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SHINee Returns as the “Princes of K-pop” with Highly Anticipated Comeback Track “Hard”

After a hiatus of over two years, South Korean boy band SHINee, widely recognized as the “Princes of K-pop,” has made a triumphant comeback.

Fans can rejoice and declare, “SHINee’s back,” reminiscent of the iconic phrase from their 2012 hit “Sherlock (Clue + Note),” as the four-member group released their eighth full album titled “Hard“ along with the music video for the lead single of the same name.

The single “Hard“ is described as a “hybrid hip-hop track,” showcasing SHINee’s versatility and evolving musical style. Accompanying the single, the album features a total of 10 songs, including the anthemic pre-release track “The Feeling” unveiled on June 9.

Prior to the album release, SHINee held a series of concerts titled “SHINee World VI: Perfect Illumination” in Seoul over the weekend. However, due to health issues, leader Onew was unable to perform, with Key, Minho, and Taemin taking the stage.

This comeback marks SHINee’s first new music in over two years, following their April 2021 repackage album “Atlantis,” which was an extension of their seventh full album, “Don’t Call Me.”

During the hiatus, Taemin fulfilled his mandatory military service, making him the final member to complete his enlistment while his fellow bandmates pursued solo endeavors.

Managed by SM Entertainment, the boyband made their debut in May 2008 with the extended play “Replay.” Although originally a five-member group, the untimely passing of vocalist Jonghyun in December 2017 deeply impacted the group and their dedicated fan base.

Renowned for their experimental electro-pop sound and captivating stage performances,  they once again demonstrate their musical prowess and solidify their status as one of the most respected groups in the genre.

Stream the new track here:

Featured photo from NME

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS Jimin Dominates Individual Kpop Idol Brand Rankings

The Korea Corporate Reputation Research has unveiled the latest brand reputation rankings for individual K-pop idols—and K-pop stans are buzzing with delight and happiness for their respective idols.

Holding the top spot, BTS member Jimin solidifies his position as the most popular male K-pop idol brand, according to the Korea Corporate Reputation Research.

 

With a collection of 1,590 personal K-pop idol brand data between May 22 and June 22, 2023, the institute scrutinized its brand reputation.

There was a notable increase of 34.51 percent in data points compared to April, growing from 47,897,433 to 64,428,614. 

The rankings for June were determined using the most recent data points, considering factors such as consumer participation, media coverage, communication, and community indexes.

 

This month’s top 5 popular K-pop idols in South Korea include BTS members Jimin and Jungkook, BLACKPINK’s Jisoo, BTS’s RM, and BLACKPINK’s Jennie.

The Top 5 Most Popular Individual Kpop Idols

BTS Jimin maintains his position as the top K-pop idol with a brand value 5,590,865 this month. His brand value has grown significantly by 18.20 percent since April.

 

 

Keyword analysis revealed that the most associated phrases with BTS Jimin were “10th anniversary,” “face,” and “ARMY.” In link analysis, “record,” “happy,” and “release” were the most popular related terms. 

Moreover, BTS Jimin received an impressive positive rating of 93.57 percent in the positivity/negativity analysis.

BTS Jungkook secures the second spot on the list, experiencing a remarkable increase in brand value of 124.07 percent, soaring from 1,799,263 in April to 4,031,592 in June.

On the other hand, BLACKPINK’s Jisoo drops to the third spot, with a brand value of 3,508,791, experiencing a decline of 18.84 percent from April’s 4,323,294.

In fourth place is BTS RM, whose brand reputation skyrocketed by an astounding 227.04 percent, surging from 910,804 in April to 2,978,648 in June.

Rounding up the top five for this month is BLACKPINK’s Jennie. The rapper saw her brand value increase by 41.99 percent, from 1,984,611 in April to 2,818,026 in June.

Who Else is On the List?

