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NCT’s Jaemin Graces the Cover of Esquire Korea

The February 2024 issue of Esquire Korea will feature Jaemin of the K-pop group NCT DREAM. Widely recognized as the visual of the group, Jaemin is known for his impeccable fashion sense. He has a long history of gracing the covers of fashion magazines, and his upcoming appearance on the cover of Esquire Korea is the latest one. This issue, available starting February 2, 2024, has an exclusive interview and photoshoot with the artist.

Some photos from this issue, which show Jaemin in three different outfits, have already gone viral. His fans, known as NCTzens, were mesmerized by the way he looked. They called him “the most handsome man” and lauded his ability to effortlessly pull off any outfit.

@thisisyungmea

Our top looks from the @Fendi Men’s Spring/Summer 2024 Show!! Which one’s your fave? 🔥 #tiktokfashion #tiktoksalon #thisisyung #fyp #ss24 #mensfashionweek #whattowear

♬ original sound – THIS IS YUNG

For the shoot, Jaemin donned looks from the Fendi Men’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection. Designed by Silvia Venturini Fendi, the collection draws inspiration from the people behind the label. This includes business professionals, designers, and factory workers, reflecting Fendi’s rich heritage in leather craftsmanship and its innovative approach to fashion.

The pieces he wore featured a mix of cotton and leather with apron-like designs and patch pockets. Accessories from the collection, including an updated version of Fendi’s Baguette bag, completed his ensembles. This Esquire Korea feature didn’t just highlight the unique elements of the Fendi Men’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection. It also demonstrated how Jaemin’s style perfectly complements the label’s approach to fashion.

펜디와 함께 한 재민의 여유로운 하루ㅣ 재민, NCT, 펜디, ESQUIRE KOREA

Jaemin shared his secret

Aside from the interview and photoshoot, Jaemin filmed two videos for Esquire Korea—a fashion film and an interview. During the interview, he talked about his winter routine, what he usually buys in the US, and more. Fans have recently noticed his more muscular physique, a development that was particularly highlighted when he posted a “shirtless selfie” on the artist-to-fan communication app, DearU Bubble. Jaemin revealed that his secret to maintaining this physique is to stock up on protein shakes and powders whenever he’s in the US. 

“In America, there are many varieties of protein powders and they are tasty,” he said.

재민 윈터 타이어 추천한 이유? | 재민, 엔시티 드림, JAEMIN, NCT DREAM, 펜디, FENDI

Jaemin also shared his secret to spotting fancams when he’s onstage. He explained that he memorizes the positions of the main cameras during rehearsals. When not in the direct view of these cameras, he takes the opportunity to find fancams in the audience. This strategic approach allows him to switch between gazing into the main camera during his parts and the fancams when he isn’t in focus. This ability to engage with fans even while performing is proof of why some call him the “king of fan service.”

Meanwhile, NCT DREAM is gearing up for an exciting 2024, with a new album and a world tour on the horizon. Stay tuned for updates on their upcoming projects! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jaemin cut a dashing figure in the Fendi pieces. Source: X/@ITSFOR813.

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NCTzens Express Concern Over Haechan’s Early Return From Hiatus

Earlier this month, NCT’s Haechan was seen at Incheon International Airport with his fellow NCT 127 members, preparing to fly to Jakarta for the group’s promotions. This sighting came as a shock to fans, as SM Entertainment had just announced the idol’s hiatus due to tonsillitis the day before. Despite Haechan telling fans about his recovery via DearU Bubble, the news of his return within less than twenty-four hours of the hiatus announcement raised concerns. This was particularly worrying given his back-to-back schedules with NCT Dream and NCT 127.

Fans, initially relieved that Haechan would get the rest he needed, were angered. They criticized SM Entertainment for allegedly overworking him and showing a lack of concern for their artists’ health. This sentiment grew after Haechan informed fans via DearU Bubble that he had been feeling sick and wasn’t in good condition to perform at NCT 127’s Nagoya, Japan concert on January 7.

