Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS

Monsta X’s Shownu and Hyungwon to Release the Unseen in July

Mark your calendars, MONBEBEs! Shownu and Hyungwon of K-pop boy group MONSTA X are gearing up to make their debut as a sub-unit with the release of the mini-album THE UNSEEN.

On Wednesday, June 28, the act released a teaser image of what appeared to be a rear view mirror reflecting an industrial building, along with the message “Coming soon.” 

 

THE UNSEEN is slated for a July 25 release. As of writing, additional details about the track list and title track have yet to be disclosed. 

Prior to the teaser, MONSTA X also unveiled a logo motion video for the sub-unit, which showed the two members’ initials merging into one. 

https://twitter.com/OfficialMonstaX/status/1673315797530476552

In an interview with VOGUE KOREA, Shownu talked about how he and Hyungwon are preparing for their sub-unit debut. “They’re all good,” he said. “When I ask for song recommendations, he sends them through KakaoTalk and he mainly listens to songs he could’ve written. Good and modern music.”

Despite not having made their official sub-unit debut yet, the duo is also confirmed to perform at the Krazy K-pop Super concert in New York and KCON in Los Angeles in August. 

Starship Entertainment first confirmed in May that Shownu and Hyungwon will form a sub-unit – marking MONSTA X’s first sub-unit in the group’s eight-year career. 

It will also serve as Shownu’s first official activity following his discharge from the mandatory military service last April. 

Shownu and Hyungwon’s sub-unit debut comes after solo releases of fellow MONSTA X members. In May, Jooheon made his solo debut with the album Lights, while I.M made his solo comeback in June with the mini-album Overdrive

MONSTA X, who made their debut in May 2015, is known for their hits “Love Killa,” “Hero,” “Shoot Out,” “Dramarama,” “Gambler,” and Beautiful Liar.” 

Featured Image from Monsta X’s official Facebook page

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

MONSTA X’s Shownu Confirmed As Judge On Street Woman Fighter 2

Shownu is ready to be a mentor to rising dancers. The MONSTA X leader has been confirmed to be one of the new judges joining Street Woman Fighter 2. This will be one of Son Hyunwoo’s first major gigs since his military discharge in April.

Street Woman Fighter Confirms MONSTA X’s Shownu As New Judge In 2nd Season

The production team behind the Mnet dance survival show confirmed the news in a statement.

Shownu is an artist who has a strong fandom both domestically and globally, and he is also well-known for his powerful dancing as MONSTA X’s main dancer,” the producers said.

“Because he also previously served as a judge on Mnet’s CAP-TEEN, which aired back in 2020, we look forward to Shownu using his experience to help the dancers’ global performance on Street Woman Fighter 2 as well,” they added.

Being a judge on Street Woman Fighter 2 is just one of several confirmed projects for Shownu this year. He will debut in the first MONSTA X subunit with fellow member Hyungwon this July. The subunit has already been announced to join the KCON LA 2023 line-up.

KCON LA 2023 will also feature Stray Kids, ITZY, Rain, NMIXX, Kep1er, JO1, ATEEZ, IVE, THE BOYZ, ZEROBASEONE, CRAVITY, xikers, and INI. It was recently announced that SHINee’s Taemin, NCT’s Taeyong, (G)I-DLE, WayV, Lapillus, and EVERGLOW will join the line-up.

KCON LA 2023 will occur at Crypto.com Arena and LA Convention Center from August 18 to 20, 2023. The event will also be streamed online.

The first season of Street Woman Fighter premiered in 2021. It follows various female dance crews as they compete to be the No. 1 team. K-pop legend BoA and NCT‘s Taeyong served as the judges in the first season.

Street Woman Fighter 2 is currently scheduled to premiere on Mnet in August 2023. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

MONSTA X I.M. On Writing Love Songs For Solo Album ‘OVERDRIVE’

I.M. is ready to talk about love. The MONSTA X maknae is opening up about the love songs in his upcoming EP ‘OVERDRIVE’. In addition to that, the “God Damn” rapper revealed what he looks for in a person.

I.M. Explains Why ‘OVERDRIVE’ Features So Many Love Songs

Im Changkyun recently collaborated with Cosmopolitan Korea for the magazine’s June issue. In addition to the photo shoot, I.M. sat down for an interview and discussed the songs in his new EP. When it was brought up that ‘OVERDRIVE’ is mostly love songs, I.M. pointed out that it is unavoidable.

I think love is just something you can’t help, that passes by, that floats by, that you send off. That’s also similar to my personality,” he said.

