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These Are the K-Pop Songs That Made It to Rolling Stone’s ‘Best Songs of 2023’

Several K-pop tracks have earned a place on Rolling Stone‘s prestigious list of “Best Songs of 2023,” underscoring the genre’s growing influence on the global music scene.

Of particular significance is NewJeans‘ exceptional achievement as the sole K-pop group featured in both the “Best Albums of 2023” and “Best Songs of 2023” categories by Rolling Stone. 

On December 1, the authoritative music media outlet unveiled its highly-anticipated list for “The 100 Best Songs of 2023.” For the first time, a total of nine K-pop releases were featured in the list. 

NewJeans‘ pre-released track and title song, “Super Shy, from their 2nd mini-album Get Up, secured an impressive 6th position. Notably this marked the highest-ranking K-pop song on the list. According to Rolling Stone, the particular track was a “breakthrough” for the girl group. “The song is one of the purest pop thrills of the year, with a dreamy melody,” they added. “In true K-pop fashion, the accompanying music video is just as captivating.” 

Prior to this ranking, NewJeans’ Get Up also secured the 33rd position in Rolling Stones “The 100 Best Album of 2023.” 

Other K-pop songs that made it to Rolling Stone’s list

Meanwhile, SEVENTEEN‘s “Super” claimed the 47th position. The title track from their 10th mini-album FML is the second-highest among K-pop songs. In their list, Rolling Stone praised the group’s inspiration drawn from Chinese mythological creature Sun Wukong. As well as using this as a metaphor for their impressive growth in their eight-year journey. 

Next K-pop songs that made it to the list are TWICE’s pre-released English single “Moonlight Sunrise,” from their 12th mini-album Ready to Be, which secured the 55th spot. 

Meanwhile, V of BTS earned the 58th position with his pre-released track Rainy Days” from his first solo album Layover. With this, Min Hee-jin, the producer of NewJeans and CEO of Ador, is the only Korean producer with two songs on the chart. To note, she also helped produce V’s solo debut album. 

Other K-pop songs on the list include BLACKPINK Jisoo’s solo debut song “Flower” at 67th spot and FIFTY FIFTY’s viral song “Cupid at the 75th spot. Also part of the roundup are XG at 77th with their title track “Left Right” from their third single Shooting Star. 

Placing 95 and 99, respectively, are aespa’s Spicyand BTS Jungkook’s “Sevenfeat. Latto. 

How do you feel about this ranking? Should there be more K-pop songs included in the list? 

Featured image: NewJeans poses for their 2024 Season’s Greetings. Credit: Twitter/NewJeans

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BLACKPINK Renews Contract With YG Entertainment for Group Activities

All four members of BLACKPINK have officially extended their contracts with their original agency, YG Entertainment, for future group activities, putting an end to the speculation surrounding the acclaimed K-pop sensation’s future.

On Wednesday, December 6, YG Entertainment announced that they’ve successfully secured exclusive contracts for group endeavors with Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa. A representative from the label emphasized that this decision was reached after thorough discussions and is founded on a deep sense of trust between the parties involved.

After careful discussions with BLACKPINK, we signed exclusive contracts for group activities based on deep trust,” YG Entertainment said, according to a Soompi report. 

 

Furthermore, Yang Hyun Suk, the executive producer at YG Entertainment, expressed his joy in continuing the collaborative journey with BLACKPINK. He said: “BLACKPINK will continue to do their best to shine even brighter in the global music market as artists representing not only our agency but also K-pop, and we send our unwavering support and faith for their future steps.”

According to South Korean media reports, the contract renewal will see the quartet release new music and hold another large-scale world tour soon. 

BLACKPINK still in our area

While the renewal covers group activities, there has been no official announcement regarding the members’ solo pursuits yet. 

Since the quartet’s original contract with YG Entertainment expired in August, there’s speculation that the members would pursue individual activities with other agencies. To recall, there were reports claiming that Lisa will be signing with an American agency, while Jennie and Jisoo will allegedly set up their own labels. Notably, these reports also included deals that allegedly promised business and promotional opportunities for the artists outside of their K-pop activities. 

Although there’s no news about the members’ contract for their solo activities, the latest news concludes months of uncertainty about BLACKPINK’s future as a group. 

