Tag: NCT

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NCT’s Jaemin Graces the Cover of Esquire Korea

Jaemin

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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Look: NCT WISH Unveils Teasers for Official Debut in February

NCT WISH releases teaser for their debut single. Credit: Twitter/NCT WISH

The infinite expansion concept of NCT is now coming to an end! And here’s the last unit to make it to the team: NCT WISH. 

On Thursday, January 18, SM Entertainment officially announced that the latest addition to the NCT family will be called NCT WISH. Previously referred to as NCT New Team, the group was formed through the 2023 survival program NCT Universe: Lastart.

Ahead of their highly anticipated debut, NCT WISH unveiled a five-minute trailer. Aside from the clip, they also released the first set of teasers on social media. 

In the series of youthful photos, Sion, Riku, Yushi, Jaehee, Ryo and Sakuya posed as a full group in charming schoolboy outfits.

In addition, the six members also introduced their unique visuals in their individual close-up shots in black-and-white filters.

To recall, the boy group first made headlines in October 2023, after releasing their pre-debut single “Hands Up.” Now, the last NCT unit is ready to formally take on the stage with the upcoming title track “Wish for our Wish.”

According to reports, the said track, which will have two versions — Korean and Japanese, is slated for release in February.

Moreover, NCT WISH, being a Japanese boy group, will be managed by both SM Entertainment and the Japanese label Avex Trex. 

NCT members welcome NCT WISH

Now that the last NCT group has been finalized, their hyungs or older members from other units made sure to warmly welcome NCT WISH.

In the group’s official Instagram account, Taeyong, Johnny, Yuta, Doyoung, Jungwoo were seen showing their support for the new members.

Jungwoo, from the units NCT 127 and NCT DoJaeJung, sent his well wishes for the young group. Furthermore, the vocalist shared that he wishes that the rookies’ future activities will shine in the future and reassured the six members that he is rooting for them.

Meanwhile, NCT’s general leader, Taeyong made the atmosphere lighter with his jokes and even initiated a group hug with the rookie group.

Even the other members were also seen giving brotherly advice to the youngsters as well.

To note, NCT WISH will be NCT’s sixth and last unit. Since being introduced in January 2016, the group has formed five prior groups: NCT U, NCT 127, NCT Dream, WayV, and NCT DoJaeJung. 

Initially, the group was supposed to have seven members. However, in October 2023, SM Entertainment announced that Jungmin will no longer debut with the group due to health concerns. 

Featured image: The last unit of NCT releases teaser for their debut single. Credit: Twitter/NCT WISH

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NCT’s Ten Confirmed to Release First Solo Album 

Ten in the concept photo for NCT's 'Baggy Jeans.' Credit: Facebook/NCT

NCTzens! Are you ready to see soloist Ten?

On Thursday, January 4, SM Entertainment announced that Ten of the boy group NCT is now gearing up to release his first solo album sometime in February.

Previously, the singer has already released solo songs through SM Station and the NCT Lab Project. Some of his tracks include “Paint Me Naked”, “New Heroes”, and “Dream in a Dream.” Meanwhile, his most recent song “Birthday” was released in October 2022.

But this time, he is expected to drop an album for the first time. In the same announcement, the agency asked for fans’ support for Ten. Other details about the album, however, are yet to be unveiled.

Aside from the anticipated album, the idol will also be holding his first ever solo fan concert tour titled 2024 Ten First Fan-Con 1001. 

According to the post, the fan-con will kick off in Seoul on February 17, and will move to three cities across Asia. In particular, Ten will visit and meet his fans in Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Jakarta from March to April 2024.

In 2023, Ten spent a busy year promoting WayV’s second full-length album On My Youth and NCT’s fourth full-length album Golden Age. This 2024, Ten is set to start off the year with solo activities.

NCTzens congratulate soloist Ten 

Interestingly, this will be Ten’s fourth time making his debut. To note, he first debuted as a member of NCT in 2016, then as a member of its subunit WayV in 2019, and as part of the super group SuperM in the same year. This time, fans are excited to see the all-rounder idol as a solo performer.

