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SEVENTEEN, Stray Kids among K-pop Acts That Made It To IFPI’s Best-Selling Artists Worldwide in 2023

2023 was indeed a huge year for K-pop and groups SEVENTEEN and Stray Kids were among those that dominated it. 

On Thursday, February 22, the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) released its annual rankings for the best-selling artists worldwide and several K-pop acts made it to the 2023 list!

According to Soompi, IFPI’s Global Recording Artist Chart “ranks aritsts based on physical sales, downloads, and streaming over the course of the past year.” 

Leading the K-pop acts is the God of Music hitmakers SEVENTEEN. Notably, the 13-member boy group ranked second overall in the worldwide rankings, just right after award-winning singer songwriter Taylor Swift. Moreover, this served group’s the third consecutive year in the top 10 of the chart. 

In 2023, SEVENTEEN bagged numerous awards for their recent albums FML and Seventeenth Heaven. Aside from that, the “Super” hitmakers made an unprecedented record of more than 10 million physical album sales, from January to September of 2023 alone.

Following SEVENTEEN is the 4th generation group Stray Kids, who achieved a number of milestones in 2023. To specify, the “LALALALA” singers scored a back-to-back No. 1 on the Billboard 200 Album Sales Chart for their full-length album 5-Star and their mini-album Rock Star.

Moreover, the five-member boy group TOMORROW X TOGETHER also made it to the list. Placing seventh in the overall list, TOMORROW X TOGETHER managed to be one of IFPI’s best-selling artists with the release of their album The Name Chapter: FREEFALL.

After the three boy groups, rookie monsters NewJeans made history as they became the first and only K-op girl group to make it to the Top 10 list. The quintet, who are best known for hits Hype Boy”, “Attention”, “Super Shy”, ranked eight overall.

 

Fans rejoice as K-pop continues to dominate

With the K-pop acts securing their respective spots in the IFPI best-selling artists list for 2023, they now join international stars Drake, The Weeknd, Lana del Rey, and others in the Top 10.

After seeing the inclusion of the K-Pop names among the list of Western artists, the fans of SEVENTEEN, Stray Kids, TOMORROW X TOGETHER and NewJeans expressed their happiness over their idols’ achievements.

On social media, CARATs, STAYs, MOAs, and Bunnies (the groups’ fan bases, respectively), showed how proud they are of the artists.

One Carat referred to SEVENTEEN as “global superstars who are insanely famous. Meanwhile, a STAY congratulated Stray Kids and said that their music is so loved.

MOAs also applauded TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s jump to the seventeen spot after not being on the list for the 2022 Top 20 chart. Having high hopes that the “Chasing That Feeling singers continue to soar, a fan stated that 2024 will even be better for the group.

https://twitter.com/meemznn/status/1760667732633100331

 

Lastly, Bunnies also shared their congratulatory messages for NewJeans and called them “queens” and “smash hitmakers.” 

In addition to these Top 10 placers, K-pop groups IVE and NCT Dream also secured the No. 12 and No. 15 spots, respectively. Congratulations! 

Featured image: SEVENTEEN releases special video for ‘April Shower.’ Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

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IVE Opens up on Collaborating With Saweetie for ‘All Night’

K-pop girl group IVE and American rapper Saweetie teamed up for the recently released single “All Night.” And the act from Starship Entertainment had nothing but praises for their experience working in the collaboration. 

On January 19, the single “All Night” was released. For those unaware, the crossover between IVE and Saweetie was a remake of Icona Pop’s 2013 hit single of the same title.

In the official music video, IVE members Yujin, Wonyoung, Rei, Liz, Gaeul and Leeseo were seen throwing an office party while dressed in sweet and chic clothes. Then, Saweetie made her appearance in an elegant outfit and soon joined the group’s fun.

Aside from it being a collaborative track with Saweetie, All Night” also serves as IVE’s first-ever full English single. Compared to other K-pop releases, said track also took a different style as it did not feature any individual lines for the members.

IVE on their first collaboration

When asked about the collaboration with Saweetie, the IVE members shared that they had fun filming the music video and working with the American rapper. 

In an interview with Teen Vogue, Yujin revealed that she was initially unaware of Icona Pop’s original version of the song. Additionally, the group’s leader said that she thought the song was familiar but she could not point out exactly where she heard it.

Meanwhile, Leeseo said that they were thankful and honored to have the American rapper take part on “All Night.”  She then explained that Saweetie’s voice and rap part in the song added a perfect touch to the track.