The Korea Corporate Reputation Research Institute, under the leadership of Director Koo Chang-hwan, is dedicated to measuring and disclosing the brand reputation index of domestic brands.

Here’s an extensive list of the top K-pop personalities based on the research results:

  1. BTS Jimin
  2. BTS Jungkook
  3. BLACKPINK Jisoo
  4. BTS RM
  5. BLACKPINK Jennie
  6. BTS V
  7. NewJeans Danielle
  8. BIGBANG G-Dragon
  9. ASTRO Cha Eun Woo
  10. BLACKPINK Lisa
  11. Wanna One Kang Daniel
  12. BTS Jin
  13. NewJeans Minji
  14. BLACKPINK Rosé
  15. SEVENTEEN Jun
  16. aespa Karina
  17. NewJeans Hyein
  18. BTS Suga
  19. IVE An YuJIn
  20. Girls’ Generation YoonA
  21. Red Velvet Seulgi
  22. Oh My Girl Mimi
  23. IVE Rei
  24. NewJeans Hanni
  25. aespa Winter
  26. NewJeans Haerin
  27. TWICE Nayeon
  28. BTS J-Hope
  29. Wanna One Park Ji Hoon
  30. SHINee Onew
  31. aespa Giselle
  32. IVE Jang Won Young
  33. TWICE Mina
  34. Red Velvet Joy
  35. LE SSERAFIM Kim Chaewon
  36. LE SSERAFIM Kazuha
  37. SEVENTEEN Seungkwan
  38. SEVENTEEN Mingyu
  39. SEVENTEEN Jeonghan
  40. aespa Ning Ning
  41. Girls’ Generation Yuri
  42. BIGBANG Taeyang
  43. SHINee Minho
  44. LE SSERAFIM Huh Yunjin
  45. SEVENTEEN Wonwoo
  46. EXO Suho
  47. SHINee Taemin
  48. Girls’ Generation Seohyun
  49. SHINee Key
  50. SEVENTEEN Hoshi

Check out the rest of the list on the Brand Reputation Index.

 

Featured photo from Wikimedia Commons

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BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS Jungkook’s “Dreamers” Sets New Records: Fastest K-Pop Soloist OST to Surpass 300 Million Spotify Streams

Following BIGHIT MUSIC’s announcement of Jungkook’s solo career, the multi-talented member of BTS continues to leave an indelible mark on the music industry. His solo track, “Dreamers,” has become a K-pop soloist’s fastest original soundtrack (OST) to reach 300 million streams on Spotify.

 

“Dreamers” has not only claimed this remarkable feat but also holds the title as the fastest FIFA World Cup soundtrack and the fastest solo song by a Korean soloist to achieve such a milestone.

The enchanting melody and Jungkook’s heartfelt vocals have captivated fans and listeners worldwide. As the official soundtrack for the FIFA World Cup 2022, the song garnered immense attention and excitement from football enthusiasts and K-pop fans. 

It seamlessly fused the electrifying energy of the sport with the irresistible charm of K-pop, creating an unforgettable musical experience.

 

Reaching 300 million streams on Spotify in record time is a testament to Jungkook’s immense popularity and the global appeal of his music. His ability to deeply connect with listeners through his music has undoubtedly played a significant role in his overwhelming success, much like how BTS continues to inspire millions of listeners worldwide. 

“Dreamers” has transcended boundaries and become a global anthem, embraced in various settings such as graduation ceremonies and sports events in schools and colleges.

Jungkook’s achievements highlight his impact as a soloist and reinforce his position as a trailblazer in the K-pop industry. With each milestone surpassed, he continues to make history and leave an enduring legacy.

Featured photo screenshot from BANGTANTV

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BLACKPINK Set to Rock Vietnam: Landmark Performance at My Dinh National Stadium

BLACKPINK is set to make history as the first K-pop girl group to grace the stage of Vietnam’s largest concert hall. Hanoi’s My Dinh National Stadium will be the venue for their upcoming performances on July 29 and 30. 

