acts such as TVXQ, Super Junior, SNSD, SHINee, EXO, and Red Velvet. 

Currently, the label will also form the last unit of NCT through the talent competition series NCT Universe: LASTART. 

Featured image: SM Entertainment introduces the members for their new boy group RIIZE. Credits: Instagram/RIIZE

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How to Deal With Adversity, According to BTS’ Jungkook and SEVENTEEN’s Mingyu

In the face of adversity, the path forward may appear daunting. However, K-pop stars Jungkook of BTS and Mingyu of SEVENTEEN recently shared their strategies for dealing with such challenges, offering fans a beacon of hope.

As any ARMY worth their salt knows, Jungkook does live broadcasts on Weverse more often these days. During a recent broadcast, he read a comment from a fan who was finding university life hard. The fan indicated they felt like giving up, so they turned to their bias for advice.

Jungkook was only too happy to help. He said, “Do you want to cry and give up? What should you do… There are a lot of hard things in this world, right? I think there are many difficulties in life. But I don’t want to say ‘everything in life is difficult’ or ‘work hard.’ I just hope you like attending college. I don’t think I can give you a solution, but I hope you, yourself, can decide well for yourself. I hope ARMYs won’t have a hard time. But to not have a hard time, you’d need to put in the effort yourself, right?”

This advice, while simple, is so profound. Jungkook acknowledged the fan’s situation but didn’t offer clichéd advice. Instead, he encouraged them to try and find joy in their journey, emphasizing the importance of personal effort in overcoming adversity. His words serve as a reminder that it’s OK to struggle and that finding personal satisfaction in what we do can make the journey easier.

Mingyu on the power of perseverance

Similarly, when asked about how he handles stressful situations, Mingyu shared that perseverance is key. At least as far as he’s concerned, anyway. During a recent online fansign, a CARAT asked him for advice. He said, “Honestly, I don’t try to tell myself I have to do extremely well, but I also don’t give up. I try to hold out.”

His strategy is to do whatever it takes to weather the storm, which is a testament to his resilience. Mingyu’s words underscore the importance of patience and persistence. He believes there’s nothing wrong with not being perfect or not doing well. Sometimes, the best thing we can do is to keep going even when things are tough. His advice resonates with fans worldwide, as does Jungkook’s, offering a beacon of hope to those who need it.

‘97-liners, best buds for life

Beyond their individual success, Jungkook and Mingyu share a deep, longstanding friendship. Part of the renowned ’97-line squad, they’ve been friends since their debut, their bond strengthening over the years. Their camaraderie was recently on display when Mingyu made a surprise appearance on a late-night live broadcast with Jungkook, a moment that sent fans into a frenzy of excitement.

Their friendship goes beyond casual hangouts. They’ve collaborated on dance challenges, their most recent video going viral and trending for several days. Jungkook even invited Mingyu to learn the choreography for his solo single, “Seven,” and film a dance challenge with him, much to the delight of their fans. In an industry characterized by competition, their friendship is a breath of fresh air. It’s a bond fans admire and look forward to seeing more of in the future. – K-Pop News Writer


Featured Image: Jungkook and Mingyu are as thick as thieves. They hang out when their schedules allow. Source: Twitter/@YayyConnaayyee.

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Why the Thought of Lollapalooza 2022 Makes TXT’s Soobin Emotional

In a surprising revelation, Choi Soobin, the leader of the K-pop group TOMORROW X TOGETHER, shared his emotional journey during their historic performance at the 2022 Lollapalooza in Chicago. This performance marked the first time a K-pop group had graced the Lollapalooza stage, making it a significant milestone for the whole industry.

TXT Live at Lollapalooza 2022 (Full Performance)

While the performance was a success, Soobin‘s experience was not as joyous as one might expect. In the Disney+ documentary, TOMORROW X TOGETHER: Our Lost Summer, Soobin confessed to feeling isolated and unsatisfied with his performance. Contrary to his members who described the day as their happiest since their debut, Soobin admitted to crying in his hotel room after the show.

Soobin‘s candid confession has shed light on the pressures and expectations that come with being a performer. He expressed how hard it was for him to let go and enjoy himself on stage, especially when there were no dance moves to guide him. He felt awkward and isolated, unable to meet his own high standards.