One of the members, Wonyoung, also shared that she “freaked out” upon learning that they will be working with Saweetie. “I really love her song. So I was excited and thrilled to work with her,” she said. 

Aside from that, Wonyoung also shared about their interaction with the rapper once the filming ended. According to the 19-year-old idol, they were so happy to see her and that they got individual selfies with Saweetie after the shoot.

“It’s our first time doing a collaboration with another artist. And we were so happy to hear it was with Saweetie. We were so enthusiastic about working with her,” Wonyoung added.

Aside from the release of All Night,” the “Baddie” singers are also busy preparing for the continuation of their first world tour Show What I Have. In 2024, IVE is set to conquer the stages across Asia, South America, Europe, and many more.

Featured image: Saweetie and IVE pose together after filming the music video of ‘All Night.’ Credit: Twitter/IVE

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Starship Entertainment Shares Update On Legal Proceedings After IVE’s Jang Won Young Wins Civil Lawsuit Against YouTuber

In a significant legal victory, Jang Wonyoung of IVE, along with her agency Starship Entertainment, emerged triumphant in a lawsuit against YouTuber Sojang for damages. The ruling, delivered by the 210th Civil Division of the Seoul Central District Court, favored the plaintiffs, with Chief Judge Park Jiwon presiding over the case.

IVE’s Jang WonYoung Wins Civil Lawsuit Against YouTuber

Last month, the court ordered YouTuber Sojang to pay 100 million KRW (approximately $74,532.87 USD) in damages to Jang Wonyoung and Starship Entertainment. The calculation included an annual interest rate of 12% until the full repayment is made. The court’s decision not only held Sojang accountable for damages but also mandated the coverage of court costs incurred during the legal proceedings.

Following this legal triumph, Starship Entertainment released an official statement on January 17, updating the public on the progress of legal proceedings against YouTuber Sojang. The statement emphasized that the lawsuit for damages was filed by Jang Wonyoung in October of the previous year.

How Starship Aims to Protect its Artists

Jang Wonyoung’s legal representation argued that the content posted on Sojang’s YouTube channel consistently comprised false information and insults, reaching the level of personal attacks. The evidence presented during the proceedings underscored the fabricated nature of the videos that targeted not only Jang Wonyoung but also other artists affiliated with Starship Entertainment, including IVE.

“We are constantly operating a monitoring system to protect the rights of our artists including their reputation, privacy, and their human rights, and we plan to take all possible legal actions without leniency for the current and future cases of defamation or other additional damages caused to the artists,” the statement read.

The court’s ruling and subsequent statements from Starship Entertainment shed light on the agency’s commitment to protecting its artists from false narratives and defamatory content. Beyond the financial compensation awarded, the legal victory holds broader implications for the entertainment industry, reinforcing the importance of accountability and responsible online behavior.

This legal precedent serves as a reminder that artists and their agencies are increasingly proactive in safeguarding their reputations in the digital realm. The successful resolution of this case not only vindicates Jang Wonyoung and Starship Entertainment but also underscores the importance of truth and integrity in online content creation.

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IVE’s Rei Gushes About Sharing a Meal With RED VELVET’s Joy

Rei has proven to be a truly successful REVELUV! The IVE member shared some details about sharing a meal with RED VELVET’s Joy after an adorable social media interaction.

IVE’s Rei Shares Details About Sharing a Meal With RED VELVET Member Joy

IVE’s Rei, a dedicated fan of RED VELVET’s Joy, recently shared delightful news with fans about a special encounter with her idol. Rei, who has expressed her admiration for Joy in various ways, is known for being a devoted follower of the RED VELVET member.

Joy, the only non-member followed by Rei on Instagram, recently left a heartwarming comment on Rei’s Instagram post, where she pledged to buy Rei 1004 strawberries. The sweet promise from Joy created excitement among fans, and it also appears that she fulfilled her commitment.

 

On December 8, 2023, Rei excitedly informed fans through Dear U. Bubble about the delightful experience of dining with Joy. The IVE member also expressed her admiration for Joy as a sunbaenim, highlighting the positive and supportive nature of their relationship.

“Joy unnie recently bought me delicious food. We also talked a lot. I feel like I can become a more positive person when I’m with her,” Rei wrote.

“She’s a precious unnie and sunbae. Just like what I feel when I see unnie, I want to become an amazing artist who can give happy energy to DIVEs and more people,” she continued. “I think that it is such an enjoyable and happy thing that I keep having new dreams as I promote, after achieving my dream of becoming an idol.”

