Tag: IU

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IU’s Agency Issues New Safety Measures To Protect Their Artists

EDAM Entertainment is taking extra safety measures to protect its artists. The agency, which is best known for representing IU, confirmed the new guidelines in an effort to safeguard artists from reckless fan behavior.

EDAM Entertainment Confirms Safety Measures to Protect IU

On October 17, EDAM Entertainment took significant steps to enhance the safety and privacy protection of their artists and guide fan conduct in order to foster a healthier fandom culture. The company issued a statement outlining the new safety measures via IU’s fan cafe.

The agency specifically banned fans from visiting places that are generally considered private and outside official schedules, such as the company premises, recording studios, rehearsal rooms, hair and makeup salons, and the artist’s residence. They stressed the importance of preserving and respecting the artist’s private life. Locations like airport immigration, security and baggage claim zones, and airport facilities such as duty-free shops and lounges were also designated as off-limits.

EDAM discouraged random live broadcasting and filming during an artist’s travels, citing the inconvenience it causes to staff and the breach of the artist’s privacy. They also cautioned against encroaching on an artist’s personal space by approaching too closely, repeatedly attempting to make contact, initiate conversation, or establish physical contact. These actions were labeled as unacceptable, and the guidelines also extended to the artist’s family, friends, and acquaintances.

Respecting Artists’ Private Lives

Regarding private schedules that are not disclosed to fans, the agency requested understanding, explaining that such unannounced events are intended to minimize external exposure at the organizer’s request and ensure business security. They emphasized the importance of following instructions from on-site staff and security personnel during official offline activities.

The guidelines outlined the strict prohibition of non-compliance, unauthorized access to restricted areas (e.g., backstage rooms, parking lots), verbal disputes with other fans, verbal abuse of staff, and instances of assault. Additionally, the impersonation of artists for fan activities, unauthorized photography or recording, the purchase and sale of the artist’s personal information, and the trading of travel information while an artist is on the move were considered illegal.

EDAM Entertainment issued a warning that fans who failed to adhere to these guidelines might have their membership and associated benefits in the official fan club terminated. In severe cases, where it is determined that a crime has been committed, legal actions, including civil and criminal proceedings, may be initiated. These measures reflect the agency’s commitment to ensuring the well-being and privacy of their artists while promoting a positive and respectful fandom culture.

IU generally has a polite fandom but the idol has been subjected to unruly fan behavior. EDAM previously addressed the idol’s safety after she reportedly received death threats.

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EDAM Takes Additional Security Measures After IU Receives Death Threats

IU poses for her movie 'Dream.' Credit: Twitter/IU

Known as the “Nation’s Little Sister,” it is no surprise that IU is loved and supported by millions of fans globally. However, the singer-actress has received a fair amount of hate throughout her career as well.

On Friday, October 6, EDAM Entertainment, IU’s agency, released an official statement to inform fans about the recent events concerning the singer-actress.

“Recently, the degree of violence toward artist IU has crossed the line. A homicide threat against the artist was received some time ago,” the agency said. 

Due to the horrifying threat, EDAM Entertainment revealed that increased the number of security guards assigned to IU. Moreover, they also dispatched police to the agency’s building, Kakao Entertainment building, and the artist’s home to ensure her safety.

Furthermore, EDAM Entertainment also mentioned that despite the unnecessary negative attention the news may receive, they ultimately decided to issue a statement to serve as a warning against malicious forces and to prevent government authorities from being dispatched again for such threats.

Update on IU and her legal battles

Apart from that, the agency also provided an update on the status of the civil and criminal lawsuits against online users for their alleged defamation against the singer. 

Earlier this year, IU was accused of plagiarism after a certain Youtuber claimed that six of her previous tracks were copied off of other people’s works. The alleged plagiarized songs were said to be “Good Day,” “Red Shoes,” “Bbibbi,” “pitiful,” “Boo,” and “Celebrity.”

Following the lack of reasonable proof for such accusations, EDAM Entertainment made necessary actions by keeping track of the list of suspects attacking and circulating rumors against IU.

“We will hold the accuser strictly liable for damages as soon as the accuser’s personal information is confirmed,” the agency warned. Additionally, they emphasized that there’ll be a non-leniency rule against any illegalities against IU.

