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HYBE Artists Win Big at Mama Awards 2023

NewJeans poses for their 2024 Season's Greetings. Credit: Twitter/NewJeans

HYBE-affiliated artists dominated the 2023 MAMA Awards, with K-pop groups BTS, SEVENTEEN, and NewJeans taking home the big prizes for the prestigious two-day event held in Japan. 

For those unfamiliar, the MAMA Awards, which is organized by CJ ENM, primarily celebrate outstanding achievements in the music industry, and put the spotlight on K-pop talents. 

During the ceremonies on November 28 and 29 at the Tokyo Dome, rookie girl group NewJeans took home two coveted Daesang” (grand prizes). These are for Artist of the Year and Song of the Year with their hit single “Ditto.” 

Meanwhile, SEVENTEEN secured the Album of the Year award for their April release, FML. Notably, this is the 13-member group’s first Daesang for MAMA Awards in their career.

In a groundbreaking milestone, the global sensation BTS claimed the Worldwide Icon of the Year award, marking their sixth consecutive win in this category. With their recent wins, the septet made history as the first artist to amass 50 MAMA trophies.

Despite the absence of BTS members at the event, Jungkook, the group’s youngest member, expressed gratitude in a pre-recorded video message. “We are immensely grateful for our ARMYs’ steadfast love,” he said. “Although we are not all here today, we will reunite as a stronger one soon. Until then, stay healthy and joyful at every moment.” 

Given these, all three Daesang recipients—BTS, SEVENTEEN, and NewJeans—emerge from HYBE, the entertainment conglomerate encompassing diverse sub-labels. To note, BTS is under Big Hit Music, SEVENTEEN is under Pledis Entertainment, and NewJeans under ADOR. 

With the HYBE family sweeping the 2023 MAMA Awards, it underscores their collective dominance and influence in the dynamic realm of Asian music.

MAMA Awards 2023 Winners

Meanwhile, the rest of the winners are: 

  • Best Male Group: SEVENTEEN 
  • Best Female Group:  NewJeans
  • Best Male Artist: BTS’ Jimin 
  • Best Female Artist: BLACKPINK’s Jisoo
  • Best Dance Performance (Male Group): SEVENTEEN
  • Best Dance Performance (Female Group): NewJeans 
  • Best Dance Performance (Male Solo): BTS’ Jungkook
  • Best Dance Performance (Female Solo): BLACKPINK’s Jisoo
  • Best Vocal Performance (Group): AKMU
  • Best Vocal Performance (Solo): Parc Jae Jung 
  • Favorite Dance Performance (Male Group): TREASURE
  • Favorite Dance Performance (Female Group):  LE SSERAFIM
  • Favorite Global Performer (Male Group): ATEEZ
  • Favorite Global Performer (Female Group): (G)I-DLE
  • Best New Male Artist:  ZEROBASEONE
  • Best New Female Artist: TripleS
  • Best Music Video: BLACKPINK’s Jisoo (“Flower“)
  • Best OST: BTS (“The Planet“)
  • Best Rap & Hip Hop Performance: Agust D (“People Pt.2” feat. IU)
  • Best Collaboration:  BTS’ Jungkook (“Seven” feat. Latto)
  • Favorite New Artist – RIIZE, ZEROBASEONE
  • Favorite International Artist: Yoshiki
  • Favorite Asian Girl Group: Kep1er
  • Favorite Asian Boy Group: INI 
  • Inspiring Achievement: TVXQ
  • Galaxy Neo Flip Artist: TREASURE

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

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Lee Jung Jae Shares New Photo With BTS’ V, Lee Min Ho, and Riccardo Tisci

The latest social media posts from Lee Jung Jae have garnered attention as they feature a star-studded gathering with BTS’s V, Lee Min Ho, and fashion designer Riccardo Tisci. The shared photos showcase the camaraderie among these influential figures from different fields, capturing moments of their time together.

Riccardo Tisci Spotted with Korean Celebrities

In the images, V, Lee Min Ho, Lee Jung Jae, and Riccardo Tisci are seen posing for the camera, creating a buzz among fans who appreciate seeing such prominent personalities coming together. The diverse group, consisting of a K-pop idol, actor, and fashion designer, also highlights the cross-cultural appeal and connections that exist in the entertainment and fashion industries.

