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CODE KUNST Becomes Next Artist to Leave AOMG

Following in the footsteps of Simon Dominic’s departure, CODE KUNST, the esteemed music producer, has bid farewell to AOMG, marking the conclusion of his exclusive contract with the agency.

CODE KUNST Departs AOMG

On April 26, AOMG shared a statement confirming CODE KUNST’s departure from the agency.

“We would like to inform you that the exclusive contract between AOMG and CODE KUNST has ended,” the statement read.

“We extend our gratitude to him for his remarkable achievements across various fields from 2018 until now. AOMG will continue to sincerely support CODE KUNST’s endeavors and growth in the future,” it continued. “We sincerely thank you for your generous support and love over the years, and we ask for your continued affection and interest in CODE KUNST’s future ventures and activities.”

Jo Sung-woo boasts an illustrious career in the South Korean music scene. Rising to prominence with his second studio album “Crumple” in 2015, he further solidified his position in the industry upon joining Highgrnd and subsequently releasing his third studio album, “Muggles’ Mansion,” in 2017. His talents garnered wider recognition when he signed with AOMG in 2018, where he not only showcased his musical prowess but also served as a judge on the esteemed rap competition “Show Me the Money 777” alongside Paloalto.

Amidst accolades and critical acclaim, including winning Producer of the Year at the Korean Hip-hop Awards in 2021, CODE KUNST continued to leave an indelible mark with his fifth studio album, “Remember Archive,” released in 2023. However, his departure from AOMG on April 26 joins a series of exits from the label, including notable artists like Gray, Woo Won Jae, Lee Hi, and GooseBumps, who bid adieu to the agency earlier in March. This cascade of departures undoubtedly signals a significant shift within the AOMG roster and the Korean music industry at large, leaving fans and industry insiders alike curious about the next chapter in these artists’ careers.

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SHINee Key Discusses SM’s Strict Education Program

Key has confirmed that SM Entertainment takes extra measures to avoid dating scandals. During an program focusing on his labelmate Doyoung, the SHINee member opened up about the strict education program he took as part of the company’s requirements.

Key Reveals SM’s Strict Education Program

NCT’s Doyoung made a captivating appearance on Episode 542 of MBC’s popular variety show “I Live Alone,” showcasing not only his culinary prowess but also his unique approach to relaxation. As he demonstrated his cooking skills and shared insights into his dining habits, viewers were treated to a glimpse of Doyoung’s everyday life beyond the spotlight of K-Pop stardom.

However, the lighthearted atmosphere took a turn when Doyoung was posed with a question that delved into the complexities of being a K-Pop idol and maintaining personal relationships. When asked if he ever felt envious of couples, considering the challenges he faces as an idol in pursuing romantic endeavors, Doyoung’s response elicited playful banter from the show’s cast members.

The cast’s humorous reaction, teasing Doyoung about the apparent contradiction in his answer, shed light on the intricacies of navigating personal matters within the confines of the highly scrutinized K-Pop industry. Their jesting commentary highlighted the delicate balance idols must strike between authenticity and discretion when addressing topics as sensitive as dating.

Drawing attention to SHINee’s Key, a seasoned veteran in the K-Pop world and Doyoung’s senior at SM Entertainment, the cast noted his tacit approval of Doyoung’s cautious response. Key’s mention of SM Entertainment’s “ideological education” program offered insights into the rigorous training and preparation undergone by artists to navigate media scrutiny and handle potentially contentious topics like romance.

Key’s acknowledgment of the enduring impact of such education underscored the ongoing challenges faced by artists in reconciling their public personas with their personal lives. Despite his extensive experience in the industry, Key’s ability to effortlessly deflect dating-related inquiries with nonchalant indifference showcased the enduring influence of SM Entertainment’s training regimen.

Doyoung’s appearance on “I Live Alone” not only provided fans with a candid glimpse into his life but also sparked meaningful reflections on the intricacies of fame, privacy, and the perpetual balancing act faced by K-Pop idols in navigating the complexities of personal relationships in the public eye.

