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ADOR Reacts to Issues About Managing NewJeans

NewJeans’ agency, ADOR, has officially responded to recent controversies surrounding its handling of the group. Concerns arose when fans raised questions about the agency’s alleged reluctance to provide NewJeans members with the desired educational opportunities.

On Tuesday, November 21, NewJeans member Hanni disclosed during a live broadcast her desire for additional Korean classes. 

“I told the company that I wanted to take more Korean language classes, but they said I couldn’t. Because they said I didn’t need them,” Hanni said. Additionally, she also revealed that her last Korean lesson was two years ago. 

This revelation troubled many fans who believed that it’s a sign of mismanagement from ADOR. Other fans are also unsettled by the situation as it seemed like the label isn’t giving their artist’s an access to education. 

In response to the growing concern, Hanni clarified the situation on the fan communication platform Phoning the following day. She stated that there had been a misunderstanding and that her request for Korean lessons had not reached the label or CEO. 

“About a year ago, I mentioned to my manager, who left the company earlier, about how I wanted to start doing Korean classes again,” she explained. “I just wanted to share a fun story with you, but I think there was a misunderstanding. That conversation has not [sic] reached my label or CEO as it was a light one.”

ADOR issues a statement about NewJeans

Following the controversy, ADOR then issued a statement to address concerns on how they handle the girl group NewJeans. 

First, they addressed the members’ education, saying that the agency has hired instructions for the NewJeans members and scheduled classes based on their availability. As for Hanni, the label said that she’s receiving separate language classes, including Korean language education. Then for Hyein, the agency said that her parents decided to let her pursue homeschooling. 

ADOR places utmost importance on the fact that the members of NewJeans are going through a significant phase of personal growth and learning that goes beyond their entertainment activities, encompassing all aspects of their daily lives,” the agency said. 

Furthermore, the label promised fans that they’re exhausting all efforts to provide support for the NewJeans members in terms of their needs at work and personal lives.

Featured image: NewJeans updates fans with new group photo. Credit: Twitter/NewJeans

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Here Are the K-Pop Acts Who Won at the 2023 Billboard Music Awards

The 2023 Billboard Music Awards announced its winners on Sunday, November 19. For this year’s edition, the prestigious music award-giving body witnessed the inclusion of four new K-pop categories: Top Global K-Pop Artist, Top K-Pop Album, Top Global K-Pop Song, and Top K-Pop Touring Artist. 

Notably, the Billboard Music Awards determines victors based on performance metrics from the year-end Billboard charts, with the tracking period for this year extending from November 4, 2022, to October 12, 2023.

Apart from the announcement of winners, K-pop fans were also treated to performances of groups NewJeans and Stray Kids. During the award night, NewJeans showcased their hit songs “Super Shy” and “OMG.” Meanwhile, Stray Kids debuted their latest title track “LALALA.” 

 

Billboard Music Awards 2023 Winners

One of the winners is rookie group NewJeans, who secured the title of Top Global K-pop artist. In their acceptance speech, Hanni expressed her gratitude to fans.

 “To have been nominated in this category alongside such incredible artists that we all look up to is an honor in itself,” Hanni said. Meanwhile, Minji added: “This award will be a reminder to us for all the love and support we’ve received from our fans, BUNNIES. We’ll try our hardest every day to make it up to our fans.” 

On top of that, Hyein also gave a shout out to her fellow NewJeans members. “We’re always looking out for one another – inspiring, helping, believing. But above all, forming this unbreakable friendship.” 

Another winner is Stray Kids, who claimed the Top K-pop Album award for 5-STAR. During their speech, leader Bang Chan was quick to acknowledge their fans, STAYS. “Without the love and support from everyone, we would probably not have made it this far,” he said. Meanwhile, Changbin, speaking in Korean, promised that they would continue to work on better music for their fans. 

