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Former I.O.I Member Lim Na Young Leaves Sublime Artist Agency

Lim Na Young has parted ways with her long-time agency. The former I.O.I member officially departed from Sublime Artist Agency, the company that represented her for four years.

Lim Na Young Ends Contract With Sublime

Sublime Artist Agency confirmed Lim Nayoung’s departure in a statement. “Our exclusive contract with Lim Na Young has come to an end,” the statement read. The company also revealed that there was a discussion about a possible renewal. However, both parties mutually agreed to part ways.

“After sharing a careful conversation with Lim Na Young, we have come to an agreement to end our contract here,” it read.

Sublime further expressed their support for the former PRISTIN singer.

“We would like to express our gratitude to Lim Na-young who has been with us as our company artist and to the fans who have shown her a lot of love. We sincerely support her in her future endeavors as she is about to make a new start,” the statement read.

Lim Nayoung got her start as a participant on the Mnet survival show “Produce 101” where she finished in tenth place. She later debuted as a member of I.O.I in 2016. After I.O.I’s disbandment, Na Young returned to Pledis Entertainment and debuted in the girl group PRISTIN in 2017.

When PRISTIN disbanded in 2019, Lim Nayoung left Pledis and signed with Sublime Artist Agency. Since then, she has led a successful acting career, appearing in shows like “Flower of Evil”, “Summer Guys”, and “Imitation”. Lim Na Young is currently working on the film “4:44 Seconds”.

Sublime Confirms Jinni’s Joint Management

Although Sublime Artist Agency lost a talented artist, the company recently gained a promising one. It was previously reported that former NMIXX member Jinni signed a contract with UAP (United Artist Production). Sublime will carry out management duties through their MOU (Memorandum Of Understanding). 

“We plan to give our unsparing support to UAP artist Jinni’s global activities so that she can fully display her wide array of hidden potential, and we are delighted to be able to work together,” their statement read.

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Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938 Star Kim Bum Reveals Favorite K-Pop Girl Group

Kim Bum admits he listens to K-pop. The “Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938” star just declared his love for a rookie girl group.

Kim Bum Confirms His Love For Popular Rookie Girl Group

Kim Sang-beom recently appeared as a guest on the show “The K-Star Next Door”. His “Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938” co-star Lee Dong Wook also sat for an interview with host Jonathan.

Lee Dong Wook and the host poked fun at Kim Sang-bum for several reasons, including the number of selfies he posts on social media. But when asked about his thoughts on his labelmates, the “Law School” chose to be honest.

Jonathan mentioned that Kim Sang-bum is the first actor to sign with Starship Entertainment through its sub-label KINGKONG by Starship. The host then asked what the “Padam Padam” star thought of Starship Entertainment’s rookie girl group IVE.

“I love IVE so much,” Kim Sang-bum admitted.

IVE debuted in December 2021 with the single EP ‘Eleven’. Since their debut, Gaeul, Yujin, Rei, Wonyoung, Liz and Leeseo have gained popularity with the 2022 single “Love Dive”. The idol group is currently promoting their Japanese single “Wave” without Rei who is on temporary hiatus.

IVE is not the only girl group that Kim Bum listens to. When asked for a song recommendation, he immediately suggested “Rewind” by TWICE.

For his part, Lee Dong Wook admitted he prefers a third-generation girl group. Lee’s song recommendation is “something cute and bright” and he suggested Red Velvet‘s “Sunny Afternoon”.

Kim Bum is not the only Starship Entertainment artist connected with “Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938”. The show’s original soundtrack song “Full Moon” is performed by MONSTA X’s main vocalist Kihyun.

“Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938” is the second season of the wildly successful 2020 series. It follows Lee Dong Wook’s Lee Yeon as he is transported to the year 1938 during the Japanese Occupation of Korea.

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WEi Cancels Latin America Concert Dates of ‘PASSION’ World Tour

WEi will not be performing in Latin America this year. The idol group announced the cancellation of the Latin American leg of their ‘PASSION’ World Tour.

WEi Announces Cancellation of Latin American Leg of ‘PASSION’ World Tour

OUI Entertainment officially announced that WEi will not move forward with the Latin American leg of their ‘PASSION’ world tour. The agency explained that there were issues with local concert promotion company MC Entertainment, forcing the cancellation.