Despite these feelings, Soobin remained dedicated to his fans. He expressed his desire to earn the love and support of the fans through his performances. Even when he felt he wasn’t receiving the response he hoped for, Soobin continued to give his all in every performance. His commitment to his fans was evidenced by his promise to always work hard. He saw that as the best way to express his love for them and repay them for their support.

Soobin received support from fans

Soobin’s admission elicited an outpouring of support from TXT’s fans, known as MOA, aka Moments of Alwaysness. Not only did they commend him for his honesty and vulnerability, but they also told him they would stand by his side no matter what. Soobin’s confession deepened his relationship with his fans and highlighted the human side of being a K-pop idol.

In the face of these revelations, TXT is set to return to Lollapalooza in Chicago, this time as the first K-pop group to headline the American music festival on August 5. As fans eagerly await their return, they carry with them a deeper understanding and appreciation of the emotional journey that Soobin goes through behind the scenes. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Soobin normally puts on a brave face for the fans, but sometimes he can’t help but get emotional. Source: Twitter/@csbpics.

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Jo Yuri Drops Concept Photos for Mini Album, Comeback Single “Taxi”

K-pop star Jo Yuri—who rose to fame as IZ*ONE’s big-voiced main vocalist—is building anticipation for her second mini album LOVE ALL. She’s been dropping one set of concept photos after another on social media. The latest image, featuring a silhouette atop a yellow car against a yellow backdrop, is just one of the many intriguing visuals she has released.

Check out the first set of concept photos she posted. As you can see, she’s wearing two different dresses. She even donned a pair of angel wings in one of the photos.

Next, she unveiled a set of lovely, dreamy concept photos. These images showed her clad in a furry coat and surrounded by flowers, creating an intimate and warm atmosphere.

In addition to these, Jo Yuri also released concept photos featuring pink and blue themes. In these images, she is seen lounging amidst pink posters and donning a fluffy blue dress, further adding to the diverse visual narrative of LOVE ALL.

Jo Yuri and the Metaverse

The NFT store hellobot worked with her to release these concept photos. They’re part of a larger campaign to engage fans. The fact that Jo Yuri is working with hellobot indicates a shift towards integrating more metaverse content into her future promotions. This is a trend that many artists are embracing, and it’s exciting to see Jo Yuri at the forefront of this movement.

The release of these concept photos is part of a broader strategy to generate excitement for her upcoming album. Jo Yuri has been steadily releasing teasers and concept photos, each one offering a new glimpse into the themes and aesthetics of ‘LOVE ALL’.

Jo Yuri is setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting release. With her creative concept photos and innovative use of metaverse content, she’s not just promoting an album—she’s creating a whole experience. To her credit, it’s working. Fans are eagerly anticipating the release of LOVE ALL, which is set to drop on August 9 at 6:00 PM KST. The anticipation is palpable, and these latest concept photos only add to the excitement.

Her acting work

Aside from her new music, Jo Yuri is also gearing up for Squid Game 2. Released in 2021, the first season, quickly became a global sensation. When word got out that she had been cast in season two, videos showcasing her acting prowess began circulating on social media. 

Last year, Jo Yuri made a cameo appearance as a high school student in Work Later, Drink Now 2. While her time there was brief, she impressed viewers with her delicate emotional expressions. 

In May, Jo Yuri caught attention when she imitated the facial expressions of Park Yeon Jin from The Glory. Her acting ability impressed the netizens who watched her.

Consequently, expectations are soaring regarding her new projects. If you stan her, buckle up. The next few months will be an exciting ride for you. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This is her most intriguing teaser so far. Source: Twitter/@JOYURI_offcl.

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Looking Back on the LE SSERAFIM Pop-Up: Weverse Magazine’s Retrospective

Weverse Magazine recently provided an insightful look into the standalone pop-up store of the girl group LE SSERAFIM. The store was more than a retail outlet. It was a physical embodiment of the group’s music, message, and brand.

Located in the trendy Seongsu-dong neighborhood of Seoul, the pop-up store was open from April 26 to May 7, 2023. Weverse Magazine highlighted the store’s popularity, noting it attracted over 16,000 visitors during its two-week run. The store had a wide array of official merchandise, giving fans a tangible connection to the group.

