Tag: HYBE

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SEVENTEEN’s Hoshi Shares Cute Interaction with NewJeans

The famed HYBE building certainly has its perks. SEVENTEEN’s Hoshi recently gave fans an intriguing look behind the scenes at HYBE, including details about the company’s artist-only elevator that led to a cute interaction with a younger group.

Hoshi Reveals How HYBE Building Led to Cute Interaction With NewJeans

In a recent episode of “Salon Drip”, Hoshi began discussing the various perks and features at HYBE, such as the impressive standards for ramen at the company. Host Jang Do Yeon asked about the elevators in their office, specifically mentioning the existence of an artist-exclusive elevator.

Hoshi explained that HYBE has just one elevator designated for artists, even though the company houses numerous renowned stars. This often results in a bit of a wait, given the demand.

The SEVENTEEN member delved further into the layout of the building, sharing that there is a separate floor dedicated to artist parking. When artists reach the elevator, it only stops at certain floors, including the artist lounge and recording areas. Due to the limited options and the sheer number of idols using the elevator, it can sometimes mean a substantial wait to get to the main parking area.

Hoshi humorously recounted an unexpected encounter he had due to these elevator logistics. On one occasion, while waiting for the elevator, the doors opened to reveal the members of NewJeans inside. Despite Hoshi’s confident reputation, he described himself as an “introvert” and admitted to feeling quite shy in this situation. Even when the NewJeans members reassured him that it was alright, he decided to wait rather than joining them in the elevator.

Adding a dash of humor to his story, Hoshi playfully pleaded with HYBE’s founder Bang Si Hyuk for an additional elevator to ease the wait times. This amusing anecdote provides fans with a delightful peek into the everyday experiences of K-Pop idols working under one of the industry’s most prominent entertainment companies, HYBE.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

SEVENTEEN Soars to New Heights with ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN’

Melon shares photos from SEVENTEEN's filming for 'SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN.' Credit: Twitter/SVT Contents

K-pop boy group SEVENTEEN continues to establish themselves as one of the biggest names in the industry. With their 11th mini-album SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN, the group have taken the industry by storm by setting new records and achieving remarkable milestones. 

On Monday, October 23, SEVENTEEN made their highly-anticipated comeback with SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN. The eight-track album served as the group’s return after five months following the release of FML in May.

Although it’s only been months since the group released new music, their latest album still had a meteoric rise to the top of charts, solidifying the group’s status as one of the most influential acts in the industry. 

Records set by ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN’ 

Prior to the album’s official release, SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN amassed an astounding 5.2 million pre-orders, setting a new benchmark for Korean acts. Said number also served as the group’s best personal record as their previous album, FML, only recorded 4.64 million copies in pre-orders. Furthermore, with this final total, SEVENTEEN now holds the record for the highest pre-order volume for an album in the history of K-pop. 

Meanwhile, the first-day album sales of  SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN are equally impressive as it reached 3.288 million units. This places them second only to their previous release, FML, which achieved 3.99 million first-day sales. In doing so, SEVENTEEN now holds the top two positions for the biggest first-day album sales debuts in the history of the Hanteo chart.

 

Additionally, the reach of SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN extended far beyond Korea’s borders. According to a report from Naver, the album achieved an all-kill status as it dominated the Japanese iTunes album chart across all genres. Moreover, it also maintained its reign at the top of Line Music’s real-time album chart. 

In China, the album sold a total of ¥400,000 digital sales revenue in just 18 hours after its release. 

‘God of Music’ dominates charts

Some of the standout achievements of SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN is also attributed to its title track, “God of Music.” Within 24 hours of its release, the track quickly dominated charts such as Genie, and Bugs. What makes this accomplishment even more remarkable is that SEVENTEEN became the first male group to top the Melon Top 100 for 2023, a milestone that speaks volumes about their growing influence and popularity.

Now that “God of Music” debuted at Melon’s Top 100, SEVENTEEN joins NewJeans, IVE, LE SSERAFIM, and G-IDLE as the only idol groups to have a song top the list for 2023. 