“Please be informed that ‘WEi 2ND WORLD TOUR IN LATIN AMERICA CONCERT’ has been cancelled except for the Mexico City concert scheduled on June 4, 2023,” the statement read.

The agency also shared details about the issues with MC Entertainment.

“We requested visa issuance and other matters that had to be checked in advance to ensure smooth performance,” the statement continued. “Nevertheless, we were told to proceed with the concert without issuing a proper visa and to perform in an open-air venue. Furthermore, some of the notices were not negotiated with OUI Entertainment before uploading.”

“Although we tried to proceed with the performance through continuous consultation, we have judged that it would be difficult to proceed with MC Entertainment for this tour,” it continued.

The list of cancelled tour stops is as follows:

  • MEXICO, MERIDA
  • MEXICO, MONTERREY
  • EL SALVADOR, SAN SALVADOR
  • COSTA RICA, SAN JOSE
  • BOLIVARIAN REPUBLIC OF VENEZUELA, CARACAS
  • PUERTO RICO, CAGUAS

OUI Entertainment also stated that refund requests for the aforementioned concerts should be addressed to MC Entertainment. “We sincerely apologize to fans who have been looking forward to the concert,” the statement concluded.

https://twitter.com/HolaConcierto/status/1657083421158432768

The Latin America leg of the ‘PASSION’ world tour was originally scheduled to begin next month.

WEi is currently preparing for the European and North American leg of their second world tour. Daehyeon, Donghan, Yongha, Yohan, Seokhwa, and Junseo are still set to perform in Mexico City on June 4, 2023.

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VICTON’s Byungchan Signs With New Agency After IST Entertainment Exit

Choi Byungchan signs with a new agency

Byungchan has found a new agency. The VICTON member has signed an exclusive contract with a new company. The “King’s Affection” actor is now the first member to transfer agencies since leaving IST Entertainment last month.

Choi Byung-chan Becomes First VICTON Member To Sign With New Agency

New Way Company confirmed the news about Byungchan. “We recently signed an exclusive contract with Choi Byung-chan,” the agency stated.

“We will be unsparing in our support of Choi Byung-chan,” the statement added. The agency also expressed its intention to allow the artist to “showcase his personal strengths and limitless potential to his heart’s content.”

Byungchan debuted as a member of VICTON in 2016. He made his acting debut in the 2020 high school drama “Live On” and received praise for his three-dimensional acting. Choi Byung-chan’s most recent TV role was in the 2022 romantic comedy “Business Proposal”.

In April 2023, IST Entertainment announced that Byungchan and fellow VICTON members Hanse and Subin decided not to renew their exclusive contracts. The group’s maknae line later confirmed the news in letters posted on their personal Instagram accounts. For his part, Choi Byung-chan expressed his gratitude for fans who supported him since debut.

“From 2016, for seven years, I received such great and happy love,” Byungchan wrote. “After only knowing how to receive love, I also learned from ALICE how to give love. That’s why our time together was so precious and were moments I will never be able to forget. To ALICE, who only gave love over this long period of time, thank you and I love you.”

He also addressed his fellow VICTON members, confirming his support for them in their future endeavors.

“Although we are now walking our own paths, this isn’t a sad farewell,” Byungchan wrote. “To my VICTON members, who will become cooler for their new starts, I will always support you and I love you.”

In related news, VICTON member Han Seung Woo launched solo social media accounts in preparation for solo projects.

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NCT’s Taeyong Confirms Solo Debut Date With ‘SHALALA’ Trailer

Taeyong is preparing for his solo debut. The NCT leader just dropped the trailer for his solo album ‘SHALALA’.

NCT Leader Taeyong Announces Solo Debut Date With Exciting ‘SHALALA’ Trailer

The official NCT Twitter account shared the ‘SHALALA’ trailer which features Taeyong showing off several eye-catching looks. Each look appears to be inspired by NCT’s previous comebacks, which is fitting considering he is the group leader.

It’s an exciting teaser for the highly anticipated album. Fans have speculated about Taeyong making a solo debut for a long time. Luckily, the ‘SHALALA’ trailer officially confirmed it.

The official NCT Twitter account also dropped the ‘SHALALA’ poster. It confirms that Taeyong’s debut EP is coming on June 5, 2023.