 

Additionally, BTS’ Jungkook received the award for Top Global K-pop Song with “Seven (feat. Latto.)” In his acceptance video, the BTS member said that the win is “truly an honor.” “Without you, I couldn’t have gotten this amazing award,” he said to ARMYs. 

Furthermore, BLACKPINK secured the award for Top K-pop Touring Artist of the Year. 

Featured image: NewJeans is named Top Global K-pop Artist. Credit: Twitter/Billboard

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NewJeans Perform ‘GODS’ at 2023 League of Legends World Championship Opening Ceremony

NewJeans made history with a captivating performance of the theme song “GODS” at the grand opening ceremony of the 2023 League of Legends World Championship. The groundbreaking event took place on November 19 at Seoul’s Gocheok Sky Dome, kicking off the global spectacle of esports at 5 PM KST.

NewJeans Performs ‘GODS’ at 2023 League of Legends World Championship Opening Ceremony

As the first-ever full K-pop group to take the stage at this monumental championship, NewJeans left a lasting impression on the worldwide audience of League of Legends enthusiasts. Their electrifying performance was a testament to their talent and the global appeal of K-pop.

The theme song “GODS” holds significance as the anthem for the 2023 Worlds, encapsulating the indomitable spirit shared by gamers worldwide. The song conveys a message of relentless determination, symbolizing the gamers’ commitment to overcoming challenges by tapping into their inner strength.

NewJeans also proved to be a good luck charm for the team T1, who are representing League of Legends Champions Korea (LCK). Notably, member Keria, who is a fan of the group, expressed his excitement over meeting NewJeans after the team made it to the finals.

The 2023 League of Legends World Championship, also known as LoL Worlds 2023, stands as the pinnacle event in the esports calendar for the year. With the participation of 22 teams representing all regions of the game, the championship promises intense competition and a months-long race for the coveted Summoner’s Cup. NewJeans’ stellar performance at the grand opening ceremony added a layer of excitement and cultural significance to this prestigious esports event.

On November 19, 2023, the League of Legends World Championship finals took place at the Gocheok Sky Dome. The championship match featured Weibo Gaming from the League of Legends Pro League and T1 from the League of Legends Champions Korea. In a decisive final showdown, T1 emerged victorious with a dominant 3–0 win over Weibo Gaming.

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NewJeans React to T1’s Keria Celebrating Semifinals Victory

NewJeans recently found themselves at the exciting intersection of esports and K-pop following T1’s victory in the 2023 League of Legends World Semifinals. As the official voices behind the 2023 Worlds anthem “GODS,” NewJeans had already been making waves, and their upcoming performance at the finals on November 19 added to the anticipation.

T1 Player Keria Celebrates Semifinals Victory With Unexpected NewJeans Shoutout

T1, representing League of Legends Champions Korea (LCK), clinched a place in the finals after defeating JDG from the League of Legends Pro League in China (LPL). The victory was confirmed in Game 4, with T1 securing their third win in the series. It was at this moment of jubilation that Keria, a player for T1 and a self-proclaimed fan of NewJeans, excitedly declared, “Here I come, NewJeans!” The exuberant shoutout quickly went viral, resonating with fans from both the esports and K-pop communities.

NewJeans members Minji and Hanni caught wind of Keria’s enthusiastic mention, and their response was nothing short of heartwarming. The unexpected connection between esports and their music undoubtedly added an extra layer of excitement and anticipation for NewJeans’ performance at the upcoming League of Legends World Finals, set to take place at the Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul. This unique interaction showcased the power of music and esports in bringing fans together, creating memorable moments that bridge two passionate fan bases.

The 2023 League of Legends World Championship is also known as LoL Worlds 2023 or just Worlds 2023. It will serve as the crowning event of the esports for the year and includes 22 teams from all regions of the game. These teams will also compete in a months-long race for the Summoner’s Cup.

Although the tournament will take place in several countries over the course of a month, the grand finals will be held in South Korea. The finalists vying for the championship will then make their final stand at the Gocheok Sky Dome in South Korea in November 2023.