Riccardo Tisci, known for his work as the former Chief Creative Officer of Burberry, shared pictures from his visit to various famous locations in South Korea, including the group photos with V, Lee Min Ho, and Lee Jung Jae. The Italian designer has also been associated with some of the biggest names in the fashion world and continues to make an impact globally.

The meeting of these influential figures has sparked interest and speculation about potential collaborations or projects in the future. Fans are also eager to see how these individuals, each excelling in their respective fields, might come together for creative endeavors or events.

It’s worth noting that BTS’s V is preparing for military enlistment, as announced by BIGHIT MUSIC. Lee Min Ho is gearing up for his upcoming drama “Ask the Stars” and considering a role in the film “Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint.” Lee Jung Jae, known for his role in the mega-hit series “Squid Game” is also preparing for Season 2 of the show.

The social media posts serve as a glimpse into the personal and professional lives of these influential personalities, generating excitement and anticipation among their fans for future collaborations and projects. The convergence of talents from different spheres also underscores the dynamic nature of the entertainment industry and its ability to bring together diverse individuals for shared experiences and ventures.

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‘BTS Monuments: Beyond the Star’ to Premiere in Disney+ in December

BTS poses for FESTA 2022. Credit: Facebook/BTS

Ready your tissues, ARMYs! K-pop powerhouse BTS will be releasing the documentary series BTS Monuments: Beyond The Star on December 20 exclusively on Disney+.  

On Friday, November 24, the platform released the teaser trailer and poster for the project. “The 10 years of BTS and beyond,” they captioned the post. In a press release, Disney+ described the documentary series as an “in-depth journey across the band’s 10-year career.” 

Since the group’s debut in June 2012, BTS has evolved into a global cultural phenomenon, achieving monumental success worldwide. In fact, the septet has been welcomed into the Guinness World Records 2022 Hall of Fame in September 2021. 

Although the K-pop juggernaut has been on a break from group activities since June 2022 to focus on solo endeavors and military services, they still continue to dominate the scene. In September 2023, fans of the group were delighted when all seven members of BTS renewed their contract with BIGHIT Music. 

What to expect for ‘BTS Monuments: Beyond the Star’ 

Composed of eight episodes, the documentary series promises viewers never-before-seen interviews and performances from the group. Aside from the seven BTS members, it will also feature key figures such as HYBE chairman Bang Si-hyuk and Beyond the Story: 10-year record of BTS author Kang Myeong-seok. 

Moreover, it aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of the decade-long journey of the K-pop sensation BTS. In which fans will be given insights into both the highs and lows of their prolific career. 

According to the press release, audiences can expect to gain a deep understanding of the group’s origins, the preparation for their debut, and pivotal moments in their career. Other moments that will be featured in BTS Monuments: Beyond the Star include their struggle during the “Danger” period, debut at American award shows, and speaking at the United Nations General Assembly. 

Furthermore, members RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook, will also reflect on their journey, including discussing their first impression of each other and initial contract renewal project. Meanwhile, fans can also expect some lighthearted and sentimental moments, including a glimpse on j-hope’s surprise birthday party and Jungkook’s high school graduation ceremony. 

As a hint for ARMYs on what to expect for  BTS Monuments: Beyond The Star, Disney+ also released the titles for each episode: 

  • Episode 1 — The Beginning 
  • Episode 2 — Adolescence 
  • Episode 3 — Pursuit of Happiness 
  • Episode 4 — Disconnected 
  • Episode 5 — Welcome! 
  • Episode 6 — Begin and Again 
  • Episode 7 — Still Purple 
  • Episode 8 — Promise for Tomorrow

BTS Monuments: Beyond The Star will have a two-episode premiere on December 20, with two episodes airing per week.

Featured image: BTS poses for FESTA 2022. Credit: Facebook/BTS

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BTS’ RM, Jimin, V, Jungkook Prepare for Military Enlistment

RM, Jimin, Jungkook, and V pose for photos. Credit: Facebook/BTS

Attention, ARMYs! Members RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook of K-pop powerhouse BTS have officially initiated the process of enlisting for their mandatory military service, their agency BIGHIT Music announced on Wednesday, November 22. 

In a notice posted on the fan community app Weverse, the agency informed fans of the significant transition process in the group. 

“We would like to inform our fans that RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook have initiated the military enlistment process. The artists are preparing to fulfill their military service duties,” their statement read. 