@7llindream

just want him to be healthy ☹️ #haechan

♬ A Piece of You – Nathaniel Constantin

Haechan expressed his disappointment, saying, “I’m so bummed, I apologize. My fever went up to 39 degrees this morning, so I had no choice but to rest. I know I said I wouldn’t get sick anymore. I’m terribly sorry that I couldn’t keep that promise. But I’ll get well ASAP. I promise to take my meds, eat well, and recover soon!”

On January 10, SM Entertainment announced that Haechan had tonsillitis and would go on hiatus to recover. The agency stated, “Haechan flew to Korea from Japan on January 8 due to flu-like symptoms, a fever, and body aches. The hospital revealed he had a severe case of tonsillitis and that he needed ample rest. Haechan will be taking a rest to fully recover and heal. Decisions about his future activities will be based on his health condition.”

What happened to Haechan?

But just a few hours after the announcement, Haechan updated his fans. He said he was on the road to recovery. “I think I’m halfway there. Before, it was painful to even drink water. But yesterday, once I got to Korea, I got my shots and took the meds on time. And my mom has been basically forcing me to eat all her food. Drinking a lot of water and sleeping a lot have been helping, too. I’m getting better, for sure. I’m sorry for making you all wait, and I promise to make a full recovery ASAP so I can see you all!”

While fans were happy to hear that the idol was getting better, they didn’t expect him to be back on schedule so soon. On January 11, the NCT 127 members were seen at the airport. They were leaving for their concerts in Jakarta, Indonesia on January 13 and 14. NCTzens were surprised to see Haechan with them. 

NCT 127, Incheon International Airport DEPARTURE

Given that it had been only a day since the idol properly went on hiatus, fans were angered by the situation. They criticized SM Entertainment, accusing the agency of pulling Haechan out of his rest period too soon. They’ve also been demanding answers from the agency on social media. Meanwhile, NCT 127 has since returned to Korea. Fans hope Haechan can get some rest before hitting the road again.

In other news, NCT 127 is set to perform in the Philippines on January 21, 2024, at the Philippine Sports Stadium. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The fans want nothing more than for Haechan to get well. Source: X/@dreamleeline.

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NCT DREAM and JVKE Release Remix of ‘Broken Melodies’

K-pop sensation NCT DREAM has joined forces with American singer-songwriter JVKE for a refreshing remix of their hit track Broken Melodies.”

On Friday, November 17,  the highly-anticipated collaboration was released, treating fans with new English lyrics and a new verse by JVKE.  

A part of JVKE’s verse goes: “But when reality sinks in deep, I can’t breathe like I’m stuck in a dream where my mind is awake but my body’s asleep.” Moreover, JVKE, who’s known for his breakout hit “golden hour” brought a sweet and enchanting touch to the remix. 

However, what really surprised fans was that the whole first verse and pre-chorus are now fully in English. In the original version, it was mainly in Korean. 

Following the release, fans of both artists couldn’t help but appreciate the remix. Many complimented how NCT DREAM’s signature sound blended seamlessly with JVKE’s distinctive touch. 

Even the American singer-songwriter was satisfied with how the remix turned out. In the comments section on the official YouTube video, JVKE left a comment that read: “Thankful to be part of this.” 

Furthermore, it also appeared that member Rejun is also delighted with the collaboration as he released a cover of JVKE’s viral hit “golden hour.” After the K-pop star released his cover on Wednesday, November 15, his fans quickly applauded him for the gorgeous cover, saying that the song suits his voice. In fact, many of them also requested that Renjun release more covers in the future. 

More collaboration for NCT DREAM? 

Although unexpected, JVKE’s  participation in the remix of “Broken Melodies” not only reflects the global reach of K-pop but also underscores the collaborative nature of the music industry.

Initially, “Broken Melodies” originally served as the lead single of NCT DREAM’s latest album ISTJ. Said album achieved immense success, having debuted at No. 28 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking the group’s highest ranking to date. As it already marked a significant milestone for the group, the remix can potentially contribute to the album’s ongoing success. 