During the interview, it was mentioned that love is “a greater force that drives artists to create and sing.” I.M. quickly agreed saying, “To add to that, I think of love as uniqueness. Uniqueness that does not change even as time goes by and locations change.”

So what is it that Im Changkyun loves about people? The “Happy To Die” rapper says that his likes are complicated.

“I don’t hold on to people who leave, but I also kind of block people who come,” he said.

I.M. explained, “I don’t like shallow people. As you talk to someone, can’t you feel their depth? I like people with depth. Even if they’re swayed momentarily on the surface, I believe that depth doesn’t change.”

He then confirmed with a laugh that he has a lot of deep thoughts. “Me? I’m not a shallow person,” I.M. said.

As for fans who are struggling to find love, Im Changkyun had some interesting advice.

Real love does not isolate. It connects us. So even if it’s hard, please love,” he said. “Even if the target is not necessarily a lover, it’s good even if it’s ‘stanning.’ Love connects you with the world.”

I.M. is currently preparing for his first solo album ‘OVERDRIVE’ which will be released on June 23, 2023.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

MONSTA X’s I.M. On Why He Decided To Leave Starship Entertainment

I.M. is finally opening up about his departure from Starship Entertainment. The MONSTA X rapper revealed the real reason why he left the agency to sign with Sony Music Korea.

I.M. Reveals Why He Decided Against Renewing His Contract With Starship Entertainment

Im Changkyun recently teamed up with Cosmopolitan Korea for a sexy photo shoot in the magazine’s upcoming June issue. In the accompanying interview, I.M. spoke about his first solo effort with a new agency.

The MONSTA X maknae confirmed that he left Starship Entertainment to express himself better in his own music. Additionally, I.M. admitted he was craving a new environment.

“It was also a period where I needed the stimulation that comes from a new environment,” he said. “When I feel stable, I start to get complacent.”

“I’m not sure if it’s because I lived in Boston and Israel when I was younger and have experience dropping out of middle school to get home-schooled but I don’t have fears related to being placed in new environments,” I.M. added.

Im Changkyun also confirmed that he is aware of what he needs at any given moment, especially when it’s time to write music.

“I believe that the ego is straightened up when you’re isolated by yourself,” he said. “I quietly think about my inner self all the way to the bottom and face my honest emotions. Then I take those and use them when writing songs.”

I’m only able to have these moments in the studio,” I.M. added.

“A thought I’ve had recently while reflecting on myself is that I will not dwell on failure,” he continued. “I think it’s fine to sing solo in front of 500 people after performing as an idol in venues that accommodate 15,000 people. It’s okay to head back to the ground.”

Back in August 2022, Im Changkyun decided not to renew his contract with MONSTA X’s agency. He later signed with Sony Music Korea.

I.M. is currently preparing for his first solo album ‘OVERDRIVE’ which will be released on June 23, 2023. It will be Im Changkyun’s first album after leaving Starship Entertainment.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Shownu Hypes Up MONSTA X Subunit With Hyungwon

Shownu is getting ready for his first major project since his military discharge. The MONSTA X leader is hyping up the group’s first subunit with fellow member Hyungwon. In addition to that, Son Hyunwoo shared his thoughts on seeing his fellow members doing promotions during his military service.

Shownu Shares Details On First MONSTA X Subunit With Hyungwon

Vogue Korea recently unveiled photos from Shownu’s latest photoshoot for the magazine. In the accompanying interview, the MONSTA X main dancer discussed the plans for the group’s first subunit. Shownu revealed that Hyungwon has already written songs for the new group unit.

They’re all good. When I ask for song recommendations, he sends them through KakaoTalk and he mainly listens to songs he could’ve written. Good and modern music,” he said.

He also confirmed that he and Hyungwon have a great bond that will make their new subunit work well.

“What’s great about when I’m with Hyungwon is that I’m comfortable. The reason we hang out often is just because it’s comfortable,” Shownu said. “We don’t speak much and don’t bother each other.”

Good synergy can be created when you’re uncomfortable, but since we have a comfortable relationship I’m not sure what kind of chemistry will come out,” he said.

“We’re both not the greedy type and have similar body types. I have a desire to showcase good performances and visuals but nothing’s been decided yet,” Shownu added.

Shownu Opens Up About Watching MONSTA X Perform Without Him

The still-unnamed subunit will be Shownu’s first major project since his return from military service. However, he admitted that he also enjoyed seeing the other MONSTA X members’ promotions while he was serving the country.

I was curious about their performance and my members’ conditions but it was all incredibly cool,” Shownu said. “Since I know that the first week [of promotions] is the hardest, I watched while assuming they were exhausted but also thinking ‘this is interesting!‘”

He then added that being able to watch his fellow members from afar was refreshing.

