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Holland Calls Out Mnet for the 18+ Rating of Its Gay Dating Program

K-pop idol Holland, who’s a known member of the LGBTQ+ community, expressed his disappointment about MNet’s 18+ rating for its first gay dating program Provocative Dating Z.

On Wednesday, September 2, Holland, who also stars in the show, criticized the television network. In his series of social media posts, the openly gay singer deemed the age restriction was unnecessary. Since there was no provocative or explicit content, the idol shared that the rating shows Mnet’s unwillingness to allow more access to the program.

“The Mnet dating program ‘Provocative Dating Z’ in which I appeared, has been changed to an age restriction of 18+. I have doubts about it being classified as age-restricted content when it’s a pure same-sex dating program without any provocative scenes,” he said. 

 

Additionally, he wrote: “It deeply saddens me that in Korea, the love of gay individuals is considered unfit for minors to watch.”

Hosted by comedian Lee Eun Ji, the dating program released its first episode on September 6. Said show featured six queer contestants, including Holland, and their journey in the game of romance.

Netizens react, lobby for Holland and LGBTQ+ representation

Upon Holland’s statement, netizens shared their opinions and thanked the idol for speaking up on the matter.

“Thank you for always speaking up about this. Visibility matters and I’m glad you’re in this space to remind others we are enough as we are. Sending love and strength your way,” one wrote.

Known as the first openly gay idol in K-pop, Holland has long been advocating for LGBTQ+ representation and equality. In one of his previous tweets, the idol even mentioned his desire to give dreams and hope to young LGBTQ+ kids. 

For his part, Holland has exhibited pride in promoting queerness as a celebrity. Using his platform, he has presented ideas such as genderless dressing in his artistic endeavors, fulfilling his dreams for the LGBTQ+ community little by little.

Unfortunately, his journey hasn’t been easy. Since coming out, Holland has shared several accounts where he was met with backlash and discrimination.

Featured image: Holland attends a fashion event of Louis Vuitton in Seoul. Credit: Instagram/Holland

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BTS’ V Soars to New Heights on Billboard Charts

After a remarkable solo debut on the Billboard 200, BTSV continues to make waves in the music industry. On September 19, Billboard announced that V had made a triumphant return to its Artist 100 chart, securing the No. 3 spot. This marks his third week on the chart. He’s tied with fellow BTS member SUGA for the second-highest rank achieved by a Korean in Artist 100 history. Jimin, who clinched the No. 1 spot in April, is the only other member to surpass this.

V‘s title track, “Slow Dancing,” made its debut at No. 51 on the Hot 100, Billboard’s weekly ranking of the most popular songs in the U.S. This achievement is particularly notable as it’s V‘s third solo entry on the chart, surpassing his previous releases “Christmas Tree” (which peaked at No. 79) and “Love Me Again” (No. 96).

V‘s solo album Layover also garnered significant attention, debuting at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and the Top Album Sales chart. This means Layover was the second best-selling album of the week in the U.S., only behind Olivia Rodrigo‘s Guts. Furthermore, every track from Layover found its place on Billboard’s Digital Song Sales chart, Global 200, and Global Excl. U.S. chart this week.

Congratulations to BTS’ V

“Slow Dancing” secured the No. 2 spot on the Digital Song Sales chart. Meanwhile, his B-side track “Blue” entered at No. 12. His earlier singles “Love Me Again” and “Rainy Days” made a comeback, re-entering the chart at No. 34 and No. 35 respectively. Another B-side, “For Us,” debuted at No. 49. On the Global Excl. U.S. chart, “Slow Dancing” debuted at No. 3, with “Love Me Again,” “Rainy Days,” “Blue,” and “For Us” also making notable appearances.

On the Global 200 chart, “Slow Dancing” marked its presence at No. 4. It was joined by “Love Me Again” at No. 39, “Rainy Days” at No. 59, “Blue” at No. 89, and “For Us” at No. 113.

V‘s solo endeavors have resonated with fans worldwide, leading to these outstanding achievements on the Billboard charts. As the K-pop scene grows, great artists like V are at the forefront, pushing boundaries and setting new records. Congratulations to V on these exciting milestones! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: BTS’ V’s numbers are quite impressive. Source: Twitter/@thvspretty.