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SEVENTEEN’s Hoshi Shares Cute Interaction with NewJeans

The famed HYBE building certainly has its perks. SEVENTEEN’s Hoshi recently gave fans an intriguing look behind the scenes at HYBE, including details about the company’s artist-only elevator that led to a cute interaction with a younger group.

Hoshi Reveals How HYBE Building Led to Cute Interaction With NewJeans

In a recent episode of “Salon Drip”, Hoshi began discussing the various perks and features at HYBE, such as the impressive standards for ramen at the company. Host Jang Do Yeon asked about the elevators in their office, specifically mentioning the existence of an artist-exclusive elevator.

Hoshi explained that HYBE has just one elevator designated for artists, even though the company houses numerous renowned stars. This often results in a bit of a wait, given the demand.

The SEVENTEEN member delved further into the layout of the building, sharing that there is a separate floor dedicated to artist parking. When artists reach the elevator, it only stops at certain floors, including the artist lounge and recording areas. Due to the limited options and the sheer number of idols using the elevator, it can sometimes mean a substantial wait to get to the main parking area.

Hoshi humorously recounted an unexpected encounter he had due to these elevator logistics. On one occasion, while waiting for the elevator, the doors opened to reveal the members of NewJeans inside. Despite Hoshi’s confident reputation, he described himself as an “introvert” and admitted to feeling quite shy in this situation. Even when the NewJeans members reassured him that it was alright, he decided to wait rather than joining them in the elevator.

Adding a dash of humor to his story, Hoshi playfully pleaded with HYBE’s founder Bang Si Hyuk for an additional elevator to ease the wait times. This amusing anecdote provides fans with a delightful peek into the everyday experiences of K-Pop idols working under one of the industry’s most prominent entertainment companies, HYBE.

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NewJeans Members Choose New Stage Names For Fun

A catchy name is always a good thing in the world of K-pop, and it looks like the idols have their own ideas on what they should be called. NewJeans made this clear when they were given the chance to get new stage names. Interestingly, only one member of the girl group chose to stay with her current name!

NewJeans Gets New Stage Names For A Day

NewJeans recently participated in an engaging interview with iHeartRadio and Most Requested Live’s “Ask Anything Chat”. During the interview, the group answered questions submitted by fans, covering various topics such as their Chuseok celebrations, their music style for new listeners, and their future aspirations.

In response to a fan’s request for a group roll call, the members decided to have a bit of fun by choosing unique new stage names for the day. This playful twist added an element of humor to their introductions.

Hanni, hailing from Melbourne, Australia, introduced herself as “Cherry Pham” for the day, adding a whimsical touch to her persona. Danielle, who has roots in both Australia and Korea, humorously adopted the stage name “Jerry Jamaica” for the occasion.

Minji, representing Korea, decided to stick with her original stage name. Haerin, also from Korea, followed Danielle’s suggestion and embraced the stage name “Vanessa” for the day, which Minji and Hanni playfully justified by remarking that Haerin resembled a Vanessa that particular day. Lastly, the youngest member, Hyein, from Korea, chose the unique stage name “Colin” for the day.

Fans and netizens had a lively response to these new stage names, with many noting Danielle’s humorous approach and Hanni’s affinity for the nickname “Cherry,” which fans had lovingly used before her debut. The playful and light-hearted nature of the exchange made the interview even more enjoyable for the viewers.

In related news, NewJeans recently dropped the new single “Gods”. It would serve as the anthem for the 2023 League of Legends World Championship, set to be held in South Korea from October 10 to November 19, 2023.

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Look: Here Are the K-pop Acts Nominated for the 2023 MTV EMAs

K-pop has once again proved its global influence in the music industry. After numerous recognitions at the recently held 2023 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), K-pop acts are now set to bag a new set of awards at the 2023 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs).

On Tuesday, October 3, Billboard Brazil unveiled the list of nominations for the upcoming EMAs. 

According to MTV, the EMAs will be an event to celebrate the work of global artists with awards and legendary performances from international music icons. Notably, several K-pop acts made it to the record.