YG Entertainment recently announced the new encore show dates for BLACKPINK‘s highly anticipated ‘BORN PINK’ world tour. The stadium, with a massive capacity of 40,192 seats, solidifies its position as the largest venue in the country.

The addition of the Hanoi concert expands BLACKPINK’s ‘BORN PINK’ world tour to a remarkable 26 performances in 13 regions, highlighting the group’s global popularity. Fans across Asia have been eagerly anticipating their favorite group’s live shows, and BLACKPINK continues to deliver memorable experiences.

Before their performance in Hanoi, the next stop on the global tour will be an encore show in Paris, scheduled for July 15. As BLACKPINK continues to captivate audiences worldwide, their achievements mark significant milestones in the K-pop industry.

Featured photo from BLACKPINK Official

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

LE SSERAFIM Skyrockets to Record-Breaking Heights on Billboard Charts

LE SSERAFIM’s viral B-side sensation, “Eve, Psyche & The Bluebeard’s Wife,” continues its meteoric rise, reaching unprecedented heights on the illustrious Billboard charts.

 

This chart-topping anthem, initially storming the scene at No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Trending Songs chart, has now conquered the global charts, surpassing LE SSERAFIM’s title track “UNFORGIVEN.” Backed by an edgy music video, LE SSERAFIM’s new single is only set to increase in popularity:

 

The single gracefully ascended to No. 38 on the Billboard Global Excl. U.S. chart, outshining “UNFORGIVEN” which followed closely at No. 39. Moreover, it soared to No. 71 on the Global 200, with the latter trailing just behind at No. 72.

LE SSERAFIM’s debut, marked by the full-length album “UNFORGIVEN,” etched a remarkable milestone by becoming the group’s inaugural record to grace the prestigious Billboard 200 for six consecutive weeks. 

The girl band continues to tease fans with posts, including a recent Instagram reel showcasing dance moves and bopping away to the song:

The Billboard 200 ranks the most popular albums in the United States, and LE SSERAFIM’s stellar opus claimed the respectable position of No. 146.

In an astonishing feat, LE SSERAFIM joins an elite group as only the third K-pop girl group to maintain an album on the Billboard 200 for six weeks, following the footsteps of BLACKPINK and TWICE. 

Impressively, this achievement transpired within a mere year of their remarkable career, solidifying their status as the fastest-rising stars.

Featured photo from LE SSERRAFIM Official

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

TXT and the Jonas Brothers Collab for Chart-Topping Hit Potential

K-pop group TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT) and the Jonas Brothers are teaming up for a new single called “Do It Like That,” set to release on July 7. BIGHIT MUSIC recently shared the schedule for track highlights, concept photos, music video teasers, and the official music video:

 

TXT consists of members Yeonjun, Beomgyu, Soobin, Huening, and Taehyun, debuting in 2019 with popular songs like “0x1=LOVESONG (I Know I Love You),” “Run Away,” “Ghosting,” and “Frost.“ 

The Jonas Brothers, composed of brothers Kevin, Joseph (Joe), and Nick, gained fame after their first album “It’s About Time” in 2006, delivering hits like “Only Human,” “Cool,” and “What a Man Gotta Do.“

Last 23 June, TXT dropped a teaser of the single on their TikTok page. The clip shows the band in the confines of a recording studio, where TXT members swayed in sync with the music, showcasing their infectious groove and leaving fans eagerly awaiting the full release.

@txt.bighitent

Pre-save it like that #DoItLikeThat #NewMusic #JonasBrothers

♬ Do It Like That – TOMORROW X TOGETHER & Jonas Brothers

 

The single “Do It Like That” is produced by Ryan Tedder, a renowned American singer-songwriter and frontman of the popular band OneRepublic. Tedder is recognized for his work on Beyoncé’s hit song “Halo.”