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‘Magic Lamp’ Featuring Seventeen’s Jeonghan and Dino Unveils Official Teaser

Get ready for another exciting show, CARATs! SEVENTEEN members Jeonghan and Dino are about to showcase their variety skills in the new travel series titled Magic Lamp.

But what makes the show even more exciting is they’ll be joined by several other Hallyu stars. Other cast members include Kim Jaejoong, Kanghee, Choi Seok Woon, Junpi, and Lee Joo Ahn. 

On Monday, September 18, the show unveiled the official teaser for Magic Lamp. In the 30-second teaser, fans are given a glimpse of how the seven celebrities bonded. 

For those unfamiliar, Magic Lamp is a travel reality program which follows the cast members on their “good-looking” drinking trip. The filming took place in Montpellier, France, which is known to be one of the best vacation spots in Europe. 

Moreover, Magic Lamp will have a total of 10 episodes and it will premiere on September 25. 

Meet the Magic Lamp cast

Prior to the trailer, the show has also been releasing individual posters for each character member. 

First is former TVXQ member Kim Jaejoong, who will lead his castmates as he’s the eldest in the group. In 2023, The 37-year old singer celebrated his 20th debut anniversary.

Another star who will take part in the show is actor Kanghee. He showed his charm in his appearances in the dramas Sky Castle, True Beauty, and Snowdrop. However, for Magic Lamp, he plans to showcase the entertainer side of him.

Meanwhile, SEVENTEEN’s Jeonghan and Dino are already known for their humor in their own web series Going Seventeen. Unsurprisingly, the two idols are expected to showcase more of their skills in their first appearance in a travel reality program.

Also joining the team is singer-actor Choi Seok Won, who goes by the stage name Tan. In 2021, he debuted as a member of CIIPHER but left the group in August 2023. After that, he also kicked off his acting career with his guest appearance in the drama Ghost Doctor.

Lastly, musician and pianist Junpi and rising actor Lee Joo Ahn complete the cast.

With this unique lineup of cast, fans are already anticipating how the chemistry between the members will be in Magic Lamp. In Jaejoong’s Idol Radio appearance, he talked about how he got closer to Jeonghan and Dino while filming. Despite being awkward and unfamiliar at first, they said the cast members kept in touch even when the show wrapped up. 

As proof of their growing friendship, some of the Magic Lamp cast members also attended SEVENTEEN’s Follow concert in Seoul to support Jeonghan and Dino. 

Variety Gods SEVENTEEN

For CARATs, Magic Lamp is another addition to the growing list of variety shows they’ll have to keep track of in 2023. On top of the weekly Going Seventeen episodes. 

First was the already-concluded Bro Marble, which saw members Joshua and Hoshi. 

Then, Seungkwan is set to star in the Netflix survival show The Devil’s Plan. Its first episode will air on September 26.

Lastly, SEVENTEEN has also finished shooting Youth Over Flowers with the well-known producer Na Yeong-seok or Na PD. The 13-member group earned the opportunity to star in the travel variety show after winning a chance on Na PD’s Youtube program Game Caterers. As of writing, details about its release are yet to be announced.

Featured image: The cast members of Magic Lamp. Credit: Twitter/Magic Lamp

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EVNNE’s Keita and Park Hanbin Drop Truth Bombs on The K-Star Next Door

The K-pop scene is no stranger to the rollercoaster of emotions and challenges that budding artists face. Recently, Boys Planet alums Keita, Lee Jeonghyeon, Park Hanbin, and Yoo Seungeon sat down with television personality Jonathan Thona on The K-Star Next Door. This episode was filled with candid confessions, raw emotions, and a glimpse into the world of these talented artists.

On August 1, the K-pop community buzzed with excitement when it was announced that these boys, along with Ji Yunseo, Mun Junghyun, and Park Jihoo, would debut as EVNNE. This project group, formed and managed by Jellyfish Entertainment, promises to bring a fresh wave of talent and music to the industry. During their appearance on The K-Star Next Door, the members opened up about being eliminated from Boys Planet.