On social media, the group’s fandom, NCTzens, have sent their congratulatory messages for the idol. “Finally! He’s getting his well-deserved solo album”, one fan said.

https://twitter.com/brachitonsaurus/status/1742943273537478658

 

Fans are even more thrilled upon the news as Ten will be the second NCT member to debut as a soloist. In June 2023, Taeyong became the first member to drop his solo album SHALALA. Now, NCTzens are eager to see the artist expand his horizons as an idol, and possibly go on music shows alone.

Featured image: Ten in the concept photo for NCT’s ‘Baggy Jeans.’ Credit: Facebook/NCT

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Thai Actor Pond Naravit Shares Fan’s ‘Thirst Edit’ of NCT’s Jaehyun

Thai artist Naravit Lertratkosum, popularly known as Pond, recently garnered attention from K-pop fans by reposting a “thirst edit” video featuring NCT‘s Jaehyun. This type of video, common on TikTok, is a compilation of clips and photos designed to highlight the allure of the idol in question. The edit Pond reposted was set to the explicit track “Batman” by LPB Poody. It also had a playful caption that read, “as many kids as he wants.” Check it out below.

Who is Pond Naravit?

Pond, a rising star in the Thai entertainment industry, was born on February 1, 2001, in Bangkok, Thailand. He is currently pursuing Biomedical Engineering at King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang. His journey in the entertainment industry began in 2020 when he won the third edition of the Go On Girl & Guy Star Search by Clean & Clear, leading to a contract with GMMTV. 

Pond first appeared on television in The Gifted: Graduation. He gained significant recognition for his lead role in the Thai BL (Boys’ Love) romantic comedy Fish upon the Sky. His on-screen partner  in that series was Phuwin Tangsakyuen. Their chemistry contributed to Pond’s rising popularity, and together, they make up one of Thailand’s most beloved BL tandems. 

For his performance in Fish Upon the Sky, Pond was named Rising Male Actor of the Year at the 2022 KAZZ Awards. His career continued to soar with roles in series like Dirty Laundry, Never Let Me Go (which was his second lead role opposite Phuwin), and Oops! Mr. Superstar Hit on Me.

[Official Trailer] ปลาบนฟ้า Fish upon the sky

He looks up to the SM Entertainment artist

Pond‘s love for NCT‘s Jaehyun is well-known among his fans. Even his co-star Phuwin is aware of how much Pond looks up to the SM Entertainment artist. Pond’s repost of this particular Jaehyun edit on TikTok is not his first NCT-related post. He has previously shared content related to other NCT members, including Mark and Taeyong, as well as aespa‘s Winter. He also watches their shows and live broadcasts!

@itsmeeeecamillejoy

finally my Pond meet his idol NCT and his bias Jaehyun 🥰💚 #ppnaravit #pondnaravit #nct #nct127 #jaehyun #lemonadenct127

♬ Collide (sped up) – Justine Skye

Fans were amused when they saw what Pond did with the Jaehyun edit. They saw it as another example of how celebrities are just like everyone else. They admire other celebrities too. Pond‘s engagement with K-pop content on social media platforms like TikTok continues to endear him to a broad audience, bridging the gap between Thai and Korean pop culture. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Pond is a known hardcore Jaehyun stan. Sources: Style Korea and X/@Igot7jb1994.

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NCT’s Taeyong Seemingly Hints at Upcoming Military Enlistment

NCT’s Taeyong has sparked speculation about his upcoming military enlistment, offering hints during NCT 127’s recent concert and through a social media post. Born in 1995, Taeyong falls within the age group subject to mandatory military service in South Korea, with 1995 being the designated year for enlistment.

Taeyong Drops Mysterious Hint at Upcoming Military Enlistment

During NCT 127’s concert, Taeyong expressed uncertainty about attending upcoming tour dates, hinting at potential schedule adjustments related to his impending military service. The current law imposes travel restrictions on individuals pending enlistment, prohibiting overseas trips six months before the scheduled service date.