You can pre-save the single here:

 

Featured Image:  Billboard

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

FIFTY FIFTY’s Agency Files Criminal Charges Against SIAHN

ATTRAKT is taking legal action against its former co-CEO. FIFTY FIFTY‘s agency has announced that it has filed a criminal complaint with the police against Ahn Sung Il, who is also known as SIAHN.

FIFTY FIFTY’s Agency Files Criminal Complaint Against SIAHN

According to the statement, ATTRAKT has filed a criminal complaint at the Gangnam Police Station against Ahn Sung Il and the three other individuals. The complaint cites “fraud, breach of duty, and obstruction of business” as SIAHN’s illegal acts.

Ahn Sung Il is the CEO of creative content development group The Givers but it was indicated that he is the former co-CEO of ATTRAKT.

The agency explained that The Givers had been working on and managing projects for ATTRAKT. However it also accused Ahn Sung Il of “committing acts of fraud and obstruction of business including delaying the handover of work, deleting company email accounts, and deleting material related to past projects.”

“Furthermore, in the process of purchasing the song Cupid from a foreign songwriter, The Givers did not provide ATTRAKT with information about the copyright purchase, and they secretly purchased the copyright in their or their company’s name without our knowledge,” the statement read.

It was also indicated that ATTRAKT believes SIAHN and the three other individuals are involved in other illegal acts. “We may file additional [criminal] complaints as well,” the statement confirms.

ATTRAKT had previously announced that it would be taking legal action against a then-unnamed third party that had allegedly approached FIFTY FIFTY with the intent to persuade the girl group into violating their exclusive contracts with their current agency.

“Through slanderous accusations against us and glorified flattery about themselves, these external forces are committing an illegal act of inducing our agency’s artists to make the wrong decision to ignore their valid exclusive contracts and sign contracts with them,” the agency said in a statement.

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SEVENTEEN’s Vernon Confirmed as First KENZO Global Ambassador

Vernon is going global with his latest project. The SEVENTEEN rapper has been confirmed as the first global ambassador for KENZO. Hansol Vernon Chwe‘s first gig was representing the French luxury brand at Men’s Fashion Week in Paris this weekend.

KENZO Announces SEVENTEEN’s Vernon As First Global Ambassador

The official KENZO Instagram account made the announcement by sharing a new photo of Vernon with Nigo, the fashion brand’s Artistic Director.

“KENZO is thrilled to announce VERNON as its first global ambassador,” the caption read.

“[Vernon] is joining the KENZO universe, teaming up with a House that shares strong links to the international entertainment scene, under the influence of Artistic Director [Nigo],” it continues.

Nigo also expressed his excitement about the collaboration. “I’m pleased and grateful to welcome Vernon into the KENZO family,” the Artistic Director told WWD.

KENZO explained why they chose the SEVENTEEN rapper as their first global ambassador.

“[Vernon’s] exceptional command of vocal range, tone, and visual versatility quickly helped him garner global recognition and reputation,” the brand said in a statement.

Vernon also issued a statement about the collaboration.

“I feel honored and fortunate to be Kenzo’s global ambassador,” the rapper said. “I’m excited to explore the synergy this partnership will introduce and look forward to showcasing a new side of me to fans around the world.”

Vernon debuted as a member of SEVENTEEN in May 2015. He is part of the group’s Hip-Hop Team and serves as their main rapper.

In December 2022, Choi Hansol released the mixtape Black Eye and the single of the same name. It served as the third addition to SEVENTEEN’s The Thirteen Tapes series which already includes Hoshi’s Spider and Woozi’s Ruby.

SEVENTEEN recently released their tenth EP FML with its title tracks Super and F*ck My Life. The 13-member group will hold a 2-day concert in Seoul, titled Follow to Seoul at the Gocheok Sky Dome on July 21 to 21, 2023.

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Suzy Reveals How She Chooses Her New Projects

Bae Suzy is sharing some secrets about her successful career. The former Miss A member revealed how she chooses the new projects she works on.

