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Ex-ASTRO’s Rocky to Release Solo Debut Album ‘ROCKYST’

Attention, AROHAs! Former ASTRO member Rocky is making a significant milestone in his career as he steps into the world of solo artists. 

On Monday, November 6, Rocky’s own agency One Fine Day Entertainment confirmed that he’s gearing up for his solo debut. 

According to Korean media, the mini-album called ROCKYST will be released on November 22. It will comprise a total of six songs, with the title track called “LUCKY ROCKY.” Moreover, the upcoming release promises to deliver a unique musical journey that showcases the idol’s versatility and artistry.

Additionally, the title track “LUCKY ROCKY” is described as a retro pop song with an infectious groove. With this, fans are looking forward to seeing Rocky showcase his strength as a dance artist. Since he’s known for his signature moves and flair during his stint in ASTRO. 

Furthermore, Rocky has been super involved in the creation of the album. Among the things he took charge of are planning and writing the songs to composing, producing, and choreographing. Which is why fans are looking forward to see how his vision come to life.

 

Rocky as a solo artist

What makes this debut even more special is that Rocky has established his own agency, One Fine Day Entertainment. Accordingly, the agency’s name reflects the idea of hope and positivity.

Under this new label, Rocky expressed his desire to continue his activities as both an artist and the CEO of the company. Since this move allows him greater creative control and a platform to bring his artistic vision to life, fans can expect an incredible showcase of the artist’s talent. 

During his time with ASTRO, he contributed self-composed songs like “When the Cold Wind Blows,” “No, That’s Right,” and “Our Season.” He also dabbled in songwriting during his unit activities with Jinjin, creating tracks like “Let’s Take a Breath” andCPR.”

Moreover, this will be Rocky’s return to the industry following his departure from ASTRO and FANTAGIO Entertainment in March. 

Featured image: Rocky releases new profile photos under his agency One Fine Entertainment. Credit: Twitter/One Fine Day Entertainment

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Former ASTRO Member Rocky Establishes Own Agency, Confirms Solo Debut

Former ASTRO member Rocky has taken a significant step in his career by establishing his own agency and preparing for his solo debut.

Rocky Announces Self-Established Agency and Solo Debut After ASTRO Departure

In a recent press release, Rocky disclosed that his own agency Onefineday Entertainment was officially founded in August. The agency’s name “One fine day” is inspired by the idea of hope and positivity that everyday will be a good one. Along with this announcement, he shared his new profile picture, giving fans a glimpse of the exciting journey ahead.

“Rocky founded Onefineday Entertainment back in August and he will continue his singing activities as both an artist and the company’s CEO,” the statement read.

Rocky’s first solo album is also slated for release at the end of November. With this solo project, he aims to demonstrate his multifaceted talents, particularly his prowess in music production.

Having embarked on his career eight years ago, Rocky is committed to evolving beyond his role as a versatile performer on stage. He’s delving into the creative aspects of music, including writing lyrics, composing, producing, and crafting choreography. This album represents his transition into an all-rounder artist with a strong emphasis on his production skills, as he is directly overseeing the planning and production.

In the past, Rocky has already dabbled in music production, offering self-composed songs such as “When the Cold Wind Blows,” “No, That’s Right,” and “Our Season” during his tenure with ASTRO. Additionally, he ventured into songwriting during his unit activities with Jinjin & Rocky, creating self-composed tracks like “Let’s Take a Breath” and “CPR.” These early endeavors provided a glimpse of his musical sensibilities.

Rocky’s upcoming solo album, expected to drop in November, is generating considerable anticipation. It’s a self-produced album that encapsulates the experience and skills he has honed over the years. This release also marks a significant milestone in the journey of solo artist Park Min-hyuk, who is poised to showcase his artistic growth and creativity.

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ASTRO’s Sanha Dedicates Emotional Cover Song to Moonbin

Sanha has released an emotional cover of a Japanese song that seems to express his true feelings. The ASTRO member also had a heartfelt message for everyone and may have chosen the song as a tribute to the late Moonbin.

Sanha Dedicates Emotional Cover of ‘Neko’ To Moonbin

In the early hours of October 7, ASTRO member Sanha shared a touching cover song that resonated deeply with fans. He chose to perform an acoustic rendition of “Neko” by the Japanese band DISH//, allowing fans to glimpse into his emotions and connect with him on a personal level.