Lee Tae-yong started out as a member of the pre-debut group SM Rookies in 2013. In 2016, he debuted as part of NCT’s first subunit NCT U (NCT United) which also included Taeil, Doyoung, Ten, Jaehyun and Mark.

Taeyong is also part of NCT’s second subunit NCT 127. Lee Tae-yong will be the first member of NCT to debut as a solo artist with his own album.

In related news, Lucas recently announced his departure from NCT and the subunit group WayV. SM Entertainment confirmed that Lucas Wong decided to leave both idol groups to pursue a career as a solo artist. Lucas also confirmed the news in a handwritten letter shared on his personal Instagram account, expressing his concern for the NCT and WayV members.

“I sincerely feel sorry for the members, and it is with a heavy heart that I leave behind a long-standing friendship,” Lucas wrote. “It has been nearly 8 years since I first joined the members, and I am deeply grateful for their care and support.”

Lucas has not yet announced his upcoming solo project. In the meantime, Taeyong’s solo EP ‘SHALALA’ is dropping on June 5, 2023.

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BTS’ ‘The Planet’ Dominates Oricon Singles Charts, Spotify Global Chart

BTS is once again dominating the charts with their latest single. ‘The Planet’, the opening theme for the new animated series “BASTIONS”, is taking over the global Oricon and Spotify charts.

BTS Rules Over iTunes, Oricon, and Spotify With ‘BASTIONS’ Opening Theme

Back in April, “BASTIONS” confirmed that BTS will perform the opening theme for the new show. It didn’t take long before fans were anticipating the new track. On May 12, BTS finally dropped ‘The Planet’. The official music video features the characters from the animated series performing a dance cover.

The song was an instant hit. ‘The Planet’ immediately took the No. 1 spot on iTunes Top Songs charts in numerous countries across the globe just hours after its release.

Not surprisingly, the new song has been doing great since its release. BIGHIT MUSIC officially announced that ‘The Planet’ debuted at No. 1 on Oricon’s daily digital singles chart in Japan. Additionally, it debuted at No. 19 on Spotify’s Global Top Songs chart. The “BASTIONS” opening theme reportedly racked up 2,956,589 streams on the platform in just one day.

BTS joins several K-pop acts in the “BASTIONS” soundtrack. The soundtrack includes LE SSERAFIM, Brave Girls, Heize, AleXa, Seo J, Kang Min Seo, and P. Cassady.

BTS Announce New Book

‘The Planet’ is expected to be BTS’ last song featuring all members in the next few years due to Jin and J-Hope’s recent military enlistment. Luckily, fans can still look forward to more content later this year.

It was previously confirmed that BTS is releasing their own book. “Beyond the Story: 10-Year Record of BTS” will be structured as “an oral history of” the group’s story and is written by journalist Kang Myeongseok and the seven members of the group. Anton Hur is responsible for the English translation, in collaboration with Clare Richards and Slin Jung.

‘Bastions’ follows a group of rookie heroes who work to find the villains who are damaging the environment. As they discover the mysterious identity of a hidden villain and protect the earth, the characters will grow into true heroes. The series premiered on May 14, 2023.

Meanwhile, “Beyond the Story: 10-Year Record of BTS” is currently available for pre-order and will be released on July 9, 2023.

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ATEEZ Confirms June Comeback Date With ‘THE WORLD EP.2: OUTLAW’ Teaser

ATEEZ has finally confirmed their comeback date in June. The idol group officially announced the release date for their new album ‘THE WORLD EP.2: OUTLAW’ with an exciting teaser.

ATEEZ Officially Announces New Album ‘THE WORLD EP.2: OUTLAW’

The official ATEEZ Twitter account dropped the teaser which confirms the group’s comeback date. The ‘THE WORLD EP.2: OUTLAW’ teaser labels Hongjoong, Seonghwa, Yunho, Yeosang, San, Mingi, Wooyoung and Jongho as dangerous escaped fugitives.

This is exciting news for fans following reports in April that ATEEZ are preparing for a new album. However, ATINYs themselves found the clues for the group’s June comeback.

ATINYs found the clues during the two encore shows for ATEEZ’s world tour ‘THE FELLOWSHIP: BREAK THE WALL’. Fans took notice of special banners with QR codes posted outside the venue. When ATINYs scanned the code, they discovered a mysterious ‘WANTED’ poster featuring the ATEEZ members.

