Tag: INFINITE

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INFINITE Lee Sungjong Terminates SPK Entertainment Exclusive Contract

Lee Sungjong’s termination of his exclusive contract with SPK Entertainment marks the culmination of a tumultuous legal battle between the idol and his former agency. The decision to terminate the contract through forced mediation by the court underscores the severity of the disputes between Lee Sungjong and SPK Entertainment regarding contractual obligations and financial matters.

Lee Sungjong Confirms SPK Entertainment Contract Termination

On March 30, Lee Sungjong took to his official Instagram account to share news about his ongoing legal battle with the agency.

“The past few months have been a challenging time for me, with each day feeling like a struggle. However, thanks to the encouragement and prayers from all of you fans, I was able to find the strength to persevere,” he wrote. “Although I still have obstacles to overcome, I promise to work even harder to show you many more wonderful sides of myself.”

Since filing for contract termination in December 2023, Lee Sungjong has been embroiled in a legal dispute with SPK Entertainment, alleging various breaches of contract, including the failure to provide adequate support and compensation for his activities as an artist. The termination of the contract signifies a significant step in resolving the contentious issues between the parties and moving forward with legal proceedings to address the grievances.

The Long Legal Battle

Lee Sungjong’s decision to pursue contract termination reflects his determination to assert his rights as an artist and seek recourse for alleged contractual violations. Despite the challenges posed by the legal dispute, Lee Sungjong remains steadfast in his pursuit of justice and fair treatment in his professional endeavors.

During his tenure with SPK Entertainment, Lee Sungjong continued to pursue his artistic endeavors, releasing his debut solo single “The One” and participating in INFINITE’s activities, including the release of their 7th mini album, “13egin.” Despite the challenges posed by the contractual dispute, Lee Sungjong remained dedicated to his craft and continued to engage with fans through his music.

As the legal proceedings progress, Lee Sungjong remains focused on his career and future endeavors. The termination of his contract with SPK Entertainment represents a new chapter in his journey as an artist, providing him with the opportunity to explore new opportunities and pursue his artistic vision on his own terms.

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INFINITE’s Sungjong Opens up on Legal Dispute With SPK Entertainment

Sungjong in the concept photos for INFINITE's '13egin' album. Credit: Facebook/INFINITE

Sungjong of the K-pop boy group INFINITE announced his decision to terminate his contract with SPK Entertainment.

In his official statement released on January 16, the singer disclosed the reasons as to why he parted ways with the agency. According to the idol, SPK Entertainment failed to fulfill their duties in assisting his activities, particularly with finances.

Moreover, the singer revealed that he did not get the support initially promised to him when he signed an exclusive contract. “I did not receive proper support from SPK Entertainment for broadcast appearances, fan meetings, or album releases,” Sungjong said. “I also did not receive the promised deposit,” he added.

Despite the company’s lack of support, the idol clarified that he still did his best to maintain a good relationship with SPK Entertainment. But after his months-long effort to negotiate with the label, the agency continued to put his complaints off. With this, he plans to take legal action against the company.

Furthermore, Sungjong shared that he made the final decision to exterminate his contract with the agency in December 2023. The singer then ended his statement by apologizing to fans for worrying them, and thanking them for their unwavering support.

Fans’ show their support for Sungjong

On social media, fans, especially INFINITE’s fanbase, Inspirits, have shown their love for Sungjong as he faces the legal conflict.

Several fans applauded the singer for his courageous act. “Probably not an easy decision. But I’m proud of Sungjong for fighting for what he deserves,” one wrote.

Other Inspirits have also expressed their concern for the idol as they claim this isn’t the first time Sungjong has been mistreated by a label. In 2022, Sungjong parted ways with INFINITE’s home agency, Woollim Entertainment, after a long 13 years. Since leaving Woollim, Sungjong had instances briefly showing hints of experiencing mismanagement.

With this, a lot of fans not only wished Sungjong a bright and successful career ahead, but also hoped that the singer will find a “good” company soon. Moreover, they reassured the idol that he will always have their backs.

In other news, INFINITE had their first group comeback in five years last July 2023 with the EP 13EGIN. Notably, the release came in time for the group’s 13th debut anniversary. Moreover, it was also the group’s first release since INFINITE successfully transferred the trademark rights of their group’s name under the INFINITE Company.

Featured image: Sungjong in the concept photos for INFINITE’s ’13egin’ album. Credit: Facebook/INFINITE

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INFINITE’s Woohyun Reveals Battle With Rare Cancer

Woohyun poses for his concept photo for 'WHITREE.' Credit: Twitter/WOOHYUN

Nam Woohyun from the K-pop group INFINITE revealed that he’s currently recovering after undergoing surgery for his cancer diagnosis. 