Weverse Magazine’s feature included an interview with the group’s creative director, Nu Kim. He explained the purpose of the pop-up store. “With LE SSERAFIM‘s growing influence, we wanted to create a sensory experience that encapsulates the wholesome lifestyle they promote,” he explained.

LE SSERAFIM in 2023 S/S POP UP✨ l 핌둥이들이랑 팝업 스토어 구경할 피어나 모여라~🌸

Weverse Magazine focused on the merch

The magazine’s coverage emphasized the store’s immersive aspect. Upon entering, fans were drawn into the world of LE SSERAFIM‘s first studio album, UNFORGIVEN. The pop-up store’s interiors were a visual representation of the album’s themes, with props from the group’s music videos and a two-story inflatable sculpture, Wing, taking center stage.

Weverse Magazine also focused on the merchandise, carefully curated to reflect LE SSERAFIM‘s identity. “LE SSERAFIM is a fearless, progressive group, and athleisure wear”— a style of athletic clothing typically worn as everyday wear—“was a perfect choice to capture that dynamic image,” Kim said.

The pop-up store’s unique culinary experience was another highlight of Weverse Magazine’s piece. In collaboration with a famous dessert shop, the group created a selection of gateaux. Each one was named by the LE SSERAFIM members themselves. (For the uninitiated, there are five girls in the group: Chaewon, Eunchae, Kazuha, Sakura, and Yunjin.) The desserts were designed to reflect their image, with chic, sophisticated exteriors and bright, colorful insides.

2023 LE SSERAFIM POP UP STORE TOUR • 르세라핌 팝업 못 오는 외국인들을 위한 영상

Redefining the pop-up store concept

Weverse Magazine’s coverage underscored that the pop-up store was more than just a retail space; it was a platform for LE SSERAFIM to connect with their fans on a deeper level. It allowed visitors to experience firsthand the group’s message and attitude of fearlessness.

Looking back, the pop-up store was a testament to LE SSERAFIM‘s influence and the power of the group’s message. Weverse Magazine concluded that the group’s ideals could probably go way beyond music, permeating nearly every aspect of someone’s life. As Kim said, “We hope LE SSERAFIM will be a positive influence on people’s whole lifestyles, even beyond their music and performances.”

Weverse Magazine’s piece on LE SSERAFIM‘s pop-up store was a comprehensive exploration of an innovative and immersive experience that brought the group’s music, message, and brand to life. It served as a reminder of music’s power to influence and inspire, and it set a new standard for what a pop-up store can and should be. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Since the girls are going on tour soon, it’d be cool if they took the pop-up along to different countries! Source: Twitter/@weverseofficial.

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Zerobaseone’s Agency Takes Legal Action Against Threat to Members

ZEROBASEONE releases first mini-album 'Youth In the Shade.' Credit: Facebook/ZEROBASEONE

WAKEONE Entertainment has commenced legal proceedings against individuals who post threatening messages to members of K-pop rookie boy group ZEROBASEONE. 

In a statement released on Saturday, July 29, the agency revealed that they had filed criminal charges against several individuals who threatened the personal security of the ZEROBASEONE members by posting malicious posts online. 

The label shared that they filed a criminal complaint on July 27 through the law firm SHIN&KIM against these online users as they have violated the Act on Promotion of Information and Communications Network Utilization and Information Protection. 

However, WAKEONE Entertainment stressed that they won’t stop in just filing a case as they will actively monitor, report, and delete harmful posts about their artists. 

The agency emphasized that they will use “all available measures” to respond to any words or actions that can cause fear, anxiety, or harm to their artists. 

“We plan to respond firmly, without any settlements or leniency towards the suspects in question,” they declared. 

Additionally, WAKEONE Entertainment encouraged fans and the public to continue sending reports to their official email address about any instance that poses a threat to ZEROBASEONE’s welfare. 

The agency also assured the group’s fans that they will do their best to protect their artists moving forward. 

A rising rookie group

ZEROBASEONE or ZB1 is composed of Sung Han-bin, Kim Ji-woong, Zhang Hao, Seok Matthew, Kim Tae-rae, Ricky, Kim Gyu-vin, Park Gun-wook, and Han Yu-jin. 