Taeyong’s social media activity added to the speculation. On December 16, he shared photos from the set of NCT 127‘s upcoming winter single album “Be There For Me” where he will cover WHAM’s “Last Christmas.” While the post primarily focused on the upcoming release, the caption contained a potential hint about Taeyong’s enlistment timeline.

In the caption, Taeyong mentioned seeing fans again by Christmas 2025, implying a return after potential military service. Given that the mandatory service duration ranges from 18 to 21 months, depending on the type of service (Army or public service), fans have engaged in speculation about the possible enlistment window.

If Taeyong opts for Army service, enlisting between June and July 2024 could align with a return before Christmas 2025. Alternatively, choosing public service would necessitate an enlistment between March and April 2024 for a Christmas 2025 comeback.

While Taeyong’s comments and social media posts are currently speculative and subject to interpretation, the transparency and openness about the potential enlistment timeline have resonated with fans. Many appreciate the idol’s communication and preparation as he navigates this significant milestone in his career. Regardless of when Taeyong decides to enlist, the support from fans is expected to remain steadfast, showcasing the strong bond between idols and their dedicated followers.

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SM Entertainment Launches 2024 Global Auditions

SM Entertainment artists gather together for SMTOWN concert. Credit: Facebook/SMTOWN

Ever dreamed of being the next K-pop superstar? Well, here’s the chance you’ve been waiting for to be labelmates with SM Entertainment artists. 

In a 20-second video clip released on Tuesday, December 12, SM Entertainment has officially launched its 2024 Global Auditions. 

As per the details posted, anyone born from 2005 to 2013, regardless of gender or nationality, are welcome to apply. Notably, young aspirants will then be evaluated in the categories of vocal, dance, rap and acting.

Moreover, the auditions will kick off in Seoul on January 6, 2024. After that, there will also be auditions held across several cities in South Korea including Daegu, Busan, Daejeon, Gwangju, Gangwon, Wonju and Jeju Island. 

Bringing the auditions to a global scale, SM Entertainment will also reach various countries including Thailand, Japan, Canada, and USA. According to the schedule released, the international auditions will be held between February to March 2024. 

After the first round of online registration, applicants who passed the initial screening will be invited for an on-site audition. Then, the final winners will get the opportunity to get trained or sign an exclusive contract with the renowned agency.

In addition, the application period for the said talent search event will only be from January to March 2024. Aspirants can send their application and learn more about the opportunity through SM Entertainment’s global site.

More about SM Entertainment

Established by record producer Lee Soo Man in 1995, SM Entertainment has since become one of the biggest and most successful K-pop agencies in history. For those unfamiliar, they are home to powerhouse acts like TVXQ, Super Junior, SHINee, Girls Generation, EXO, Red Velvet, NCT, and aespa. Moreover, the agency has built a reputation for their artists’ talents, particularly their exceptional vocals.

In September, the agency debuted their newest boy group RIIZE, who immediately gained popularity for their trendy tracks “Get a Guitar”, “Memories” and “Siren.” Aside from RIIZE, the agency also formed the final unit for NCT called NCT New Team. 

With the 2024 Global Auditions already on its way, K-pop fans have high expectations for the potential addition to the label. 

Featured image: SM Entertainment artists gather together for SMTOWN concert. Credit: Facebook/SMTOWN

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Here’s the Line-up for SMTOWN Live Concert in Tokyo in 2024

RIIZE and TVXQ pose together for MAMA 2023. Credit: Twitter/RIIZE

SM Entertainment has unveiled the stellar lineup for the highly anticipated SMTOWN LIVE 2024: SMCU Palace in Tokyo concert series. 

Taking place at the iconic Tokyo Dome from February 21-22, 2024 this marks the 20th installment of the prestigious SMTOWN LIVE show at this renowned venue.