With this, fans of the group couldn’t help but hope for the group to collaborate with international artists more. As this could not only give NCT DREAM the experience of working with diverse talents and widening their musical boundaries, but it could also tap more audiences and potential fans. 

As NCT DREAM continues to make waves globally, the group is scheduled to perform at the prestigious US  music festival iHeartRadio Jingle Ball Tour, starting in Boston on December 10.

Featured image: NCT DREAM collaborates with JVKE for new version of ‘Broken Melodies.’ Credit: YouTube/NCT DREAM

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NCT DREAM Will Run Their Own Food Truck In New Reality Show

Prepare for an exciting new reality show featuring NCT DREAM! The idol group is set to run their own food truck in Los Angeles in the upcoming series “STARSTRUCK”!

NCT DREAM Runs a Food Truck in Los Angeles in New Reality Series

On November 8, SM Entertainment unveiled that NCT DREAM is set to star in their own reality program titled “STARSTRUCK”. The title is a clever play on words, combining “Starstruck” and “Star’s Truck.”

“STARSTRUCK” was filmed during NCT DREAM’s “THE DREAM SHOW2” world tour earlier this year. The show will revolve around the members as they embark on a special venture to open a food truck in Los Angeles as an expression of gratitude to their fans. In the series, Mark, Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Chenle, Jaemin and Jisung will also encounter people from different walks of life.

To get their food truck up and running, the NCT DREAM members will embark on various entertaining quests and missions. The show will also accompany them on their adventures, including visits to Santa Monica Beach and other locations in the Los Angeles area, such as a college campus. Needless to say, “STARSTRUCK” is also set to be an entertaining look at how the idols tackle the challenges of running a food truck.

“STARSTRUCK” will be composed of five episodes and is scheduled to debut on December 1 at 6 p.m. KST exclusively on Weverse. New episodes will be released every Friday at 6 p.m. KST. Fans can also look forward to a special preview, which will be posted on NCT DREAM’s official YouTube channel on December 1 at 12 p.m. KST. Get ready for an entertaining journey with NCT DREAM in “STARSTRUCK.”

In related news, SM Entertainment previously alerted fans regarding TEDDY ISLAND’s unauthorized use of NCT DREAM for their upcoming events. The agency also stated that the clothing brand continued to use the idol group’s images for promotions after the partnership was terminated.

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‘NCT Nation: To the World’ Concert Film to Premiere Worldwide

Attention NCTzens! Renowned K-pop sensation NCT is all set to grace silver screens across the globe.

On Thursday, November 2, SM Entertainment announced that NCT’s first in-person full-group concert would soon hit theaters worldwide.

The concert film will be in collaboration with Trafalgar Releasing, who has previously distributedNCT Dream’s 2022 concert film, NCT Dream The Movie: In A Dream.

To recall, NCT Nation: To The World took place on August 26 at Seoul’s Incheon Munhak Stadium. It was held just two days before the official release of their fourth album, Golden Age. Said album boasted two title tracks,Golden Age,” a complete unit song, and Baggy Jeans,” which only featured members Taeyong, Ten, Doyoung, Jaehyun, and Mark.

Moreover, the NCT NATION: To The World concert featured performances by sub-units NCT 127, NCT DREAM, WayV, and the ever-evolving unit, NCT U. 

According to a press release, the concert film will showcase these performances and “exclusive behind-the-scenes” that will “add an extra layer of excitement.” 

For two nights only, on December 6 and December 10, NCT NATION: To The World will be screened in theaters. Tickets will go on sale starting November 8 via nctnationincinemas.com.

 Marc Allenby, CEO of Trafalgar Releasing, expressed his enthusiasm about the upcoming project. “We are excited to work together with the group once again, this time bringing all current units together in an unmissable cinema event for fans to experience around the world,” he said in the press release.