Since their debut in 2016 with hit singles like “Whistle” and “Boombayah,” BLACKPINK has risen to become one of the most commercially successful female acts in the K-pop industry.  

Furthermore, they also made history as the first K-pop act to headline the renowned Coachella music festival in the United States, solidifying their global influence and popularity. Recently, the members were also awarded with honorary memberships in the Order of the British Empire.

Featured image: Jisoo, Lisa, Rosé, and Jennie pose after their Coachella performance. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

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BLACKPINK Receives Honorary MBEs From King Charles at Buckingham Palace

BLACKPINK, the renowned South Korean girl group, has been granted honorary membership in the Order of the British Empire.

In a special investiture ceremony on November 22 at Buckingham Palace, King Charles presented all four members of BLACKPINK with honorary MBEs. Notably, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and First Lady Kim Keon Hee were also present during the investiture ceremony. 

On the Royal Family’s official social media accounts, they also shared clips of the BLACKPINK members receiving their honorary MBEs from King Charles. “The K-pop band have been awarded the honors in recognition of their role as advocates for the COP26 Summit in Glasgow,” they captioned the post. 

For those unfamiliar, the MBEs are part of a series of medals and honors that the King can confer on behalf of the government.

According to reports, Rosé, holding dual New Zealand citizenship and being a national of a British realm, received a “substantive” MBE. This distinguishes her from the purely honorary recognition bestowed upon the three remaining members: Jisoo, Jennie, and Lisa

Another historic feat for BLACKPINK 

As recognition stems from their pivotal role as official advocates for the forthcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow, the Royal Family further commended BLACKPINK for their vocal support for the campaign to raise awareness about climate change. 

A day prior to the investiture ceremony, King Charles also hosted a banquet at Buckingham Palace for the South Korean president and first lady, with all four BLACKPINK members in attendance. 

In his banquet speech, King Charles commended Jennie, Jisoo, Lisa, and Rosé, for effectively conveying the message of environmental sustainability to a global audience while balancing their roles as international superstars. Based on the clips circulating online, the members were visibly surprised by the acknowledgment of their pivotal role. 

Moreover, BLACKPINK’s contributions for this initiative extended beyond verbal support. As the group also released educational videos aimed at enlightening the younger generation about climate issues. Which led to the group being appointed as global ambassadors for the United Nation Sustainable Development Goals. 

With this, BLACKPINK has now become the first and only non-British musical artist to receive this prestigious honorary award. Furthermore, they’ll be joining notable musical artists such as The Beatles (1965), Adele (2013), and Ed Sheeran (2017) as recipients of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE). 

On social media, fans of the group are overjoyed with BLACKPINK’s latest achievement. On top of that, they’re also delighted to see all four members together again amidst the group’s ongoing contract renewal negotiation with YG Entertainment.

Featured image: BLACKPINK poses with their honorary MBEs. Credit: Twitter/Royal Family

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BLACKPINK’s Jisoo in Talks for ‘Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint’

Excitement is building among BLINKs as the news broke that BLACKPINK member Jisoo is in talks to star in the upcoming movie Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint

On Tuesday, October 24, Korean media reported that industry insiders revealed that Jisoo had been offered a role in the film adaptation of the popular web novel.

In response to these reports, YG Entertainment confirmed the news. “BLACKPINK’s Jisoo received an offer to star in Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint and is reviewing the offer positively,” the label said, according to Soompi

What we know so far about ‘Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint’ 

For those unfamiliar, Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint will be a movie adaptation of a well-loved web novel of the same name.

It revolves around Kim Dok Ja, the protagonist, who unexpectedly finds himself in a world shaped by the narrative of the web novel he had been reading. His mission is to restore the world to its original state. 

According to previous reports, popular actors Ahn Hyo Seop and Lee Min Ho are being considered for the roles of Kim Dok Ja and Yoo Jung Hyuk, respectively. Notably, Yoo Jung Hyuk is the main character in the web novel that Kim Dok Ja reads. 

Furthermore, reports claim that if Jisoo accepts the offer, she is likely to portray the character Lee Ji Hye, a student that Yoo Jung Hyuk takes under his wing.

Other cast members who are reported to be in the movie are Jung Sung II and Park Ho San. Meanwhile, Chase Soo Bin, Shin Seung Ho, and Nana are reportedly offered to portray the characters of Yoo Sang Ah, Lee Hyun Sung, and Jung Hee Won, respectively. 

