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aespa Karina Sits Out Osaka Concert Due to Health Issues

Karina from aespa will not be participating in the group’s Osaka concert today due to health reasons. This means that the girl group will be performing with only three members

Karina Sits Out aespa Osaka Concert Due to Health Reasons

SM Entertainment made the announcement on July 28, following the advice of her physician.

“Regarding the participation lineup for the “2024 aespa LIVE TOUR – SYNK : PARALLEL LINE – in JAPAN” concert that will be held on July 28 at the Asue Arena Osaka, aespa member Karina will not be able to attend today’s concert due to health reasons based on the diagnosis made by a doctor after rehearsal,” the statement read.

“We deeply apologize for inconveniencing the fans who support aespa and Karina and who had been looking forward to today’s concert,” it continued.

The agency also confirmed that the ‘SYNK: PARALLEL LINE’ Osaka concert would continue to be held with three members. This means that Winter, Giselle, and NingNing would still perform without the aespa leader.

Although attendees of the concert in Osaka will miss out on Karina’s performance, fans agreed that the aespa leader needed a much-deserved break to focus on her health. MYs also hope for Karina to recover soon so she can reunite with Winter, Giselle, and NingNing right away.

The ‘SYNK : PARALLEL LINE’ tour by aespa promises to be an extraordinary experience, spanning across nine countries such as Japan, Thailand, and Australia. The tour commenced with a remarkable two-night show at the Jamsil Indoor Stadium on June 29th and 30th, establishing a remarkable benchmark for the forthcoming concerts.

The next two stops of ‘SYNK: PARALLEL LINE’ will be in Fukuoka at the Marine Messe Fukuoka. aespa is expected to perform two nights in the city on July 30 and 31, 2024. It has not yet been confirmed whether Karina will be back for the upcoming dates.

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K-DRAMA KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Park Ju Hyun Talks About Her Role in “Perfect Family”

Park Ju Hyun has shared her thoughts on her role in the upcoming KBS drama “Perfect Family.” Based on a popular webtoon, the new series is a mystery drama that explores the dark secrets of a seemingly happy family. The plot thickens when their daughter becomes entangled in a murder, causing each family member to suspect the other.

In this series, Park Ju Hyun plays Choi Sun Hee, a model student who excels in school. Her adoptive parents, portrayed by Kim Byung Chul and Yoon Se Ah, add depth to the family dynamics as Choi Jin Hyuk and Ha Eun Joo, respectively.

Park Ju Hyun reflects on her challenging new role in the upcoming KBS drama “Perfect Family”

“Unlike the other characters I’ve played up until now, the character of Sun Hee has a passive side to her. So I really wanted to take on the challenge of playing her no matter what,” said the actress as she described her character.

“Sun Hee is an extremely nice and upright girl. She’s also a girl who has no choice but to be that way. However, she’s also a character who changes and grows because of the people and events around her,” she continued. “A passive character can sometimes come across as frustrating or unlikeable, so I tried to portray her emotions as deeply as possible.”

Park Ju Hyun revealed her approach to the new role. “I tried to focus on Sun Hee’s inner cry deep within her heart. I spent a lot of time pondering the reason she built a wall around her heart, what it would be like to live life like that, and whether Sun Hee is truly happy. Because my personality is on the easygoing side, I made efforts to restrain myself in order to portray Sun Hee, who isn’t like that at all.”

Regarding her on-screen parents, the actress shared, “Both of them were so fun and friendly during filming. Kim Byung Chul was really fun and sometimes felt like a friend of the same age, while Yoon Se Ah was overflowing with cheerful energy, so I was really happy throughout filming.”

The actress concluded, “I wound up playing a role that is very different from the characters I’ve played up until now. I was so happy and had so much fun during filming, and I hope that viewers will also be happy while watching the drama.”

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

NewJeans Fans Protest HYBE’s Alleged Information Leaks

NewJeans fans stand in front of HYBE headquarters over alleged information leaks and media manipulation

NewJeans fans took action by sending protest trucks to HYBE’s headquarters, voicing their concerns over recent allegations against the company. Fans, who call themselves “Bunnies,” organized the protest after hearing that HYBE had allegedly leaked confidential information about NewJeans to Dispatch and other media outlets.

The protest trucks stationed in front of HYBE’s building displayed strong messages condemning the company’s actions. Fans accused HYBE of intentionally leaking sensitive information and manipulating media coverage to their advantage. One truck displayed the message, “Leaking information to YouTube channels and reverse viral marketing to yellow journalism, illegal personal information leaks by HYBE—above the law and human rights?”

Another message directly addressed HYBE’s leadership, including Bang Si Hyuk and Park Ji Won, demanding that they take responsibility and issue an apology. The fans’ protest underscored their support for NewJeans and ADOR while calling on HYBE to stop what they see as illegal and unethical practices.