“When I first heard this song, tears came to my eyes,” Sanha wrote. “I felt like the song had put my own feelings into words. So I wanted to sing a cover of it. Me, my family, our members, our Arohas, everyone. I’m sure that we will be happy one day. Definitely.”

What made this cover even more special was Sanha’s thoughtful gesture. He took the time to personally transcribe the Korean translation of the song’s lyrics, modifying them to convey a unique message. In the original lyrics, the song is dedicated to an unspecified “you.” However, Sanha made a poignant alteration by replacing “you” with “hyung.”

This change held a significant meaning for fans, as it was a nod to the late ASTRO member Moonbin, who was affectionately referred to as “pup-kitty.” Moonbin’s nickname captured his multifaceted personality, as he exhibited both playful puppy-like traits and enigmatic cat-like qualities.

Sanha’s heartfelt cover resonated deeply with fans, offering them solace and a sense of camaraderie. They appreciated his sincerity in using music as a medium to express his emotions and found comfort in the emotional connection they shared with him.

Through this touching gesture, the ASTRO maknae not only showcased his musical talent but also demonstrated his willingness to share his innermost feelings with those who support him, strengthening the bond between him and his fans.

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ASTRO’s Jinjin is The New Radio DJ For EBS FM’s ‘Idol Korean’

Jinjin just got an awesome new gig. The ASTRO member has been chosen as the radio DJ for the upcoming program “Idol Korean” on EBS FM. This exciting show is set to debut on October 2nd and will provide a platform for K-pop artists to explore and discuss the Korean language and culture.

ASTRO Member Jinjin Confirmed As New Radio DJ for Korean Culture Program on EBS FM

On September 26, it was confirmed that Jinjin will be the host of EBS FM’s program “Idol Korean.” As the radio DJ for the show, the ASTRO member will engage with both domestic and international fans. He is expected to foster meaningful communications and share valuable information as well as entertaining experiences. Not surprisingly, AROHAs are already looking forward to the program.

This isn’t exactly Park Jinwoo’s first hosting gig. He notably co-hosted the DIVE Studios podcast “Unboxing” alongside PENTAGON member Kino. With his previous experience on various broadcasts and radio shows, Jinjin is well-known for his quick wit and sense of humor, leaving fans eager to see the new dimension he will bring to “Idol Korean.”

The “All Day” singer expressed his excitement about his new job. “I like listening and communicating with people daily,” Jinjin said. “I hope I can share various stories with both local and international fans who are curious about Korea.”

Apart from his role as a DJ, Jinjin is a versatile artist and leader of ASTRO. He recently made his debut as a musical actor in the show musical “Dream High”, showcasing his diverse talents.

“Idol Korean” will be accessible through EBS FM, the EBS application BANDI, and the EBS website, airing daily at 4 PM starting on October 2nd. Additionally, viewers can enjoy visible radio on YouTube, making it a must-watch and listen program for K-pop enthusiasts.

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ASTRO Commemorates 3rd Unit Debut Anniversary of Moonbin and Sanha

On Thursday, September 14, ASTRO’s first sub-unit, Moonbin and Sanha, marked their third debut anniversary. And both the ASTRO members and their fans, AROHAs, made sure to celebrate the duo’s milestone.

ASTRO’s leader Jinjin, sent his congratulatory message through the group’s official X (former Twitter) account. Sharing some photos of him with Moonbin and Sanha, he greeted the two, whom he called “little brothers.

Meanwhile, their fellow member and actor Cha Eun Woo also sent a greeting of his own through his Instagram. On his stories, he shared a video clip from Moonbin and Sanha’s fan concert tour.

Moreover, he affectionately referred to the duo as the Ddankong Unit. As the two got it from a mixture of their respective nicknames, with Sanha as “DDana” and Moonbin as “Dalkong.”

For his part, Sanha brought to social media his happiness with this achievement. Sharing a behind the scene clip of him and Moonbin from the filming of the music video of “Madness” MV, the singer simply wrote “Happy 3rd anniversary.” 

Moreover, Sanha has also greeted their unit in June as they celebrated their 1000th day since debut.