NCT Nation in 2023

2023 started with NCT having 23 members, but it has now whittled down to 20 following a series of changes. After a two-year hiatus, Lucas officially left NCT and WayV in May, with  SM Entertainment announcing that Lucas plans to pursue a solo career. 

Also in May, Sungchan and Shotaro left NCT. The two, who made their debut as members of NCT in October 2020, were initially expected to join NCT’s next NCT unit. However, they were transferred to SM Entertainment’s rookie boy group RIIZE, which made their debut in September. 

Meanwhile, SM Entertainment also announced plans of debuting NCT’s final unit. Initially a septet, NCT New Team was formed through the reality show NCT Universe: LASTART. In October, they released the pre-debut single “Hands Up.” As of writing, there’s no details yet about the group’s official debut. 

Featured image: NCT poses during the release of their ‘Golden Age’ album. Credit: Facebook/NCT

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SM Entertainment Warns Fans of Clothing Brand That Uses NCT Dream for Events Without Their Consent

SM Entertainment has alerted fans regarding a clothing brand’s unauthorized use of NCT DREAM for their upcoming events. 

On Monday, October 30, SM Entertainment released a statement to detail what prompted their agency to terminate their partnership with TEDDY ISLAND, a clothing brand that NCT DREAM previously modeled for. 

According to the label, the brand hadn’t met its financial obligations related to the modeling fees accrued during the past year despite the agency’s repeated payment requests. As a means to protect their artists’ rights, the company ultimately decided to end the partnership.

But what raised even more concern for the agency was TEDDY ISLAND’s continued unauthorized use of NCT DREAM in their advertising activities. 

Despite using the NCT DREAM’s portraits without proper compensation, SM Entertainment revealed that the brand took things a step further by unilaterally announcing a fan sign event in May 2023 without prior consultation with  their agency. 

NCT DREAM as TEDDY ISLAND ambassadors

In their statement, SM Entertainment shared that their advertising model contract with TEDDY ISLAND began in 2022. It was also then when NCT DREAM filmed advertising content for the brand. However, the brand didn’t fulfill their financial obligations for the group. 

https://twitter.com/teddyisland_twt/status/1626144360562675717

In response, the label said that they requested the clothing brand to immediately cease using their artists’ images. In June 2023, SM Entertainment shared that they officially notified TEDDY ISLAND of the termination of the advertising model contract. 

Regardless, the brand, according to SM Entertainment, continued to utilize NCT DREAM’s images without permission and remitted only a portion of the model appearance fees after the contract was terminated. Furthermore, TEDDY ISLAND allegedly attempted to shift the blame onto SM Entertainment, claiming that the entertainment company had breached the contract.

https://twitter.com/teddyisland_twt/status/1613098441437229056

Moreover, the situation escalated when TEDDY ISLAND announced a pre-order event featuring photo cards and merchandise bearing the NCT DREAM’s names and images without any prior discussion with SM Entertainment. Which prompted the agency to make a counter statement on October 18, 2023, to prevent any further harm to their artists and fans.

Additionally, the agency noted that they exerted efforts to resolve the matter amicably. As such they shared that they even presented multiple proposals to TEDDY ISLAND so that the canceled fan sign event can resume. However, the agency said that the brand continued to make unreasonable demands and shifted the responsibility for the dispute onto the label. 

With this, SM Entertainment decided that no further negotiations will be feasible. In turn, they strongly advised fans to exercise caution in terms of supporting this clothing brand.

Featured image: K-pop boy group NCT DREAM models for TEDDY ISLAND. Credit: Twitter/TEDDY ISLAND

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Restaurant Employee Fired For Mocking NCT Dream’s Chenle

A Seoul restaurant located in the prestigious Apgujeong district issued a formal apology following an incident involving derogatory language used by its employee in an Instagram story. The target of this offensive language was Chenle, a member of the popular group NCT Dream. Since then, the restaurant has confirmed that the staff member has been fired for their actions.