The ‘WANTED’ poster turned out to be the first teaser for what would be ATEEZ’s June comeback. Needless to say, the group is undoubtedly proud of ATINYs for figuring out their clues.

The comeback is happening at the perfect time as ATEEZ adds new dates to their third world tour. It was previously confirmed that ‘THE FELLOWSHIP: BREAK THE WALL’ will include dates in Taipei, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Singapore, and Manila.

There is little doubt that fans are already excited about the new album but there is also concern for one member’s health. Wooyoung recently announced his temporary hiatus due to an ankle injury.

ATEEZ’s agency KQ Entertainment confirmed that Wooyoung “would need a thorough examination and treatment at a medical institution.” This led to the suspension of Wooyoung’s activities until he recovers. Wooyoung will not participate in ‘THE DANCE DAY LIVE 2023’ and ‘KCON 2023 JAPAN’.

ATEEZ’s new album ‘THE WORLD EP.2: OUTLAW’ will be released on June 16, 2023.

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Mystic Story Producer, IU’s ‘Boo’ Composer Address Plagiarism Claims

People are coming to IU’s defence amidst the recent plagiarism allegations. Mystic Story president Jo Young Chul, who produced IU’s albums, slammed the complaint against the soloist. In addition to that, the composer behind the solo artist’s hit “Boo” defended the song’s composition.

Mystic Story Boss Hits Back At IU Plagiarism Claims

Mystic Story president Jo Young Chul released a statement regarding IU’s recent plagiarism accusations. Jo, who is also a music producer, pointed out that the plagiarism claims have no clear basis.

“While I’ve monitored all the songs that continue to claim plagiarism on YouTube and were recently accused, I was unable to discover any suspicion of plagiarism,” Jo wrote.

“Just because you’ve taken one part of a song and think there’s a song that has a similar melody or chord progression to it does not make that plagiarism. This is not my personal opinion as this is the court precedent,” Jo added. “The parts of the songs being accused do not even have the same melody or chord progression.”

Jo Young Chul added that “the copyright dispute is basically an issue between copyright holders.”

“I question whether a third party has the right to make accusations, and they must be held legally responsible if this is [an attempt of] malicious defamation,” he stated.

‘Boo’ Composer Explains How IU Was The Only Inspiration For His Song

The Mystic Story president is not the only one defending IU. Han Sang Won is the composer behind the hit “Boo”. He explained in an Instagram post how IU herself inspired the song.

“After seeing IU, who was a young student at the time, I thought of ‘a dance track about a bright and cute love story.’ I first created the key lyric ‘You’re my boo,’ inspired by the word ‘boo,’ and the hook’s ‘image melody,’ and then made the song by implementing the arrangement method and common beat of “’80s female dance-pop,'” Han wrote.

Han further pointed out that the melody in “Boo” was “borrowed” from another IU track.

“The melody of the chorus lyric ‘You’re my boo’ is borrowed from IU’s other song ‘Merry Christmas Ahead,’” Han wrote.

“I believe this is the biggest reason why this song received so much love, to the point where this part was left and remade into a rap song by Geeks,” he added.

Han Song Won went on to explain the influences of the song and then challenged the complainant.

“What was the intention of the person who accused IU when I, the composer of ‘boo,’ am right here?” he wrote. “I am ready whenever to discuss with ‘the composer who wrote the song’ who claims plagiarism regarding my song, so if you are that song’s ‘composer,’ please contact me.”

Korean Citizen Files Plagiarism Complaint Against IU

On May 10, a Korean citizen filed a lawsuit alleging that IU plagiarized the works of other artists. The suit claimed that the “Blueming” singer had plagiarized a total of six songs. Since then, IU’s agency EDAM Entertainment has denied the allegations and the company is planning to pursue legal action.

Songwriter Lee Min Soo, who wrote “The Red Shoes” and “Good Day”, explained that he didn’t reference other songs. “BBIBBI” composer Lee Jong Hoon also pointed out that the artists of the plagiarized songs are the only ones who can make plagiarism allegations.

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LE SSERAFIM’s Yunjin Misses Group Fansign Due to Death in the Family

The reason behind Huh Yunjin’s sudden absence at a LE SSERAFIM fan signing has been revealed. It has been confirmed that Yunjin could not attend the event due to a personal tragedy.