Who are nominated for 2023 MTV EMAs?

Topping the list are BTSJungkook and TOMORROW X TOGETHER. Both HYBE artists garnered a total of three nominations each.

Jungkook, the youngest member of the sensational group BTS, has been nominated for the Best K-pop and Biggest fans categories. He will also compete for the Song of the Year category for his digital single “Seven featuring Latto. Furthermore, this is Jungkook’s first EMA nomination as a solo artist. 

Just last month, Jungkook took home the MTV VMAs Song of the Summer award for the said track.

Meanwhile, boy group TOMORROW X TOGETHER also earned nominations for the following categories: Best K-pop, Best Push Artist, and Best Group. At the MTV VMAs, the Sugar Rush Ride” singers bagged the Push Performance of the Year award.

Meanwhile, “Super” hitmakers SEVENTEEN and monster rookies NewJeans took two nods each, both for the Best K-pop and Best Group categories.

In addition, “Next Level singers aespa also earned a nod for Best Group, while BLACKPINK is nominated for Biggest Fans category. Moreover, groups FIFTY FIFTY and Stray Kids will also compete for the Best K-Pop category.

Meanwhile, boy group TREASURE has been nominated in the Best Asia Act category as South Korea’s sole representative.

The 2023 MTV EMAs will take place in Paris, France on November 5. Fans can vote for their favorite acts on the MTV EMAs official website until October 31, 11:59 pm. Who are you rooting for among these nominees? 

Featured image: BTS’ Jungkook during filming of his digital single ‘Seven.’ Credit: Facebook/BTS

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BUNNIES React to NEWJEANS’ 2023 League of Legends World Championship Theme ‘Gods’

The anticipation for the 2023 League of Legends World Championship anthem has reached a fever pitch, as Riot Games revealed that NewJeans will be lending their vocal prowess to the upcoming event. The announcement was made on September 26, and it promises an epic anthem for the tournament. Not surprisingly, BUNNIES are already loving the song although the group only dropped a 14-second teaser!

NewJeans Drops Teaser for 2023 League of Legends World Championship Theme “GODS”

NewJeans’ contribution to the championship will be titled “GODS” and fans can mark their calendars for the release date of October 4, 2023. Alongside the anthem, a captivating music video will be unveiled, depicting the story of the renowned League of Legends player, Deft, whose real name is Kim Hyuk Kyu.

As the 2023 League of Legends World tournament draws near, the collaboration with NewJeans adds an exciting dimension to the event. Their anthem “GODS” is also poised to capture the essence of competitive gaming and further elevate the championship’s atmosphere. League of Legends enthusiasts worldwide can look forward to this thrilling musical addition as they gear up for the esports spectacle in Korea.

NewJeans’ involvement in the 2023 League of Legends World Championship is an awesome opportunity for the group as they reach a wider audience. Needless to say, BUNNIES are also excited about the release of the new song next week.

The 2023 League of Legends World Championship is also known as LoL Worlds 2023 or just Worlds 2023. It will serve as the crowning event of the esports for the year and includes 22 teams from all regions of the game. These teams will also compete in a months-long race for the Summoner’s Cup.

Although the tournament will take place in several countries over the course of a month, the grand finals will be held in South Korea. The finalists vying for the championship will then make their final stand at the Gocheok Sky Dome in South Korea in November 2023.

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Look: Newjeans Teases League of Legends Worlds 2023 Anthem

Get ready to cheer loudly, Bunnies! K-pop girl group NewJeans will be taking over the 2023 League of Legends World Championship with their music. 

On Thursday, September 27, League of Legends announced that South Korean girl group NewJeans will be featured in the Worlds 2023 Anthem titled “Gods.”

Composed of Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein, the group took on the challenge to try on a new genre with this project. “It was fun to try a new genre and sound. Through this collaboration, we are happy to present a song that incorporates both NewJeans and League of Legends’ unique colors,” the band said in a press release.