Fans React to Rei and Joy Sharing a Meal

Fans were quick to celebrate the genuine and pure friendship between Rei and Joy, showcasing the camaraderie that transcends group boundaries in the K-pop industry. The thoughtful gesture of sharing a meal and the supportive dynamics between the two idols also resonated positively with fans.

Joy’s influence on Rei’s career and personal life was praised by fans, emphasizing the positive impact senior idols can have on their junior counterparts. The interaction between Rei and Joy also reflects the supportive and encouraging atmosphere within the K-pop community, fostering meaningful connections and friendships.

As fans continue to witness the genuine relationships and camaraderie between idols, it adds another layer of appreciation for the tight-knit bonds within the industry. Rei’s joyous encounter with her idol also showcases the warmth and friendship that can develop among artists, transcending the boundaries of different groups and generations within the vibrant K-pop landscape.

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Sunmi Says ‘Love Dive’ Was Offered To Her Before Being Given to IVE

There is little doubt that “Love Dive” was a huge hit for IVE. The song has won numerous accolades for the girl group and is considered one of their signature songs. However, there was a time when the track was almost performed by a different artist. Sunmi revealed that the single was originally offered to her but the “Gashina” singer decided to turn it down!

“Love Dive” Was Almost a Sunmi Song

During an appearance on KBS Radio’s “Park Myung Soo’s Radio Show,” Sunmi shared some insights about her involvement with the hit song by the group IVE. Amazingly, the soloist disclosed that “Love Dive” was initially proposed to her, suggesting that she was considered for the song’s release. However, the track ultimately found its home with the group IVE and became a massive hit in the K-pop music scene.

“It’s such a great song, and when I first heard it, I thought that if my girl group friends perform it, it would do really well. I felt that it might be too obvious if I did it,” Sunmi said. “However, the IVE members did such an excellent job, and they received a lot of love for it.”

When asked if she was upset that IVE had “stolen” the song from her, Sunmi stated that she was not bothered at all and was happy to know “Love Dive” was a huge hit for the girl group.

“Not at all,” she said. “I’ve been in the industry for 17 years, and I don’t feel bad about others doing well.”

“Love Dive” as One of the Biggest K-Pop Songs in History

“Love Dive” was released as the lead single of IVE’s single album on April 5, 2022. The song belongs to the dark pop and electropop genres and features elements such as percussion sounds, rhythmic bass, synth, and a mix of trap, accompanied by lyrics that reinterpret the concept of Cupid in the modern era, shining on the stage.

The song “Love Dive” gained widespread acclaim, with various publications naming it one of the best K-pop tracks of 2022. Critics praised the song’s overall production quality and the vocal performance of the group IVE. Moreover, commercially, it enjoyed remarkable success in South Korea, securing the top spot on the Gaon Digital Chart for four consecutive weeks and ranking as one of the best-performing singles of the year.

The song received numerous awards and accolades, including the MAMA Award for Song of the Year, the Melon Music Award for Song of the Year, and Song of the Year honors at events like the Asia Artist Awards and the Golden Disc Awards.

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IVE’s Yujin Finally Addresses Possible Move to Acting

IVE boasts a stunning lineup of visuals, with members Yujin and Wonyoung frequently catching the attention of fans and non-fans alike. Many have been curious about their potential forays into acting due to their striking appearances. So what are the chances that the idols will eventually move to acting? IVE leader Yujin finally addressed the possibility!

IVE’s Yujin Addresses Possible Move to Acting

During a recent conversation with renowned producer Na Young Seok that was streamed on his YouTube channel, the host revealed that people often inquire about IVE’s interest in acting. Na PD, who is known for his work on various variety shows, disclosed that several K-Drama writers are keeping a keen eye on the IVE members, intrigued by the idea of them exploring acting roles. Given that idols often dabble in acting through music videos or short skits, Na PD asked if these experiences had ignited their interest in pursuing an acting career.

“There are many K-Drama writers around me,” he said. “They always ask me, if IVE isn’t going to try acting. Really. For real, many ask me. You know Writer Woojung right? When she meets her fellow writers sometimes, they always ask her to ask you guys.”

However, Yujin was quick to clarify that, at the moment, their primary focus is on their activities as idols. She emphasized their commitment to their music and stage performances.

“Acting? Please wait a little bit! IVE is currently promoting!” the IVE leader said.

Na PD commended Yujin’s response as “very leader-like.” As the leader of IVE, Yujin’s foremost responsibility is to safeguard her group and fellow members. Her astute reply served to reassure fans about IVE’s dedication to their current path as idols while keeping the door open for potential future opportunities.