 

Outside of the Korean music charts, “God of Music” achieved top rankings on the iTunes “Top Song” chart in an impressive 29 countries and regions. The song’s appeal transcended linguistic and cultural boundaries, finding favor in places like Brazil, the Philippines, and Singapore.

In an interview with Vulture, member Vernon says that the track shows SEVENTEEN’s “true colors.” “We’re just a really fun and bright group in general,” he said. Meanwhile, Joshua added: “It shows our energy, it shows our happiness, it shows our teamwork, it shows our performance skill sets.”  

Other songs included in the album are “SOS,” “Diamond Days,” “Back 2 Back,” “Monster,” “Yawn,” and “Headliner.” 

Featured image: Melon shares photos from SEVENTEEN’s filming for ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN.’ Credit: Twitter/SVT Contents

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HYBE Boss Bang Si Hyuk Insists on Letting Trainees ‘EAT and DATE What They Wanted’

Dating continues to be a major issue in K-pop but Bang Si Hyuk is determined to change that. The HYBE boss recently addressed the idea of giving trainees more freedom. This includes allowing the teenagers to “DATE and EAT what they wanted” while preparing for their debut.

Many artists channel their emotions, beliefs, joys, and tribulations into their artwork, encapsulating them in songs that feel more genuine when drawn from personal experiences. In the realm of K-Pop, where love and romance are frequent lyrical themes, personal dating experiences can enrich an artist’s performance, infusing it with authenticity.

HYBE Boss Insists on Giving Trainees More Freedom in Their Personal Life

Bang Si Hyuk, chairman of HYBE Corporation, formerly known as Big Hit Entertainment, shares this perspective. In a recent interview with Bloomberg Live, he underscored the importance of trainees having well-rounded life experiences. The HYBE boss stated, “Let the trainees DATE and EAT what they wanted.”

HYBE’s approach is distinct in that they permit their idols to date, a practice that sets them apart from many other entertainment agencies. While it’s possible that some HYBE artists may be in relationships, none have publicly confirmed or announced romantic involvement.

This contrast becomes evident when compared to artists from other leading entertainment agencies, where public announcements of relationships are more common. HYBE’s approach suggests a preference for maintaining the personal lives of their artists as private matters, keeping them away from intense media scrutiny.

By fostering a holistic life experience for their trainees, HYBE may be cultivating well-rounded artists who draw from a wider range of emotions and experiences, ultimately enhancing their musical performances. The discretion around romantic relationships allows artists to maintain their privacy, ensuring that their art remains the central focus for their fans. HYBE’s unique approach prioritizes the emotional depth and authenticity of their artists’ work, enabling fans to connect with their music on a more profound level.

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K-POP ARTISTS K-POP STYLE KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Look: LE SSERAFIM Is Louis Vuitton’s Brand Ambassador

LE SSERAFIM poses for their campaign for 'Louis Vuitton.' Credit: Sakura's Instagram

K-pop girl group LE SSERAFIM is about to make waves in the fashion industry as luxury house Louis Vuitton tapped them as their newest brand ambassador. 

On Friday, October 13, the brand unveiled a new campaign featuring all five LE SSERAFIM members: Kim Chaewon, Hong Eunchae, Sakura, Kazuha, and Huh Yunjin. 

In the debut campaign video, the quintet are seen flaunting the brand’s latest capsule collection while walking across the iconic bridge of the Hangang River. 

Aside from the short fashion film, Louis Vuitton also released individual and group photos of the group. 

According to L’Officiel, the capsule collection that the LE SSERAFIM members are modeling features exclusive redesigns of iconic Louis Vuitton pieces. 

Additionally, the collection will reportedly have a total of 16 bags that are exclusive to South Korea. Meanwhile, another eight designs will be rolled out worldwide to a later date. 

Prior to being named brand ambassador, LE SSERAFIM previously performed at Louis Vuitton’s Pre-Fall 2023 after-party show in April. 

In a press release, Nicolas Ghesquière, artistic director of women’s collection at Louis Vuitton, expressed his excitement in having the group onboard. 