Additionally, ASTRO STAFF also made sure to congratulate Sanha and Moonbin. “Eternal strongest unit Ddankong! Congratulations on your third anniversary,” they wrote, alongside more photos of the two. 

All the love for the Moonbin and Sanha

AROHAs, the group’s fandom, were overflowing with emotions upon hearing the members’ greetings.

“To our one & only Ddankong, happy 3rd anniversary. We’ll never thank you enough for allowing us to experience true happiness through your music, talent, and friendship. We’ll make sure your legacy lives on,” one fan affectionately expressed.

Understandably, AROHAs are even more sentimental as this is Sanha’s first time celebrating the duo’s anniversary alone. On April 19, Moonbin passed away at 25 years old. 

Throughout their career, Moonbin and Sanha released a total of three mini albums. First was In and Out in 2020, then Refuge in 2022, and then their third and last EP Incense in 2023.

Before Moonbin’s passing, the Ddankong duo were in the midst of their Diffusion fan concert tour. Following Moonbin’s demise, the duo’s Weverse community has been shut down. But FANTAGIO Music will be releasing a DVD of the unit’s DIFFUSION fan concert tour, and all sales would be donated. 

As for Sanha’s future activities, the singer is set to star in the historical romance film Suunjapbang. Said film will be released on December 16.

Featured image: ASTRO shares a photo of Moonbin and Sanha during the unit’s ‘Diffusion’ tour. Credit:Twitter/ASTRO Staff

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First Look: Cha Eun Woo in ‘A Good Day to Be a Dog’ Series

ASTRO’s Cha Eun Woo is set to grace the screens again! He’ll be taking the lead role in the upcoming fantasy-romance drama series A Good Day to be a Dog.

Actress Park Gyu Young will star alongside Eun Woo. She’s popularly known for projects It’s Okay to Not be Okay, Sweet Home, and Celebrity.

On Tuesday, September 5, MBC unveiled teasers of both Eun Woo and Gyu Young in the highly-anticipated drama.

The television network also released cute posters of dogs, perfectly encapsulating the lighthearted tone of the drama. “Attention cuteness, Ready to dangle!” the post’s translation said.

 

To make things more exciting, the drama’s first trailer was released on Wednesday, September 6. Aside from the two main stars, it also featured appearances of adorable dogs.

 

What is the drama about?

A Good Day to be a Dog will revolve around Park Gyu Young’s character, Han Hae Na, a high school teacher who is cursed to transform into a dog with a single kiss. Whenever she kisses a man, she turns into a dog at midnight and reverts back to her normal appearance at dawn.

Meanwhile, Cha Eun Woo will play the role of Jin Seo-Won, a high school teacher who conceals a trauma for dogs due to his painful past. Interestingly, Seo-Won turns out to be the only cure to undo Hae Na’s curse.

With Hae Na and Seo-Won’s encounter, both of their lives take an unexpected turn and form a potential love interest.

The series is based on the Naven webtoon of the same name, which was written by Lee Hye. The author also wrote the recently adapted series See You In My 19th Life, starring Shin Hye-Sun and Ahn Bo Hyun.

As per reports, the series will air once a week with its premiere on October 11. It will run a total of 14 episodes.

Additionally, drama fans are even more excited for A Good Day to be a Dog since this marks the actors’ reunion project in four years. Eun Woo and Gyu Young have previously showed their chemistry in Urban Zakapa’s “You’re the Reason music video. There, the two played the roles of office lovers.

 

Actor Cha Eun Woo is back!

As an actor, Cha Eun Woo made his debut through a minor role in the 2014 drama My Brilliant Life. Meanwhile, hhe made his debut as an idol in the K-pop boy group ASTRO in February 2016.

Given the title “Genius Face”, he rose to popularity with the romantic comedy series My ID is Gangnam Beauty in 2018. Since then he has been casted in multiple dramas including True Beauty, Rookie Historian Goo Hae-ryung and Island.

Throughout his acting career, Eun Woo was able to bag two MBC Drama Awards in 2019. These were Excellent Actor and Best Couple awards, both for his role in Rookie Historian Goo Hae-ryung.