EVNNE declares war on ZEROBASEONE! Revealing ‘TROUBLE’ for the first time

Park Hanbin, who’s signed to the same agency as ZEROBASEONE, revealed that he often crossed paths with the members after the show. He admitted to chatting with them individually but said he found interacting with them as a group challenging. 

In a heart-wrenching moment, he confessed that he blocked ZEROBASEONE on social media after the show ended. Why? It broke his heart to see them following his elimination. Of course, now that Hanbin is set to debut in his own group, he feels better about the whole thing.

Why Keita changed his plans

Keita‘s revelations were equally compelling. According to him, he was surprised when he didn’t make the final lineup for ZEROBASEONE. After all, he consistently made the top nine in the first three ranking announcements. 

This unexpected turn of events led Keita to contemplate selling songs he wrote to ZEROBASEONE. However, fate (and Jellyfish Entertainment) had other plans. Upon learning that he had been picked to join EVNNE with other Boys Planet alums, the Japanese producer and rapper decided not to sell his compositions. With a hint of humor, Keita added, “If they want those songs now, they’ll have to call me.”

@kim_caramell_127

#kconsaudiarabia #كيكون2023 #كيكون_الرياض #كيكون #كيكون

♬ original sound – ❤️ (김 카랴밀) ❤️

In other exciting news for K-pop enthusiasts, EVNNE is set to join KCON in Saudi Arabia, which is scheduled for October 6 and 7. Aside from Keita, Park Hanbin, and their bandmates, big names like Oh My Girl and Super Junior will participate in this event too. The convention will take place at the Boulevard Riyadh City, while the concert will light up the Mohammed Abdu Arena. 

Keita and Park Hanbin may not have made the final lineup of ZEROBASEONE, but they’re on their way to great success anyway as part of EVNNE. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Keita and Hanbin were very forthcoming on the show. Source: YouTube/@Diggle.

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Watch: ‘The Devil’s Plan’ Starring Seventeen’s Seungkwan Releases Character Teasers

Netflix Korea has recently released the official trailer for The Devil’s Plan, giving fans a glimpse on their upcoming survival show. Aside from some of the familiar faces, fans are more looking forward to a whole new chapter of brain competition. 

In the two-minute trailer, the 12 participants were  filled with emotions as the contenders battled it out for survival.

For the first part of the clip, the players warmly welcomed each other. “There seems to be a lot of nice people,” one said while another stated: “It feels like I have 11 new friends.”

As the host instructs them to battle only for victory, the participants’ real motives begin to show. Which is why they started to form alliances while some seemed to have betrayed the other contenders.

“I have to eliminate those who are eager to be the winner,” one confidently expressed. Another participant declared: “If you attack me, I’ll attack you”.

In one of the trailer’s cuts, SEVENTEEN’s main vocalist and “variety king” Seungkwan looked tearful as he uttered “I felt the cruelty of man once again.”

Meet the 12 contenders in The Devil’s Plan

Alongside the trailer, The Devil’s Plan also released a Character Teaser to give a glimpse of the 12 individuals. These participants will be contending for the grand prize of 500 million Korean won.

In The Devil’s Plan, the contenders consist of a wide range of professionals from different fields. And given their life experiences, all 12 individuals shared their thoughts on winning the show. 

First among the list is SEVENTEEN’s Seungkwan who is widely known for his intelligence and experience in variety shows. “I’m quick-witted, I didn’t survive in this field by luck”, he said confidently. Also known for her wit, South Korean actress and comedian Park Kyeong Rim said that she will show the viewers what it means to be an entertainer.

Meanwhile, youtuber Kwak Joon Bin mentioned that he has been a pioneer his whole life. Which gives him the confidence to survive the show. Moreover, reporter Lee Hye Sung also declared: “I hate losing, I’ll give as good as I get.”

Another anticipated celebrity who will be joining the cast is Problematic Men actor Ha Seok Jin. Compared to the fierce declarations of the other contenders, Seok Jin just playfully said: “I want to ask people who overestimate their intelligence to please not eliminate me.”