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WAKEONE Breaks Silence on Shocking Kep1er Disbandment Rumor

The agency is already working to ensure that Kep1er's group contract will be extended

Fans of Kep1er received a mix of relief and uncertainty as their agency clarified ongoing discussions regarding the group’s potential contract extension. Amid swirling rumors of the Kep1er disbandment, WAKEONE Entertainment has finally issued an official statement.

WAKEONE Addresses Possible Kep1er Disbandment

STARNEWS reported on April 25 that discussions to extend Kep1er’s contracts had hit an impasse, leading to speculation about their impending dissolution in July. Allegedly, the group intended to bid farewell to their fans through a final album and a poignant farewell concert.

In response, WAKEONE, the agency behind Kep1er, moved swiftly to address the concerns, affirming that negotiations were still underway with each member and their respective agencies regarding the extension of the group’s activities. Moreover, they assured fans that Kep1er was actively preparing for a new album, urging for continued support to ensure the group’s return with quality music.

This development comes on the heels of previous statements from WAKEONE in early April, where they expressed optimism about extending the group’s contract, signaling a positive trajectory for Kep1er’s future. The group, comprised of nine talented members, originally emerged from Mnet’s “Girls Planet 999” survival audition program and made their debut in January 2022 under a temporary contract with WAKEONE, slated for a two-and-a-half-year promotion period.

As fans eagerly await further updates, the uncertainty surrounding Kep1er’s future underscores the complexities of the entertainment industry and the delicate balance between artistic aspirations and contractual obligations. Despite the challenges, supporters remain hopeful for a positive resolution that will allow Kep1er to continue captivating audiences with their music and performances for years to come.

For now, a possible Kep1er comeback date has not yet been officially announced by WAKEONE. However, fans are hoping that the girl group will release new music before the end of the year. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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Paul Kim Announces Marriage to Long-Time Girlfriend

Paul Kim’s announcement of his upcoming marriage has delighted fans worldwide. The beloved South Korean singer-songwriter shared the heartwarming news through a handwritten letter on his official website on April 25.

Paul Kim Announces Marriage in Heartfelt Letter to Fans

On April 25, Kim took to his official website to share the amazing news.

“Nine years have passed since I met this person who understands and supports me for who I am, with all my limitations and imperfections, and I’m now planning to spend my life with that person. We’ve decided to forgo the wedding ceremony in accordance with our wishes and with the permission of both families,” he wrote.

“I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to those around me who have supported my decision and given me heartfelt advice,” he continued. “I understand that some of you may be surprised by this sudden news, and my heart aches for that. However, I’m eager to embrace the upcoming moments with open arms, facing new emotions, learning, and growing.”

“Thank you Paul in Love for the overflowing love you always give me, even when I fall short. Thank you for reading my long letter,” Kim concluded.

Known for his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, Kim Tae-hyeong, professionally known as Paul Kim, has captured the hearts of listeners since his debut in 2014. With multiple successful albums and EPs under his belt, including “The Road,” “Tunnel,” “Heart, One,” and “Heart, Two,” Kim has solidified his position as a prominent figure in the Korean music scene.

His hit song “Can’t Get Over You,” featured in the soundtrack of the popular TV drama “Queen of Tears,” further endeared him to audiences. As fans celebrate his upcoming nuptials, they eagerly await more details about this new chapter in Paul Kim’s life, eagerly anticipating the continuation of his musical journey alongside his newfound happiness in marriage.

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ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin Holds Emotional Press Conference Addressing HYBE Situation

In the wake of mounting allegations and an impending formal accusation from her company, ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin took a defiant stance, vehemently denying any wrongdoing and expressing her anguish over what she perceives as unfair treatment. Min decided to call for a press conference where she got emotional as she finally spoke about the HYBE situation.

