Category: VARIETY

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LATEST STORIES VARIETY

Variety Show “Crime Scene” to Return After 6 Years

Six years after it aired its third season, South Korean variety series Crime Scene will be returning – but this time, with a new version! 

Crime Scene is a hit role playing game variety show that follows a group of guests who take on different roles as they attempt to solve a murder case. Its first season aired in May 2014, with JBTC launching its second season in April 2015 and third season in April 2017. 

On Tuesday, Wednesday 18, TVING announced that a new season will return through a new title: Crime Scene Returns. 

 

Original cast members Jang Jin, Park Ji Yoon, and Jang Dong Min are confirmed to return for the new season, while SHINee member Key, Joo Hyun Young, and IVE’s An Yun Jin were casted as the new additional members. 

Following the announcement, netizens express their excitement in seeing how the three new additions will aid in solving the cases, especially that Key, Hyun Young, and An Yun Jin are also known for their variety chops. Key has been a mainstay in DoReMi Market and I Live Alone, Hyun Young gained popularity for her SNL Korea stints, and An Yun Jin was part of Steel Stroops and Earth Arcade. 

TVING has yet to expound on how they revamped the show for its new season, but Crime Scene Returns is expected to air in early 2024. A final release date has yet to be announced. Stay tuned here for more updates!

Featured image from TVING’s Twitter

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‘Squid Game 2’ Issues Apology for Airport Filming Issue

Netflix reveals new cast members for 'Squid Game' season 2. Photo from Netflix's Twitter

Filming for the second season of the hit thriller series Squid Game has only started but it’s already met with controversy. 

On Tuesday, July 11, an anonymous user made a complaint on an online community about their encounter with a Squid Game 2 staff the previous day. 

The individual shared that during the show’s filming at the Incheon International Airport, a staff member had aggressively prevented bypassers from using the public escalator. They continued that the staff member was rude when instructing them to move to a different place, instead of giving them an explanation as to why they’re not allowed to use the elevator. 

In response to the post, the producers of Squid Game 2 issued a statement to apologize about the incident. 

The creators shared that they’re aware of the social media post wherein a person expressed their discomfort during the filming encounter, and while they attempted to inform the people present in the shooting area about the ongoing filming, they still apologize for making other people uncomfortable. 

“We sincerely thank the citizens who understood [our situation during] the shoot, and we will be even more careful during filming in the future,” they said, according to a Soompi report. 

Netflix first announced in January 2022 that Squid Game will be getting a second season, but it’s only in June when they announced the cast members for the sequel. 

Lee Jung Jae, Lee Byung Hun, Wi Ha Jun, and Gong Yoo are confirmed to reprise their roles, while Yim Siwan, Park Sung Hoon, Kang Ha Neul, and Yang Dong Geun will join the second season. 

Other new additions include Cho Seung Hyun (also known as BIGBANG’s T.O.P), Jo Yur, Park Gyu Young, Lee Jin Uk, Won Ji An, Roh Jae Won, Lee David, and Kang Ae Shim. 

However, T.O.P’s involvement was met with mixed reactions that Lee Jung Jae’s agency even had to clarify that he has no involvement in the idol-actor’s casting. “The casting of a project is the authority of the director and the production company,” Lee’s agency Artist Company said.  

Squid Game 2 is expected to air in 2024, but a final release date has yet to be announced. 

Featured image: Netflix’s Twitter

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VARIETY

Look: Twice’s Misamo Are Stunning in Teasers for “Do Not Touch”

MiSaMo of K-pop girl group TWICE are serving looks ahead of their much-anticipated sub-unit debut! 

JYP Entertainment released on Wednesday, July 12, a group teaser for “Do Not Touch,” the title track for the MiSaMo’s first Japanese mini-album Masterpiece. 

In the video, members Mina, Sana, and Momo flaunted their top-tier visuals – first with the group shot of them in dreamy and colorful ensembles and in close-up shots of them posing in black-and-white. 

Mina, Sana, and Momo are the Japanese members of TWICE. MiSaMo will be the first sub-unit of the group to make an official debut.

Aside from the group teaser, the label has also been releasing individual teasers of the members. 