“I did slightly miss the anticipation of preparing an album from the perspective of a singer but it was fun watching from the perspective of a fan,” he said.

The first MONSTA X subunit with Shownu and Hyungwon is expected to debut in the Summer of 2023.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

MONSTA X’s Minhyuk Updates MONBEBEs With New Military Photos

Lee Minhyuk is staying healthy and happy while serving in the military. The MONSTA X member shared new photos amidst military service and MONBEBEs are loving it.

MONSTA X’s Minhyuk Completes Basic Training For Military Service In New Photos

Minhyuk posted the new images on the official MONSTA X Twitter account. In the caption, he revealed that he attended the completion ceremony for basic training.

“5th Division Key Unit Recruit Training Battalion Trainee Completion Ceremony,” Minhyuk wrote. “Completed the graduation ceremony with a healthy appearance! Until the day we meet MONBEBEs again, I’ll stay healthy and be back.”

Minhyuk officially enlisted for mandatory military service on April 4, 2023. He was required to attend five weeks of basic training at the recruit training center of the 5th Infantry Division. Now that Lee Minhyuk has finished basic training, he will serve as an active-duty soldier.

Lee Minhyuk is the second member of MONSTA X to enlist for mandatory military service. Shownu enlisted in July 2021, serving as a public service worker due to a previous surgery on his left eye. He was officially discharged from the military on April 21, 2023. Meanwhile, Minhyuk is scheduled to be discharged on September 30, 2024.

In related news, MONSTA X rapper Joohoney is actively promoting his first solo album ‘LIGHTS’. He recently dropped the tracklist which includes six new songs. The EP will feature the tracks “HYPE ENERGY,” “Voice,” “FREEDOM,” “Evolution,” “Monologue (ft. G-Soul),” and “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.”

MONBEBEs initially believed that ‘LIGHTS’ will be a full album. Nevertheless, an EP is a welcome content from Joohoney. After all, the album is getting a physical release, unlike the MONSTA X rapper’s previous mixtapes. Additionally, Lee Joheon is releasing an accompanying documentary “Turn On The ‘LIGHTS'” that follows the production of the mini album.

‘LIGHTS’ is Joohoney’s first solo album. The EP will be released on May 22, 2023.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

MONSTA X’s Joohoney Drops ‘LIGHTS’ Tracklist

Joohoney is sharing more details about his upcoming solo album. The MONSTA X rapper dropped the official tracklist for ‘LIGHTS’, his first solo album.

MONSTA X’s Joohoney Drops Moody Tracklist Teaser for Solo Debut ‘LIGHTS’

The official MONSTA X Twitter account shared a new teaser for Joohoney’s upcoming album. The poster features the tracklist for ‘LIGHTS’ as well as a cool image of Lee Jooheon.

‘LIGHTS’ will consist of six new songs “HYPE ENERGY,” “Voice,” “FREEDOM,” “Evolution,” “Monologue (ft. G-Soul),” and “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.” All titles listed in the tracklist are written, composed, and arranged by Lee Joheon himself. The lead single has not yet been specified.

MONBEBEs initially believed that ‘LIGHTS’ will be a full album. Nevertheless, an EP is a welcome content from Joohoney. After all, the album is getting a physical release, unlike the MONSTA X rapper’s previous mixtapes.

Lee Jooheon will share more details about the comeback this week. Fans are already looking forward to the concept photos and teaser video for the lead single. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

Joohoney isn’t the only MONSTA X member who is preparing for a comeback. An earlier report confirmed fellow rapper I.M. will be releasing a new album in June. This will be Im Changkyun’s first comeback since leaving Starship Entertainment and signing with Sony Music Korea.

In related news, it was also confirmed that leader Shownu and lead dancer Hyungwon will debut as MONSTA X’s first unit group. This will be the group’s first official subunit. They will debut sometime in the summer.

The MONSTA X subunit will be Shownu’s first official activity since being discharged from military service in April this year. Son Hyunwoo enlisted for mandatory military service and July 22, 2021, and served as a public service worker for 18 months. He was officially discharged on April 21, 2023.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

MONSTA X’s I.M. Confirms June Solo Comeback

I.M. is getting ready for his next solo comeback. The MONSTA X maknae confirmed he is releasing a new album in June. This will be Im Changkyun’s first album since he signed with a new agency last November.

MONSTA X Rapper I.M. Confirms First Solo Comeback Since Starship Entertainment Departure

Sports Khan reports that I.M. is currently working on his next solo album. The new album will be the MONSTA X rapper’s first solo effort since signing with Sony Music Entertainment Korea last November.