This protest demonstrates the Bunnies’ commitment to protecting NewJeans and holding HYBE accountable for actions that they believe could harm the group. Fans are determined to ensure that their voices are heard and that HYBE ceases any actions that could negatively impact NewJeans.

The dispute between HYBE and ADOR, the label responsible for managing NewJeans, has intensified as fans grow increasingly concerned about the handling of the group’s information. Tensions escalated when allegations surfaced that HYBE, the parent company of ADOR, had leaked confidential details about NewJeans to media outlets like Dispatch.

Fans believe that this breach of trust undermines the group’s integrity and puts their privacy at risk. The conflict highlights the challenges within the management structure, where decisions by HYBE may not always align with ADOR’s interests, leading to growing dissatisfaction among the fanbase.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

NewJeans Express Outrage Over the Release of Trainee Videos

Dispatch’s recent release of unrevealed trainee videos has sparked significant backlash from the NewJeans members and their parents. The videos, which feature the group during their trainee days, were made public without consent, leading to accusations of privacy invasion and misinformation.

NewJeans and their parents are furious about the unauthorized release of trainee footage

On July 23, ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin refuted allegations that she had poached the NewJeans members from Source Music, labeling these claims as “false” and announcing plans for legal action. In a statement to Newsen, ADOR emphasized, “The reported information is false. We plan to take legal action against HYBE for providing edited personal messages and against the unauthorized release of trainee videos, as NewJeans members and their parents are outraged by this invasion of privacy.”

Earlier, Dispatch had released the trainee videos, asserting that Min Hee Jin had recruited the NewJeans members from Source Music. This incident marks the latest development in the ongoing feud between ADOR and HYBE. According to Min Hee Jin, she personally selected the NewJeans members, while HYBE maintains that the members were part of Source Music’s girl group project, ‘Team N.’

The release of these videos by Dispatch, showing Source Music’s Team N trainees, has further complicated the situation. NewJeans members and their parents are particularly upset by the dissemination of these personal and previously unseen videos, which they believe violate their privacy and misrepresent the facts.

NewJeans officially debuted in August 2022 under ADOR, a subsidiary of HYBE Corporation. Their debut EP, “New Jeans,” quickly gained traction with hit singles like “Attention” and “Hype Boy,” showcasing their fresh take on K-Pop.

The ongoing dispute between ADOR and HYBE highlights the complexities of talent management and the importance of respecting personal boundaries in the entertainment industry. As the situation develops, fans and industry watchers alike are eager to see how this legal and public relations battle will unfold.

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NewJeans Hanni Reacts to SEVENTEEN Woozi’s ‘How Sweet’ Cover

It looks like Hanni approves of a viral “How Sweet” cover. The NewJeans member has a fitting reaction to SEVENTEEN’s Woozi performing their song.

NewJeans’ Hanni Notices Viral ‘How Sweet’ Cover, Woozi Using Her Trademark Catchphrase

SEVENTEEN’s Woozi recently delighted fans by performing a dance cover of NewJeans’ song “How Sweet” during the 2024 CARATLAND event. His flawless execution of the dance moves earned him the playful nickname “NewJeans’ Hoonni,” a clever combination of his real name, Ji Hoon, and NewJeans member Hanni’s name.

Woozi’s enthusiastic performance showcased his versatility and connection with contemporary K-pop trends, further endearing him to fans. Prior to the event, Woozi hinted at his upcoming cover by using Hanni’s famous catchphrase on Weverse, further fueling excitement among fans. His username at the time, “NewWoozi,” was a playful nod to the group NewJeans, indicating his anticipation and preparation for the performance. This playful engagement with fans highlighted Woozi’s sense of humor and his ability to connect with the fandom in creative ways.

After learning about Woozi’s cover of “How Sweet,” NewJeans member Hanni responded positively, expressing her appreciation through Phoning, a communication platform for fans and idols.

In a reciprocal gesture, Hanni recommended one of SEVENTEEN’s songs, “Dawn Is Hotter Than Day,” for fans to enjoy during warm summer nights. Her recommendation underscores the mutual respect and admiration between the two groups, creating a sense of camaraderie within the K-pop community.

Woozi’s performance at CARATLAND and Hanni’s subsequent response demonstrate the interconnected nature of the K-pop world, where artists often support and celebrate each other’s work. This interaction not only thrills fans but also fosters a collaborative spirit among idols, enhancing the overall appeal of K-pop. The playful and supportive exchanges between Woozi and Hanni exemplify the vibrant and dynamic relationships within the industry, making it an exciting space for both artists and fans.