Chenle Gets Disrespected at a Restaurant

Chenle had visited Aewol Sikdang, a renowned establishment known for its expertise in preparing barbecued black pork from Jeju. The NCT member was joined by “EXchange” cast member Kim Tae Yi and the two set down to enjoy a meal together. However, an employee quickly recognized the celebrities and began posting their images on their Instagram story.

The invasion of privacy itself was already worrying but the employee made things worse by mocking Tae Yi. They also wrote derogatory terms about Chenle in one post, calling the Chinese idol “jjangkkae,” a rude Korean term similar to calling someone a “chink”.

Since then, the restaurant’s management expressed deep regret for the incident. In a statement posted on a new X account, they issued an apology to Chenle and Tae Yi. It was also confirmed that the staff member had been fired.

“This is Aewol Sikdang Apgujeong. We are deeply sorry to Chenle, Tae Yi, and their fans,” the statement read. “We believe that the mistake of one employee is the mistake of the entire restaurant. But we are firing the staff due to their unforgivable actions, and we have also personally directly apologized to Chenle, and have asked for his forgiveness. We are really sorry.”

It is unfortunate that Chenle and Tae Yi were disrespected during their visit to the restaurant. However, it is assuring that the restaurant has promised to take corrective action. Hopefully, they will foster a more respectful environment for all patrons, regardless of background or celebrity status.

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Watch: NCT U Makes Stylish Return With “Baggy Jeans”

NCT’s revolving sub-unit NCT U finally returned with new music on Monday, August 28, with the release of “Baggy Jeans.” 

Said track is one of the two title tracks of NCT’s fourth studio album Golden Age. The members featured in the sub-unit’s performance are Taeyong, Mark, Doyoung, Jaehyun, and Ten

 

Meanwhile, the other title track, “Golden Age,” was led by all 20 members of the group. Its cinematic music video was also released days ahead of the album. 

 

Aside from the two title tracks, Golden Age also has eight other tracks. The list  includes Call D”, “PADO”, “The BAT”, “Alley Oop”, “That’s Not Fair”, “Kangaroo”, “Not Your Fault, and an interlude track “Oasis.” 

Moreover, GOLDEN AGE serves as NCT’s first full group comeback in more than a year and a half. Their last was the studio album Universe that was released in December 2021. 

NCTzens misses NCT U

What really made “Baggy Jeans” special is that it marks the sub-unit’s first comeback in seven years. NCT U last came together in 2016 with their debut track The 7th Sense.”

 

After the music video dropped, fans brought their sentiments to the social media where they shared how addicting the song is. Even the comment section is also packed with positive comments as fans enjoy the unit’s new music.

“Finally NCT U’s unit comeback again with an iconic song and choreography! The music video is also unique! I love it,” one fan commented. 

 

The whirlwind of activities in NCT Universe 

Prior to the release of Golden Age, the act also held their first-ever offline concert as a full group titled NCT Nation: To The World. The members carefully curated a 40-song setlist, including the live performances of their latest titles “Baggy JeansandGolden Age.

After their South Korean stop, NCT will take the tour to Osaka and Tokyo in Japan.

 

Additionally, NCT 127, another NCT subunit, also announced that they’re making a comeback in October with their fifth full-length album Fact Check. 

Earlier this month, NCT also announced four upcoming releases from its NCT LAB project. This includes a solo track titled Horizon” by Jaehyun, which was already released. 

 

Other upcoming songs include a duet by Taeil and Haechan, a solo track by Kun, and another unit song by Kun, Xiaojun, Renjun, and ChenleFor those unfamiliar, NCT LAB is a SM STATION series which allows the members to release their self-composed solo and unit tracks.

As of writing, NCT has a total of five subunits: NCT 127, NCT Dream, WayV, NCT U, and NCT DoJaeJung. However, SM Entertainment earlier confirmed that they’re forming the group’s last sub-unit, NCT Tokyo. 

Through the reality survival series NCT Universe: Lastart, a six-member boy group will be formed. 