With the numerous rumors and accusations IU has faced since her debut in 2008, fans voice out their concern for her safety. Thankfully, EDAM Entertainment continues to make the necessary actions to protect the singer.

Featured image: IU poses for her movie ‘Dream.’ Credit: Twitter/IU

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IU Dishes on New Album 2 Years After ‘Lilac’ and ‘Pieces’

Renowned singer, songwriter, and actress IU has taken the spotlight as the cover star for the October issue of ELLE Korea magazine. In this captivating photoshoot, the K-Pop icon effortlessly dons a series of chic ensembles from the prestigious luxury brand Gucci, infusing each shot with her distinctive style and charisma. In addition to that, the beloved idol revealed she is currently working on a new album. This would be IU’s first release in two years since she dropped her fifth studio album ‘Lilac’ in 2021.

IU Discusses Untitled New Album

ELLE Korea has unveiled captivating new photos for the magazine’s October issue. IU’s unique and sophisticated interpretation of Gucci’s creations adds a touch of her signature mood to the pictorial. This further solidifies the actress’ status as a trendsetter and fashion icon. Her presence on the cover promises an issue brimming with elegance and style, making it a must-read for fans and fashion enthusiasts eager to witness IU’s captivating transformation through the lens of ELLE magazine.

In the accompanying interview, IU also discussed her upcoming projects. For instance, she revealed that she has been hard at work on a new album. Interestingly, Lee Ji-eun has been working on the LP for some time and it has undergone some changes.

“During the process, I turned the entire direction around once,” she said. “Compared to my past album releases, which came relatively soon one after another, this time there is a 2-year gap from my last album.”

“I realized that those 2 years were meant to be used for deeper reflection,” IU added. “I’m working on a lot of songs right now, and I’m very pleased with the results. This next album will tell the story of one’s ‘desire’.”

It’s an intriguing tease at the upcoming release and there is little doubt that fans are already looking forward to the new album. Hopefully, IU will announce the release soon.

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BTS V Reveals Legendary Music Icon Who Inspired ‘Layover’

The BTS member confirmed that he was inspired by a legendary music icon while working on his solo album 'Layover'

V’s new album ‘Layover’ clearly has a sound of its own. However, the BTS member admits that his album was also influenced by other people’s music. For instance, Kim Taehyung already expressed his love for jazz and how the album is connected to his group’s ‘HYYH’ era. Now, V confirmed that a legendary music icon helped inspire his new songs.

V Credits Legendary Music Icon as Surprising Inspiration Behind ‘Layover’ Concept Photos

In a recent appearance on IU’s YouTube show “IU’s Palette” to promote his work on ‘Layover,’ V shared a surprising revelation about a legendary music icon who has deeply influenced him: the renowned English singer-songwriter, musician, and actor David Bowie. During the interview, IU complimented V on his concept photos and inquired about his sources of inspiration. To her query, V candidly disclosed that David Bowie had played a significant role in shaping his creative journey.

Initially unsure about how his response would be received, V was pleasantly surprised when IU recognized the profound impact that Bowie had on his artistic sensibilities. This unexpected connection between V and the legendary Bowie serves as a testament to the wide-reaching influence of music across genres and generations, highlighting how artists like Bowie continue to inspire and resonate with newer generations of musicians like V.

Kim Taehyung had previously explained how ‘Layover’ is connected to BTS’ ‘HYYH’ album series.

“I think you can think of it as connected to BTS’ ‘The Most Beautiful Moment in Life’ series, which showcased the theme of youth,” V said. “You know, when you look back into your past and feel sentimental about those old memories. That strange feeling that comes with reflecting back on your old self, and thinking, ‘I wish I could go back to those good old days…’”

‘Layover’ was released on September 8, 2023. V has dropped several singles to promote the album including the pre-release tracks “Love Me Again” and “Rainy Days”. He is also currently promoting the songs “Slow Dancing” and “Blue”.

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BTS V Reveals How Unexpected Netflix Show Changed His Mind About Acting

The BTS member claims that one Netflix show made him want to continue acting

BTS’s V recently disclosed that his perspective on acting underwent a transformation thanks to a popular Netflix show. It’s been seven years since V marked his acting debut in the K-drama “Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth”. Nevertheless, Kim Taehyung has affirmed his keen interest in returning to the world of acting, inspired by a beloved series available on the popular streaming platform.