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TWICE ‘What is Love?’ MV Hits 800M Views on YouTube

TWICE has achieved a remarkable milestone on YouTube. Their “What is Love?” MV has officially surpassed 800 million views. It is the girl group’s first music video to achieve this feat!

‘What is Love?’ MV Hits 800 Million Views

The music video reached this impressive count shortly before 4:30 a.m. KST on July 27, marking a significant achievement for the group. Released on April 9, 2018, “What is Love?” took just over 6 years, 3 months, and 16 days to reach this milestone, showcasing the enduring popularity and appeal of the song.

This achievement highlights TWICE’s impact in the K-pop industry and their ability to consistently engage a global audience. The milestone is a testament to the group’s hard work, catchy music, and dedicated fanbase. “What is Love?” remains a beloved track among fans, and its success on YouTube reflects its widespread appeal and longevity.

An Exciting Year for TWICE

In addition to celebrating their YouTube milestone, TWICE is also gearing up for a high-profile performance. The group is set to perform at the halftime show of the ‘K League vs. Tottenham Hotspur’ soccer match. This event is part of the ‘2024 Coupang Play Series,’ and it will take place on July 31 at 8 PM KST at the Seoul World Cup Stadium. Coupang Play confirmed the exciting news earlier this month, generating anticipation among fans and sports enthusiasts alike.

The members of TWICE have expressed their excitement for the upcoming performance. They stated, “We’re happy to perform at the halftime show of the ‘2024 Coupang Play Series.’ We’ll do our best to perform an amazing show for the fans who’ve been waiting for this event.” This statement underscores their commitment to delivering a memorable performance and their gratitude for the continued support from their fans.

Overall, TWICE’s 800 million views milestone and their upcoming halftime show performance highlight the group’s ongoing influence and popularity in the entertainment industry. Fans eagerly anticipate the group’s future achievements and performances, confident in TWICE’s ability to continue making waves in the global music scene.

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Ha Sung Woon Agency Issues Apology For 1st-Week Sales Data Error

Big Planet Made Entertainment has issued an apology for an error in the calculation of the first-week sales for the new Ha Sung Woon mini album ‘Blessed’.

Ha Sung Woon Agency Apologizes for 1st-Week Sales Data Error

On July 27, the company released a statement acknowledging that a portion of the first-week sales data for Ha Sung Woon’s eighth mini-album had been inadvertently omitted.

“After checking, [we have learned that] in the process of recording the first-week sales for Ha Sung Woon’s eighth mini album, part of the sales were mistakenly recorded for the July 24 chart, which is after the end of the first-week sales period, and therefore omitted from the first-week sales,” the statement read.

“Due to the fans pointing it out, we became aware that part of the first-week sales data for Ha Sung Woon’s eighth mini album was omitted, and together with the album retailers, we are currently in the process of finding out whether Hanteo Chart can revise [the first-week sales figure] to reflect the omitted amount,” it continued.

In their official statement, Big Planet Made Entertainment expressed regret over the mistake and reassured fans that corrective measures are being taken to ensure accurate reporting in the future. They emphasized their commitment to transparency and accuracy in all matters related to their artists’ achievements.

The company stated, “We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused to Ha Sung Woon and his fans due to this oversight. We are currently in the process of rectifying the error and will update the sales figures accordingly.”

The Importance of 1st Week Sales

This acknowledgment comes as fans and industry observers closely monitor album sales, which are a crucial metric for an artist’s success and recognition. First-week sales are particularly significant, often influencing chart positions and awards. The omission of sales data can impact not only the artist’s standings but also the confidence of the fanbase.

Despite the hiccup, Ha Sung Woon’s “Blessed” has garnered positive responses, showcasing his evolving artistry and solidifying his presence in the music scene. Fans eagerly await the corrected sales figures and continue to support Ha Sung Woon in his musical endeavors. Big Planet Made Entertainment’s prompt apology and action reflect their dedication to maintaining integrity and trust with both their artists and fans.

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BABYMONSTER Announces Official Fandom Name

BABYMONSTER’s official fandom now has a name! The girl group has revealed what their fans will be called, and it’s an adorable tribute to their supporters.

BABYMONSTER Official Fandom Name Revealed

On July 27 KST, the YG Entertainment rookie girl group announced in a special video that their official fandom name will be “MONSTIEZ.”

“MONSTIEZ” cleverly combines the “MONS” from “BABYMONSTER” with the English word “TIES,” symbolizing the close relationship and bond between BABYMONSTER and their fans. This name reflects the group’s desire to maintain strong ties with their supporters as they continue to grow and evolve in the music industry.

