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NU’EST Member Ren Announces Military Enlistment Date

Ren will soon be enlisting in the military. The NU’EST member has made the announcement through his agency Big Planet Made Entertainment.

NU’EST Member Ren To Begin Military Service

On September 3, his agency, BPM Entertainment, released an official statement confirming the news of his upcoming enlistment.

“On Thursday, September 26, 2024, Ren will begin his service as a social worker,” the statement read. “In accordance with the system, he will start his duties immediately without being admitted to a training center. No additional official procedures will take place, so we appreciate your understanding.”

“To help ensure Ren’s service goes smoothly, please refrain from visitng his service location,” it continued. “We ask Minracles (Ren’s official fan club) to offer their warm support and well-wishes to Ren as he fulfills his military obligations and returns in good health.”

This announcement follows shortly after Ren’s fellow NU’EST member, JR (Kim Jong Hyun), revealed that he would begin his military service in September. Ren’s enlistment marks another significant chapter for the former boy group members as they fulfill their mandatory military duties.

Choi Min-gi, known professionally as Ren, first gained fame as the vocalist of NU’EST when the group debuted in 2012. With his distinctive look and captivating stage presence, Ren quickly became a fan favorite. NU’EST enjoyed a successful decade-long career, releasing numerous hits and solidifying their place in the K-pop industry. However, in March 2022, the group’s contract with PLEDIS Entertainment expired, leading Ren, alongside JR and Aron, to part ways with the agency and pursue individual careers.

Following his departure, Ren signed with BPM Entertainment and embarked on a solo career, continuing to explore music, acting, and television. As Ren prepares for his enlistment, fans are also showing their unwavering support, looking forward to his safe return and future projects once he completes his service.

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NU’EST JR (Kim Jong Hyun) To Enlist for Military Service in September

Singer and actor Kim Jong Hyun, aged 29, is preparing to enlist in the military. The NU’EST member, who is best known as JR, will begin his mandatory military service in September.

Kim Jong Hyun (NU’EST JR) Prepares for Military Service

According to a report on August 18, Kim will join a training camp where he will undergo basic military training before serving as an active-duty soldier in the Army.

Kim Jonghyun first gained recognition in 2012 as a member of NU’EST, a group that quickly rose to fame with a series of hit songs such as “Face,” “Hello,” “Love Paint,” “Love Me,” and “I’m in Trouble.” His participation in the sub-unit NU’EST W further solidified his popularity, showcasing his talents to a broader audience.

Following the disbandment of NU’EST in 2022, Kim launched his solo career, releasing music that spanned various genres and demonstrated his versatility as an artist. Tracks like “Lights,” “Motto,” and “Star” highlighted his ability to adapt to different musical styles, earning him recognition as a solo performer.

In addition to his successful music career, Kim Jong Hyun has also made a significant impact as an actor. He made his acting debut in the 2021 drama “Let Me Be Your Knight” and has since appeared in several other projects, including “Start With a Kiss”, “Sound Candy”, and “My Friend’s Graduation”. His performances have been well-received by audiences, further establishing him as a multi-talented entertainer.

As Kim Jong Hyun prepares to fulfill his mandatory military service, this will mark a temporary pause in a career that has spanned over a decade. Fans are likely to miss his presence in the entertainment industry but will eagerly await his return once he completes his service. His enlistment is a significant moment, but given his talent and dedication, there is little doubt that Kim Jong Hyun will continue to make a strong impact in both music and acting upon his return.

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NU’EST Reunite For 12th Debut Anniversary Celebration

The reunion of all five members of NU’EST to celebrate their 12th debut anniversary marks a significant moment not only for the group but also for their fans, known as L.O.Λ.E. It’s a testament to their enduring bond and friendship despite the challenges and changes they’ve experienced over the years.

NU’EST Members Reunite for 12th Debut Anniversary

NU’EST member Aron shared the delightful image on his official Instagram account. Fans immediately celebrated the return of the group members as they prove their bond.

