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Billboard Names BLACKPINK as the Highest-Grossing K-Pop Tour in 2023

On Monday, December 11, Billboard published the top 10 highest-grossing K-Pop tours of 2023, and the phenomenal quartet BLACKPINK has just proved they’re still in the area!

According to Billboard, the official figures were recorded data between November 1, 2022 to September 30, 2023.

With a whopping $148.3 Million gross for 29 shows, the quartet topped the charts with their BORN PINK World Tour. According to the reports, the group composed of Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa have sold over 703,000 worldwide. With this, the “Shut Down” singers easily clinched the first spot in the list for the K-pop category. 

Moreover, BLACKPINK is also the only Asian act in the Top 10 of the All-Genre Top 100 Billboard List. In the global list, the group from YG Entertainment ranked 10th. 

Notably, this data only covers their arena and stadium performances across America, Europe, Mexico, and Australia. Since the group’s Asian stops were not reported, fans are claiming that the numbers should be higher for the group. 

Aside from BLACKPINK, here are the other acts who made it to the list: 

Meanwhile, Suga of BTS placed second with his SUGA Agust D world tour. Based on the reports, it earned $57.1 Million gross in 26 shows. Interestingly, Suga sold over 318,000 tickets for his first tour as a solo artist. What makes this achievement even more impressive is Suga is the only solo act to be part of the list. 

Following the two acts, K-pop groups TWICE, TOMORROW X TOGETHER, and SEVENTEEN took home the third, fourth, and fifth spots respectively. As for TWICE, the nine-piece act garnered a total of $54 Million in gross for 18 shows of their Born To Be World Tour. TXT and SEVENTEEN, both under HYBE LABELS, also earned around $46.8 Million and $43.3 Million in gross each.

Furthermore, groups from the 4th generation also took over for the rest of the list. Also under HYBE LABELS, ENHYPEN placed 6th with a $33 Million gross for 19 shows. Next are boy groups Stray Kids and ATEEZ with $16.1 Million gross and $13.9 Million gross, respectively.

Only three girl groups made it to the list. In the ninth place are Unforgiven” singers LE SERRAFIM who secured the spot with their first world tour “FLAME RISES” having garnered $8 Million gross.

Closing off the top 10 list is SM Entertainment’s NCT DREAM earning $7 Million gross and selling over 36,900 tickets for only four shows.

Congratulations to all groups included in the list!

Featured image: The quartet poses during their ‘Born Pink’ encore concert in Seoul. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

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BTS’ Jungkook Reveals 2 New Projects During ‘Suchwita’ Episode

It looks like Jungkook still has huge plans for his recent solo comeback. The BTS maknae has just revealed that he has two new projects in development! The revelation was dropped during the latest episode of “Suchwita”!

BTS’ Jungkook Confirms 2 New Projects After ‘Golden’ Release

In a recent episode of Suga‘s YouTube variety show “Suchwita,” BTS’s Jungkook dropped some exciting surprises about future projects. The conversation touched on various topics, including Jungkook’s successful solo album, their recent performance together during Suga’s world tour, and the future of BTS.

However, things took an unexpected turn when Suga revealed a major spoiler regarding Jungkook’s activities. It turned out that Jungkook and Jimin had recently filmed something together. The duo had traveled to the US to have drinks, but the following day, Suga received a call from them while they were at a camping site.

Jungkook explained that Jimin had proposed the idea of doing a travel variety show together several years ago. While they had agreed to the idea back then, it didn’t come to fruition until recently when production was unexpectedly greenlit. Jungkook revealed that the filming had been quite chaotic, as things got hilariously out of hand after Jimin arrived on the scene.

‘Golden’ Documentary Confirmed

The episode also brought another exciting revelation, as Jungkook shared that he’s in the process of filming a solo documentary. The documentary will showcase his artistic journey, spanning from “Seven” to his latest album, “Golden.” While Jungkook has experience with documentary filming as a member of BTS, doing it on his own proved to be a challenging task. He admitted feeling pressured to make sure the content remained interesting while being the center of attention in front of the camera.

These unexpected announcements have left fans eagerly anticipating the upcoming travel variety show with Jimin and Jungkook, as well as Jungkook’s solo documentary, which promises to provide insight into his artistic evolution.

Jungkook’s solo album ‘Golden’ was released on November 3, 2023.

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BTS’ Suga to Enlist in Military on September 22

It’s official, ARMYs! BIGHIT Music revealed that SUGA of K-pop boy group BTS will be starting his mandatory military service on September 22.

In a statement on Weverse on Sunday, September 17, BIGHIT Music confirmed the news.

Additionally, the agency announced that no official events will take place in line with SUGA’s enlistment. They also didn’t disclose the exact location and time for it. 

“We kindly ask fans to refrain from visiting SUGA at his workplace during the period of his service,” They wrote. “Please convey your warm regards and encouragement in your hearts only.” 

