Categories
K-POP ARTISTS LATEST STORIES VARIETY

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

Categories
VARIETY

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.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS LATEST STORIES VARIETY

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

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES VARIETY

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

Categories
VARIETY

KARA’s Youngji Drops ‘L.O.V.E’ Music Video Teaser

KARA’s Heo Youngji is poised for her solo debut in just a day’s time. Ahead of that, she is generating excitement for her debut single album ‘Toi Toi Toi.’ To give fans a taste of what’s in store, Youngji released the music video teaser for her title track “L.O.V.E.” where she exudes an enchanting and playful aura. In addition to that, the video offers a sneak peek at the captivating point choreography.

Youngji Hypes Up Solo Debut With ‘L.O.V.E.’ Music Video Teaser

On September 11, Youngji dropped the new music video teaser. The title track, “L.O.V.E,” is a vibrant dance anthem that radiates her cheerful and optimistic spirit, beautifully encapsulating the emotions of a young woman in love.

On the flip side, fans can anticipate the full single release scheduled for September 12, 2023. People are eagerly awaiting Heo Youngji’s debut as a solo artist. With her charm and talent on full display in the teaser, anticipation is also soaring as fans eagerly await the release of her debut single.

Youngji joined the girl group KARA as the winner of the TV show “Kara Project” in 2014, where she became the group’s latest member. She embarked on her solo music journey in August 2017 with her debut single, “Memory Clock.” Heo Young Ji then renewed her contract with DSP Media in August 2021 and intends to continue promoting as a solo artist.

KARA marked their debut in March 2007 with their first studio album, “The First Bloooooming,” featuring the title track “Break It.” Celebrating their 15th anniversary in 2022, members Gyuri, Seungyeon, Nicole, Jiyoung, and Youngji reunited for the EP “Move Again.” Additionally, the single “When I Move” secured the group’s first music show victory in seven years.

Heo Young Ji’s ‘Toi Toi Toi’ teaser

Heo Youngji’s first solo single album ‘Toi Toi Toi’ will be released on September 12, 2023. The official music video for “L.O.V.E.” is also set to be released on the same day.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES VARIETY

Seventeen Starts Filming for Na PD’s ‘Youth Over Flowers’

CARATs, the news that we’re waiting for is here! Na Young Seok, aka Na PD, has finally started filming for Youth Over Flowers featuring K-pop group SEVENTEEN. 

On Friday, September 7, the members were spotted at the airport wearing mics and carrying cameras following the conclusion of the group’s two-day FOLLOW concert in Japan. They were also seen with Na PD and several of his staff members, prompting speculations that it’s for the Youth Over Flowers filming. 

 

As the clips circulate on social media, a tvN representative confirmed that the filming is indeed for Youth Over Flowers. 

“We ask for your understanding as we cannot provide specific details in order to ensure a safe and smooth filming process. We will provide more information as it becomes available,” they said. 

Additionally, producers of the show ask for the fans’ support. “If you encounter the SEVENTEEN members around the filming location, please pretend to not have seen them so they can enjoy the trip and film comfortably,” they said. 

SEVENTEEN x Youth Over Flowers

For those unfamiliar, Youth Over Flowers is a travel variety show wherein the staff tricked the cast members into spontaneous trips. 

It first premiered in 2014, with the last edition featuring K-pop group WINNER aired in 2017. This upcoming edition with SEVENTEEN will serve as the show’s return in more than five years. 

Interestingly, SEVENTEEN was the one who suggested having their own Youth Over Flowers series. During the group’s appearance in Na PD’s Youtube series The Game Caterers 2, the group listed down some of their wishes that they’d like the production staff to grant. 

Members Dino and Wonwoo wrote that they want the group to have their version of Youth Over Flowers. They said that the group hadn’t traveled for a vacation recently and that they were huge fans of the show. 

Out of the 60 empty wish coupons, DK was able to pick the coupon for said series. 

Given that the premise of the show is for members to go on an impromptu trip, PLEDIS Entertainment, the group’s agency, shared that they’re not aware of the schedule. 

 

Based on the clips on social media, the members also looked visibly surprised when they were strolling through the airport. 

 

According to some reports of fans, member Mingyu lost his passport at the airport. Some fans also claimed that Na PD even asked them to airdrop footage of the incident as it might be included in an episode of the show. 

 

The filming will reportedly take place in Rome, Italy. 

S.coups’ absence

While fans are already looking forward to how SEVENTEENs Youth Over Flowers will turn out, the fun was dimmed by the confirmation that not all members would be able to participate. 

 

S.coups, the group’s leader, had to miss the filming as he’s currently on hiatus. In early August, S.coups had an accident while filming. Although his surgery for his ACL injury was successful, his recovery is supposed to take a while.

However, S.coups flew to Japan to show support for the group’s concert in Tokyo Dome. During the second day, he even appeared onstage during encore to show support for his members. 

On social media, fans were sad to not have all 13 members participate. But they also know that S.coups had to focus on recovery. 

Meanwhile, it will also be Seungkwan’s first major variety film with SEVENTEEN following his return from hiatus.