Although the specific dates for their enlistment were not provided, the label assured fans that updates would be communicated in “due course.”

“We ask for your continued love and support for RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook until they complete their military service,” the agency said. Additionally, BIGHIT Music also promised fans that they will “spare no effort” in providing support for their artists.  

Notably, the  four are the only remaining members of the seven-piece act who are yet to commence their military service.

Earlier enlistments saw Jin, the oldest member, start his enlistment in December 2022. Then, he’s followed by j-hope in April 2023 and Suga in September 2023. 

In October 2022, BIGHIT Music announced that all seven members of BTS will fulfill their mandatory military service. At the time, the agency disclosed that BTS intends to reconvene as a whole around 2025. 

The mandatory military service, lasting at least 18 months, is a requirement for all able-bodied South Korean men under the age of 30, with few exceptions. 

See you in 2025, BTS! 

In June 2022, the septet announced that they’re taking a break from group activities to focus on solo projects as well as military enlistment.

Since then, the members have put out individual releases including j-hope with Jack in the Box, Jin with Astronaut, RM with Indigo, Jimin with Face, V with Layover, and Jungkook with GOLDEN. 

In September 2023, all seven members of BTS renewed their contract with BIGHIT Music for the second time. 

After debuting in 2013, the seven-piece act has become ostensibly the biggest K-pop group in the world. In fact, they even entered the Guinness World Records 2022 Hall of Fame in September 2021.  

Featured image: RM, Jimin, Jungkook, and V pose for photos. Credit: Facebook/BTS

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BTS Dance Trainer Fired by HYBE Over Massive Fraud Allegations

A dance trainer affiliated with HYBE, recognized for working with BTS, has been abruptly terminated amid allegations of fraud exceeding 5 billion KRW (approximately 3.9 million USD). In addition to the massive fraud allegations, the former HYBE employee is facing criminal charges for the deceit.

Former BTS Dance Trainer Faces Massive Fraud Allegations

The individual, associated with HYBE’s label, BigHit Music, faced dismissal on November 20, following accusations of involvement in fraudulent activities totaling tens of billions of KRW, resulting in criminal charges. The allegations suggest that the dance trainer, posing as an investment opportunity, collected significant sums from victims but failed to return the funds, leading to their termination and legal consequences.

Since then, HYBE issued a statement about the former employee. “As soon as we became aware of our member’s misconduct and the damage it caused to the company, we promptly initiated an impartial investigation through an external law firm. After undergoing the dismissal process by the Disciplinary and Personnel Committee, we terminated the individual’s employment,” it read.

“This case involves the individual’s misconduct, which violated internal rules, regulations, and employment rules,” the statement continued. “We strictly prohibit members from exploiting internal information, positions, etc., for personal gain and engaging in illegal and unfair activities.”

“To prevent fraudulent actions, such as leveraging connections with the company or its artists for personal gain, and to mitigate the likelihood of future incidents, we are committed to offering external guidance on fraud prevention. Additionally, we will strengthen our governance system for ethics education and fair trade for all our members, taking substantial steps to enhance our internal control systems,” the statement added.

The incident has garnered widespread public attention due to the individual’s association with HYBE and their prominent role in the entertainment industry. For now, the agency has confirmed that they will proceed with proper legal procedures.

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BTS’ Jungkook Extends Video Fan Call to Learn ARMY’s Cocktail

BTS’s Jungkook surprised an ARMY during a video fan call event by extending their time, citing an “important reason.” The event, held on November 18, allowed 60 lucky fans to talk to Jungkook for one minute through a raffle.

BTS’ Jungkook Shares Virtual Drink with ARMY in Video Fan Call

During the call, fans worldwide shared special moments with Jungkook, expressing their love and admiration. One ARMY took the opportunity to share a drink recipe with the artist, showcasing the process during the video fan call.

In the past, Jungkook has repeatedly stated that he wants to share a drink with his fans and would often fix a drink during his livestreams. Not surprisingly, one ARMY decided to take her chance and virtually share a drink with the BTS maknae. In a clip shared on social media, the fan can be seen mixing the drink which she revealed to be a Milkis cocktail as Jungkook watches with amusement.