Moreover, BIGHIT Music also reminded fans to be mindful of unauthorized tours and package products that illegally use their artist’s intellectual property. In line with this, the agency said that they will take appropriate matters for these circumstances. 

In conclusion to their announcement, the agency asked fans to patiently wait for the idol until he returns and finishes his service. 

More details about the enlistment of SUGA 

SUGA, whose real name is Min Yoongi, will be the third member of BTS to enlist. Jin started his military service in December 2022, while j-hope in April. 

In August, BIGHIT Music first announced that SUGA has already started his military enlistment process. 

The announcement about SUGA’s military enlistment came a day after he wrapped up the encore shows for his D-DAY world concert tour. 

Additionally, Korean media has previously reported that SUGA might fulfill his service as a social service agent. 

For those unfamiliar, a social service agent is an alternative form of military service from the usual active-duty soldiers. Such circumstances are due to a number of factors such as health complications.

While this hasn’t been confirmed by BIGHIT Music yet, fans also attribute the possibility to SUGA’s previous shoulder injury. In November 2020, he underwent a surgery for it. 

Since BTS announced in June 2022 that they’re taking a break from group activities, the members have been focused on solo endeavors.

In October 2022, BIGHIT Music announced that all seven members of the group will be enlisting in the military and that they’re “honored to serve.” 

BTS is expected to reconvene as a full group again “around 2025.”

Featured image: SUGA in the filming for ‘AMYGDALA’ music video. Credit: Facebook/BTS

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NBA and BTS’ SUGA Launch Collaboration With Mitchell & Ness

The National Basketball Association (NBA) and BTS’ SUGA announced on Friday, August 25, its collaboration with clothing brand Mitchell & Ness for a new apparel collection.

The collection comes months after SUGA was named as the league’s global ambassador in April. “Music and basketball have been shared passions of mine since my youth, and it’s a dream to be named an NBA ambassador,” SUGA said then. 

As an NBA ambassador, the rapper is expected to participate in numerous initiatives and promotional activities that will be featured on the league. 

In an official release, NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum also shared his excitement towards joining forces with the worldwide superstar. 

Tatum said: We look forward to working with SUGA to bring the same excitement he engenders from his global fanbase in support of our continued efforts to grow our brand.” 

Even before he was made an ambassador, SUGA has been very vocal about being an avid fan of basketball. The producer opened up that he initially dreamt of becoming a professional basketball player when he was younger. 

In one of BTS’ initial interviews, the rapper also revealed that even his stage name is inspired by the sport. The idol took “SUGA” out of the first syllables of “Shooting Guard”, a position he played during his early years.

The SUGA X NBA Capsule Collection 

Taking their relationship into the next step, the NBA and the South Korean idol now unveiled its collaboration with the American sports clothing company Mitchell & Ness

Titled “Suga x NBA Capsule Collection,” it will feature a total of six NBA teams. The list includes Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks, Chicago Bulls and Brooklyn Nets.

These teams were chosen based on the US locations the BTS member visited for his Agust D D-DAY world tour.

 

The apparel will include hoodies, jackets, t-shirts, shorts, and headwear featuring the said teams. The collection, which SUGA personally provided creative input into, will also include the Agust D logo.

“I’m so excited for the next phase of my relationship with the league with the launch of my very own NBA capsule collection. As a longtime fan of the NBA and its teams, this collection is incredibly special to me. I look forward to sharing this with all of you.” SUGA said.

Meanwhile, NBA announced that the “SUGA x NBA Capsule Collection” will be available in the coming weeks via NBA stores, Mitchell & Ness stores, and HYBE’s Weverse Shop

Fans can also get early access to the collection by registering with an NBA ID through the league’s Official Website.

In other news, SUGA started his military enlistment process in early August. He will be the third member of BTS to enlist in the military. 

Featured image: NBA shares SUGA’s capsule collection. Credit: Twitter/NBA

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BTS’ Suga Starts Military Enlistment Process

Fandom hug, ARMYs! SUGA has been confirmed as the next member of BTS to enlist in the military. 

BIGHIT MUSIC announced on Monday, August 7, that the 30-year-old rapper has “initiated the military enlistment process by applying for the termination of his enlistment postponement.” 

As of writing, the agency did not provide a date for the idol’s enlistment. However, they shared that they will provide further details about the matter “in due course.” 

 

“We ask you for your continued love and support for SUGA until he completes his military service and safely returns,” BIG HIT MUSIC added. 

Additionally, the label promised BTS fans that they will also “spare no effort in providing support for our artist.”

SUGA, whose real name is Min Yoongi, will be the third member of BTS to enlist. Jin started his military service in December 2022, while j-hope in April. 