Moreover, the Hype Boy hitmakers hoped it would bring a new sense of empowerment to the players.

NewJeans in League of Legends competition

For those who don’t know, the League of Legends World Championship is a major annual professional tournament hosted by Riot Games. Teams from all over the world compete rigorously in a series of League of Legends battles. 

In its 2023 edition, the prestigious competition will take place in South Korea. During the  previous years, Riot Games worked with big names in the music industry including Imagine Dragons and Lil Nas

Carrie Dun, the Global head of creative at Riot Games shared his thoughts in the collaboration. “Between Worlds taking place in Korea and NewJeans’ meteoric rise, this partnership felt fated as a true cultural celebration,” he said. 

Additionally, he believes that “Gods as the official anthem will set the stage for what’s bound to be an incredible World.

Bunnies’ excitement for NewJeans

With this new achievement, the group’s fandom Bunnies could not hide their excitement for the K-pop superstars.

“Thank you for this blessing! Can’t wait to hear it,” one fan excitedly wrote.

The Golden Guardians account also showed their anticipation with the news. “WE ARE SEATED,” they claimed. To which the League of Legends’ account replied with: “As you should!”

https://twitter.com/GoldenGuardians/status/1706811899881668876

The official track and an animated video will be launched on October 4.

Featured image: NewJeans during their promotional activities for ‘Get Up.’ Credit: Twitter/NewJeans

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Blackpink Now With 6 Nominations in MTV VMAs 2023

The MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) has revealed more K-pop nominees for this year’s award show and the competition just got fiercer! 

On Friday, September 1, MTV announced the nominees for four VMA categories. They are Group of the Year, Album of the Year, Song of the Summer, and Show of the Summer, in which numerous K-Pop groups have earned nominations for.

With this, BLACKPINK now tops the K-pop acts with the most nominations with their six nods. The four-member girl group under YG Entertainment scored additional nods for: Show of the Summer and Group of the Year categories. 

Previously, the 2023 MTV VMAs announced that the group was nominated for Best K-Pop, Best Choreography, Best Art Direction, and Best Editing. And all nominations are for their hit track “Pink Venom.” Remarkably, BLACKPINK also became the first K-pop girl group to perform at the VMAs with “Pink Venom” last year.

Meanwhile,TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT) scored a total of four nominations- the most of any male K-Pop group this year. Apart from the previously announced nominations for Push Performance and Best K-Pop, TXT are now competing for the Group of the Year and Song of the Summer categories, too.

Among the recently announced nominees are BTS’ Jungkook and FIFTY FIFTY. They both have secured Song of the Summer nominations for their viral hits “Seven” (feat. Latto) and “Cupid,” respectively.

Additionally, BLACKPINK and TXT are joined by SEVENTEEN, NewJeans, and FIFTY FIFTY for the Group of the Year category.

Note that MTV also has a Best K-pop category, which they only added in 2019. For this year, the acts competing are BLACKPINK, TXT, aespa, FIFTY FIFTY, SEVENTEEN, Stray Kids.

What To Expect in 2023 MTV VMAs

With the 2023 MTV VMAs just around the corner, here’s a brief list of what we know so far:

It will be aired live on September 12, although the emcees and the recipient of the Global Icon Award are yet to be announced.

Interestingly, this year’s edition will mark the first time for two K-pop acts to perform for the awards show. TXT and Stray Kids will take the stage and it will be both group’s first time to perform at VMAs. They will now be joining BTS and BLACKPINK as the only K-Pop groups to achieve this feat.

 

Aside from K-Pop boy groups TXT and Stray Kids, international artists will be bringing their music to the show as well. The roster includes Demi Lovato, Karol G, Maneskin, Doja Cat, Lil Wayne, Anitta, and Kelsea Ballerini.

Meanwhile, fans can now vote for their favorite group via MTV’s official website. 

Featured image: BLACKPINK in a photo from their “Shut Down” release. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

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