Masterpiece, which will be out on July 26, features a total of seven tracks, including “Do Not Touch,” “Behind The Curtain,” “Marshmallow,” “Funny Valentine,” “It’s Not Easy For You,” “Rewind You,” and “Bouquet.“

 

Momo contributed to the lyrics of “Funny Valentine,” Mina in the track “It’s not easy for you,” while Sana helped in writing “Rewind You.

The sub-unit has also released on June 15 the music video for their pre-release track “Marshmallow.” 

In the making video for “Marshmallow,” the members have expressed their feelings for their upcoming unit debut. 

“This is our first time working as a unit, and we’re all really nervous and excited. We’ve been working really hard, so we hope our dearest ONCE will like it,” Mina said. 

Sana added that they filmed a lot of content as she hoped that the MiSaMo unit is something that the fans have been waiting for. 

 TWICE is a nine-member girl group under JYP Entertainment that made their debut on October 2015. They are known for songs “The Feels,” “TT,” “I Can’t Stop Me,” and “Feel Special.”

They are currently embarking on their READY TO BE concert tour, wherein they made history as the first K-pop girl group to sell out at a stadium in North America. 

Meanwhile, member Jihyo is also set to make her solo debut in August with “Killin’ Me Good.”

Featured image: TWICE Japan’s Twitter

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Watch: Netflix Releases Teaser for Variety Series ‘Zombieverse’

Will you be able to survive a zombie apocalypse? Netflix’s upcoming survival variety series Zombieverse will put that to a test! 

On Monday, July 10, Netflix released a 40-second teaser, showing the cast running across the streets of Seoul, South Korea as they try to survive against a throng of zombies. 

Think of it as a mix of Netflix’s previous zombie-themed series such as Kingdom and All of Us Are Dead and reality survival shows Physical 100 and Siren: Survive the Island.

 

In the teaser, a voiceover is heard saying that “multiple patients” are coming down with an “unknown infection” and they are showing “unusual, violent symptoms.” 

The contestants will then try to work through a variety of challenges while trying to avoid being bitten by the undead attackers. 

The teaser also provided a first look at some of the contestants, which include comedian Park Na Rae, rapper DinDin, former baseball pitcher Yoo Hee Kwan, Kim Jin Young from Single’s Inferno 2, Tsuki of girl group Billie, television personalities Jonathan and Patricia Yiombi. 

Park Jin-kyung of My Little Television and Hey! First Time in Korea?’s Moon Sang-don are in charge of helming Zombieverse. 

“There will be new zombies, survivors and unique scenes, which have not been seen in the existing zombie-themed projects,” Park said about the project in a press release.

Zombieverse will have eight episodes and will premiere on August 8. 

Meanwhile, Netflix also recently confirmed that the second season for the hit survival thriller series Squid Game is in the works.

Featured image: Netflix News’ Facebook

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LATEST STORIES VARIETY

EXO’s DO, Kim Woo Bin, Lee Kwang Soo, and Kim Ki Bang Among Star-Studded Cast Confirmed for Na PD’s New Variety Show

Na Young Seok, aka Na PD, is making headlines yet again. The acclaimed producer is set to launch a new variety show. The cast of this highly anticipated show includes prominent actors Kim Woo Bin, Lee Kwang Soo, Do Kyung-Soo (aka D.O. from the K-pop group EXO), and Kim Ki Bang.

An entertainment official revealed to JTBC Enternews that the four celebrities are filming the new show in Gangwon following the opening shoot in Seoul. The specific concept of the program remains under wraps, but the news of these close friends appearing together on a show has already sparked significant interest in the broadcasting world.

Na PD is a highly influential figure in South Korean entertainment. He’s a television producer who created some of the most popular and successful variety shows in South Korea, namely 2 Days & 1 Night, Grandpas Over Flowers, New Journey to the West, and Three Meals a Day.  

The Game Caterers, another successful variety show by Na PD, is known for its entertaining and often chaotic episodes featuring various K-pop idols. One such memorable episode featured the boy group SEVENTEEN. The episode was filled with hilarity and unexpected moments, which resulted in Na PD having to do the “Super” dance challenge with SEVENTEEN after the episode aired.

Na PD’s innovative approach to reality and variety programming has garnered critical acclaim and high ratings, earning him multiple awards. The shows he produces are known for their heartwarming moments, humor, and unique concepts, making him a beloved figure among viewers.