BTS Member V Shares Love for Unexpected Netflix Show

The BTS member was recently a guest on IU’s talk show “IU’s Palette” where they discussed his solo album ‘Layover’. However, the two also touched upon some of V’s other interests which include acting. When IU asked whether he has plans for his acting career in the future, Kim Taehyung confirmed that he does. In addition to that, V admitted that he wants to try working on a thriller for a change.

Perhaps the coolest revelation during the interview is when V shared how a Netflix show changed his perspective on acting. “Do you know the Netflix series ‘The End of the F***ing World’? My thoughts on acting completely changed after I watched that,” Kim Taehyung stated.

IU quickly admitted that she also loves the series. V immediately continued that he wanted to take on a role similar to James in the Netflix series.

“When people ask me, ‘Is there a role you want to play?’ I tell them this protagonist of ‘The End of the F***ing World’,” he said.

This isn’t the first time that the BTS member admitted he is eager to return to acting. It was previously reported that V wants to play the bad guy for a change when he continues pursuing his acting career.

“I’ve told a lot of my friends and people around me that I now have this ambition to play a villain at least once,” he said.

V is currently promoting his solo album ‘Layover’.

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EDAM Entertainment Confirms IU Plagiarism Accusations Have Been Dismissed

EDAM Entertainment has officially concluded the plagiarism case concerning IU, providing a final update on the matter. The agency released a statement on September 4, disclosing that the investigative agency had rendered a decision to dismiss the criminal allegations against IU on August 24. The dismissal was based on the determination that the alleged actions did not constitute a criminal offense.

IU’s Agency Reveals Plagiarism Accusations Have Been Officially Dismissed

In their statement, EDAM Entertainment reiterated the fact that IU was not involved in the composition of the five songs that were central to the plagiarism allegation. Additionally, it was clarified that IU also did not participate in composing the specific portion of the sixth song that had drawn the accuser’s concern.

“Currently, we have requested a full investigation into posted videos and texts that libel the accuser and [IU] by submitting to the investigative agency the information on the relationship among the defendants in the cases filed,” the statement read. “Furthermore, we will continue to relentlessly pursue acts that damage the character and reputation of [IU] until the end to prevent their recurrence, and will strict civil and criminal liability in accordance with the ‘zero tolerance principle.'”

This conclusion marks the end of a contentious chapter for IU, reaffirming her innocence and emphasizing her non-involvement in the alleged plagiarism. With this matter resolved, IU can now focus on her artistic endeavors and continued success in the music industry, while her fans can breathe a sigh of relief.

On May 10, a Korean citizen filed a lawsuit alleging that IU plagiarized the works of other artists. The suit claimed that the “Blueming” singer had plagiarized a total of six songs. Since then, EDAM Entertainment has vehemently denied the allegations and announced they are taking legal action. In the meantime, IU’s first concert film titled “IU Concert: The Golden Hour” will premiere later in September.

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‘IU Concert: The Golden Hour’ Film to Premiere in September

IU during her 'The Golden Hour' concert in September 2022. Credit: Twitter/IU

Uaenas, it’s your chance to relive the magic of attending IU’s concert! The singer-songwriter is releasing her first concert film titled IU Concert: The Golden Hour globally. 

According to the AMC Theaters’ website, the film will feature IU’s  The Golden Hour: Under the Orange Sun concert. Held in September 17-18, 2022, the two-day concert served as the singer’s first solo concert in three years following her Love, Poem show. 

Additionally, it was also the concert that made IU the first Korean female singer to perform at the iconic Olympic Main Stadium in Seoul, the largest stadium in South Korea. 

In that concert, the K-pop superstar drew a total of 85,000 attendees. Even celebrities like BTS’ Jungkook, TWICE’s Nayeon, and actors Kim-Soo-hyun, Lee Joon-Gi and Kang Han-na, didn’t miss the chance to watch the remarkable show.

What to expect in ‘IU Concert: The Golden Hour’ film 

Based on the trailer, the film will highlight the concert’s magical scenes. During the show, it featured a huge production, including a hot air balloon act, a live orchestra performance, a drone show, fireworks, and enormous stage set-ups.