“We met for the first time at my pre-fall show in Seoul and I really loved the energy they brought to the after party with their performance. They each have such a unique style that together feels very cool and authentic,” he said, 

Fans’ happiness for LE SSERAFIM 

Following the news, FEARNOTs couldn’t help but congratulate “Anti-Fragile” singers for the achievement. 

Since all of LE SSERAFIM were tapped as ambassadors, they became the first K-pop girl group to be tapped by Louis Vuitton. And the second overall, as they will be following in the footsteps of their HYBE Labels seniors BTS. To recall, all members of BTS served as Louis Vuitton ambassadors from 2021 to 2022. 

For their fans, the milestone is even more commendable as the group achieved it within a year and a half since their debut. Initially a six-member group, LE SSERAFIM made their debut under Source Music in May 2022. In July 2022, Kim Garam left the group. 

Given this recent development, LE SSERAFIM is joining the likes of other K-pop idols who are also under Louis Vuitton. Among in the list are Stray Kids’ Felix, BTS’ j-hope, Jackson Wang, and NewJeans’ Hyein. 

As for other K-pop idols serving as ambassadors for fashion brands, the list includes BTS’ V for Cartier, TWICE’s Dahyun for Michael Kors, TWICE’s Sana for Prada, SEVENTEEN’s DK for Bally.

Featured image: LE SSERAFIM poses for their campaign for ‘Louis Vuitton.’ Credit: Sakura’s Instagram

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HYBE’s ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’ Eliminates 4 More Contestants

'The Debut: Dream Academy' announces results for its Mission 2. Credit: Twitter/Dream Academy HQ

The competition is indeed getting tougher! As The Debut: Dream Academy eliminates four more contestants after its second mission. Now, only the remaining 14 aspirants will advance to the third and last mission.

For the Mission 2 of the survival show, the 18 contestants were divided into four teams and they were tasked to perform a song by the K-Pop girl group LE SSERAFIM. Two groups sang and danced to “ANTIFRAGILE,” while the other two groups performed “FEARLESS.”

Interestingly, the participants even had a surprise visit from the LE SSERAFIM members themselves in the middle of their rehearsals. Moreover, HYBE chairman Bang Si Hyuk also talked to the contestants briefly. 

After casting the global votes, the final rankings for the said mission was unveiled. There, it was announced that Brooklyn and Karlee from the USA, Mei from Japan, and Iliya from Belarus have been axed from the series.

Following the eliminations, the remaining 14 contestants are left to continue their dreams of being an idol. Once the third and last mission ends, only 10 girls will perform at the show’s live finale which will be held on November 17. 

More about ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’

Created by South Korean entertainment company HYBE and American record label Geffen Records, The Debut: Dream Academy aims to create the next global girl group. The audition program combed through 120,000 applications and selected 20 girls from different countries to participate in the show.

In its pilot episode aired last September 1, it was announced that the 20 participants will undergo three survival missions before clinching a spot in the live finale. There, the official group name and the final debuting lineup will be revealed.

According to the executives of HYBE and Geffen Records, the first song for the girl group will be in English to showcase their global prowess.

 

Apart from their debut track, a Netflix documentary series about the group’s journey is also slated for 2024. Said docuseries will be directed by Emmy-nominated filmmaker Nadia Hallgren, and is jointly produced by HYBE, Interscope Films, and Boardwalk Pictures.

As HYBE is known to be home to K-pop powerhouse acts BTS, SEVENTEEN, TOMORROW X TOGETHER, and more, fans have set high expectations for the upcoming girl group.

With the live finale just around the corner, fans can continue rooting for their favorites by casting votes in the fandom platform Weverse.

Featured image: ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’ announces results for its Mission 2. Credit: Twitter/Dream Academy HQ

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Aju Nice! SEVENTEEN Surpasses 10 Million Album Sales for 2023 in Just 9 Months

SEVENTEEN shares behind-the-scenes photo from their 'FML' album. Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

K-pop powerhouse SEVENTEEN continues to dominate the industry by setting records after records. With the last quarter of 2023 still to come, the group has achieved another milestone in their career.