In related news, SM Entertainment group EXO, of which D.O. is a member, is also working on a new reality show. However, this project is separate from D.O.‘s involvement in Na PD‘s variety show.

Featured Image: Na PD took pains to explain the rules of a game to SEVENTEEN during an episode of ‘The Game Caterers.’ Source: channel fullmoon/Na PD’s YouTube channel

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VARIETY

Watch: Loona’s Odd Eye Circle Releases Highlight Medley for ‘Version Up’

Mark your calendars because we’re days away from hearing new music from Odd Eye Circle.

On Saturday, July 8, ARTMS released a two-and-a-half minute highlight medley for Odd Eye Circle’s upcoming album Version Up. 

The six-track album, which will be released on July 12, will start with “Were You Waiting?” and followed by the title track “AIR FORCE ONE.” Its other songs include “Je Ne Sais Quoi,” “Lucid,” “Love Me Like,” and “My Secret Playlist.”

Prior to the highlight medley, Odd Eye Circle also released solo teaser images for members Jinsoul, Choerry, and Kim Lip, wherein all three idols are seen wearing eye patches, gloves, and black-and-white ensembles. 

The album Version Up will serve as Jinsoul, Kim Lip, and Choerry’s first release under Modhaus, the agency founded by LOONA’s former creative director Jaden Jeong. The subunit will also embark on their Europe tour starting August. 

The three idols, together with Heejin, signed with Modhaus in March. Their contracts with former label BlockBerry Creative were suspended in January. 

In April, Modhaus launched the ARTMS project to refer to the activities of the LOONA members under their agency. Haseul, who signed with Modhaus in June, has also been added to the agency’s ARTMS project. 

All 12 members of LOONA have left BlockBerry Creative, after winning a string of lawsuits to suspend their contracts with the agency. 

Featured image: ARTMS’ Twitter

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES VARIETY

Taeyeon from Girls’ Generation to Hold Solo Concert in the Philippines

Exciting news for Filipino fans!

Taeyeon, the leader and main vocalist of K-pop girl group Girls’ Generation, is set to captivate audiences with her highly-anticipated solo concert in the Philippines this July.

DNM Entertainment, the concert organizers, took to their official social media platforms to announce that the renowned queen of vocals will bring her “The ODD Of Love” concert tour to the country.

 

The concert is scheduled at the prestigious Smart Araneta Coliseum on July 30, 2023. Ticket prices for this spectacular event range from P3,000 to P12,000. DNM Entertainment also revealed that ticket sales will commence on July 16, 2023, at 2 p.m. via TicketNet.

This marks Taeyeon’s second visit to the Philippines in 2023, following her remarkable performance at the Manila Ultimate Pop Universe – K-Verse concert.

Known for her extraordinary vocal range, Taeyeon has established herself as one of the most talented singers in the Korean music industry. As a member of Girls’ Generation and a successful soloist, she has garnered immense praise and recognition. Her songs, including “INVU,” “Fine,” “Weekend,” “Can’t Control Myself,” “Four Seasons,” and many others, have resonated with fans worldwide.

If you’re from the Philippines, don’t miss this incredible opportunity to witness Taeyeon’s live performance and experience her undeniable talent firsthand!

Featured Image Credit: SMTOWN Official INVU MV

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VARIETY

Blue Dragon Series Awards 2023: K-pop Idols Shine Among Star-Studded Nominations

The highly anticipated Blue Dragon Series Awards 2023 will take place in July next month, honoring outstanding achievements in the Korean entertainment industry. It’s also now home to notable K-pop powerhouses, who now own the camera with their acting skills.

This year’s nominations feature a diverse lineup of talent, including established veterans and rising K-pop stars. Notably, the award ceremony will be the first to be exclusively streamed digitally, highlighting the impact of streaming platforms on the industry.

 

After meticulous deliberations and surveys, the entertainment sector of Sports Chosun has unveiled the nominees for the upcoming event. Eligible shows for consideration were released on streaming platforms between May 1, 2022, and May 31, 2023.

Industry Stars In The Making 

The Best Rookie Actor category presents a promising competition, with soloist Park Jihoon receiving acclaim for his role in Weak Hero Class 1.

ASTRO’s Cha Eunwoo equally deserves attention, whose nomination has sparked fan discussion due to his extensive experience as an actor.