Featured image: Cha Eun Woo stars in ‘A Good Day To Be A Dog’ series. Credit: Twitter/MBC Drama

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Look: Astro’s Sanha to Star in Historical Romance Film

Sanha of K-pop boy group ASTRO is confirmed to be the main lead in a historical romance film titled Suunjapbang

On Friday, August 25, the film’s producers shared the photo of Sanha with other cast members Kim Kang Min and Baek Sung Hyun. 

According to Korean media, Sanha is set to play the role of Kim Yu, a noble based on a real person who wrote a traditional cooking book called “Suunjapbang” during the Josen Dynasty

Then, Kim Yu meets Gye Am, who calls himself the best chef in Joseon. Gye Am will be played by actor Kim Kang Min, who starred in To My Star.

Meanwhile, Casting a Spell to You actor Baek Sung Hyun will also make a special appearance in the film as Kim Yu’s older brother.

 

Interestingly, the real life “Suunjapbang” is considered as one of Korea’s national treasures as it is the oldest Chinese manuscript in Korea containing numerous traditional Joseon-era dishes.

Suunjapbang is set for a December 16 release. 

Actor Sanha is back! 

Fans, especially AROHAs, can’t help but feel emotional upon hearing the news. They quickly took to social media to mark the milestone, trending the hashtag: “Yoon Sanha Actor Return.” 

In the past, Sanha has appeared in various dramas including To Be Continued, Soul Plate, and Your Playlist. However, this project will serve as his first time being casted as a main lead in a movie. Additionally, Suunjapbang will also be Sanha’s first Joseon-era acting project. 

You made me go speechless! A movie? That too the MAIN LEAD? Bro, that is huge! I am so proud of you. ACTOR YOON SANHA IS BACK”, one fan wrote.

https://twitter.com/behappy_sanha/status/1694946804146843740

 

Moreover, fans are extra sentimental about the movie given it’s Sanha’s first solo major project after the passing of ASTRO member Moonbin in April.

They were the group’s first official sub-unit and the duo was in the middle of their DIFFUSION fan concert tour during Moonbin’s death. 

Featured image: ASTRO’s Sanha to star in film ‘Suunjapbang.’ Credit: Twitter/Fantagio Group

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FANTAGIO Will Take Legal Action Against Malicious Rumors About ASTRO’s Moonbin

FANTAGIO is taking malicious rumors about the late Moonbin very seriously. The agency announced that they are taking legal action against netizens spreading unconfounded rumors about the ASTRO member.

FANTAGIO Threatens To Take Legal Action Against Netizens Spreading Fake Rumors About Late ASTRO Member Moon Bin

FANTAGIO issued a statement regarding their plans to face the fake rumors about Moon Bin.

“While we initially planned to proceed with this quietly, because there are many fans who are worried about our artist, we have decided to make a brief statement to inform you of our plans,” the statement read.

“Recently, we have become aware of severely malicious posts that have gone too far, and we decided that we could no longer just sit by and watch,” it continued. “Therefore, we are already in the process of taking legal action. We are also informing you that, if similar incidents should arise again in the future, we will respond with strong legal action without leniency then as well.

“We also plan to ramp up our monitoring, and we will continue to respond [to malicious posts] with strong legal action. Once again, we would like to emphasize that there will be no leniency whatsoever in carrying out [this legal response],” it concluded.

Moonbin’s Mother Pens Emotional Letter Asking People To Stop Spreading Fake Rumors

Moonbin’s mother had previously shared a letter on ASTRO’s official fan cafe. In the letter, she urges people to stop spreading rumors about the “Mermaid Prince” actor.

These kinds of rumors are so difficult for me to see as a mother, and I am also worried that because of these false rumors, many people will suffer damages, and the fans who have been grieving for my son might suffer heartbreak,” she wrote.

I don’t want my son to become fodder for gossip, and I entreat you to please not start any more rumors or spread unconfirmed facts,” she added. “I don’t want the fans whom Bin loved so dearly to live on with broken hearts.

She concluded, “I sincerely thank all of you for your heartfelt mourning.

Moonbin passed away in his home on April 19, 2023. The cause of death was not officially revealed.

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Moonbin’s Mother Requests People To Stop Spreading Fake Rumors About Late ASTRO Member

Moonbin’s mother is stepping up in defense of her late son. Moon Bin’s mom is requesting people to stop spreading fake rumors about the late ASTRO member.