In the data released by the group’s agency Pledis Entertainment on Thursday, October 5, it was revealed that the “Super” hitmakers have sold an unprecedented record of 11,043, 625 physical albums, from January to September of 2023 alone.

A huge contributor to this massive number is the group’s 10th Mini Album FML, released in April. For that album, SEVENTEEN broke the group’s personal record for the most pre-ordered album, having sold a whopping 4.64 million pre-orders. 

Two months after its release, Circle Charts revealed that FML is now the highest-selling Korean album of all time, surpassing 6 million copies in sales.

Moreover, the boy group’s 4th full-length album Face The Sun released in May 2022 sold more than 950,000 copies. 

Meanwhile, Second Wind by SEVENTEEN’s subunit BSS also contributed to the total sales. Consisting of members Seungkwan, Dokyeom, and Hoshi, BSS topped local and international charts with the release of their title track “Fighting”, featuring rapper Lee Young Ji.

Notably, SEVENTEEN’s decision to re-release eight of their out-of-print albums also helped in boosting sales. Among the albums they re-released include: 17CARAT, BOYS BE, A1, and TEEN, AGE. 

Prior to this achievement, SEVENTEEN’s cumulative album sales in South Korea exceeded 10 million in November 2021. Which means that the group achieved the feat six and a half years after their debut in 2015. 

Undoubtedly, the group’s popularity continued to grow exponentially thanks to their unrivaled discography and world-class performances. With the impressive 10 Million album sales in just nine months, SEVENTEEN has now become the first Korean artist in history to achieve this feat.

More to come from SEVENTEEN

After the previous album’s success, the “theater kids of K-pop” are soon getting back on track with their 11th mini album. Titled Seventeenth Heaven,  the group is set to celebrate their wins so far with the fandom CARATs, through a festival-like concept.

As part of the promotions, the 13-member group will hold the offline event “Seventeen Street in Seongsu-dong.” The will consist of exhibition experiences, art walls, and collaboration stores. As for the album, it will officially be released on October 23.

Apart from music, the group also proved their entertainment skills through a number of variety shows. As of writing, Seungkwan stars in the Netflix survival show The Devil’s Plan. Meanwhile, Jeonghan and Dino are part of the travel program Magic Lamp. 

Additionally, SEVENTEEN has also finished shooting Nana’s Tour, the group’s version of Youth Over Flowers with PD Na Yeong Seok. Details about the show’s release are yet to be announced.

Featured image: SEVENTEEN shares behind-the-scenes photo from their ‘FML’ album. Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

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Watch: LE SSERAFIM Bonds With ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’ Contestants

'The Dream: Debut Academy' contestants pose with LE SSERAFIM and Bang Si Hyuk. Credit: YouTube/HYBE Labels

While it’s only been a year since LE SSERAFIM’s debut, the quintet already proved that they are ready to be seniors of the next HYBE girl group formed through the reality series The  Debut: Dream Academy.

On Monday, October 2, the survival competition unveiled its latest episode, featuring the surprise visit of LE SSERAFIM.

At the start of the video, Chaewon, Yunjin, Sakura, Kazuha, and Eunchae appeared as undercover staff while the trainees filmed Tiktok content. After a few minutes, the trainees could not hide their astonishment upon seeing the idols reveal their faces. The girls were also surprised that Yunjin knew all of their names.

For the episode’s mission, the trainees were tasked to cover two of the girl group’s songs. Composed of four to five trainees each, two groups performed “ANTIFRAGILE” in front of the original singers. 

“Thank you for working on it so hard. I could feel the powerful energy,” Chaewon remarked. “Everyone’s facial expression was great. It was amazing,” the leader added.

Next, two more groups showcased their “FEARLESS” performances. “I could clearly see what moves you were showing,” Eunchae commented. Kazuha added that the contestants were able to show their charms, too.

LE SSERAFIM’s warm advice for the dreamers

After the performances, LE SSERAFIM and the trainees sat down for a little chit chat.