Aside from these, other details about the movie, such as its target premiere date have yet to be announced. 

Actress Jisoo is back! 

Following the news, fans couldn’t help but share their excitement on social media. Many are rejoicing as Jisoo’s potential involvement in Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint marks a significant step in her acting career. 

To recall, she made her acting debut with the action-romance series Snowdrop. There, she garnered recognition for her performance in her first leading role and even won the “Outstanding Actress Award” at the 17th Seoul International Drama Awards.

Recently, she also made a cameo appearance in the film Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman.  

Aside from Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint, Jisoo was also reported to be in talks for starring in a zombie drama. While there’s no confirmation yet about these acting projects, fans are eagerly anticipating to see more of the idol venturing into acting. 

In other news, YG Entertainment still remains mum about the contract status of BLACKPINK members. 

Featured image: BLACKPINK shares photo of Jisoo from filming ‘Flower.’ Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

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BLACKPINK’s Jisoo, Ahn Bo-Hyun Break Up

Several months after going public with their relationship, BLACKPINK’s Jisoo and actor Ahn Bo-hyun have parted ways due to “busy schedules.”

According to a Soompi report on Tuesday, October 24, an industry representative claimed that the two “naturally became distant due to their busy schedules” which resulted in their split. Additionally, said report claimed that the break up only happened recently. 

In response, BLACKPINK’s agency YG Entertainment confirmed the news. “It is true that Jisoo and Ahn Bo Hyun broke up,” they said. 

To recall, Jisoo and Bo-hyun’s relationship was confirmed by their respective agencies in August 2023. Entertainment news website Dispatch was the first outlet to break the news, sharing photos of the couple spending time at Jisoo’s home. Both reportedly bond over their similar interests in acting, singing, and fashion. Moreover, the relationship garnered a lot of attention as it was the first time for a BLACKPINK member to admit that she’s dating. 

Following the news of their split, some fans took to social media to express their surprise and reaction to the breakup. Nevertheless, some remain hopeful that the two will continue to be good colleagues instead. 

BLACKPINK’s Jisoo and Ahn Bo-hyuns individual careers

Another reason why the relationship between Jisoo and Bo-hyun left fans surprised was because the two haven’t worked with each other before. Some even thought that it was Jisoo’s Snowdrop co-actor Jung Hae-in who served as a matchmaker between the two as Hae-in is a same-age friend to Bo-hyun. But Hae-in explained that he only found out that the two were dating through the news. 

 Ahn Bo Hyun, 35, starred in shows See You In My 19th Life, Yumi’s Cells, Military Prosecutor Doberman, My Name, and Itaewon Class. 

Meanwhile, Jisoo made her debut as a member of BLACKPINK in August 2016. She also ventured into acting through the Disney+ series Snowdrop. Recently, she made a cameo appearance in the film Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman. As a solo artist, she made her debut in March with the EP ME. 

Currently, fans are eagerly awaiting for Jisoo and BLACKPINK’s contract renewal status with YG Entertainment.

Featured image: BLACKPINK’s Jisoo and Ahn Bo-hyun update fans with new photos. Credit: Instagram/Jisoo and Ahn Bo-hyun

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BLACKPINK’s Jisoo Spotted in Paris Having Dinner With Korean Actress

Jisoo is currently in the romantic city of Paris and it looks like she caught up with another South Korean actress. The BLACKPINK member was recently spotted enjoying a delightful dinner with “Love Alarm” star Go Min Si. The revelation confirms an unexpected yet welcome friendship between the two women.

BLACKPINK’s Jisoo Spotted in Paris With Korean Actress Go Min Si

On September 28, Jisoo took to her Instagram story to share a glimpse of their Parisian rendezvous. The BLACKPINK member shared a photo of herself dining at a chic French restaurant, dressed casually yet exuding charm. In a gesture of camaraderie, Jisoo credited Korean actress Go Min Si as the photographer behind the captivating shot.

Not surprisingly, Go Min Si reciprocated the sentiment by posting a similar Instagram story update. The “Sweet Home” actor also tagged Jisoo and acknowledged the “Flower” singer as the talented photographer who captured a lovely candid moment during their dinner.

gominsi/Instagram

Both celebrities are currently in Paris for various engagements associated with ‘Paris Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2024.’ Notably, on the same day, Jisoo attended the renowned Parisian cabaret Crazy Horse to support her fellow BLACKPINK member Lisa, underlining the strong bond that exists among the idols both on and off the stage. This heartwarming encounter in the City of Love offers a glimpse into the genuine connections forged in the world of entertainment.