Bae Suzy Shares Important Factor When Choosing The Right Projects

Harper’s Bazaar Korea has just unveiled stunning photos of Suzy for the cover of the magazine’s July 2023 issue. In the photo shoot, Suzy shows off elegant timepieces as Longines’ global ambassador.

In the accompanying interview, Suzy revealed her standards for choosing new projects.

 

“It’s the character. Whether it’s instinctively or rationally, if I feel a sense of déjà vu with the character, I don’t think I’m drawn to them,” she said.

“What’s most important depends on how much I’m able to understand that character,” Suzy continued.

“Strangely, there are some characters that keep weighing on my mind. When that happens, I tend to do them,” she concluded.

It certainly works for Bae Suzy who always works on critically-acclaimed TV shows and films. She previously worked on shows like Vagabond and Start-Up and her film Wonderland was screened at the 76th Cannes Film Festival.

Although Wonderland has not yet been released, fans got a preview of Suzy and Park Bo Gum’s chemistry at the 59th Baeksang Arts Awards. The two actors served as co-hosts alongside Shin Dong Yup at the prestigious event. Bae Suzy and Park Bo Gum have served as co-hosts at the Baeksang Awards for several years and they clearly got along.

One of Suzy’s latest projects will also mean a reunion with a previous co-star. It was previously confirmed that Bae Suzy will reunite with Uncontrollably Fond co-star Kim Woo Bin in a new project. The actors will star in the upcoming fantasy romantic comedy All Your Wishes Come True which is being written by The Glory scribe Kim Eun Sook.

Suzy’s full interview will be featured in the July issue of Harper’s Bazaar Korea.

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EXO-CBX Members Reach Agreement With SM Entertainment

The ongoing legal battle is finally over. EXO-CBX members Xiumin, Baekhyun, and Chen have come to an agreement with SM Entertainment. The members of EXO also issued a joint statement with their agency.

EXO-CBX Members and SM Entertainment Issue Joint Statement

SM Entertainment released a joint statement with the three EXO-CBX members. It confirms that the agency and the idols have resolved their differences and agreed to continue forward as EXO with their contracts.

“Recently, the agency and the agency’s artists continued to publicly raise issues with our different stances. Regarding this, the agency and the three artists sincerely apologize for causing concern to the many people who support EXO,” the statement read.

“Afterwards, the agency and three artists had ample time in which we candidly discussed all the issues,” it continued. “Through this, we resolved the differences caused by misunderstandings, and we are pleased to inform you that we have reached a mutually amicable agreement.”

In the statement, it was confirmed that the EXO-CBX members have discussed the contracts thoroughly with the agency. Moreover, they “will carry out a process of mutually equal discussion as well as corrections” and “promised to strengthen our future relationship further.”

SM Apologizes For Third Party Involvement Claims

SM Entertainment also addressed the “third party” misunderstanding.

“The agency initially received a tip-off that a third party was approaching the three artists with unjust intention, and we stated that this was the main cause of the dispute,” the statement read.

“However, through this discussion, we learned that there was a misunderstanding about the involvement of a third party,” it continued. “We would like to take this opportunity to apologize to those involved for causing concern with our announcement.”

Finally, SM Entertainment stated that the incident gave them the chance to “think about the personal concerns of artists.” They also confirmed it would influence “the direction of our agency’s growth following the launch of SM 3.0.”

“Thanks to fans’ support, we would like to plan the future of SM 3.0 that is more developed and mature,” the statement added. “Under the changed and developed new values of SM 3.0, we will further strengthen and solidify mutual cooperation and respect with our artists.”

Earlier this month, Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen notified SM Entertainment regarding the termination of their exclusive contracts. The agency responded by claiming that a third party influenced the termination. Since then, both parties have issued statements responding to each other through the EXO-CBX members’ legal representative.

EXO will release their seventh full album EXIST on July 10, 2023.

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