BABYMONSTER’s Busy Future

The announcement of the official fandom name comes at a pivotal time for BABYMONSTER. YG Entertainment has confirmed that the new girl group will be embarking on a global tour later this year, bringing their music to fans around the world. This tour will be a significant opportunity for MONSTIEZ to see their idols perform live and for BABYMONSTER to expand their international fanbase.

In addition to the tour, BABYMONSTER is also gearing up for the release of their first studio album. Initially, it was reported that the album would be released in October. However, Yang Hyun Suk, in a video announcement, mentioned that the album could potentially drop in either September or October, leaving room for anticipation and excitement among fans. This upcoming LP will be BABYMONSTER’s first full-length project, marking a major milestone in their career. The album promises to be a comprehensive showcase of the group’s musical range and growth, offering fans a deeper look into their artistic capabilities.

With the new fandom name, an upcoming global tour, and a highly anticipated first studio album, BABYMONSTER is also poised to make a significant impact in the K-pop industry. The strong connection with their fans, now officially recognized as MONSTIEZ, will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their continued success and future endeavors.

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EXO Chanyeol Announces ‘City-scape’ Tour Ahead of Solo Album Release

Chanyeol is hyping up his solo album release in the best possible way. The EXO member has just announced the ‘City-scape’ tour that is set to support his upcoming release.

EXO’s Chanyeol Drops ‘City-scape’ Tour Teaser

Chanyeol, who has gained global popularity through his activities with EXO, the unit EXO-SC, and numerous collaborations, is generating significant anticipation among music fans for his solo venture.

Following his solo debut, Chanyeol will embark on the ‘2024 CHANYEOL LIVE TOUR : 都市風景 (City-scape)’ starting with performances at the Blue Square Mastercard Hall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on September 6-7. Additional tour locations will be announced later, promising an extensive journey that will bring his music to fans worldwide.

Ticket reservations for the Seoul concert will be available through Interpark Ticket. EXO’s official fan club, EXO-L, will have access to pre-sale tickets on August 7th at 8 PM KST, with general ticket sales opening on August 8th at 8 PM KST. This structured ticketing process ensures that loyal fans have the first opportunity to secure their spots for what promises to be a captivating performance.

Recently, Chanyeol successfully completed his 7-region fan concert tour ‘The Eternity’ in Asia, further solidifying his connection with fans. His appearance at the large-scale music festival ‘TMEA 2024’ in Greater China also showcased his wide appeal and talent. As he steps into his solo career, Chanyeol is expected to present an upgraded charm and a variety of new song stages during his live tour, heightening the excitement among his supporters.

Chanyeol’s solo debut and subsequent tour mark a significant milestone in his career, reflecting his dedication and versatility as an artist. Fans can look forward to experiencing his unique musical style and emotional vocals, which have captivated audiences around the world. The ‘City-scape’ tour is set to be a spectacular showcase of Chanyeol’s talents, offering an immersive and unforgettable experience for attendees.

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FEATURES KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Bang Si Hyuk Reveals to Have Purchased $26.4m Mansion in LA Through HYBE Labels Subsidiary

Bang Si Hyuk, the chairman of HYBE Labels, has recently revealed that he purchased a $26.4 million mansion in Los Angeles through a subsidiary company. The acquisition, which took place in April of last year, involved a HYBE Labels subsidiary known as BEL AIR STRADELLA, LLC. This information came to light after HYBE Labels made corrections to its 2024 state of affairs report.

Bang Si Hyuk used a subsidiary to acquire a luxurious mansion in Los Angeles, sparking shareholder speculation

The Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) launched an investigation into HYBE Labels earlier this year, probing into the company’s state of affairs report. The KFTC did not disclose the specifics of what might have been omitted or fabricated in the report, but it was suspected that the omissions involved companies owned by Bang Si Hyuk and his relatives.

On July 26, KST, HYBE Labels addressed the issue by publishing several corrections to the report. Among these corrections was the acknowledgment of BEL AIR STRADELLA, LLC, a U.S. subsidiary fully owned by Bang Si Hyuk and registered in December 2023. Shareholders quickly speculated that this company was created solely to facilitate the purchase of the mansion in the upscale Bel Air neighborhood of Los Angeles, California.

Additionally, BEL AIR STRADELLA, LLC is registered as a real estate company, leading some shareholders to cynically comment, “Wonder what sort of lofty dreams drove him to open a real estate company…”

This mansion, previously owned by comedian Trevor Noah until 2022, has now become a focal point of discussion among HYBE shareholders. It raises questions about the motivations behind the purchase and the use of a subsidiary to acquire such a luxurious property.

In related news, HYBE and ADOR’s dispute still continues to worsen despite numerous attempts to fix legal hearings. Previously, Min Hee Jin’s Kakao messages were also exposed, sparking huge controversy among its employees and the public.

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