Go Min Si is known for her work in films like “Parallel Novel”, “Cheese in the Trap”, “Set Play”, and “Decision to Leave”. She also notably appeared in TV shows like “My Sassy Girl”, “Welcome to Waikiki”, “The Smile Has Left Your Eyes”, and “Jirisan”. Go is currently expected to reprise her role as Lee Eun-yoo in the second season of the Netflix series “Sweet Home” and is currently working on the show’s Season 3.

Jisoo was recently confirmed for a cameo appearance in the film “Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman”. The BLACKPINK member was also revealed to play a traditional Korean fairy in the upcoming movie.

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First Look: Blackpink’s Jisoo in the Film ‘Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman’

Watch out, BLINKs! Jisoo of the global girl group BLACKPINK attracts attention once again but this time, for her special appearance in the film Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman. 

Directed by Kim Sung Sik, the film will tell the story of Dr. Cheon, played by actor Kang Dong Won, and his fake exorcism rituals. Here, Jisoo appears as a traditional fairy, captivating the viewers with her exceptional beauty.

During the film’s press conference, the director shared that while looking for an actress who would fit the image of a fairy, he thought of Jisoo after watching her in Snowdrop. Notably, the action-romance series marked Jisoo’s acting debut. There, she gained recognition for her performance in her first ever main role.

Meanwhile, her cameo appearance in Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman would serve as her first participating in a movie. Despite it only being a brief stint, fans are eager to see Jisoo  for her acting comeback. 

The Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman  is set to hit theaters on September 27.

All praises for actress Jisoo in Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman

Since the news of Jisoo’s cameo was revealed, she has since earned praises from numerous big names in the industry.

Upon watching the special premiere, award-winning director Park Chan Wook gained attention for his remarks on Jisoo. The director was quite impressed with the singer. He is known to have created the masterpieces Oldboy, The Handmaiden, and Decision to Leave,

According to Park Chan Wook, he was shocked by the singer’s appearance. “Since it’s a small role, I thought a minor actor would take on the role. But while watching, I thought, “Was there such a beautiful minor actor?” and was shocked for a second, he said.

Meanwhile, Esom, Jisoo’s fellow co-star in the Snowdrop drama,  also expressed approval of the idol. “I wondered who could portray the fairy character if it were not Jisoo. That’s how beautiful she was,” the actress said in an interview. 

Other reviews from several Korean media outlets also showered Jisoo with positive comments.

Jisoo is a character that cannot help but catch your attention, and the moment you meet her, the atmosphere in the theater is buzzing, raising expectations”, television network JTBC mentioned.

 

To no surprise, BLINKs, BLACKPINK’s fandom, also complimented Jisoo for her work as well. 

While the group is in the midst of their contract renewal process, fans are speculating that Jisoo will sign with an acting agency. As of writing,YG Entertainment reiterates that there’s still no final details about the group’s contract renewal.

Featured image: BLACKPINK’s Jisoo will portray a fairy in ‘Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman’ movie. Credit: Article/Naver

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aespa’s Karina Confirms Friendship With BLACKPINK’s Jisoo

It’s not unusual for idols to become friends with each other. After all, most of them start out as fans who want to become just like the person they look up to. However, Karina has achieved something that most BLINKs can only aspire to. The aespa member confirmed that BLACKPINK’s Jisoo initiated their friendship by contacting Karina first!

Karina Reveals Jisoo Contacted Her First

aespa might be an established idol group but the members still look up to successful artists. For instance, Karina, Giselle, Winter, and Ningning were recently spotted attending BLACKPINK’s finale concert for the BORN PINK World Tour in Seoul. As it turns out, the younger idols were invited by Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa to the concert. This led to some awesome interactions with aespa.

However, it looks like there was a good reason why aespa was invited in the first place. Karina has confirmed her close friendship with one of the BLACKPINK members.

“I got close to Jisoo unnie,” Karina recently revealed. “Unnie told me that she liked me and contacted me first.”