Additionally, the participants who will compete in the show are: actress Lee Si Won, professional Go player Cho Yeon Woo, ex-pro gamer Guillaume Patry, Lawyer Seo Dong Joo, and science communicator Kwedo.

And the lineup will be completed by two non-celebrity contestants: orthopedic surgeon Seo Yoo Min, and professional Go player Kim Dong Jae. They were selected through open recruitmen. 

Created by The Genius director Jung Jong Yeon, The Devil’s Plan is set to premiere on September 26.

Featured image: ‘The Devil’s Plan’ releases official series poster. Credit: Netflix Korea

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Na PD’s ‘You Reap What You Sow’ to Premiere in October

The upcoming variety show of Na Young Seok, aka Na PD, titled You Reap What You Sow (idiomatic translation) will air its first episode on October 13. 

tvN confirmed the news to Korean media on Friday, September 15. 

According to reports, You Reap What You Sow adopts a lighthearted documentary style. It will follow Kim Woo Bin, EXO’s D.O, Lee Kwang Soo, and Kim Ki Bang in their journey of farming in the countryside. 

However, none of the four main cast members have any knowledge and experience in farming. Which is why they naturally struggled with tasks, such as plowing a small field together. 

What we know so far about You Reap What You Sow

In July, rumors that Na PD is helming a new series circulated online. Videos of the four cast members filming in Gangwon and Seoul also circulated online. At the time, the producers remained tight-lipped about the series. 

Now, tvN even shared a photo of Woo Bin, D.O, Kwang Soo, and Ki Bang posing together while in farming attire. 

Additionally, the show will reportedly have 10 episodes and a broadcast time of 110 minutes. 

In You Reap What You Sow, variety veteran Kwang Soo will serve as the group’s leader. Not only will he showcase his humor, but his problem-solving skills. 

Meanwhile, Ki Bang is described as a “natural-born farmer.” Out of the four, he was the most reliable in doing farming tasks. 

As for D.O, the youngest member, he’ll use his wit and cooking skills throughout the show. 

Interestingly, You Reap What You Sow will serve as Woo Bin’s first variety show as a regular cast member. Which is why fans of the actor are looking forward to seeing a more fun side of him. 

Na PD’s other projects 

Aside from the cast members, fans are anticipating this new show helmed by Na PD. 

A known figure in South Korean entertainment, he was the one behind successful variety programs such as 2 Days & 1 Night, Grandpas Over Flowers, New Journey to the West, and Three Meals a Day.  

One of his latest projects is The Game Caterers, which features various K-pop idols. Some of the groups who guested on his show include BTS, SEVENTEEN, SNSD, artists from HYBE LABELS and Starship Entertainment. 

Moreover, he’s also confirmed to be filming a new edition of Youth Over Flowers, this time with SEVENTEEN. 

Featured image: Woo Bin, Ki Bang, Kwang Soo, and D.O pose for a teaser of ‘You Reap What You Sow.’ Credit: Twitter/Knock Knock

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Monsta X’s Hyungwon and Seventeen’s Jeonghan Show Off Their Friendship in ‘Mr. Chae the Castaway’

Fans of K-pop boy groups SEVENTEEN and MONSTA X knew how close the two acts are, with many of its members even hanging out together in their free times. And recently, MONSTA X’s Hyungwon and SEVENTEEN’s Jeonghan gave fans a glimpse of their tight bond in the web series Mr. Chae the Castaway. 

 

On Friday, September 15, Hyungwon’s web series featured Jeonghan as its guest for the third episode. For the first two episodes of Mr. Chae the Castaway, the MONSTA X singer has his relatives as his guests, making Jeonghan the first idol to appear in the show. 

“It’d be sad if other people came before me,” the SEVENTEEN vocalist said. 

Jeonghan in Hyungwon’s Mr. Chae the Castaway

Even at the start of the episode, the close bond between the two was already evident. When asked by Hyungwon if there’s anything he’d like to eat, Jeonghan said that he only needs to see his hyung

Both idols also said that they really care a lot for each other that they’d come running if the other called them. 

One of the scenes that really delighted fans was when Hyungwon was protecting the SEVENTEEN member while driving and Jeonghan held his hands. 