NU’EST’s journey has been one of resilience and growth since their debut on March 15, 2012, with the single “Face.” Despite facing obstacles and uncertainties, they remained dedicated to their craft and loyal to their fans, carving out a special place in the hearts of many with their music and performances.

The decision to disband on March 15, 2022, following the completion of their 10-year contract with Pledis Entertainment undoubtedly marked the end of an era for NU’EST. However, their reunion for the 12th debut anniversary dinner serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact they’ve had on the K-pop industry and the strong bond they share as members.

The timing of the reunion is particularly bittersweet as it coincides with Hwang Minhyun’s impending enlistment and commencement of mandatory alternative service duty on March 21. His temporary departure adds a sense of poignancy to the gathering, underscoring the importance of cherishing moments together and celebrating milestones as a group.

The snapshots shared by the members on Instagram offer glimpses into their reunion, sparking joy and nostalgia among fans who have been eagerly awaiting this moment. It’s a heartwarming sight to see all five members come together, reflecting on their journey, and creating new memories to treasure.

As NU’EST embarks on new chapters in their individual careers, their 12th debut anniversary serves as a poignant reminder of the bond they share and the legacy they’ve built together. Though their paths may diverge for now, the spirit of NU’EST lives on in the hearts of their fans, who continue to support and cherish each member’s endeavors.

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SHINee’s Minho and Hwang Minhyun Confirmed For Special MC Stage At 2023 MBC Music Festival

Get ready for an extraordinary treat from SHINee’s Minho and Hwang Minhyun at the upcoming 2023 MBC Music Festival! The festival, scheduled for December 31, 2023, has unveiled exciting news that this year’s MCs, Minho and Hwang Minhyun, will be joining forces for a special stage performance.

2023 MBC Music Festival Announces Special MC Stage

Minho, making a return as a host for the festival after a hiatus of five years, and Hwang Minhyun, stepping into the role of a host for the first time, have sparked heightened anticipation for their collaboration. The synergy between the two talented artists promises to elevate the festival experience, creating a memorable moment for fans.

The 2023 MBC Music Festival lineup is already brimming with an impressive array of artists, including &TEAM, (G)I-DLE, 2am, aespa, ATBO, ATEEZ, Baekho, BEBE, BOYNEXTDOOR, CRAVITY, DAY6, ENHYPEN, FANTASY BOYS, fromis_9, and Hyoyeon. It was also confirmed that ITZY, IVE, LUCY, NCT 127, NCT DREAM, NCT U, NiziU, NMIXX, RIIZE, SHINee, STAYC, Stray Kids, V1LLION by 1MILLION, ZEROBASEONE, and Kwon Eun Bi will be performing. Finally, Dynamic Duo, THE BOYZ, Young Tak, ONE TOP, Yoon Sang, Lee Young Ji, Lee Juck, Jang Min Ho, JUJU SECRET, Kep1er, and Paul Kim were announced to perform at the event.

The live broadcast of the event is set for December 31 at 8:30 p.m. KST, promising an exciting New Year’s Eve celebration filled with captivating performances and surprises. With Minho and Hwang Minhyun gearing up for a special stage, fans can also anticipate an unforgettable moment that adds an extra layer of excitement to the 2023 MBC Music Festival.

In related news, Minho previously joined fellow SHINee members Key and Taemin in a new collaboration with Etude House for the “REPLAY” collection. The new collection also brings back beloved discontinued products that the group initially promoted more than a decade ago.

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Baekho Teams Up with fromis_9’s Jiwon for New Duet Single

Baekho is getting ready for a new project! The NU’EST member has just been revealed to be working on a duet single with a fellow HYBE Labels artist. The new song, which will also feature fromis_9 member Jiwon, is reportedly set for release next month!

Baekho Reportedly Recording Duet Single with fromis_9’s Jiwon

In recent reports on November 23 KST, it has been revealed that Baekho is gearing up for a comeback with a digital single set to be released in early December. This anticipated release will feature the vocal prowess of Jiwon, the main vocalist of fromis_9.