The nine-member group made their debut on July 10 with the release of their mini-album YOUTH IN THE SHADE. 

 

Meanwhile, YOUTH IN THE SHADE set the record for being the best-selling debut album in K-pop history after selling over 1,240,700 copies in just 24 hours of sales. 

Formed via Boys Planet, ZB1 is a project group that will promote under WakeOne Entertainment, a CJ ENM subsidiary, for around two and a half years. 

Boys Planet, which premiered in February and ran for 12 weeks, served as the sequel to the 2021 reality competition Girls Planet 999. Said series formed the girl group KEP1ER. 

Featured image: ZEROBASEONE releases first mini-album ‘Youth In the Shade.’ Credit: Facebook/ZEROBASEONE

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ENHYPEN Drops Their Webtoon’s New Song, “Criminal Love”

ENHYPEN, the South Korean boy band that has been taking the world by storm, has just released a new song, “Criminal Love,” for their supernatural-themed webtoon, Dark Moon: The Blood Altar. With its haunting melody and evocative lyrics, it suits the dark and mysterious atmosphere of the webtoon.

CRIMINAL LOVE

ENHYPEN released “Criminal Love” on July 31, under the BELIFT LAB label. Fernstream produced the song. He worked on the lyrics with talented songwriters Anton Eriksson, danke (lalala studio), Joseph Feinstein, Kang Eun Jeong, Kim In Hyung (Jam Factory), and Yi Yi Jin. All seven ENHYPEN members (Heeseung, Jake, Jay, Jungwon, Ni-Ki, Sunghoon, and Sunoo) lend their unique vocal colors to the song, creating a distinct and harmonious blend that characterizes ENHYPEN’s sound.

ENGENEs met the release of the song with much enthusiasm. “Criminal Love” not only became a hit in South Korea, but it also gained international acclaim. As of this writing, it topped iTunes charts in the Philippines, the UK, Ukraine, and the United Arab Emirates. It made the top five in Thailand and cracked the top 20 in Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, and Poland.

DARK MOON: THE BLOOD ALTAR | ENHYPEN (엔하이픈) ‘CRIMINAL LOVE’ Shooting Sketch

The song’s popularity extends even further. It cracked the top 50 in Mexico and Russia, and the top 100 in Singapore and India. Even in Vietnam, where K-pop has a growing fanbase, the song made it into the top 200.

The live debut of “Criminal Love”

Adding to the excitement surrounding “Criminal Love,” ENHYPEN performed the song live at their concerts at the KSPO Dome in Seoul. Those shows marked the beginning of their FATE World Tour. The live performance allowed fans to experience the song in a whole new way. It added the kind of depth and emotion that only a live rendition can provide.

Moreover, fans have been encouraged to listen to “Criminal Love” while reading Episode 60 of the Dark Moon: The Blood Altar webtoon. This immersive experience allows fans to fully engage with the story and the song. That enhances their appreciation and understanding of both.

This isn’t the first time ENHYPEN ventured into creating music for their webtoon. They previously did “One In A Billion,” another song for Dark Moon: The Blood Altar, which was well-received by critics and fans alike. The success of “One In A Billion” and now “Criminal Love” demonstrates the group’s ability to create music that not only stands on its own but also enhances the storytelling of their webtoon.

This song’s release is a significant milestone for ENHYPEN. It showcases their musical prowess and their ability to connect with fans through various mediums. As the track becomes more popular, it’s clear that ENHYPEN‘s approach to music and storytelling is resonating with audiences worldwide. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The septet did a special photoshoot for “Criminal Love” and their webtoon. Source: Twitter/@DARKMOON_HYBE.

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ZEROBASEONE’s Kim Taerae Shows Off His Vocals on “King of Masked Singer”

In a recent episode, The King of Masked Singer unveiled a surprise that left viewers thrilled. The contestant who went by the alias Snow Flower Shaved Ice turned out to be the main vocalist of a project group formed on a survival show.

The episode introduced eight contestants, all eager to unseat the reigning champion. Snow Flower Shaved Ice and Parfait battled it out during the third match-up of Round 1. Their duet rendition of Park Joonghoon’s “Rain and You” mesmerized the audience and panelists. 