EXID’s Hani has mesmerized viewers with her compelling performance in Hit the Spot, earning her a nomination in the highly competitive Best Rookie Actress category. In the realm of variety series, WEi’s Kim Yo-han and GOT7’s BamBam compete for the Best Rookie Male Entertainer title. 

Meanwhile, the Best Female Entertainer category features an exciting clash between Girl’s Day’s Yura and Girls’ Generation’s Yuri. Additionally, KARA’s Heo Young-ji has been recognized for her talents and secured a spot in the Best Rookie Female Entertainer title nominations.

This highly anticipated event will take place on July 19, 2023, at 8:30 PM KST, where the industry’s finest will gather to celebrate Korean entertainment’s exceptional achievements and contributions.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES VARIETY

Warner Music Korea Refutes Allegations of Attempting to Poach K-pop Sensation Fifty Fifty

Warner Music Korea has firmly denied the allegations made by the agency of K-pop sensation Fifty Fifty regarding attempts to lure the group away from their current label.

Comprising four members, Fifty Fifty made their debut under the Korean label Attrakt in November of the previous year.

On June 26, Attrakt released an official statement accusing Warner Music Korea and a third party of trying to entice the girl band to leave their agency.

Attrakt stated, “We have discovered a situation in which an outsourcing company approached Warner Music Korea and offered to sell Fifty Fifty. We have gathered substantial evidence of an apparent illegal attempt to poach the members.”

In response to these allegations, Warner Music Korea issued a statement denying any involvement in the attempted poaching, as reported by Korea JoongAng Daily:

“First and foremost, Warner Music Korea is an overseas distributor for Fifty Fifty and has been working with them since April 1, 2023. Since signing the contract, we have been utilizing Warner Music Group’s capabilities and networks to enhance the achievements of Fifty Fifty and their agency. It is deeply regrettable that unfounded suspicions have been raised,” clarified Warner Music Korea.

The statement continued, “Warner Music Korea values the opinions of artists and their agencies. As a global distributor, we have consistently strived to contribute to their success, as evidenced by various accomplishments.”

Warner Music Korea expressed disappointment with Attrakt’s claims and conveyed regret over the situation.

Despite the unfortunate plagiarism allegations, Fifty Fifty has gained significant attention for their viral hit “Cupid,” which propelled them onto the Billboard Hot 100 and UK charts, making headlines worldwide. 

Featured photo from Fifty Fifty Official

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Love Letters: ARMY’s Heartfelt Song for BTS on Their 10th Anniversary

In celebration of BTS’ momentous 10th anniversary, fans worldwide have come together to express their unwavering love and support for the septet through “Love Letters,” a beautiful tribute song. This composition reflects the bond between BTS and their fanbase, ARMY, highlighting everything they’ve been through together.

Challenging Years

The past few years have been filled with ups and downs for both BTS and ARMY. From the global pandemic that disrupted plans to each BTS member’s enlistments and impending solo endeavors, it has been a period of constant change. Luckily, the bond BTS has with ARMY allowed both parties to find solace and thrive amidst these challenges.

The creators behind “Love Letters” hope this song will resonate deeply with ARMY, reminding them of the profound impact BTS has had on their lives. It serves as a beacon of hope, assuring the fans that, no matter what happens, BTS and ARMY will always be one. The lyrics capture the essence of this sentiment, encouraging fans to trust the group and believe that the best is truly “yet to come.”

For a Cause

“Love Letters” is special as it contributes to charitable causes. All proceeds generated from the song’s sales and streams will be donated to UNICEF, adding a layer of meaning and purpose to this special tribute. By helping “Love Letters” succeed, fans worldwide can continue BTS‘s tradition of helping others through music.

As this year’s anniversary celebrations continue, the release of “Love Letters” demonstrates the creativity and unity of the BTS fandom. Other groups are also preparing their own musical tributes to BTS. For instance, the Global ARMY Song is set to be released in September, providing fans with even more musical expressions of their love for BTS.

Cheers to a decade of BTS‘s groundbreaking achievements, and here’s to a brighter future filled with infinite possibilities. Stay tuned for updates on the funds raised with “Love Letters” as those behind the song look for more ways to pay it forward, reflecting the benevolence and compassion of BTS and ARMY.

Featured Image: BTS Twitter page

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