Fans are eagerly awaiting this collaboration, as it not only signifies Baekho’s return to the music scene but also introduces an exciting partnership with Jiwon. The upcoming duet single is poised to showcase their musical synergy and offer a fresh addition to Baekho’s discography.

Having last treated fans to the release of “Elevator” in August, this new music venture serves as a much-anticipated follow-up. With the combined talents of Baekho and Jiwon, expectations are high for a captivating and melodious track that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on listeners. As the release date approaches, fans can look forward to experiencing the musical chemistry between these two talented artists.

Baekho as a Solo Artist

Kang Dong-ho, widely recognized as Baekho, is a multifaceted South Korean artist celebrated for his roles as a singer, songwriter, producer, and television personality. Best known as NU’EST’s lead vocalist and producer, Baekho made headlines when he chose to remain with PLEDIS Entertainment even after the group disbanded in March 2022.

October 2022 marked a significant milestone in Baekho’s career as he ventured into the realm of solo artistry with the release of “Absolute Zero.” The solo debut not only showcased his exceptional vocal abilities but also provided a platform for Baekho to express his unique musical vision independently of NU’EST.

Fans eagerly embraced this new chapter in Baekho’s journey, anticipating the unveiling of his creative prowess beyond the group dynamics of NU’EST. As he continues to navigate the solo landscape, Baekho’s artistic versatility and passion for music are poised to captivate audiences, reaffirming his status as a prominent figure in the South Korean entertainment industry. With the upcoming duet single featuring fromis_9’s Jiwon, Baekho is set to further expand his musical horizons and delight fans with exciting collaborations.

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NU’EST Members Reunite For the 1st Time After Disbandment

Drought is over,  L.O.Λ.! All five members of NU’EST had a reunion for the first time since the group disbanded in March 2022. 

On Saturday, September 23, NU’EST members Hwang Min Hyun, Baekho, Ren, Aron, and JR, gathered for a casual dinner. All members also made sure to share the precious moments on their personal Instagram accounts as well.

On his personal X (formerly Twitter) account, Min Hyun also shared some details about their get-together. In the translated post, he told fans: “It’s been a while since we met and we talked a lot!”

When one fan asked if they had a good time, the singer answered:  “Everyone was doing well!”

 

Aside from Min Hyun, Aron also opened up to fans about the group’s get-together. 

Fans’ reactions

Fans, especially the group’s fandom L.O.Λ (pronounced as LOVE), were understandably sentimental upon seeing the photos of the group. What made it more special is that it was the first public appearance of all the five  members together since their disbandment in March 2022.

“NU’EST reunion got me in tears, I am extra sensitive today,” one wrote.

 

Given that NU’EST disbanded over a year ago, fans are delighted to see that the members still have a close bond.

Where are the NU’EST members now?

For those unaware, NU’EST debuted in 2012 under Pledis Entertainment, which is now a sub-label of HYBE CORP

In 2022, the group’s 10-year contract with the agency was no longer renewed. Which left NU’EST with no choice but to discontinue group activities. 

Since then, the members have been embarking on their solo journeys.

Baekho, who decided to stay with PLEDIS, was the first member to debut as a soloist. In October 2022, he dropped his mini album Absolute Zero with the title track “No Rules.” In August 2023, he made his comeback with the single Elevator.”

Meanwhile, Min Hyun, who is the only member alongside Baekho to stay with their previous agency, also made his solo debut with his first mini album Truth or Lie in February 2023. Apart from that, he also focused on his acting career, having starred in various dramas including Alchemy of Souls, its second season Light and Shadow, and the recently concluded My Lovely Liar.

Their fellow member Ren, worked on a few musicals since NU’EST’s disbandment. In June 2023, he released his first solo mini-album Ren’dezvous under his new agency, Big Planet Made. Said agency is home to artists Soyou, Lee Mu-Jin, and the trio Viviz.