[C.C.] KIM TAERAE of ZEROBASEONE seduces the judges by his warm voice #KIMTAERAE #ZB1

Soloist Sandara Park lauded their performance, saying she liked Snow Flower Shaved Ice’s “boyish voice.” EXO’s Kai described his tone as “fresh and charming.” Singer Lim Hanbyul said Snow Flower Shaved Ice reminded him of a young Park Hyoshin, but noted that his stage presence was still a bit awkward.

Veteran singer Yoo Youngseok expressed surprise at the warmth of his voice, given his “cold alias.” He found Snow Flower Shaved Ice’s voice comforting and eagerly anticipated the revelation of his identity. All in all, their praise underscored Snow Flower Shaved Ice’s potential in the music scene, with his unique vocal tone marking him as a promising new talent.

“Snow Flower Shaved Ice” is ZEROBASEONE’s Kim Taerae

Despite the panelists’ compliments, Snow Flower Shaved Ice didn’t win the round. Undeterred, he stayed on stage to sing a heartfelt rendition of Lee Seokhoon’s “10 Reasons I Love You.” Halfway through the song, he unmasked himself. Snow Flower Shaved Ice turned out to be Kim Taerae, the main vocalist of the Boys Planet project group ZEROBASEONE. To say the audience was delighted to see him would be an understatement.

Everyone in the studio—not to mention those watching at home—couldn’t believe it was him. At the time that episode was taped, ZEROBASEONE had only been active for two days. (They debuted on July 10 with the mini album YOUTH IN THE SHADE and title track “In Bloom.”)

In a conversation with the variety show’s host, Taerae admitted to being nervous about his solo performance. He also revealed that his members joked, “If you get eliminated in the first round, go back to being a trainee.”

“It’s my first solo variety show appearance after debut, so I wanted to get off to a good start,” he said. “I appeared on this program because I wanted people who don’t know us yet to think, ‘Oh, this team sings well.’”

What’s next for Taerae

When asked what he wants to do next, Taerae said he wanted to win Best New Artist awards, a goal shared by the rest of ZEROBASEONE. After all, you can only win those awards once, when you’re a rookie.

Lim Hanbyul, a vocal master on Boys Planet, revealed that he recognized Taerae’s voice instantly. This emphasized his unique singing style and his potential in the music industry. This episode of The King of Mask Singer is a testament to the show’s commitment to providing a platform for talented vocalists to shine, regardless of where they are in their journey. – K-Pop Life

Featured Image: When Taerae tweeted this selca, a fan said, “Why are you so hot all of a sudden?” Source: Twitter/@ZB1_official.

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Twice’s Jihyo Drops Tracklist for Solo Debut Album ‘Zone’

TWICE Jihyo poses for their 'READY TO BE' filming. Credit: Facebook/TWICE

Jihyo of K-pop girl group TWICE unveiled on Sunday, July 30, the full tracklist for her upcoming solo debut mini-album ZONE — and ONCEs are already looking forward to all her songs. 

According to the list, the album contains a total of seven songs, with “Killin’ Me Good” as the title track.

ZONE will also feature a collaboration between Jihyo and American singer 24kGoldn for the song “Talkin’ About It” and a duet with Korean soloist Heize for the song “Don’t Wanna Go Back.”

Other songs include “Closer,” “Wishing On You,” “Room,” and “Nightmare.” In fact, “Nightmare” is already a song familiar to ONCEs as it is already Jihyo’s solo stage for TWICE’s fifth world tour READY TO BE. 

But what really excited ONCEs is seeing the credits in the track list. According to the list, Jihyo helped in penning the lyrics in five out of the seven tracks in the album. She is also credited as a composer in four songs in the album. 

 

Jihyo has also released audio snippets for her songs in ZONE, which heightens the anticipation of the fans for the album’s release. 

 

ZONE will be available on August 18. 

Park Jihyo will be the second member of TWICE to make her debut as a solo artist. In June 2022, Nayeon released her first solo EP Im Nayeon.

TWICE’s Japanese members Momo, Mina, and Sana also made their sub-unit debut in July with the Japanese mini-album Masterpiece.

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 Jihyo poses for their ‘READY TO BE’ filming. Credit: TWICE’s Facebook page

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