First, trainee Sophia voiced out her worries about maintaining friendship with the other trainees, despite knowing that not all of them are making it to the final debut lineup. Yunjin then advised them to do their best individually and still continue rooting for each other. “I think goodbyes are unfortunately inevitable but I think that is a part of growing,” she said.

On the other hand, one contestant asked how Kazuha is able to look good while dancing on stage. Kazuha then answered, “I think the most important thing is to enjoy the stage.” Additionally, the singer also advised them to expand their horizons by experiencing different genres of dance instead of focusing on just one.

Another contestant mentioned that she was experiencing a language barrier and wondered how the Japanese members Sakura and Kazuha overcame it. In response, Sakura said that language is not a big problem if the members have a connection with each other.

Bang PD visits ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’ too

Just while the girls were having a serious conversation, the trainees were caught off guard with another surprise visit from the HYBE Chairman himself, Bang Si Hyuk.

Bang PD first asked about the trainees’ trip to South Korea. Then, the trainees said that they enjoyed the Korean food and that they wished to visit Lotte World, which the producer generously granted.

Later on, trainee Karlee asked the producer about the most important thing to remember for aspiring artists. To which Bang PD provided a heartwarming answer.

“Before you become an artist, you should know what you really want to be,” he said. “From my perspective, you should love music itself, performing on stage, and making the fans happy.”

Ending on a good note, the trainees took a group photo with the LE SERRAFIM members and Bang PD. 

Featured image: ‘The Dream: Debut Academy’ contestants pose with LE SSERAFIM and Bang Si Hyuk. Credit: YouTube/HYBE Labels

 

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RM Confirms BTS Contract Renewal With BIGHIT MUSIC

It’s official: all seven members of BTS have renewed their contracts with BIGHIT Music. Several news outlets were quick to print the news but ARMYs had a more reliable source. RM announced the BTS contract renewal on his official social media accounts and it further confirmed the group’s love for their fans.

RM Confirms BTS Contract Renewal on Instagram

In a surprising turn of events, all seven members of the globally renowned K-Pop sensation, BTS, have officially renewed their exclusive artist contracts with BIGHIT MUSIC, as reported on September 20, KST. This announcement has come as a pleasant shock to devoted ARMYs, as the group’s previous contract was still in effect. However, the BTS members have a history of opting for early renewals, highlighting their commitment to their future together.

In a heartwarming gesture, RM, the group’s leader, took the initiative to share the news directly with ARMYs. He posted a photo of the contract document on his Instagram, followed by another story dedicated to their devoted fanbase. RM’s actions not only revealed the unexpected contract renewal but also provided ARMYs with the assurance they may not have even realized they needed.

BTS initially signed their first contract with BIGHIT in 2013, which was set to last until 2020. Remarkably, in 2018, they chose to renew their contract well ahead of its expiration date, showcasing their strong bond and determination to continue their remarkable journey. Their second contract, originally set to conclude in 2025, coinciding with the year when all BTS members are expected to complete their mandatory military service, has been extended by two years, ensuring their continued presence as a group.

This announcement has brought immense joy and relief to fans, as it guarantees the group’s unity and the highly anticipated reunion expected in 2025. The early renewal reaffirms the enduring commitment and enduring bond shared by BTS and their dedicated supporters worldwide.

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SM Entertainment Artists to Have Own Channels on HYBE’s Weverse

SM Entertainment artists during the SMTOWN 2022 concert in Japan. Credit: Facebook/SMTOWN

It’s official: SM Entertainment artists are moving to HYBE-owned fan community platform Weverse. 

On Tuesday, September 5, Weverse announced that 13 SM Entertainment acts will launch their respective channels on their platform. Their respective channels will simultaneously open on September 12, 2pm KST. 

These artists include Kangta, BoA, TVXQ!, Super Junior, Girls’ Generation, SHINee, and EXO. Red Velvet, NCT 127, NCT DREAM, WayV, aespa, and RIIZE will also join the platform. 

“Everything from dedicated communities to official membership! Get connected with SM ARTISTS on Weverse,” they captioned the post. 