As of writing, there’s no details yet about the airing of Youth Over Flowers. Stay tuned here for more updates.

Featured image: SEVENTEEN during the filming of ‘In The Soop’ 2. Credit: Facebook/SEVENTEEN

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES VARIETY

BTS’ V Delights Netizens in Chaotic ‘Running Man’ Promo

BTSV is gearing up for his first solo appearance on SBS’ Running Man as part of the promotional activities for his first solo album, Layover. The initial promo suggests that ARMY are in for a treat, with the episode promising to be a comedic spectacle. For the uninitiated, Running Man is a staple in Korean entertainment. It’s a fun variety show where participants engage in a series of humorous and challenging games to win the ultimate prize.

[Trailer] BTS’s V on Running Man 😍 | Coming Soon to Viu for FREE!

V’s first solo flight

The show enjoys immense popularity not only in Korea but also wherever Hallyu content is consumed. While BTS as a group had graced the Running Man set during its 300th episode in 2016, this marks the first time V is appearing solo, causing a surge of excitement among fans.

A recently released promo showcases V‘s duality. It begins with the “Rainy Days” singer stepping out of a car and striding down a red carpet, exuding the aura of a global superstar. Dressed in a black velvet ensemble with his blonde hair styled to perfection, V embodied the international music icon he is. The scene then shifts to V being handed a paper detailing the game’s rules, revealing his character as the affluent owner of lands in eight regions of the fictional “Running Country.”

The promo also shows V meeting the other cast members. The atmosphere is electric and the awe in their eyes is palpable as they greet the singer-songwriter. In a light-hearted moment, he reveals he was told to dress fancy for the show, leading to a humorous exchange with Ji Suk-jin. The comedian bent his head so V could whisper to him, “Your nose hair is showing.” The cast laughed uproariously at that. Fans are reacting similarly to the promo. Here’s what they’ve said:

Will the ‘Running Man’ cast beat him?

Later in the promo, V changes into a more casual outfit. He dons a yellow t-shirt and jeans. As the landowner, he holds the power to determine taxes in each region, much to the shock and dramatic despair of the regular cast members. This episode’s narrative revolves around the cast’s attempts to negotiate tax reductions with V, who proves to be a tough negotiator. BTS fans worldwide are excited to see if the Running Man cast can wrest the upper hand from him or not. 

Mark your calendars for a riveting episode of Running Man airing on September 10 at 6:15 PM KST. He’s also set to appear in Suchwita as the last member of BTS to grace SUGA’s beloved talk show

[슈취타] EP.18 TEASER

With BTSV at center stage, the upcoming episodes of both promise to be unforgettable. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: V really took his job as “landowner” seriously. Source: YouTube/@ViuSingapore.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES VARIETY

Super Junior’s Travel Show ‘Knights of the Lamp’ to Premiere in September

Mark your calendars, ELFS! The upcoming travel variety show Knights of the Lamp, featuring Super Junior members, has finally announced its premiere date. 

According to SM Entertainment, the pilot episode will premiere on September 13. It has a total of four episodes, with each one airing every Wednesday. 

 

First announced in March, Knights of the Lamp will see Super Junior members Leeteuk, Shindong, Eunhyuk, Donghae, Ryeowook, and Kyuhyun travel across Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh. 

Additionally, the variety series will show the idols embark on a quest wherein they will search for a magic lamp that grants their wishes. 

 

Moreover, Knights of the Lamp is a collaboration between Super Junior and the Saudi Arabia Tourism Authority. In the series, Riyadh’s diverse culture and beautiful travel spots will be featured. 

The partnership is not surprising as Super Junior has proven its star power in the Middle Eastern country. Interestingly, the group became the first K-pop act to hold a solo concert in Saudi Arabia. 

In May, Super Junior was officially announced as the ambassador of the Saudi Arabia Tourism Authority. 

 

ELFs’ excitement for a new Super Junior group content

Following the news, fans of Super Junior shared their anticipation for Knights of the Lamp. 

Previously, Super Junior has established themselves as witty idols in their own variety shows Super TV and SJ Returns. In fact, almost all of the members also hosted other variety shows. 

 

On top of Knights of the Lamp being a new show to look forward to, fans are also delighted to have more group content. 

In July, members Donghae, Eunhyuk, and Kyuhyun left SM Entertainment

Despite their departure from the agency as individuals, the three will continue participating as members of Super Junior. The group, which debuted in 2005, has renewed its contract with SM Entertainment.

Currently, Kyuhyun is now under the Antenna agency. 

Meanwhile, Donghae and Eunhyuk, the Super Junior sub-unit D&E, are reportedly planning to establish their own label as co-founders. However, this still hasn’t been confirmed. 

Featured image: Super Junior releases the poster for ‘Knights of the Lamp.’ Credit: Twitter/Super Junior

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS LATEST STORIES VARIETY

Watch: The Devil’s Plan, Featuring Seventeen’s Seungkwan, Releases Trailer

Netflix Korea’s upcoming survival game reality series The Devil’s Plan released its official trailer on Wednesday, August 30. 

The 30-second teaser gives fans a glimpse on the challenges and games that the players will face. Interestingly, it also hints at possible betrayal among the players. 