In an interview with the Korea Times, the 32-year-old singer disclosed that he underwent surgery in April after being diagnosed with gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST), a rare form of cancer affecting the digestive system. The idol shared that 10 in 1 million people are diagnosed with this disease.

Moreover, the INFINITE members explained that the urgency of the surgery was non-negotiable. Which is why he swiftly organized fan events and performances in January and February to prepare for the surgery. 

However, Woohyun recalled that he wasn’t aware how grave his condition was until after the procedure. “I later realized that the scale was more extensive than I had thought,” he said. 

Reflecting on his condition, he mentioned the severity of the surgery, revealing a nearly three-week period without drinking water and a resulting 20-centimeter scar on his stomach, along with the necessity of attaching a blood bag.

During these obstacles, the singer shared that he was able to find comfort and encouragement from relatives and friends. Furthermore, the idol shared that this life-changing incident has changed his perspective as a person. 

Woohyun on continuing idol activities

Despite this hardship, Woohyun made a swift comeback with the release of his 11-track album WHITREE on Tuesday, November 28. This marks his return as a soloist after a two-year hiatus since the 2021 EP With. 

In this new album, the singer emphasized that it encapsulates his journey against cancer. “My thoughts have deepened and I’ve achieved musical maturity,” he said. Additionally, he also expressed hope that his music would serve as a source of courage for those facing hardships, encouraging them to overcome challenges, just as he did.

Despite the challenging recovery process, Woohyun candidly admitted that his doctor expressed concerns about the possibility of fully regaining his singing abilities. He acknowledged the current limitations on his performance.

Featured image: Woohyun poses for his concept photo for ‘WHITREE.’ Credit: Twitter/WOOHYUN

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INFINITE’s Woohyun to Release Solo Album; Star in Action Movie

Woohyun releases his concept photo for 'WHITREE.' Credit: Twitter/Nam Woohyun

Exciting times ahead for INSPIRITs! Nam Woohyun of K-pop boy group INFINITE is set to make a milestone in his career with two important releases: a solo album and a movie. 

On Sunday, November 5, Woohyun confirmed that he’s releasing his first solo full-length album WHITREE. According to the scheduler, he’ll be releasing concept photos, tracklist, a highlight medley, and a music video teaser before releasing the album on November 28. 

‘WHITREE’ and ‘The Guardian’ 

 Notably, WHITREE will serve as his first solo release in two years. He last released his solo EP With that came out in October 2021. 

As a solo artist, Woohyun has already showcased his musical talent with four solo EPs, two singles, and two OSTs. Among his  previous solo works include “Still I Remember,” “When Fall Comes,” “A Song For You,” and “Calm & Passion.”

As these tracks have gained recognition for their emotional depth and melodious charm, fans can expect that WHITREE will offer another layer of artistic expression for the INFINITE member.

However, the excitement doesn’t stop there. In addition to his musical endeavors, Woohyun has been confirmed to star in the upcoming action movie The Guardian. 

According to reports, the film will be directed by Jeong Jang Hwan and will feature action choreography by Hong Sang Seok. Additionally, the film is set to follow a man who is forced to rescue his mother from her abductors, all while grappling with a gambling debt.

Since The Guardian will mark Woohyun’s first lead role in an action film, fans are eagerly anticipating his foray into action sequences.While details about the film remain somewhat under wraps, production is set to kick off in Manila, Philippines in January 2024. 

Woohyun in 2023

Interestingly, 2023 has been a remarkable one for Woohyun.

During the start of the year, he  kicked off his Dating with Woo Asia fan meeting tour, which included stops in Korea, Japan, Thailand, Taiwan, and Macao. 

In July, Woohyun and his group, INFINITE, made a much-anticipated comeback with their seventh mini-album, 13EGIN.

Moreover, this marked the group’s first release since successfully transferring the trademark rights of their name, INFINITE from their previous label, Woollim Entertainment.

What made it even more significant is that it had been five years since their last full-group comeback with the release of their third studio album, TOP SEED  in 2018. 

Featured image: Woohyun releases his concept photo for ‘WHITREE.’ Credit: Twitter/Nam Woohyun

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INFINITE Officially Cancels Hong Kong Concert

INFINITE Company revealed that the legendary boy group will no longer push through with their Hong Kong concert later this month

INFINITE has officially cancelled their scheduled concert later this month. The legendary boy group’s agency revealed that they are no longer pushing through with a particular date. Unfortunately, the idols’ upcoming Hong Kong concert has been officially cancelled.