 

It was in June 2022 when BTS first announced that they’re taking a break from group activities to focus on solo endeavors. In October 2022, BIGHIT Music announced that all seven members of the group will be enlisting in the military and that they’re “honored to serve.” 

BTS is expected to reconvene as a full group again “around 2025.”

The announcement about SUGA’s military enlistment came a day after he wrapped up the encore shows for his D-DAY world concert tour  on Sunday, August 6.

SUGA, who also goes by the moniker of Agust D on his individual career, was the first BTS member to embark on a solo concert tour. 

Featured image: BTS’ Suga poses during filming of ‘Hageum.’ Credit: Facebook/BTS

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BTS Suga Explains Why Agust D World Tour Did Not Include China

Suga has always been open to his fans whenever they have questions to ask. The BTS rapper addressed a query from an ARMY who begged him to perform in China. Min Yoongi had a simple explanation as to why the country was not included in the SUGA Agust D Tour.

Suga Reveals Why He Did Not Include China In Agust D World Tour

Suga recently interacted with fans during a live broadcast on Weverse. The “Haegeum” rapper took time to speak to ARMYs after his last concert date in Thailand. During the live stream, Suga noticed a comment from a fan asking him to “come tour in China.”

But we can’t perform in China, how can I go tour in China?” Suga asked in return.

He added, “Are there any Korean artists performing in China? I don’t think there are any.

I want to go perform at all the places that ARMYs are mentioning. It makes me feel bad,” Suga continued. He then explained that he saw a few Chinese fans in the audience during some of the SUGA Agust D Tour dates.

But I can’t perform in China,” he said. “I want to tour in China. It’s been a long time since I’ve been to China so I want to go but there is no way for Korean artists to go and work there.”

In 2018, China strongly objected to the deployment of U.S. Terminal High Altitude Defense missile systems in South Korea. This led to the implementation of the Korean Culture Ban which restricted the dissemination of content originating from Korea.

For now, it is still unclear whether Suga or any Korean act will be able to perform in China. In the meantime, the Asian leg of the SUGA Agust D Tour continues. Min Yoongi will be performing three dates at the Singapore Indoor Stadium from June 16 to 18, 2023.

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BTS Suga and Halsey Drop DIABLO IV Anthem ‘Lilith’ MV

BTS rapper Suga has reunited with American singer-songwriter Halsey for an awesome new project. The duo just dropped the official MV for the DIABLO IV anthem “Lilith”.

BTS’ Suga Reunites With Halsey For The Dark and Moody MV For The DIABLO IV Anthem ‘Lilith’

On June 5, Halsey’s YouTube channel uploaded the new music video for “Lilith”. The new MV is a remake of Halsey’s song and features BTS rapper Suga. It has been confirmed that the darker and moodier remix will serve as the official theme for Blizzard’s latest video game.

It’s a fitting theme for DIABLO IV which takes place 50 years after the events of DIABLO III: Reaper of Souls. In the game, the player needs to explore and survive in the world of Sanctuary after the demon and main antagonist Lilith is resurrected.

Halsey had previously performed “Lilith” at The Game Awards 2022 as a joint promotion with the Blizzard title. However, it is the remix featuring BTS rapper Suga that will serve as the game’s official theme.

Halsey first collaborated with BTS on “Boy with Luv” in April 2019. She later worked with Min Yoongi on “Suga’s Interlude”, a promotional single for her 2020 album ‘Manic’.

The “Gasoline” singer, whose real name is Ashley Nicolette Frangipane, previously explained why she chose to work with Suga.

“Yoongi is really introspective and has this really intelligent perspective on where we are and what we are doing in our unique lifestyles,” she said.

DIABLO IV is one of the most highly anticipated video games of 2023. Originally announced by Blizzard in 2019, it is the fourth main installment of the video game series. It features the return of the Rogue class, a character class that was last seen in the first game.

DIABLO IV was released on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S on June 5, 2023.

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BTS’ Suga Shares Surprising Retirement Plans

Suga is already thinking about retirement. The “Haegeum” rapper opened up about the possibility of retiring from BTS. Interestingly, Min Yoongi has a clear plan for what to do with the rest of his life.

Suga Discusses BTS’ Possible Retirement

Suga recently completed the U.S. leg of his SUGA Agust D Tour and he held a small fan meeting in Seoul on May 21, 2023. During the “Agust D D-DAY: Movie Night”, the rapper spent some time with his fans and discussed several topics.

An interesting topic that came up was retirement. Suga addressed the possibility of performing with BTS for at least another 30 years.

I envision myself performing until my 60s,” he revealed.

As expected, fans were hoping that Suga will be with BTS for even longer than that. ARMYs began chanting “Please grace the stage till your final moments.

In response, Min Yoongi retorted, “Let me rest a little bit before I die though. I don’t think I’ll be able to even hold a mic at that age!

There is little doubt that retirement is not in Suga’s immediate plans and it’s great to know that he will be performing with BTS for a long time.