Min Hee Jin Breaks Into Tears During Press Conference Addressing HYBE Situation

At an emergency press conference held at the Korea Conference Center, Min Hee Jin confronted the accusations head-on, highlighting the stark disparity between her perspective and that of HYBE. She lamented the toll the situation had taken on her mental well-being, expressing fears for her own safety and questioning whether her adversaries would be satisfied only with her demise.

Asserting her innocence, Min Hee Jin refuted the notion that financial gain was her motive, citing her existing contractual arrangements and undisclosed benefits from ADOR. She vehemently contested the allegations put forth by HYBE, labeling them as advantageous fabrications designed to discredit her.

Addressing the contentious issue of NewJeans and its alleged resemblance to another project, Min Hee Jin clarified the process of selecting members and underscored her contributions to the group’s formation. She accused HYBE of obstructing the promotional pathways for NewJeans, suggesting ulterior motives behind their actions.

Min Hee Jin adamantly denied any intention to usurp management rights, portraying herself as a victim of betrayal rather than a perpetrator. She denounced HYBE’s actions as an attempt to silence her and stifle her success within the company.

More Revelations

Expressing profound sadness at the prospect of parting ways with NewJeans, Min Hee Jin revealed the emotional toll the ordeal had taken on both herself and the members of the group. Despite her anguish, she maintained that her primary concern was not personal gain but rather a commitment to addressing injustices within the company.

In a tearful revelation, Min Hee Jin disclosed the internal turmoil she grappled with, torn between her loyalty to her “children” at NewJeans and her disillusionment with HYBE. She reiterated her motivations for speaking out, citing a moral imperative to confront wrongdoing rather than passively benefiting from it.

In a final plea, Min Hee Jin implored the public to see beyond the accusations leveled against her, emphasizing her dedication to her work and her genuine concern for the well-being of those under her care. She painted herself as a scapegoat, unfairly targeted for her success and her refusal to remain silent in the face of injustice.

As the controversy continues to unfold, Min Hee Jin’s impassioned defense serves as a reminder of the complexities and power struggles inherent within the entertainment industry, where personal ambition and corporate interests often collide with devastating consequences.

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Yamashita Tomohisa Invited TXT’s Taehyun to Sing ‘Blue Moment’ OST With Him

TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s Kang Taehyun teamed up with Japan’s Yamashita Tomohisa for the soundtrack of the new drama Blue Moment. It follows the lives of the Special Disaster Response Headquarters team, who dedicate their lives to saving people affected by severe meteorological events.

Taehyun lent his vocals to a song titled “Perfect Storm,” the lyrics of which Tomohisa wrote. His approach was thoughtful, weaving appropriate references into the OST to mirror the series’ narrative. “Because this drama is about saving people through meteorology, I made sure to include many words related to nature and weather in the lyrics,” explained the Japanese actor-singer. “I included hope that even if covered by dark clouds, there is light above, hoping it would synergize well with the drama.”

Blue Moment 【Fuji TV Official】

Yamashita Tomohisa, who also goes by his nickname Yamapi, is a prominent Japanese celebrity. Born on April 9, 1985, in Chiba, Japan, his difficult childhood led him to find solace in acting and music from a very young age. He started his career with Johnny’s and Associates, where he became part of the boy band NEWS before leaving in 2011 to go solo. He released successful albums and singles like “Seishun Amigo.”

In 1998, he made his acting debut in the drama Shonentachi, which was followed by roles in Nobuta wo Produce, Kurosagi, and Code Blue. In Blue Moment, he plays Kankuro Haruhara, the chief weather researcher at the Special Disaster Response Headquarters. His character uses his knowledge of meteorology to stay ahead of the curve during difficult times. 

Tomohisa Yamashita – Perfect Storm (feat. #투모로우바이투게더 #태현) (Blue Moment OST)

Taehyun expressed excitement

Throughout his career, Tomohisa has participated in high-profile collaborations and concerts that solidified his status as a major player in the Asian entertainment scene. This duet with Taehyun is the latest in a long line of successful musical partnerships with the likes of Namie Amuro.