I.M. left Starship Entertainment in August 2022 when he chose not to renew his exclusive contract with the agency. He is the only member of MONSTA X who decided not to stay with the company. However, Im Changkyun will continue to participate in future group activities.

Sony Music Korea recently unveiled I.M’s new official logo. In addition to that, the agency confirmed that the “God Damn” rapper will launch his official website on May 16, 2023.

In related news, I.M’s fellow MONSTA X rapper Joohoney announced his solo debut scheduled for May 2023. The new album will get a physical release, unlike Lee Jooheon’s previous mixtapes. The official release date has not yet been revealed.

MONSTA X will also launch its first unit group this year. It was previously reported that leader Shownu and lead dancer Hyungwon will debut as the group’s first subunit. This will be MONSTA X’s first official subunit since the group debuted in 2015.

The official name for MONSTA X’s first unit group has not been announced. However, Shownu and Hyungwon’s subunit is expected to debut this summer.

The group unit will mark Shownu’s first activity since his military discharge in April. Son Hyunwoo enlisted for mandatory military service in July 2021. He was discharged on April 21, 2023, just two weeks after fellow MONSTA X member Minhyuk began his military service.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

MONSTA X’s Shownu and Hyungwon to Debut as First Unit Group

MONSTA X is debuting their first unit group. Leader Shownu and lead dancer Hyungwon will be introduced as the group’s first subunit since they debuted in 2015.

Shownu and Hyungwon To Debut as MONSTA X’s First Unit Group This Summer

Starship Entertainment confirmed that MONSTA X will introduce their first subunit this year with the aim to debut in summer.

Shownu and Hyungwon are preparing for MONSTA X’s first unit group,” the agency stated. It was also pointed out that although the project is currently in the works, the specifics of the subunit have not been confirmed.

The specific schedule for their debut has not been decided yet,” the company stated. “We will officially make an announcement when it has been decided. Please look forward to it.”

This is welcome news for MONBEBEs who have been waiting for Shownu’s return for almost two years. Son Hyunwoo enlisted for mandatory military service in July 2021. He served as a public service worker due to surgery for eye retinal detachment.

Prior to his discharge on April 21, Shownu reunited with the rest of MONSTA X to give Minhyuk a proper send-off for his military enlistment. Lee Minhyuk is the second member of the group to enlist for mandatory military service.

For now, the concept for Shownu and Hyungwon’s unit group is still a mystery. However, there are speculations that the subunit will focus on dance since they are MONSTA X’s main dancer and lead dancer, respectively. Nevertheless, fans are expecting the MONSTA X members to show off their individual styles and talent this summer. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

In related news, MONSTA X rapper Joohoney confirmed he is working on his first solo album. The details about the new project have not yet been revealed but the album is expected to drop later in May.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

MONSTA X’s Joohoney Confirms Solo Debut In May

Joohoney is preparing for his solo debut. The MONSTA X rapper is currently working on his first solo album. Lee Joheon is reportedly aiming to release the solo effort in May this year.

MONSTA X’s Joohoney Prepares For Solo Album This May

MONSTA X’s agency STARSHIP Entertainment confirmed the news. “Joohoney is currently preparing his first solo album, with the goal of a release at the end of May. Please give it lots of interest,” the statement reads.

The details of the solo album have not yet been revealed. MONBEBEs are already speculating that it will be a full album. In addition, the latest project will get a physical release, unlike Joohoney’s mixtapes. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

Joohoney has released numerous mixtapes starting with ‘SUPEXX’ in 2015 where he collaborated with rapper Mad Clown on the track “Get Low”. In August 2108, he released the mixtape ‘DWTD’ and a music video for the song “Red Carpet”. After taking a break in 2020 to focus on his mental health, Lee Joheon released the ‘Psyche’ mixtape.

 

The rapper is currently busy with several projects. He is currently a permanent MC on Mnet’s M Countdown alongside (G)I-dle’s Miyeon. Lee Jooheon was also a part of JTBC’s new variety show “Korean Food Tray” with Chef Lee Yeon Bok and actress Hong Jin Kyung. He recently collaborated with fellow MONSTA X member Kihyun on the song “Awake” for the soundtrack of TVING’s original “Our Game: LG Twins”.

MONSTA X Reunite With Shownu For Minhyuk’s Military Service Send-Off

In related news, MONSTA X recently reunited to give Minhyuk a proper send-off as he enlisted for military service. The members got together along with Shownu ahead of the leader’s discharge from the military. Lee Minhyuk is the second member of MONSTA X to enlist for mandatory military service.

Exit mobile version