Interestingly, Jeonghan’s antics also shone through as he persuaded Hyungwon to try the tallest bungee jumping in South Korea. In all of his idol career, Hyungwon said that he has never tried doing scary activities like that. But he pushed through as the younger idol promised that he’ll do it with him. 

After that, the two also reminisced about their busy idol lives. Hyungwon even said that as long as Jeonghan got some healing through his show, then it’s alright. 

At one point, the SEVENTEEN member explained that the reason he liked the older idol so much is because they don’t argue when they’re talking. 

Hyungwon and Jeonghan’s friendship over the years

Prior to Jeonghan’s guesting in Mr. Chae the Castaway, his friendship with Hyungwon has been known to their fans. 

In a 2020 show, the SEVENTEEN singer said that Hyungwon is someone he’s comfortable to call at any time. 

Moreover, the two have talked about each other on several accounts. In fact, Jeonghan even quipped that the MONSTA X member is his “one-sided love.” 

Moreover, the two only have praises for each other. “I think of Jeonghan as a very good person. He’s a really nice friend,” Hyungwon said. 

Another way that the two idols bond together is participating in TikTok dance challenges. 

 

And fans of the two idols can rejoice as the Mr. Chae the Castaway episode with Jeoghan has several parts. Its fourth episode, which will see the two napping and preparing for barbeque, will air on September 22.

Featured image: SEVENTEEN’s Jeonghan appears in MONSTA X’s Hyungwon’s ‘Mr Chae the Castaway.’ Credit: Twitter/lifewithoutaplan

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Chuu Appointed Honorary Ambassador for Community Chest of Korea

Former LOONA member Chuu has been appointed Honorary Ambassador for the Community Chest of Korea, a renowned charitable organization.

The appointment ceremony occurred on the 14th at the Community Chest of Korea’s headquarters. Notable attendees included Chuu herself, Hwang In-sik, the organization’s Secretary-General, and other staff members. During the event, Chuu received an ambassadorial plaque from Hwang In-sik, symbolizing her commitment to spreading positive energy and the spirit of giving.

Chuu‘s association with the Community Chest of Korea isn’t new. She previously graced their annual advertisement as a model. This recent appointment as an ambassador strengthens her bond with the organization. Their ongoing ad campaign, which started airing on September 11, revolves around the concept of “giving as a positive platform for oneself.” Through the tagline, “Enrich yourself through donations, enrich the world through donations,” the campaign aims to foster a positive perception of charitable giving and its impactful benefits.

Chuu, the ‘human vitamin’

Known for her vibrant and bubbly charm, Chuu is often called a “human vitamin.” She’s been making waves not just in music, but also in the advertising and entertainment sectors. With a whopping 1.37 million subscribers on her YouTube channel, she showcases many talents. Furthermore, Chuu is set to host Steel Troops 3 and has been confirmed for the web show Star’s Star. On top of all this, fans eagerly await her first solo album in October, further solidifying her status as a rising star.

On a related note, the Community Chest of Korea has 34 honorary ambassadors, including Chuu. The central association and 17 regional branches nationwide connect all of them. Since 1998, many stars have promoted the organization.

2023년 사랑의열매 연중광고

Chuu‘s appointment as an honorary ambassador is a testament to her influence and the importance of promoting charitable endeavors. With Chuu at the forefront of their campaigns, the Community Chest of Korea is bound to reach new heights in its mission to foster a culture of charitable giving.

Featured Image: The organization gave Chuu a warm welcome. Source: Twitter/@loonapress.

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Chuu, (G)I-DLE’s Yuqi, and BILLLIE’s Tsuki Team Up for ‘Star Girl’ Show

Good news, K-pop fans: more idols are collaborating together for variety series! Former LOONA member Chuu, (G)I-DLE’s Yuqi and Billie’s Tsuki are about to bring a breath of fresh air in the entertainment industry as they team up for the upcoming variety show Star Girl.

On Monday, September 11, LGU+ confirmed that the three idols will be the main stars for their web series Star Girl

According to reports, the show will take on a unique concept as it will feature the idols’ journey to take over the space industry. Chuu, Yuqi, and Tsuki will be undergoing extraordinary training including space knowledge where they will learn stuff about space, stars, and planets.