The singer was also seen leaving a heartwarming message to her fans; “Later on when you reminisce about me, I hope you can remember this moment as the brightest moment,” IU said. 

 

Given that the concert spanned for four hours each day and featured around 25 songs, attendees were treated with hits from IU’s long-spanning career. However, the concert film will only have a total running time of 2 hours and 51 minutes.

But what makes IU Concert: The Golden Hour even more special is that its release falls under the celebration of the singer-songwriter’s 15th anniversary in the industry.

The film will have its initial release in South Korea this September 13. It will be released across 38 countries around the world on September 28 and 30. 

On her social media, IU also left a message for her global fans who’d like to watch the concert film. “Global UAENA can also watch this movie. I’ll go see you in person next time. Love you, thank you always.” 

 

As per EDAM Entertainment, the film will be available in IMAX theaters worldwide. “The big screen and surround sound from cinemas will recreate the concert experience from last year.”, the company said in a press release. 

IU’s 15th year in the industry

Dubbed as the “Nation’s Little Sister”, IU debuted at the age of 15 with her song “Lost Child.” Since then, she has continually created masterpieces such as “Celebrity”, “Palette”, and “Good Day”, more popularly known for its three octave high note trademark.

Aside from a successful career as a soloist, IU excels in the world of acting as well. She has starred in numerous beloved dramas including Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo, and Hotel del Luna.

The 2011 series Dream High marked her debut as an actress. Meanwhile, her most recent work is Dream with Park Seo Joon.

In December 2022, it was confirmed that she’s dating actor Lee Jong Suk. 

Featured image: IU during her ‘The Golden Hour’ concert in September 2022. Credit: Twitter/IU

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SULLI Short Film ‘Persona 2’ To Be Released on Netflix

The story of the late SULLI is coming soon to a major streaming giant. Netflix has confirmed that the short film “Persona 2” which focused on the late idol will stream on the service.

SULLI’s Short Film ‘Persona 2’ Added To Netflix Brazil Catalogue

A recent social media post revealed that “Persona: Sulli”, also referred to as “Persona 2”, was added to Netflix Brazil’s catalogue. The short film is reportedly scheduled to premiere on June 16, 2023.

Since then, fans have expressed excitement about the film. The project is SULLI’s final work before her unexpected passing in 2019. Originally intended to be a five-part series, SULLI was only able to shoot the first two episodes before her death in October 2019.

So is it true that “Persona 2” will air on Netflix? The source from the streaming service issued a statement regarding the film.

“‘Persona: Sulli’ is a project produced by Mystic Story,” they said. “Currently, general discussion is underway including on whether to stream [the film] on Netflix along with the final release date.”

“Persona 2” is the sequel to the successful 2019 anthology series starring South Korean superstar and SULLI’s friend IU. The original series featured four different stories with Lee Ji-eun in the lead.

The sequel was intended to have five episodes. However, Mystic Story decided to suspend filming after SULLI’s passing. She was only able to film two episodes of the series by the time of her death.

SULLI made her debut as a child actress in the 2005 series “Ballad of Seodong”. After signing a record deal with SM Entertainment, she debuted in the girl group f(x) in 2009. Despite her success in film and music, Choi Jin-ri suffered from health issues leading to her departure from f(x) in 2015.

In June 2019, SULLI released her solo debut single “Goblin”. It would become her last musical project prior to her passing.

On October 14, 2019, SULLI’s brother found her dead in her house in Seongnam. The “Real” actress had reportedly committed suicide by hanging herself. She was 25 years old.

“Persona: Sulli” aka “Persona 2” has not yet been officially announced by Netflix. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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Taiwanese Influencer Apologizes for Grabbing IU at Gucci Event

Molly Chiang has issued an apology for her recent behavior at a fashion event. The Taiwanese influencer apologized after experiencing backlash over her rough treatment of IU.

Taiwanese Blogger Molly Chiang Apologizes To IU For Rough Behavior At Fashion Event

On May 16, Vogue Taiwan posted a video of Molly Chiang roughly grabbing South Korean superstar IU at the Gucci Cruise 2024 fashion show. Although the clip was deleted, netizens had already seen it and began criticizing the Taiwanese influencer.

Molly Chiang has since addressed the controversy. She shared an apology on Instagram for the way she treated IU at the fashion event.