Moon Bin’s Mother Issues Statement Regarding Fake Rumors About Late ASTRO Singer

ASTRO’s agency FANTAGIO recently shared a letter on the group’s official fan page. The letter was penned by Moonbin’s mother and her message is addressed to AROHAs.

“First, I received a lot of comfort from the sincerity of the fans who, even though it was a long distance to travel, came all the way to [Moonbin’s memorial spaces] and wrote heartfelt letters and brought flowers. Truly, I sincerely thank you,” she wrote. “I hope that all the fans also find comfort and stay in good health.”

She then explains that she learned about fake rumors being spread about Moon Bin.

“The reason that I ended up writing this letter is because, even though I know everyone is mourning and grieving for my son, I’ve seen that there have been groundless rumors starting in a small minority of online communities,” she wrote.

These kinds of rumors are so difficult for me to see as a mother, and I am also worried that because of these false rumors, many people will suffer damages, and the fans who have been grieving for my son might suffer heartbreak,” she continued.

I don’t want my son to become fodder for gossip, and I entreat you to please not start any more rumors or spread unconfirmed facts,” she added. “I don’t want the fans whom Bin loved so dearly to live on with broken hearts.

She concluded, “I sincerely thank all of you for your heartfelt mourning.

Moon Bin Cause of Death Not Yet Revealed

Moonbin passed away in his home on April 19, 2023. The cause of death was not officially revealed. His sister BILLLIE rapper Moon Sua served as chief mourner at his funeral which was attended by fellow ASTRO members and close friends.

Soon after Moon Bin’s passing, FANTAGIO opened a memorial space in front of the agency’s building. The space was later moved to the roof deck so fans can continue to leave letters for the late idol.

The memorial site has now been moved to an area in Gukcheongsa Temple at Namhansangseong, FANTAGIO confirmed that the space will be opened long-term as long as fans follow the rules and regulations.

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ASTRO’s Cha Eun Woo and Sanha Visit Moonbin’s New Memorial Site

Cha Eun Woo and Sanha continue to pay tribute to the late Moonbin. The ASTRO members have visited the “Mermaid Prince” star’s new memorial site in Namhansangseong. The duo would be the first people to see the new space where people can continue to honor Moon Bin’s memory.

ASTRO’s Cha Eun Woo and Sanha Visit Moonbin’s New Memorial Site in Namhansanseong

Cha Eun Woo shared new photos and videos on his official Instagram account. The post also features fellow ASTRO member Sanha who seems lost in thought. The idols appear to be at the Namhansanseong Fortress where Moonbin’s new memorial site will be erected.

It’s yet another touching tribute to Moon Bin who passed away on April 19, 2023. It is also clear that Cha Eun Woo, Sanha, and the other members of ASTRO are still dealing with the loss.

On June 4, FANTAGIO confirmed that a new memorial site for Moonbin will be erected this week.

We fully empathize with AROHA’s wishes to honor Moonbin a while longer,” the statement read. “Therefore, after long and careful discussion with the bereaved family, we have prepared an external memorial space so that AROHA who always send unsparing love can greet Moonbin for a little while longer.”

“Although Moonbin’s religion is not Buddhism, at the request of the bereaved family, we have prepared the “Moon’s Space” at an area in Gukcheongsa Temple at Namhansangseong, and [the memorial place] will run long-term starting from June 7, 2023, at 5:30 a.m. KST.”

“It may be very uncomfortable because the road to Gukcheongsa is uphill and narrow, but we sincerely hope that it becomes a space that AROHA can comfortably visit anytime and feel at least a little soothed and comforted.”

FANTAGIO Cautions AROHAs To Respect Moon Bin’s New Memorial Site

FANTAGIO also asked fans to be mindful of what they leave at the memorial site.

We would be grateful if you please refrain from leaving food and floral tributes and [only leave] letters and notes,” the statement added.

“We fully understand that they are for Moonbin, but the Buddhist temple is located in the mountains, so it is difficult to preserve them intact due to insects and debris.”

The agency further shared that there is a plan to install a board so fans can attach notes. The letters will be collected regularly and stored properly.

In related news, Cha Eunwoo previously paid tribute to Moonbin by covering his favorite 10cm song.

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