 

“This is going to be a bloodbath,” one player said, while another declared: “You’re very suspicious.” Other players were also heard saying: “We have to use every trick and scheme.” 

In the description, Netflix Korea teased that The Devils Plan is a “whole new chapter of brain competition.” 

What we know so far about The Devil’s Plan

Aside from Seungkwan, 11 other participants will be joining the competition. 

The cast includes Problematic Men star Ha Seok Jin, professional Go player Cho Yeon Woo, and other professionals such as lawyer,  doctor, and announcer among others. 

Aside from popular personalities, the show also introduced two non-celebrity contestants: American orthopedic surgeon Seo Yoo Min and college student turned professional poker player Kim Dong Jae. The two were chosen through an open recruitment that the show held. 

 

The Devil’s Plan will be directed by Jung Jong Yeon. He is best known for producing and directing the popular survival shows Great Escape, The Genius, and High School Mystery Club.

“I have long wanted to create a brain survival format in the most reasonable and fun way. Everyone wonders, ‘I think like this?’ and The Devil’s Plan is a program that raises such questions,” the director said. 

Jung also described each participant’s strengths where he characterized Seungkwan as a player who has an “immense presence.” He added that the vocalist will meet the viewer’s expectations thanks to his experiences in various TV programs. 

Aside from The Devil’s Plan, Seungkwan has also participated in shows Prison Life of Fools, Unexpected Q,  and Idol Dictation Contest. He’s also the SEVENTEEN member with the most variety program appearances, having participated in Racket Boys, Five Cranky Brothers, and Job Dongsan. 

The Devil’s Plan is set to make its premiere on September 26.

CARATs’ excitement for Seungkwan 

Upon releasing the trailer, CARATs (SEVENTEEN’s fans) and Boosadans (Seungkwan’s fandom) flooded the comment section and social media with positive remarks.

Seungkwan will make all the shows amazing, funny, and good. So, I know this will be a thrilling, good, and funny show,” one fan wrote.

 

The series is highly anticipated especially since it is Seungkwan’s first project after his hiatus. Last July, Pledis Entertainment, SEVENTEEN’s agency, announced that the idol will be taking a break for health reasons. With his hiatus, the singer missed the group’s promotional activities for their album FML and FOLLOW concert.  

However, the agency has already confirmed in early August that Seungkwan is set to join the group’s comeback in October. Additional details about SEVENTEEN’s upcoming album have yet to be announced. 

Featured image: Netflix releases the trailer for ‘The Devil’s Plan.’ Credit: Twitter/Netflix Korea

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES VARIETY

Meet the 20 Contestants in Hybe X Geffen Records’ ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’

K-pop entertainment company HYBE Labels partnered with Universal Music Group subsidiary Geffen Records to create a global girl group through The Debut: Dream Academy show. 

On Tuesday, August 29, the agency revealed the 20 candidates from all over the world who will be competing in the upcoming reality program. 

 

What we know about ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’

These 20 candidates were chosen from over 120,000 applicants from 13 cities across the globe. Also, these young women are aged between 14 to 21. 

Moreover, these candidates come from South Korea, Japan, United States, Australia, Brazil, Philippines, Argentina, Belarus, Sweden, and Slovakia. 

 

HYBE has also been releasing individual photos and profiles of the participants. As well as feature films showing the whole group. 

 

The audition program will air on Youtube and the Japanese streaming platform Abema starting on September 1. Over the course of 12-weeks, these 20 participants will undergo a series of survival missions.

Interestingly, fans can also help determine which of the candidates will make it to the US-based international group through online voting. 

 

The finale will air live on November 17, wherein they will announce the final lineup and the girl group’s name. 

Aside from the audition program, a Netflix docuseries chronicling the creation of this upcoming global girl group will also be in the works. It will be helmed by award-winning filmmaker Nadia Hallgren. And it is expected to be released sometime in 2024. 

HYBE goes global 

The entertainment company behind K-pop superstar BTS teamed up with the US label back in November 2021. 

“I have wanted to form an international group based on K-pop methodology for a while,” HYBE Chairman Bang Si-Hyuk told the press. 

For his part, Geffen A&M Records CEO John Janick also shared that they’re looking forward to this venture.  “Each candidate is incredibly talented, dedicated, and driven, making this an exciting moment for music fans around the world,” he added. 

Aside from The Debut: Dream Academy, one of the subsidiaries of HYBE Label is also holding a survival program for a girl group. Titled R U Next, the winning participants from the program will debut under BELIFT LAB. 

Moreover, several HYBE Label subsidiaries are holding global online auditions. 

BIGHIT Music’s audition program is only open to male applicants born between 2005 and 2013. It will close on September 22. Meanwhile, auditions for KOZ Entertainment will run until November 18. Only individuals born after 2006 can apply. 

Next is the most recently announced audition for PLEDIS Entertainment. Only individuals born after 2005 can audition, and it will run only until September 17.

Featured image: HYBE Labels and Geffen Records announce the participants for ‘The Debut: Dream Academy.’ Credit: Twitter/Dream Academy

Exit mobile version