LE SSERAFIM Agency Explains Huh Yunjin’s Absence At Recent Fan Signing Event

LE SSERAFIM held a fan signing event on May 12 but only four members were present. Fans were quick to note that Huh Yunjin was not in attendance. However, the reason for her absence was not immediately revealed.

SOURCE MUSIC finally shared an update on Weverse. A new update on LE SSERAFIM’s fan community extended condolences to Huh Yunjin’s family.

“We regret to inform you that LE SSERAFIM member Huh Yunjin will be unable to attend today’s scheduled fan signing event due to the recent passing of a family member,” it read.

“We ask for your kind understanding and support as Yunjin takes this time to grieve with her loved ones,” the statement continued. “Our heartfelt condolences go out to Yunjin and her family.”

It’s unfortunate that Huh Yunjin’s family experienced a tragedy. FEARNOTs immediately extended their condolences to the LE SSERAFIM vocalist in the fan community.

LE SSERAFIM recently celebrated their first anniversary since debut and the members reflected on the year that has passed. In the special film “2023 We’re LE SSERAFIM”, the idols shared encouraging messages to their younger selves.

For her part, Yunjin chose to encourage her former self to never give up. “If you believe in yourself and put in all the effort, you’ll achieve your dream,” she said.

She then became emotional as she reflected on the love and support she had received since the group’s debut. “I’m receiving even more love and support than I had expected,” she admitted. “LE SERRAFIM and FEARNOTs are precious to me.”

LE SSERAFIM is currently promoting their first full album “UNFORGIVEN” which was released on May 1, 2022.

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BTS’s Book—Which is Still on Pre-Order—Tops Best Seller Lists on Amazon and Barnes & Noble

BTS sends off JHope for enlistment in their latest photo on Twitter.

Even while on hiatus, global K-pop sensation BTS is raking in top spots and world records.

Even days before the announcement of BTS’s book, “Beyond The Story: 10-Year Record of BTS,” it has already claimed the top spot in Amazon and Barnes & Noble. The interesting part? It is yet to be released on July 9, 2023—just in time for the BTS ARMY’s 10th anniversary.

BTS’s book on this Amazon listing doesn’t have a cover image yet as of today, but it’s already a best seller—as expected from the beloved Bangtan Boys and the equally extraordinary BTS ARMY. As of posting, you can still buy BTS’s book on Amazon. Photo: Screengrab from Amazon.

Bangtan Boys RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook are set to unveil the highly anticipated BTS book a month after their own 10th debut anniversary. Published by Big Hit Music in South Korea and Flatiron Books in the United States, this compelling oral history offers fans an intimate glimpse into BTS’s remarkable trajectory.

The release of “Beyond The Story: 10-Year Record of BTS” has sparked immense excitement among BTS enthusiasts worldwide. This book provides an honest and introspective account of BTS’s transformative journey over the past decade, shedding light on their personal growth, artistic endeavors, and the profound impact they have made on the music industry.

What you’ll see when you book when you buy BTS’s book online at Barnes & Noble now. Like Amazon, it’s also still available for pre-order. Photo: Screengrab from Barnes & Noble.

Authored by renowned journalist Myeongseok Kang in collaboration with the BTS members themselves, “Beyond The Story: 10-Year Record of BTS” offers a poignant and intimate exploration and of their evolution as artists and individuals. Through candid narratives and vivid recollections, BTS opens up about their triumphs, challenges, and the inspiration behind their chart-topping hits.

Through vivid storytelling and candid revelations, BTS invites readers into their world, sharing the inspirations behind their chart-topping hits and offering glimpses of the personal journeys that have defined their unique bond with the BTS ARMY. With authenticity at its core, this book paints a rich and heartfelt portrait of their 10-year journey, celebrating their accomplishments and the indelible mark they have left not just in the music industry, but in the (purple) hearts of millions as well.

This is not the first time Myeongseok Kang has interviewed BTS. In 2021, WeVerse Magazine published individual articles for each member.

As of posting, you can still buy BTS’s book on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

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Featured image: BTS sends off J-Hope for enlistment in their latest photo on Twitter. Photo: @BTS_twt/Twitter.
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