Taehyun expressed excitement about their collaboration. “I knew Mr. Tomohisa Yamashita was very famous in Japan as an artist and an actor, so I was happy to participate in a recording for a drama he stars in. ‘Perfect Storm’ is a song that, despite the stormy weather, expresses a strong will to overcome adversity and reach the blue skies if you climb high enough. I sang with all my might, so please look forward to the broadcast!”

『Perfect Storm』Rec Behind-The Scene

For his part, Tomohisa said, “I think TOMORROW X TOGETHER is a group with great momentum and overflowing talent, so it’s very exciting to work with Taehyun. I sang this song hoping it would enhance the brilliance of the drama. I hope you enjoy the drama along with this song.”

Blue Moment started airing on the 24th. New episodes will air every Wednesday at 10:00 PM. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Their voices blended well. Source: YouTube/@tomohisayamashitaofficial.

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TXT’s ‘ACT: PROMISE’ Concert Sells Out KSPO Dome for Three Straight Nights

TOMORROW X TOGETHER, aka TXT, has demonstrated their popularity by selling out three consecutive shows at the KSPO Dome in Seoul. The shows, which are part of their ACT: PROMISE world tour, will see the five-member group performing from May 3 to 5. BigHit Music, TXT’s management company, confirmed the news on April 16. A representative noted that the tickets for the Seoul shows were snapped up almost immediately after they went on sale.

Those who were unable to get tickets to the Seoul shows can avail of online live streaming tickets. Check TXT’s socials and the fan community platform Weverse for more information.

Scale and ambition

Following the Seoul shows, TXT will take their ACT: PROMISE world tour to the States. They’ll begin their US tour on May 14 in Tacoma, Washington. From there, they’ll head to the great state of California, where they’ll perform in Oakland on May 18 and in Los Angeles from May 21-22. The quintet’s next show will be on May 26 in Houston, Texas, after which they’ll take their act to Atlanta, Georgia on May 29. 

After that, they’ll play four shows in New York (June 1-2) and Rosemont (June 5-6). They’ll wrap things up stateside with a concert in Washington, D.C. on June 8. They’re also set for a four-city tour in Japan, where they’ll hit Tokyo (July 10-11), Osaka (July 27-28), Aichi (August 4-5) and Fukuoka (September 14-15).

The ACT: PROMISE tour is notable for its scale and ambition. TXT is set to perform in two major North American stadiums—the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum and Houston’s Minute Maid Park. Meanwhile, their Japan shows will take place at four of the country’s biggest and most prestigious concert venues: the Tokyo Dome, Kyocera Dome Osaka, Vantelin Dome Nagoya, and Fukuoka PayPay Dome. 

TXT will deliver magical moments on tour

TXT’s approach to their concerts involves a high level of artistic creativity, incorporating detailed setlists, VCRs (video content), and elaborate stage directions to create a cohesive narrative experience for their audience. The group, dubbed “stagetellers” for their ability to weave storytelling into their performances, aims to craft a magical and immersive experience for fans, enhancing their dancing and singing with realistic stage sets, extravagant special effects, and dramatic lighting.

The quintet’s new EP, minisode 3: TOMORROW, released on April 1, has also achieved considerable success, debuting at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 Albums Chart in the US. This achievement marks TXT’s tenth album to crack that chart, further solidifying their status as one of the leading figures in the contemporary K-pop scene.

The Seoul shows are less than a month away, and fans are eager to witness the magical moments Yeonjun, Soobin, Beomgyu, Hueningkai, and Taehyun will deliver on the ACT: PROMISE tour. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The boys will hit the road real soon. Are you excited? Source: X/@TXT_bighit.

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SEVENTEEN Challenges Gender Norms in ‘17 IS RIGHT HER’ Concept Photos

In the lead-up to their upcoming greatest hits album, 17 IS RIGHT HERE, K-pop powerhouse SEVENTEEN is breaking new ground, not only in their music but also in fashion and societal norms. The boys have created quite a stir by incorporating skirts into their concept photos. By doing so, SEVENTEEN is challenging traditional ideas about what is appropriate or expected for men to wear. That’s no small feat in a conservative country like South Korea.