On the other hand, JR, whose real name is Kim Jong Hyun, also embarked on his solo journey as an artist by dropping his first mini album MERIDIEM in November 2022. Additionally, he also starred in two dramas: Sound Candy and It Was Spring in 2023.

Lastly, the group’s oldest member Aron, made his solo debut in June 2023 with the album Time Difference. In May, the singer held his first Asia tour SPECTRUM OF,  in celebration of his birthday in the same month.

Featured image: All five members of NU’EST gathered together for a dinner. Credit: Instagram/Hwang Min Hyun

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Former NU’EST Member Baekho Drops ‘Elevator’ Cover Preview

Prepare for an exciting upcoming release by the former NU’EST member, Baekho! PLEDIS Entertainment recently unveiled that Baekho is gearing up to make a comeback with a remake of a chart-topping track by Park Jin Young, renowned internationally as the founder of JYP Entertainment.

NU’EST’s Baekho Drops Teaser For ‘Elevator’ Cover

Baekho thrilled fans with the announcement on August 21 at midnight KST, disclosing his plans to release a remake of Park Jin Young’s 1995 hit, “Elevator.” This song is notably famous for its provocative lyrics and has left an indelible mark on the music industry.

Baekho’s decision to reinterpret this iconic song from the past has generated immense anticipation among fans and music enthusiasts alike. It’s an opportunity for the singer to showcase his unique musical style and pay homage to a legendary artist in the K-pop industry.

It’s a sexy new track that fans believe Baekho will do justice to. With that in mind, LOVEs are already looking forward to the single’s release later this month.

Kang Dong-ho, who is better known as Baekho, is a versatile South Korean artist known for singing, songwriting, producing, and TV. He is NU’EST‘s lead vocalist and producer and decided to stay with PLEDIS Entertainment after the group’s disbandment in March 2022.

In October 2022, Baekho began his solo career with the release of “Absolute Zero.” Fans eagerly anticipated this new chapter, which allows Kang Dong-ho to showcase his creative musical talents beyond NU’EST.

It has already been confirmed that Baekho will release a new single. However, it is unclear whether he will drop a new album with the “Elevator” cover. In the meantime, anticipation for the new cover is high.

Baekho recently announced his first television drama role. He will play Cha Si-Wan in the upcoming drama I’ll Take the Trip for You. The series is based on the novel of the same name by Maha Harada. The upcoming series does not have an official release date yet.

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Former NU’EST Member Ren Announces Solo Debut Album

Ren is ready for his first solo album. The former NU’EST member confirmed he is currently working on a new album for a June release.

Former NU’EST Singer Ren Confirms Solo Debut Album Dropping In June

News1 broke the news revealing that Ren is preparing for his first solo album. His agency Big Planet Made has since addressed the report and confirmed the former NU’EST member’s plans.

“Ren (Choi Min-gi) is preparing for his first solo album with the aim of releasing [the album] in June. Please show lots of anticipation as Ren takes on a new challenge,” the statement read.

This is awesome news for fans who have been waiting for Ren to return with new music. It will also be his first solo album since his debut with NU’EST in 2012.

Ren debuted with NU’EST in March 2012. In 2017, he participated in the Mnet survival show “Produce 101” Season 2 to become a member of WANNA ONE. However, he was eliminated in the final episode and returned to Pledis Entertainment and became part of the subunit NU’EST W.

Choi Min Ki has also established himself as a talented actor, appearing in TV shows like “Jeon Woo-chi”, “Something Family” Season 2, and “Coffee Society”. He would also star in theatrical musicals like “Everybody’s Talking About Jamie” and “Hedwig and the Angry Inch”.

In 2022, Ren decided not to renew his contract with Pledis Entertainment and left the agency along with Aron and JR. This led to the disbandment of NU’EST after 10 years as a group. Choi Min Ki later signed with Big Planet Made.

For now, the details about Ren’s solo album have not yet been revealed. However, Big Planet Made is expected to drop new information soon. In the meantime, Choi Min Ki is set to appear in the upcoming TV show “I Have Waited a Long Time for You” which premieres in the summer of 2023.

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