As the one-minute mark approached, the monitor instructed the fan to end the call, even though her drink demonstration was not yet finished. Jungkook, holding up an imaginary drink, interrupted and stated, “Hold on, this is really important.” He patiently waited for the fan to complete making the drink, and the two shared a virtual cheers before saying goodbye.

Fans have appreciated the heartwarming interaction, and many are looking forward to the possibility of Jungkook recreating the drink during a future livestream. The moment further showcases Jungkook’s connection with ARMY and his willingness to engage in unique and memorable interactions with fans.

Jungkook is currently promoting his solo album ‘GOLDEN’ and the title track “Standing Next to You”, which has reached the top ten in Lithuania, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Latvia, Japan, Malaysia, Peru, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, and the United States. In the United Kingdom, it also became Jungkook’s fourth consecutive top ten entry on the UK Singles Chart.

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BTS V’s Sasaeng Stalker Faces Legal Prosecution

V’s sasaeng stalker is facing the consequences of her actions. The so-called fan is the latest individual who will need to face legal prosecution for stalking the BTS member.

V’s Sasaeng Stalker Slapped with Legal Prosecution

The BTS members have recently faced distressing situations caused by sasaeng fans, with some members publicly expressing their distress due to various forms of harassment. On November 17, the Seoul Gangnam Police Station issued a non-arrest summon to a woman in her 20s, identified as ‘A,’ who is suspected of violating the Stalking Prevention Act and trespassing.

The alleged incidents involve ‘A’ engaging in stalking behavior, such as waiting in front of V’s house on October 28, taking the elevator, conversing with him, and even asking him to sign a marriage registration form. ‘A’ left the scene, but the police initiated an investigation after receiving a report from a security guard, revealing that ‘A’ had visited V’s residence on multiple occasions before.

In response to these incidents, the police decided to impose an ’emergency restraining order’ on the sasaeng stalker prohibiting her from approaching within 100 meters of V’s vicinity and using phone calls or messages to contact him.

BIGHIT Music Moves to Protect Its Artists

BTS’s label, BIGHIT Music, has consistently issued strong responses to such incidents. They have submitted numerous complaints to law enforcement agencies, providing evidence gathered through reports and monitoring. The complaints focus on defamation, slander, and violations of the Stalking Prevention Act that infringe upon the artists’ rights.

BIGHIT Music mentioned their ongoing efforts in collecting evidence of individuals sending mail and parcels to the artists’ homes, causing harm to their families. In the second quarter of 2022, some suspects among the overall complainants received decisions to suspend investigations and non-indictments. In response, BIGHIT Music lodged objections and requested a re-investigation to address the concerning issue of sasaeng fans’ harassment.

Although the new policy is certainly strict, BTS fans are happy to know that their idols will no longer have to deal with harassment and abuse. With that in mind, BIGHIT Music is doing the right thing to protect its artists.

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BTS Members Reportedly Sells All HYBE Labels Stocks

The members of BTS have recently made a surprising decision about their future. A new report reveals that Jin, Suga, RM, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook have sold all their HYBE Labels stocks.

All 7 Members of BTS Have Reportedly Sold All Their HYBE Labels Stocks

In a recent report on November 17, it was revealed that all seven members of BTS have decided to sell their HYBE Labels stocks. The information, accessible through South Korea’s DART (Data Analysis, Retrieval, and Transfer System), detailed that the BTS members placed their HYBE Labels stocks on the market in September of this year.

The reported selling amounts, calculated based on the closing price on September 20 (243,000 KRW), are as follows: Jin sold approximately 12.7 billion KRW (52,385 shares), j-hope sold approximately 15.3 billion KRW (62,784 shares), RM also sold approximately 14.1 billion KRW (58,000 shares), SUGA sold approximately 16.6 billion KRW (68,385 shares), Jimin sold approximately 16.6 billion KRW (68,385 shares), V sold approximately 16.6 billion KRW (68,385 shares), and Jungkook sold approximately 16.6 billion KRW (68,385 shares).

Additionally, a shareholder report on stocks and other securities disclosed by HYBE on November 14 revealed that the label’s chairman, Bang Si Hyuk, has also chosen to decrease his ownership stake from 24,322,584 shares (58.07%) to 21,429,024 shares (51.42%), marking a decrease of 2,893,560 shares (6.65%).

As of now, HYBE Labels has not issued an official statement in response to the report.