The members who opted to wear skirts are Jeonghan, Jun, Mingyu, and The8. The concept photos for the new album involve SEVENTEEN revisiting iconic concepts and songs they did in the past. Jeonghan, the group’s second-eldest member, chose to embody “Super” from their SEVENTEEN 10th Mini Album FML. He wore a suit and varsity jacket to go with the skirt.

Jun went for a skirt that matched his statement shirt and the texture of his blazer, while Mingyu sported a skirt that matched the pattern and texture of his tartan suit. Finally, The8 portrayed their 2023 hit “God of Music.” He paired his skirt with a suit and jacket. Their sartorial choices has been met with enthusiasm from fans and netizens alike, who appreciate the group’s efforts to push the boundaries of gender-specific fashion. 

@ryjnna

the skirts gang 🙌🙌 #fyp #jeonghan #jun #mingyu #the8 #seventeen #seventeencomeback #17isrighthere

♬ original sound – 𓆩 ᴀ ᴅ ɪ ᴋ 𓆪

SEVENTEEN set themselves apart with the skirts

SEVENTEEN‘s decision to incorporate skirts into their wardrobe aligns with a growing trend in fashion where lines are becoming more and more blurry.

In a country known for its conservatism, especially regarding gender norms and presentation, SEVENTEEN’s approach can be seen as a progressive move that sparks discussions about gender identity and expression. This choice not only sets the group apart from their peers, but it also aligns with global conversations on diversity and inclusivity. It may even increase their appeal to international audiences who value such qualities.

By adopting such styles, the 13-member boy group not only showcases their unique artistic vision but also prompts a wider conversation within South Korea itself, potentially influencing perceptions and acceptance of non-traditional gender presentations in broader culture. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Talk about pushing the envelope! Nice work, boys. Source: X/@ShinAlthea96.

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Korean Netizens Christen TWS’s Dohoon the ‘Greg Hsu’ of South Korea

Korean netizens have found a new doppelgänger in the entertainment industry—Dohoon of the rookie boy group TWS, who they are calling the South Korean Greg Hsu. They’re saying the PLEDIS Entertainment idol and the Taiwanese actor-singer have similar facial features. They also believe both celebrities exude an endearing, youthful vibe despite their significant age gap.

@blocked509

Greg Hsu ❤️❤️❤️ #CapCut #fyp #greghsu #austinlin #kuanghanhsu👈光漢的ig #marrymydeadbody

♬ I Like Him – Princess Nokia

Who is Greg Hsu?

Greg Hsu may be Taiwanese, but he has plenty of South Korean fans. He made his acting debut in 2013, via the Malaysian drama Dive into Love. He earned praise—and his first Golden Bell Award nomination—for appearing in 2016’s Have You Ever Fallen in Love, Miss Jiang? He also appeared in Netflix’s Nowhere Man and the thriller A Sun, which was shortlisted for the Academy Awards in 2021. In 2019, he earned a second Golden Bell Award nomination for Someday or One Day, cementing his status as a sought-after actor.

He’s also a successful musician. Greg’s 2020 single “Yesterday No More” landed at No. 1 on the KKBox Charts in Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, and Taiwan. That same year, Greg made Forbes China’s Celebrity 100 list, ranking 69th. In 2021, he released his self-titled debut studio album. The following year saw him add another feather to his cap: a nomination for Best New Artist at the Golden Melody Awards.

@shinyulogy

he is so campus crush coded #dohoon #tws #twsedit #dohoonedit #kpopfyp #kpop #fyp #foryou

♬ original sound – ᶜ ʰ ˡ ˡ ˣ ᵉ ᵈ ⁱ ᵗ ˢ – ᶜ ʰ ˡ ˡ ˣ ᵉ ᵈ ⁱ ᵗ ˢ

Dohoon is relatively new to the K-pop scene. After training under PLEDIS Entertainment for seven years, he debuted with TWS on January 22, 2024 with their first mini-album Sparkling Blue. He’s 182cm tall, his blood type is B, and his MBTI type is ISTP, which indicates a practical and private nature. 