INFINITE Cancels Upcoming ‘COMEBACK AGAIN’ Concert in Hong Kong

According to an announcement by INFINITE Company on September 7, the event will not proceed as planned. “COMEBACK AGAIN in Hong Kong” was originally slated for September 28. However, the official statement from the company reveals that plans for the event did not fall into place.

“Smooth communication was not happening with the organizers for the Hong Kong concert that was under discussion, so we ultimately decided to not carry out the Hong Kong concert after careful consideration,” the statement read.

“We apologize for causing concern to fans who anticipated the Hong Kong concert,” it continues. “Furthermore, we hope that there was no harm caused by ticketing-related issues. INFINITE and INFINITE Company will always work hard to show greater improvement.”

In the previous month, INFINITE commenced their tour with an electrifying performance at Seoul’s KSPO DOME on August 19 and 20. This would be the group’s first concert in seven years. Subsequently, they concluded successful shows in Yokohama and Taipei, setting their sights on an upcoming performance in Macao scheduled for September 9 and 10.

INFINITE, Then and Now

INFINITE, originally formed by Woollim Entertainment in 2010, is a six-member group consisting of Sungkyu, Dongwoo, Woohyun, Sungyeol, L, and Sungjong. The group’s journey started with seven members, but Hoya departed from the group on August 30, 2017.

In a significant development, on May 8, 2023, it was revealed that INFINITE would establish their own agency, Infinite Company, while preparing for a full group comeback. Woollim CEO and the group’s founder, Lee Jung-yeop, made a noteworthy gesture by transferring the trademark rights of INFINITE to Sungkyu as a birthday gift, without any conditions or fees.

Excitement reached its peak when, on July 7, it was announced that INFINITE would be making their highly anticipated comeback on July 31 with their seventh EP, “13egin.” This announcement marked a new chapter in the group’s career, with fans eagerly anticipating their return to the K-pop scene.

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Infinite Surprises Fans With Banner Project in ‘Comeback Again’ Concert

INFINITE poses after their 'Comeback Again' concert in Seoul. Credit: Twitter/INFINITE

K-pop boy group INFINITE successfully staged the Comeback Again concert, the group’s first solo show in seven years! And as expected, it became an emotional reunion with their fans. 

On August 19 to 20, the six-piece held the two-night concert at the KSPO Dome in Seoul.

 

But what made the show extra special for both INFINITE and INSPIRITs is that it’s the group’s first concert since 2017. 

Since then, the members –Sunggyu, Dongwoo, Woohyun, Seungyeol, L, and Sungjong– have all left Woollim Entertainment, pursued solo careers, and carried out their military services. 

Additionally, the group also established their own label, INFINITE Company, which is headed by Sunggyu. They also successfully transferred the trademark rights of their group’s name from their previous label.

However, aside from the performances during the concert, it was the group’s surprise event for fans that moved the attendees’ hearts. 

Most often that not, it’s the fans who prepared projects during concerts. And while INSPIRITs did organize a surprise for the group, the fans were shocked when the members also had a surprise of their own. 

All six members of INFINITE held banners that collectively read: “We know you’ve waited a long time. We’ll give you the happiness you deserve.” 

 

INFINITE and INSPIRITs’ bond 

Given how monumental the concert was, it was no surprising how emotional the INFINITE members were during the Comeback Again concerts. 

“The members went through a lot. There were a lot of ups and downs. Thank you for filling the place yesterday and today, Thank you so much,” Woohyun said during the show. 

 

Meanwhile, Sunggyu added: “I love you from the bottom of my heart.”

 

The group also promised that they will always be where their fans are. 

 

Online fans also opened up how meaningful the messages are of the members during the show. 

“The fears, doubts, hesitations, uncertainty after your military enlistment as well as establishing your own company, it was definitely not an easy path,” one wrote. 

While another said: “You proved us more than that INFINITE. you assured us that made us build our trust on you. you did your promises like how you made it to us.”

https://twitter.com/woohyunmandu/status/1692873017339351078

 

Originally a seven-member group, INIFNITE made their debut in 2010. They are best known for their songs “BTD,” “Be Mine,” “Paradise,” “Man In Love,” “The Chaser,” and “Nothing’s Over.” They released their seventh mini-album 13EGIN in July. 

After their Seoul concerts, the group will also have Comeback Again concert stops in Yokohama, Taipei, and Macau.

Featured image: INFINITE poses after their ‘Comeback Again’ concert in Seoul. Credit: Twitter/INFINITE

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Watch: Infinite Returns With ‘New Emotions’

INFINITE releases the album '13EGIN'. Credit: Twitter/INFINITE

K-pop boy group INFINITE is off to a fresh start with the release of their seventh mini-album 13EGIN. 

INFINITE unveiled on Monday, July 31, the six-track EP, which carries the lead single “New Emotions.” 