In the meantime, Suga is getting ready for the Asian leg of his ongoing world tour. The “Daechwita” rapper is heading for Japan in early June and the tour will have several stops at many Asian cities.

In related news, BTS is releasing their own book this summer. “Beyond the Story: 10-Year Record of BTS” was announced earlier this month. The book will be written by journalist Kang Myeongseok and the seven members of the group.

“Beyond the Story: 10-Year Record of BTS” will be structured as “an oral history of” the group’s story. Anton Hur is responsible for the English translation, in collaboration with Clare Richards and Slin Jung. The book will be released on July 9, 2023.

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‘Suchwita’ Host Suga Calls SEVENTEEN’s Woozi His Younger Brother

It finally happened! BTS’ Suga and SEVENTEEN’s Woozi got together for the latest episode of “Suchwita” to beat the doppelganger allegations. Lee Jihoon impressed Min Yoongi so much that the “Haegeum” rapper called him his “younger brother.”

Suga Meets ‘Younger Brother’ Woozi in ‘Suchwita’ Episode 10

In “Suchwita” Episode 10, Suga hyped up the arrival of his next guest. The BTS rapper claimed that “so many people are looking forward to seeing this two-shot.” This is a reference to the similarities between him and Woozi, who shares similar features and is also a gifted producer like Suga.

When Woozi arrived, he presented Suga with gifts and they immediately addressed the elephant in the room. Suga revealed that fellow BTS member RM had brought up a common belief about doppelgangers and worried about their meeting.

“My members kept asking me who the next guest on ‘Suchwita’ was so when I told them it was you, Woozi, RM said ‘Won’t you die if you two meet?’ I asked why, and he said ‘You two are doppelgangers, aren’t you?’” Suga said.

Min Yoongi also admitted to playing up the similarities between him and Woozi. He confirmed he had their hair styled similarly for the “Haegeum” TikTok challenge video they did together.

It was immediately clear that the two had a great connection. Suga pointed out that Woozi feels like family to him.

“Although I don’t have a younger brother, he’s like a younger brother. I feel like I’m looking into a mirror. I can see myself in you when I was around 16 or 17,” Suga said.

Woozi quickly agreed, saying, Suga “feels like an older brother too.” Needless to say, ARMYs and CARATs are already looking forward to a possible collaboration between the two.

The latest episode of “Suchwita” is out now. Suga is currently on the road for his first world tour the ‘Suga Agust D Tour’. Meanwhile, Woozi is promoting SEVENTEEN’s new album ‘FML’.

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BTS’ Suga Debuts on UK Official Charts With ‘D-Day’

Suga is on a roll with his solo album. The BTS rapper just debuted with multiple entries on the UK Official Charts with ‘D-Day’. The feat makes Min Yoongi the first South Korean soloist to debut multiple releases on the United Kingdom’s Official Charts.

Suga’s ‘D-Day’ Debuts On The UK Official Charts

The Official Charts released their latest Singles and Albums Charts on April 28, 2023. The Charts, which is regarded as the UK’s equivalent to Billboard’s U.S. charts, revealed that Suga’s single “Haegeum” debuted at No. 77 on the Official Singles Chart.

“Haegeum” also debuted at No. 5 on the Official Singles Download Chart. It came in at No. 8 spot on the Official Singles Sales Chart, and at No. 10 on the Official Video Streaming Chart.

‘D-Day’ also did well on the Official Charts. It debuted at No. 41 on the Official Albums Chart, becoming Suga’s second album to debut on the chart. The LP is now the second-highest debut by a Korean soloist on the chart after 2020’s ‘D-2’ debuted at the No. 7 spot. Suga is now the first Korean soloist to debut multiple releases on the UK Official Albums Chart.

‘D-Day’ also entered the Official Albums Downloads Chart and the Official Hip Hop and R&B Albums Chart at No. 2. It debuted in the Official Albums Sales Chart at No. 23, and the Official Albums Streaming Chart at No. 77.

Suga Opens Up About ‘AMYGDALA’

Suga is currently on his first world tour as a soloist and is promoting ‘D-Day’ during his shows. The BTS rapper also dropped the documentary ‘SUGA: Road to D-Day’ where he interacts with other artists he collaborated with. In the documentary, Min Yoongi opened up about the true meaning behind the track “AMYGDALA”.

“There’s a thing called an ‘amygdala.’ Your brain stores all of your unpleasant memories in the amygdala,” he confirms. The rapper adds that it does this “so you can prepare yourself for those types of situations in the future.”

“I have massive mood swings whenever I’m working on this song. To work on it, I have to bring up some of my unpleasant memories,” Min Yoongi stated. Still, he points out that this is “a very important process to learn to control those memories.”

Min Yoongi is currently on the road for the ‘Suga Agust D Tour’ in North America.

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