Yujin’s diplomatic and thoughtful approach reflected her commitment to her group’s ongoing journey in the world of K-Pop, leaving fans both reassured about IVE’s activities and excited about any potential developments down the road.

IVE is currently promoting their latest mini-album ‘I’VE MINE’ with the singles “Either Way”, “Off The Record”, and “Baddie”.

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Here Are All The Winners at the The Fact Music Awards 2023

The winners are here! The prestigious The Fact Music Awards 2023 unfolded on October 10 at Incheon’s Namdong Gymnasium and the event maintained its continuity by featuring the beloved hosting duo of Girls’ Generation’s Seohyun and Jun Hyun Moo. This is the duo’s second successful role as hosts in the previous year.

The Big Winners At The 2023 The Fact Music Awards

As expected, the TMAs brought together a dazzling array of K-pop idols representing various groups and entertainment companies, making it a truly star-studded affair.

SEVENTEEN emerged as one of the most significant winners at this year’s awards ceremony, securing the coveted Daesang (Grand Prize) and earning their place among the ten Artist of the Year (Bonsang) awardees.

https://youtu.be/aFXp-2fOZOc

BTS and Lim Young Woong both enjoyed considerable success, each clinching a remarkable five awards during the event. BTS proudly took home accolades for Best Music (Summer), Fan N Star Most Voted, the Fan N Star Choice Award, with individual members Jimin and V securing the Idol Plus Popularity Award and Best Music (Fall), respectively.

Lim Young Woong stood tall with recognition, winning an Artist of the Year (Bonsang) award, in addition to Best Music (Winter), Fan N Star Most Voted, the Fan N Star Choice Award, and the Fan N Star Best Ads Award. The night was filled with well-deserved accolades and exciting moments for these exceptional artists. Check out the full list of winners at The Fact Music Awards 2023.

The Fact Music Awards 2023 Full List

Daesang (Grand Prize): SEVENTEEN

Artist of the Year (Bonsang): aespa, ATEEZ, ITZY, IVE, Lim Young Woong, NewJeans, NMIXX, SEVENTEEN, Stray Kids, TREASURE

Worldwide Icon: aespa

https://youtu.be/lTfweng8Rjg

Best Performer: IVE

Four Star Award: Stray Kids

Listeners’ Choice: NewJeans

Next Leader: RIIZE, ZEROBASEONE

https://youtu.be/YuA3fJ6NbUE

Best Music (Spring): Lee Chan Won
Best Music (Summer): BTS
Best Music (Fall): BTS’s V
Best Music (Winter): Lim Young Woong

https://youtu.be/dEQspHFhUPA

Idol Plus Popularity Award: BTS’s Jimin

Band Performer of the Year: Jannabi

Solo Performer of the Year: Kwon Eun Bi

https://youtu.be/OCr5lqMhPaE

Fan N Star Most Voted: BTS, Lim Young Woong

Fan N Star Choice Award (Group): BTS
Fan N Star Choice Award (Solo): Lim Young Woong

Hottest: BOYNEXTDOOR, xikers

Fan N Star Best Ads Award: Lim Young Woong

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IVE’s Jang Won Young Debuts Blond Hair in ‘Either Way’ Concept Photos

IVE’s Jang Wonyoung recently surprised fans by debuting a new blond hairstyle in concept photos for their upcoming comeback with the 1st EP album ‘I’VE MINE’. The release of individual teaser videos was followed by these striking ‘Either Way’ concept photos of Wonyoung, instantly sparking excitement among fans worldwide.

Jang Won Young Unveils Blond Hair in New IVE Concept Photos

Jang Wonyoung’s blond hair accentuated her already flawless and elegant facial features, creating quite a buzz in the K-pop community. Her captivating gaze into the camera added to the anticipation surrounding IVE’s upcoming album, as fans eagerly await the new story that the group will convey through their music.

The change in Wonyoung’s hairstyle not only showcases her versatility but also adds an intriguing element to IVE’s overall concept for their upcoming release, further piquing the curiosity of fans and raising expectations for what’s to come.

It’s a welcome change but not one that DIVEs were expecting. After all, Jang Won Young had previously made it clear that she was not interested in changing her hairstyle. One fan tried to convince the idol during IVE’s recent performance at KCON LA 2023. At first, Wonyoung seemed to appreciate the fan’s fake magazine featuring a Photoshopped image of the idol with blond hair. However, she later made her feelings clear when she encountered the DIVE during the concert.