Featured image: “Baggy Jeans” is the second title track to NCT’s Golden Age album. Credit: Twitter/NCT

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Here Are the K-Pop Groups Performing at World Scout Jamboree Concert

More than 15 artists are expected to perform at the 2023 World Scout Jamboree’s K-pop Super Live Concert! 

The much-awaited K-pop finale concert was initially scheduled for August 6 at an outdoor campsite in Saemangeum, North Jeolla Province. However, it was postponed due to the heat wave warning, extreme weather conditions, and safety issues. 

Now, the Friday, August 11 concert will be held at the Seoul World Cup Stadium with a new lineup for the show. 

Prior to the Seoul World Cup Stadium, the organizers first thought of conducting the rescheduled concert at the Jeonju World Cup Stadium. But the venue was moved again after all the participants of the Jamboree had to leave the Saemangeum campsite due to the threats of Typhoon Khanun. 

According to the Jamboree’s organizing committee and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the new MCs for the event will be Gong Myung, ITZY’s Yuna, and NewJean’s Hyein. 

Meanwhile, K-pop acts MAMAMOO, NCT DREAM, ITZY, IVE, NewJeans, and The Boyz are confirmed to be part of the new lineup. 

 

Additionally, ZEROBASEONE, MONSTA X’s Shownu x Hyungwon, KARD, and fromis_9 will also be performing. Other groups include P1Harmony, The New Six (TNX), Xikers, ATBO, Libelante, and dance crew HolyBang. 

Lastly, soloists Kwon Eun Bi, Jo Yu Ri, and Kang Daniel will also be taking the stage. 

“These top artists will vibrantly showcase the essence and charm of K-culture at a concert that will bring together 40,000 young scouts from 150 countries around the world,” Park Bo Gyoon, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism said in a press release. 

Featured image: IVE poses during the filming of ‘I AM’ music video. Credit: Facebook/IVE

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NCT to Return as a Full Group With ‘Golden Age’

2023 is looking to be an eventful year for K-pop act NCT and they’re capping it off with a new album as a full group. 

On Wednesday, August 9, NCT released the teaser for their fourth studio album Golden Age, which will be out on August 28. 

SM Entertainment confirmed that all 20 members in NCT’s different subgroups; NCT 127, NCT Dream, and WayV, will take part in the album.

The album will have two title tracks, including the full unit song “Golden Age.” Meanwhile, the other title track will be called “Baggy Jeans.” Only members Taeyeong, Ten, Doyoung, Jaehyun, and Mark reportedly took part in “Baggy Jeans.” 

Other details about the album have yet to be announced. 

Additionally, Golden Age will serve as NCT’s first full group comeback in more than a year and a half. Their last was the studio album Universe that was released in December 2021. 

Prior to the release of Golden Age, NCT will also hold their first-ever offline concert as a full group. Titled NCT Nation: To The World, it will be held on August 26 at the Incheon Munhak Stadium

 

NCT in 2023

2023 started with NCT having 23 members, but it has now whittled down to 20 following a series of changes. 

After a two-year hiatus, Lucas officially left NCT and WayV in May. SM Entertainment announced that Lucas plans to pursue a solo career. 

Also in May, Sungchan and Shotaro left NCT. The two, who made their debut as members of NCT in October 2020, were initially expected to join NCT’s next NCT unit. 

As of writing though, Sungchan and Shotaro are now members of RIIZE, SM Entertainment’s newest boy group. The seven-piece act is expected to debut on September 4 with the single album Get A Guitar.

 

Meanwhile, the members of NCT’s final unit will be formed through the predebut reality show NCT Universe: LASTART. 

 

Only six members will reportedly be part of NCT Tokyo. Four members are going to be chosen from the reality show NCT Universe: LASTART, while the other two members are SM Rookies Yushi and Sion.

Aside from that, NCT Lab also recently unveiled its lineup for four new releases and debuts. 

Featured image: NCT poses for their third album ‘Universe.’ Credit: Facebook/NCT

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