Produced by LGU+’s ‘STUDIO X+U’, Star Girl is scheduled to be released in October.

Other than that, specific details about the show are yet to be disclosed.

A stellar combination in Star Girl

Following the announcement, fans are already anticipating the chemistry among the three idols.

Interestingly, Chuu and Yuqi are known to be close friends given that they’re both 99-liners. On social media, fans of the respective artists are looking forward to see how they’ll take care and bond with Tsuki in the show.

Additionally, all three idols are also known for having experience in variety shows.

First, Chuu is often called a “human vitamin.” With her charming personality, Chuu is expected to bring positive vibes in the show. Prior to Star Girl, Chuu has been active in other variety shows. She even hosts her own program in her Youtube channel ChuuCanDoIt.. 

Meanwhile, Yuqi is set to exhibit the wit and confidence she’s been long known for. As she bears no trouble displaying her honesty, Yuqi sometimes drops dangerous remarks which viewers find quite entertaining.

Lastly, Tsuki will be completing the trio with her quirky loveliness as a weapon. Known for effortless cute nature, she became MBC’s MC for Show Champion earlier in 2023. 

With this lineup, Star Girl is expected to be full of fun, energy and chaos.

Featured image: Chuu, Yuqi, and Tsuki will lead a new web series titled ‘Star Girl.’ Credit: Instagram/UPLUS Mobile TV

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CNBLUE’s Yonghwa Recalls ‘We Got Married’ Stint With SNSD’s Seohyun

Rejoice, Goguma couple shippers! Yonghwa of CNBLUE has just gifted their fans some crumbs from his and SNSD’s Seohyun’s virtual marriage on the reality variety show We Got Married.

On Monday, September 11, the vocalist appeared as a guest on MC Kangnam’s Youtube show My Neighborhood Friend Kangnami. In the episode, Kangnam brought back Yonghwa’s previous work with the youngest member of SNSD. 

In 2010, Yonghwa and Seohyun, or the YoungSeo couple, acted as newlyweds for We Got Married. Nicknamed as “Goguma couple” (sweet potato couple), the two idols garnered popularity and support due to their enthralling chemistry. 

During their We Got Married stint, the two gained attention for their supposed innocent love as Seohyun didn’t have romantic relationships prior to that.

Additionally, the YoungSeo couple were also known for being musically-inclined. With this, the two even composed their own song and performed it in front of a crowd. 

Unsurprisingly, fans even rooted for the couple’s relationship in real life.

Yonghwa looks back on his YoungSeo stint 

Reminiscing about the past, Yonghwa revealed that despite people thinking it was all an act, their “marriage” was largely unscripted. 

Moreover, the singer also unveiled the story behind their lost “couple ring.” Yonghwa clarified that his viral clip of searching for the ring during a live performance on Music Core was real.

“It’s really real. The ring I bought with Seohyun at a fancy stationery store was cheap. So it easily corroded and it fell. But I didn’t lose it. As soon as the stage was over, I searched for it and that is what came out,” he said in the show.

On social media, fans of the virtual couple expressed their excitement on having the YoungSeo days being talked about. Especially since it’s been nearly 13 years since Yonghwa and Seohyun starred in the series. 

More about WGM

For those unaware, We Got Married is an MBC reality show that allows male and female celebrities – from idol group members, actors, or TV personas – to take part in a virtual marriage for a certain period of time. The couples are given tasks which help develop their relationship. 

Other famous couples who also appeared in the show include BTOB’s Yook Sungjae and Red Velvet’s Joy, f(x)’s Victoria and 2PM’s Nickhun, and actor Namkoong Min and singer Hong Jin Young, among many others.

With the series’ first launch in February 2008, WGM aired for a total of four seasons before its final episode in May 2017. With its immense popularity, the show inspired several spin-offs, including a global edition.

Featured image: CNBLUE’s Yonghwa and SNSD’s Seohyun during their last day of filming ‘We Got Married.’ Credit: YouTube/MBC

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