Jang Wonyoung got her start when she placed first in the Mnet girl group survival show “Produce 101”. She debuted as a member of Iz*One in 2018 but the group disbanded on April 29, 2021. Wonyoung would get her second chance at superstardom when she became a part of IVE.

IVE is currently preparing for their first mini album ‘I’VE MINE’ which is set for release next year. The girl group recently dropped the teaser video for the title track “Either Way”. In the meantime, the new EP is set for release on October 13, 2023.

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Starship Entertainment Demands Strict Legal Action Against Controversial YouTube Channel

Starship Entertainment is taking an extra step to protect its talents. The agency has issued a statement announcing that they are taking strict legal action against a controversial YouTuber. The label, which represents MONSTA X, WJSN, IVE, and more, is making sure that the Sojang YouTube channel will face justice.

Starship Entertainment Is Taking Strict Legal Action Against Sojang YouTube Channel

On September 14, Starship Entertainment issued an official statement, calling for rigorous legal measures against the YouTube channel Sojang, also known as Taldeok Camp. Sojang has gained notoriety for fabricating and circulating counterfeit Korean entertainment news disguised as industry-related content.

In their comprehensive statement, Starship Entertainment expressed deep-seated concerns regarding the actions of Sojang. The agency’s move to seek legal recourse also underscores their commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the entertainment industry and protecting their artists and fans from misinformation. Additionally, this declaration signals a proactive stance against the proliferation of false narratives within the realm of Korean entertainment, emphasizing the importance of accurate and responsible reporting.

“Starship Entertainment’s artists and staff, who have been continuously harassed by Sojang, a notorious channel that supports cyberbullying by producing and spreading fake news in the name of raising awareness for entertainment industry issues, are demanding strict legal action,” the statement read.

“Since November 2022, we have been pursuing civil and criminal lawsuits against Sojang both domestically and internationally,” they added.

“We are putting out utmost effort into pursuing legal responsibility through the ongoing lawsuits,” it continues. “However, without a stringent legal judgement, we fear that Sojang is showing no sign of remorse and may repeat such actions.”

Earlier this year, Sojang’s YouTube channel fell victim to a hacking incident, prompting the individual responsible for the channel to issue a public apology statement. Within this statement, they also acknowledged the harm caused to various individuals. This included IVE’s Jang Won Young, who had been targeted in multiple videos produced by the channel.

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Kang Daniel To Host 2023 Asia Artist Awards With IVE’s Jang Won Young and ZEROBASEONE’s Sung Han Bin

The 2023 Asia Artist Awards (AAA) has announced its official hosts. K-pop superstar Kang Daniel will be hosting the upcoming events along with two fan favorites. IVE member Jang Won Young is returning again this year, and ZEROBASEONE’s Sung Han Bin is making his hosting debut at the event.

Asia Artist Awards 2023 Reveals New and Returning Official Hosts

On September 6th, exciting news emerged as it was announced that the talented trio of Jang Won Young from IVE, Kang Daniel, and Sung Han Bin of ZEROBASEONE would be co-hosting the prestigious 2023 Asia Artist Awards in the Philippines.

This marks Jang Won Young’s third consecutive year as a host at the AAA, underlining her growing reputation as a prominent emcee in the entertainment industry. Her involvement also comes on the heels of IVE’s remarkable achievements at the 2022 AAA. The group clinched the coveted Daesang for Song of the Year. They also won the Best New Artist (Singer) and Hot Trend (Singer) awards on the same year.

Kang Daniel, not to be outdone, secured the Best New Actor and AAA Potential (Actor) awards. It certainly adds to his ever-expanding list of accolades.

Sung Han Bin recently debuted with ZEROBASEONE following his appearance on “Boys Planet.” He and his group are poised to make a significant impact in the K-pop arena. His role as a new MC for “M Countdown” further attests to his rising star status.

AAA 2023 Confirmed For Philippine Arena

Excitement abounds as the 2023 Asia Artist Awards is set to make history by being hosted in the Philippines on December 14th. This marks the first time the prestigious awards show will be held in the country. It promises an unforgettable spectacle for fans and artists alike.

The 2023 Asia Artist Awards is hosted by Star News and co-hosted by the AAA Organizing Committee, TONZ Entertainment, and PULP Live World. This marks an exciting milestone for the awards show, bringing it to the vibrant cultural landscape of the Philippines. Fans and artists can anticipate a memorable event filled with star-studded moments and celebrations of Asian talent. The event is scheduled to take place on December 14 at the Philippine Arena.

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