 

13EGIN — a play between 13 and begin — symbolizes the group’s 13th debut anniversary. 

Additionally, it’s also the group’s first release since INFINITE successfully transferred the trademark rights of their group’s name from their previous label Woollim Entertainment. 

In May, it was confirmed that the rights are now held by INFINITE Company, the agency established by the six members. The group’s leader Kim Sunggyu reportedly heads the agency. 

 

INFINITE last made a full group comeback five years ago, with the release of their third studio album TOP SEED in 2018. The act, however, put out the digital single “Clock” in 2019.

Since then, the members – Sunggyu, Dongwoo, Woohyun, Seungyeol, L, and Sungjong –  have all left Woollim Entertainment, pursued solo careers, and carried out their military services. 

After the release of the album, INFINITE will hold a concert tour called COMEBACK AGAIN. Its international tour stops include Taipei and Macau.

Originally a seven-member act, Hoya left the group in August 2017. INFINITE is best known for their songs “BTD,” “Be Mine,” “Paradise,” “Man In Love,” “The Chaser,” and “Nothing’s Over.”

Featured image: INFINITE releases the album ’13EGIN’. Credit: Twitter/INFINITE

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Infinite Set for July Comeback; To Embark on Concert Tour

The long wait is almost over INSPIRITs because second-generation K-pop group INFINITE has confirmed that they’ll be releasing a new album and embarking on a concert tour. 

On Monday, July 9, INFINITE released a scheduler for their upcoming full-group comeback. 

The poster revealed that their seventh mini-album will be titled 13EGIN, and will be out on July 31. 

 

INSPIRITs, the group’s fandom, were quick to note how special the album title 13EGIN is, given that this year marks INFINITE’s 13th debut anniversary.

13EGIN is also INFINITE’s first release after they successfully hold the trademark rights to their group’s name — definitely marking a new era for the group’s future activities. 

In May, it was reported that the CEO of Woollim Entertainment, INFINITE’s original agency, handed the trademark rights to the group’s leader Kim Sunggyu. Sunggyu is the head of INFINITE Company, the agency that the six members established. 

 13EGIN will also be their first full group comeback in five years, following their third studio album TOP SEED in 2018. 

Since then, the members – Sunggyu, Dongwoo, Woohyun, Seungyeol, L, and Sungjong – have all left Woollim Entertainment, pursued solo careers, and carried out their military services. 

Aside from the new album, INFINITE will also hold a solo concert tour titled COMEBACK AGAIN.

It will kick off at the KSPO Dome in Seoul from August 19-20, and will have stops in Yokohama, Taipei, and Macau. 

COMEBACK AGAIN will serve as INFINITE’s first full group concert in seven years. 

INFINITE is best known for their songs “BTD,” “Be Mine,” “Paradise,” “Man In Love,” “The Chaser,” and “Nothing’s Over.”

Featured image: INFINITE’s Facebook

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INFINITE Reveal New Logo and Social Media Accounts as Sunggyu’s New Company Acquires Group’s Trademark Rights

INFINITE is taking control of the group’s future. The second-generation boy group has teased their new logo and debuted new social media accounts. Additionally, leader Sunggyu’s newly established company now holds the group’s trademark rights.

INFINITE Debuts New Logo and Social Media Accounts

On May 6, a new Twitter account revealed INFINITE’s yellow logo. It also revealed the group’s new official accounts for Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

At first, people were uncertain of the posts. However, it was soon confirmed that these were the new official accounts for INFINITE.

Sunggyu’s New Company Acquires INFINITE’s Trademark Rights

The announcement comes soon after fans discovered that leader Sunggyu has established Infinite Company. Sunggyu has been in the process of transferring group-related copyrights from their former agency to the new company.

Infinite Company now holds the trademark rights for the group’s name, their fandom’s name, and even the title of their concerts. This opens endless possibilities for the boy group as they continue to pursue activities in the future.

INFINITE debuted in June 2010 with the EP ‘First Invasion’ and the lead single “Come Back Again”. They became Woollim Entertainment’s first idol group and labelmates Epik High helped with their popularity.

INFINITE started out as a seven-member group. In August 2017, Hoya chose not to renew his contract with Woollim Entertainment and left the group as well as the agency.

In 2019, Dongwoo, Woohyun, Sungyeol, L, and Sungjong began promoting with five members when Sunggyu enlisted for military service. By August 2022, all members had completed their military service. All six members also chose not to renew their contracts with Woollim Entertainment but will continue to participate in group activities.

For now, INFINITE has not yet announced plans for a comeback with all six members. However, INSPIRITs are already looking forward to the group’s official return. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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