This is an awesome revelation confirming that Karina is one of the most successful fans of all time. With that in mind, BLINKs are loving how the members of aespa truly look up to and respect BLACKPINK.

The BORN PINK World Tour kicked off on October 15, 2022, in Seoul, South Korea, and concluded on September 17, 2023, also in Seoul. This extensive tour included 66 concerts held in 34 different cities across 22 countries worldwide. It proved to be a massive success, drawing a total attendance of 1.8 million fans, setting a remarkable record as the most-attended concert tour by a K-pop girl group. The tour not only showcased BLACKPINK’s immense popularity and global reach but also provided unforgettable experiences for fans from all corners of the globe.

In the meantime, aespa released “Better Things” on August 18. It is the group’s first original English single and their second release of 2023. To promote the song, aespa aired a web series of the same title.

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BLACKPINK’s Jisoo Explores New York City in New Vlog

Jisoo recently treated her fans to a captivating virtual tour of New York City by sharing a vlog on her YouTube channel. The BLACKPINK member decided to go on a fun exploration of the city. Not surprisingly, BLINKs are loving her laidback approach to her trip.

Jisoo Sees a Different Side of New York City In New Video

In response to observations made by viewers in her European vlog, where some noted similarities between New York and Korea, Jisoo embarked on a mission to highlight the unique aspects of this iconic city in her latest adventure. Accompanied by her passionate fanbase, the BLACKPINK member took BLINKs along for an immersive journey through the bustling streets of the city that never sleeps.

Jisoo’s vlog captured the grandeur of the Statue of Liberty, offered glimpses of the city’s dynamic atmosphere, and showcased the architectural marvels of its towering skyscrapers. She also ventured deep into the heart of the city, providing viewers with a diverse array of experiences, from picturesque landscapes to the vibrant ambiance of New York’s renowned restaurants and popular tourist destinations.

Known for her engaging personality and quick wit, Jisoo’s virtual tour didn’t just provide fans with a visual treat but also uplifted their spirits, delivering enjoyable moments to the BLINKs who joined her on this exciting journey through the streets of New York City.

Seeing Jisoo being herself in a new city was truly a treat for fans and it’s clear that the BLACKPINK member enjoyed her journey. However, BLINKs will also be seeing a completely different side of the idol in a new film. It was recently confirmed that Jisoo will make a special appearance as a fairy in “Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman”. The unexpected cameo is also sure to generate buzz and excitement among fans of both Jisoo and the movie.

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BLACKPINK’s Jisoo Confirmed for Special Appearance In ‘Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman’

Jisoo will be creating cinematic magic later this year. The BLACKPINK member has just been confirmed for a special appearance in an upcoming film. Interestingly, the casting happened because the director saw her performance in the series “Snowdrop”!

BLACKPINK Jisoo Makes Special Appearance in Upcoming Supernatural Film

During a press conference for the mystery thriller film ‘Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman’ held on September 19, director Kim Sung Sik shared an exciting revelation. He announced that Jisoo, a prominent member of the globally renowned group BLACKPINK, would be making a special cameo appearance in the movie.

Kim Sung Sik explained that his decision to include Jisoo in the film was inspired by her remarkable performance on a television show.

“Looking for an actor who would fit the image of a fairy, I came to think of Jisoo after watching her in Snowdrop,” Kim said. The director then added, “It was 50% fan sentiment and 50% because her schedule fit.”

Jisoo will make a special appearance as a fairy in the upcoming movie. The unexpected cameo is sure to generate buzz and excitement among fans of both Jisoo and the movie. With her multifaceted talents extending beyond the music industry, Jisoo’s cameo is anticipated to add a unique and intriguing element to “Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman”, enhancing the overall viewing experience for audiences eagerly awaiting its release.

“Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman” is an intriguing thriller that revolves around Dr. Cheon, a YouTuber portrayed by Kang Dong Won. Dr. Cheon runs a YouTube channel dedicated to exorcisms, where he performs what he believes are simulated exorcisms, attributing supernatural occurrences to psychological factors. However, his perception of the supernatural changes when he encounters a genuinely possessed individual, the younger sibling of Yoo Kyung, played by Esom.

The film is poised to captivate viewers with its unique blend of psychological intrigue and supernatural suspense, making it a must-watch for fans of the thriller genre. “Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman” is scheduled for release on September 27, 2023.

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