Dohoon graduated from Hanlim Entertainment Arts School. His MBTI type is ISTP, indicating a practical and private nature. A sports enthusiast who loves watching soccer, he’s a huge fan of Liverpool FC. Dohoon also has an interest in fashion—in fact, the other TWS members call him the group’s trendsetter. Although TWS hasn’t been around for very long, they’ve already racked up plenty of endorsement deals and won several music shows. They also signed to Universal Music Group (UMG) for global promotions.

Dohoon and Greg have a big age gap

Netizens started comparing Dohoon and Greg when some fans noticed they both have angular jaws, distinct puppy eyes, and porcelain skin. While some fans feel that they don’t look alike, others have said, “I thought of Greg as soon as I saw Dohoon!” Their physical resemblance aside, they have one stark difference: their 15-year age gap. Greg was born in 1990, which makes him 34 years old. Dohoon was born in 2005, so he’s only 19 years old.

Whether or not you agree with the visual comparison, you can’t deny that Dohoon is making a name for himself and is well on his way to becoming one of the most handsome and popular faces of K-pop’s fifth generation. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: What do you think? Do they look alike or not? Sources: X/@dohoozn, X/@Fendi.

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Fan-Favorite ‘Produce X 101’ Contestants Reunite on ‘The King of Mask Singer’

A recent episode of MBC’s The King of Mask Singer turned into a nostalgia fest for fans of Mnet’s 2019 survival show Produce X 101. During the broadcast, two contestants named Win After Win and Two Outs in the Ninth Inning captured the audience’s attention with their singing. They delivered a heartfelt cover of One More Chance’s “Thinking of You.”

[복면가왕] ‘승승장구’ VS ‘9회말 2아웃’의 1라운드 무대 – 널 생각해, MBC 240414 방송

The show’s celebrity panelists speculated that Two Outs in the Ninth Inning might be an idol because of his controlled, impressive vocals. DRIPPIN’s Cha Jun Ho, a former Produce X 101 contestant, went one better, saying he recognized the voice instantly. “It’s been a long time,” he addressed Two Outs in the Ninth Inning, hinting at their previous connection from their survival show days. “We used to run into each other all the time, and our groups’ members know each other very well. As soon as he sang his first line, I thought of him immediately.”

Although he gave it his all, Two Outs in the Ninth Inning lost the round to Win After Win. He performed a soulful cover of 10cm’s “Stalker.” Halfway through the song, he dramatically revealed his identity by removing his mask. Two Outs in the Ninth Inning turned out to be none other than CRAVITY’s Koo Jungmo, who also competed on Produce X 101 alongside Cha Jun Ho five years ago.

Cha Junho 차준호 Dear101 Stage 3 Complete (featuring Koo Jungmo)

They have come a long way since ‘Produce X 101’

The CRAVITY member’s unmasking wasn’t just a surprise for the audience or his old friend, but it was also a moment of personal reflection for Jungmo. “Before I started training to become an idol, my dream was to become a flight attendant,” he explained. “So my relatives expect me to become one, which was a lot of pressure, so I didn’t tell them I became an idol instead. They think I’m a college student who just changes my hair color a lot.”

[복면가왕] ‘9회말 2아웃’의 정체는 크래비티 정모!, MBC 240414 방송

Now fully embracing his career as an idol, Jungmo expressed his aspirations for his group’s future. He said, “All of the veteran singers here have a hit song that you immediately think of when you hear their name. This year, I’d also like for CRAVITY to come out with a hit song that people immediately think of when they hear the name ‘CRAVITY.’”

Both Cha Jun Ho and Koo Jungmo have come a long way since Produce X 101. Here’s hoping that Jungmo’s dream for his group will come true. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: It was nice to see Cha Jun Ho and Koo Jungmo on the same show again. Source: YouTube/@MBCentertainment.

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