From Kwangya Club to Weverse

SM Entertainment first announced their plans of moving to the fan community app by HYBE in April. “Through the coexistence of our private messenger bubble and the fandom platform Weverse, we are materializing the fan-centered ‘SM 3.0,” the agency said then. 

At the time, SM Entertainment artists were using the private messenger service DearU bubble and Kwangya Club. However, Kwangya Club, which was launched in June 2022, will be closed by September 11. 

 

With this move , SM Entertainment artists are expected to have easier communication with their fans. This is because the platform is known for its community service and livestream options. Moreover, official merchandise of the agency will now be available through the Weverse Shop. 

Additionally, SM Entertainment assured supporters that all fan club memberships purchased from Kwangya Club will also be automatically transferred to their respective Weverse accounts. 

In a press release, Weverse company CEO Choi Joon Won said: “We welcome artists of SM Entertainment, who are loved by fans around the world, to Weverse,”

Although artists signed to companies under HYBE’s multi-label system were the first to trythe app, more K-pop acts have since moved to the platform. In fact, YG Entertainment acts like BLACKPINK, WINNER, and TREASURE are also using the HYBE-owned app.

Featured image: SM Entertainment artists during the SMTOWN 2022 concert in Japan. Credit: Facebook/SMTOWN

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Meet I’ll-It: Hybe’s Girl Group From ‘R U Next?’

The I'LL-IT members pose together after the finale of 'R U NEXT?' Credit: Twitter/I'LL-IT

Watch out for I’LL-IT! JBTC’s reality survival show R U Next? aired its final episode on Friday, September 1, and viewers are introduced to the members of HYBE’s upcoming girl group. 

For those unfamiliar, R U Next? began with 22 female trainees who were assessed through seven rounds. The mentors and judges evaluated the participants as they go through different vocal and dancing missions.

The top six contestants who have earned their spot for the official debut lineup were announced during the final episode.

 

SNSD’s Sooyoung, the show’s MC, revealed Wonhee and Youngseo as the first two members of the group. The two placed first and second in the global vote rankings, respectively. 

Meanwhile, the four other members who were chosen by the agency and judges were Minju, Iroha, Moka, and Yunah.

 

In the finale episode, it was revealed that the six will then debut under the group I’LL-IT, which is a combination of the English words “I will” and “it.”

Netizens’ react on the final lineup 

While the debuting members received congratulatory messages from their fans, a lot of Korean netizens and international viewers have expressed their frustration regarding the show.

https://twitter.com/ilitgirls/status/1697610316287287673

 

Viewers heavily criticized the sudden changes in R U Next?’s voting process as the final episode generally disregarded international votes and relied more on label picks. 

 

Many were also disappointed that the ace-considered participants did not make it to the cut.

https://twitter.com/runextlovre/status/1697603923933274542

 

Next, netizens also raised their suspicions as to the group’s promotional activities. Just a day after the final lineup was announced, Vogue Korea already featured the debuting members, making viewers think the group was pre-selected.

https://twitter.com/rinswurld/status/1697995130668466546

 

What’s next for I’LL-IT

BE:LIFT LAB, a former joint venture between CJ ENM and HYBE Corporation, will manage I’LL IT. The agency is also home to the multinational boy group ENHYPEN, who were formed through the 2020 survival show I-Land

In early August, it was revealed that HYBE has gained full ownership of BE:LIFT LAB.

After the show’s finale, I’LL-IT immediately launched their official social media accounts. 

 

Fans can now catch the group’s latest announcements through Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, Tiktok, and Weverse channels. Additionally, the group will have two X (former Twitter) accounts – one for group activities and another for members’ updates. 

 

I’LL-IT members have also penned messages for their fans. Most of them also recall their journey in R U NEXT? and how they feel to be part of the final lineup. 

 

BE:LIFT LAB has yet to announce details about I’LL-IT’s debut as of writing. 

Meanwhile, in other news, HYBE has also launched another survival reality show The Debut: Dream Academy. This time, in partnership with Geffen Records, they’re aiming for a global girl group.

Featured image: The I’LL-IT members pose together after the finale of ‘R U NEXT?’ Credit: Twitter/I’LL-IT

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