Building on the success of last year’s SMTOWN LIVE 2022: SMCU Express @Tokyo, which drew a staggering 150,000 attendees over three days, the upcoming concerts on February 21 and 22 are poised to continue this legacy. Notably, this event will mark the return of SMTOWN LIVE to the Tokyo Dome after the sold-out shows last August 2022.

The star-studded roster includes Kangta, TVXQ, Super Junior, Taeyeon and Hyoyeon from Girls’ Generation. Also performing are groups Red Velvet, NCT 127, NCT Dream, WayV, aespa, RIIZE, and NCT NEW TEAM. From the teaser alone, fans are already anticipating unforgettable performances from these diverse and talented roster of artists. 

Beyond individual performances, the audience can anticipate special collaboration stages featuring members from different groups. Although there’s no confirmation yet as to which artists will be collaborating, it still adds  an extra layer of excitement to an already electrifying concert experience. 

As SM Entertainment brings its signature concert series to Tokyo once again, fans can expect a celebration of music, unity, and unforgettable moments at the SMTOWN LIVE 2024: SMCU Palace in Tokyo.

SMTOWN in 2023

Unsurprisingly, the SMTOWN LIVE 2024: SMCU Palace in Tokyo will be one of the most anticipated events from SM Entertainment after the agency had a series of shake ups this year. 

As for the lineup, it’s noticeable how EXO is not part of the performers. Although the agency didn’t disclose any reason, fans are attributing it to the possibility of the members’ contract with the label. To recall, Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin had a legal battle with SM Entertainment, while members Sehun and Chanyeol were also rumored to leave the agency. Meanwhile, D.O. has signed with Company SooSoo for his individual activities. 

Aside from EXO, NCT also had a series of changes. In May, SM Entertainment announced the departure of Lucas from NCT and WayV. Meanwhile, former NCT members Sungchan and Shotaro debuted with SM Entertainment’s newest boy group, RIIZE, instead. Furthermore, NCT has also formed NCT NEW TEAM, the last chapter to their expansion concept. 

Given these changes, fans are looking forward to seeing how SM Entertainment would fare in 2024.

Featured image: RIIZE and TVXQ pose together for MAMA 2023. Credit: Twitter/RIIZE

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

NCT poses during the release of their 'Golden Age' album. Credit: Facebook/NCT

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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NCT’s TEN Reveals Top 3 Favorite SM Entertainment Hyungs

As an NCT member, TEN is considered one of the hyungs with younger members to look out for. But who are the people he admire and respect? The WayV member just revealed his top three favorite SM Entertainment hyungs in a new interview.

TEN Discusses Favorite SM Entertainment Hyungs in ‘Bam House’

In an episode of GOT7 member BamBam’s YouTube series “Bam House”, TEN was featured as the guest as part of his recent activities with WayV, who were celebrating the release of their second album, ‘On My Youth.’

During the discussion, BamBam mentioned that SHINee’s Key had previously praised TEN during his guest appearance on the show, acknowledging TEN as one of his top three cherished dongsaengs within SM Entertainment. The humble TEN admitted he was flattered to place third in Key’s list.

“I like it. It’s an honor to be in TOP 3. And he’s a senior whom I really like, so I feel happier,” he said.

BamBam then turned the tables and asked TEN, “Who are your top three SM Entertainment hyungs?”

TEN faced a bit of difficulty in making his selections but eventually shared his top three favorite SM Entertainment hyungs.

“I think a lot of SHINee members are on the list. Taemin, Key, and Yunho,” he said before further elaborating, “I enjoy discussing work-related matters with them.”

The revelation sheds light on the strong camaraderie and respect that exists among the artists at SM Entertainment, with TEN holding a special place for his fellow colleagues Taemin, Key, and Yunho. His selections reflect the genuine bond and mutual admiration shared between these artists within the entertainment industry.

In related news, Taemin recently made his solo comeback with the EP ‘Guilty’. The mini album is the SHINEE maknae‘s fourth solo release and the title track of the same name was released on October 30, 2023.

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

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

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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