“I want to sincerely apologize for this,” Chiang wrote. “I’m so sorry. I’m sorry for the fans who support me, and I’m again sorry for disappointing them.”

Chiang further explained that she had sent the apology to IU.

“With the help of a friend who speaks Korean, I translated the apology to IU,” the Taiwanese blogger wrote. “I sent it to IU’s agency along with the English version.”

She added, “My action was not appropriate. I should have been more careful, as everyone comes with a different personality, individuality, and culture.”

Chiang concluded, “I brought this controversy on myself. I’ve learned that I shouldn’t touch people I don’t know. I will make sure to correct this behavior.”

In related news, the people who have worked with IU are defending the “Dream” actress in the face of plagiarism allegations. Mystic Story president Jo Young Chul, who produced IU’s early albums, pointed out that the plagiarism claims have no clear basis.

“While I’ve monitored all the songs that continue to claim plagiarism on YouTube and were recently accused, I was unable to discover any suspicion of plagiarism,” Jo wrote.

On May 10, a Korean citizen filed a lawsuit alleging that IU plagiarized the works of other artists. The suit claimed that the “Blueming” singer had plagiarized a total of six songs. Since then, IU’s agency EDAM Entertainment has denied the allegations and the company is planning to pursue legal action.

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Mystic Story Producer, IU’s ‘Boo’ Composer Address Plagiarism Claims

People are coming to IU’s defence amidst the recent plagiarism allegations. Mystic Story president Jo Young Chul, who produced IU’s albums, slammed the complaint against the soloist. In addition to that, the composer behind the solo artist’s hit “Boo” defended the song’s composition.

Mystic Story Boss Hits Back At IU Plagiarism Claims

Mystic Story president Jo Young Chul released a statement regarding IU’s recent plagiarism accusations. Jo, who is also a music producer, pointed out that the plagiarism claims have no clear basis.

“While I’ve monitored all the songs that continue to claim plagiarism on YouTube and were recently accused, I was unable to discover any suspicion of plagiarism,” Jo wrote.

“Just because you’ve taken one part of a song and think there’s a song that has a similar melody or chord progression to it does not make that plagiarism. This is not my personal opinion as this is the court precedent,” Jo added. “The parts of the songs being accused do not even have the same melody or chord progression.”

Jo Young Chul added that “the copyright dispute is basically an issue between copyright holders.”

“I question whether a third party has the right to make accusations, and they must be held legally responsible if this is [an attempt of] malicious defamation,” he stated.

‘Boo’ Composer Explains How IU Was The Only Inspiration For His Song

The Mystic Story president is not the only one defending IU. Han Sang Won is the composer behind the hit “Boo”. He explained in an Instagram post how IU herself inspired the song.

“After seeing IU, who was a young student at the time, I thought of ‘a dance track about a bright and cute love story.’ I first created the key lyric ‘You’re my boo,’ inspired by the word ‘boo,’ and the hook’s ‘image melody,’ and then made the song by implementing the arrangement method and common beat of “’80s female dance-pop,'” Han wrote.

Han further pointed out that the melody in “Boo” was “borrowed” from another IU track.

“The melody of the chorus lyric ‘You’re my boo’ is borrowed from IU’s other song ‘Merry Christmas Ahead,’” Han wrote.

“I believe this is the biggest reason why this song received so much love, to the point where this part was left and remade into a rap song by Geeks,” he added.

Han Song Won went on to explain the influences of the song and then challenged the complainant.

“What was the intention of the person who accused IU when I, the composer of ‘boo,’ am right here?” he wrote. “I am ready whenever to discuss with ‘the composer who wrote the song’ who claims plagiarism regarding my song, so if you are that song’s ‘composer,’ please contact me.”

Korean Citizen Files Plagiarism Complaint Against IU

On May 10, a Korean citizen filed a lawsuit alleging that IU plagiarized the works of other artists. The suit claimed that the “Blueming” singer had plagiarized a total of six songs. Since then, IU’s agency EDAM Entertainment has denied the allegations and the company is planning to pursue legal action.

Songwriter Lee Min Soo, who wrote “The Red Shoes” and “Good Day”, explained that he didn’t reference other songs. “BBIBBI” composer Lee Jong Hoon also pointed out that the artists of the plagiarized songs are the only ones who can make plagiarism allegations.

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