Bang Si Hyuk Reflects on the Future

In related news, HYBE had announced its second re-signing with BTS last month. Reflecting on this with Bloomberg, Bang Si-hyuk emphasized the bond between the septet and the company, saying, “The relationship between BTS and HYBE is good, but there were difficulties during the negotiation process, and we became closer while resolving them. It was the greatest happiness in my life as a manager, which is filled with hardships.”

Bang Si-hyuk also revealed that he’s been thinking globally. “We needed to expand externally and internally to enhance the influence of K-pop in the global music market and secure many global fans. We will continue to pursue experimental attempts for the sustainable growth path of K-pop, regardless of success or failure,” he added.

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BTS’ RM Discusses Latest Eye Injury

RM is finally opening up about his recent eye injury. The BTS leader revealed what happened to his eye and shared an update for his fans.

BTS Leader RM Discusses Recent Eye Injury

In a recent live broadcast on Weverse, BTS’s RM opened up about a recent eye injury, providing concerned ARMYs with an update on his condition. RM has a history of sharing his everyday life with fans in an unfiltered manner, creating a sense of trust between him and ARMYs.

Last week, RM had posted a story on his Instagram, revealing a sizable wound on his eyelid, prompting fans to express both concern for his well-being and curiosity about the cause of the injury. During the live broadcast, RM addressed these inquiries, explaining that the injury occurred while he was filming something, and the camera accidentally hit his face, resulting in heavy bleeding.

To treat the wound, RM underwent a procedure that required approximately five stitches. Despite the severity of the injury, RM reassured fans that it was healing adequately, although it has now developed into a bruise.

On the same day as the livestream, RM shared an Instagram update, showcasing the progress of the cut’s healing. Despite his reassurances, ARMYs remain heartbroken over the extent of his injury and have flooded him with well wishes for a speedy recovery. The incident has once again highlighted RM’s transparency with his fans, creating a strong bond between the BTS leader and the ARMY community.

In related news, Jungkook was recently interviewed by Zane Lowe for Apple Music, and the BTS member discussed his new album ‘GOLDEN’, his solo aspirations, his trainee days, hopes for the BTS’s 2025 reunion, and more. The “SEVEN” singer also addressed the “Golden Maknae” nickname which RM originally coined for him.

“Even in 20 or 30 years, I will always be the youngest, the ‘maknae.’ That will never change. And I don’t really dislike being called ‘maknae,’” Jungkook said.

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BTS’ Jungkook Shares True Feelings About ‘Golden Maknae’ Nickname

The nickname ‘Golden Maknae’ is probably the first moniker people associated with Jungkook. As the youngest member of BTS, it has been the nickname that followed him since the group debuted almost a decade ago. But what does Jeon Jung-Kook truly think about the name?

Jungkook Weighs in on ‘Golden Maknae’ Nickname

Jungkook was recently interviewed by Zane Lowe for Apple Music, and the BTS member discussed his new album ‘GOLDEN’, his solo aspirations, his trainee days, hopes for the BTS’s 2025 reunion, and more.

Lowe recognized that “GOLDEN” held a unique meaning for Jungkook, as it was a nickname lovingly bestowed upon him by BTS’s leader, RM. RM affectionately referred to Jungkook as the “golden maknae” of the group, signifying his multifaceted talent and beloved status within BTS.

Lowe delved into the idea that, with his solo debut, Jungkook might no longer consider himself the youngest in any context. However, Jungkook expressed a different perspective on the matter. Instead of feeling that he had outgrown his role as the youngest member, he embraced it with pride.

“Even in 20 or 30 years, I will always be the youngest, the ‘maknae.’ That will never change. And I don’t really dislike being called ‘maknae,’” Jungkook said.

Jungkook’s solo debut and “GOLDEN” album serve as a testament to his personal and artistic growth, while still retaining the youthful spirit and energy that have endeared him to BTS and their global fanbase. His journey as a solo artist further highlights his evolving artistry within the group while maintaining the essence of who he is – the “golden maknae” who continues to shine alongside his fellow BTS members.

Jungkook recently released his solo album ‘GOLDEN’ on November 3, 2023. The album’s release was preceded by the single “Seven” in July and “3D” in September. The album has since entered the charts in sixteen countries including topping the South Korean, Belgian, France, Lithuanian and Japanese album charts. 

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