Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

SM Entertainment Takes Legal Action Against Malicious RIIZE Members Rumors

SM Entertainment‘s decision to pursue legal action against those spreading malicious rumors about RIIZE members reflects the agency’s commitment to protecting the reputation and well-being of its artists.

SM Entertainment Defends RIIZE Members Against Malicious Rumors

The statement, released on March 13, serves as a firm response to the recent wave of false allegations and baseless rumors targeting RIIZE members, particularly Anton and Wonbin.

“Not only are falsehoods about the RIIZE members being recklessly spread on social media and online communities, but illegal acts such as the creation of posts that cross the line, including attacks [on the RIIZE members’] character, insults, and malicious slander, are continually taking place.

“These actions are a clear criminal act that severely defame our artist’s character and violate their rights. We are well-aware of the situation and are in the process of reviewing the material we have gathered, and we plan to take strong legal action by suing so that the perpetrators of these illegal acts will be punished, without any settlement or leniency.

“Furthermore, the privacy of the people around our artists, especially their families and acquaintances, is being continuously invaded through habitual stalking, verbal abuse and swearing, sexual harassment, and more.

“As these kinds of acts are also criminal behavior, we ask that you recognize clearly that legal action is possible, and we urge you to take special care not to get involved in such shameful acts.

“We are always grateful to the fans who love RIIZE, and we will do our utmost to protect our artists in the future as well.”

What Happened to RIIZE?

The agency’s proactive stance sends a clear message that it will not tolerate defamation or the dissemination of false information aimed at tarnishing the image of its artists. By taking legal action against individuals responsible for spreading malicious falsehoods, SM Entertainment is not only seeking justice for its artists but also sending a deterrent to those who engage in such harmful behavior online.

The specific allegations targeting Anton, including false dating rumors and accusations of inappropriate relationships with friends, highlight the damaging impact that baseless speculation can have on an artist’s reputation and personal life. Similarly, the unfounded rumors linking Wonbin to aespa member NingNing underscore the need for swift and decisive action to address misinformation and protect the privacy of the individuals involved.

As an influential entertainment agency, SM Entertainment’s decision to address the issue through legal channels sets an important precedent in combating online defamation and cyberbullying within the K-pop industry. By holding accountable those responsible for spreading false rumors, the agency aims to create a safer and more supportive environment for its artists and fans alike.

In the face of escalating online harassment and the proliferation of malicious rumors, SM Entertainment’s commitment to standing up for its artists reaffirms its dedication to fostering a culture of respect, integrity, and accountability within the entertainment industry.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

RIIZE Sets Dates and Venues for Fan-Con Tour ‘RIIZING DAY’

RIIZE is set to embark on a global journey to connect with fans through their upcoming 2024 RIIZE FAN-CON ‘RIIZING DAY’ tour. On March 5, the group unveiled a poster detailing the dates and locations for this highly anticipated tour. 

It will begin with a performance at Seoul’s Jamsil Indoor Stadium in May. Fans can choose between General Admission and VIP tickets. VIP ticket holders will enjoy exclusive access to the soundcheck, which will take place before the main show. The concert will be held offline and online, which means BRIIZE worldwide can watch it via live streaming.

Members of RIIZE’s official fan club can reserve tickets on the 13th from 8:00 PM to 11:59 PM. These fan club presales are limited to one ticket per person. General sales for the remaining seats will open afterward. General ticket sales will begin on the 14th at 8:00 PM, and each person will be allowed to buy two tickets per show, including fan club presale tickets. If you’re not part of the official fan club, you may want to join it as soon as possible. If the fan club presale sells out, no seats may be available when the general sales open.

RIIZE is also set to go global

Meanwhile, the 2024 RIIZE FAN-CON ‘RIIZING DAY’ in TOKYO concert is slated for May 11 and 12, at the National Yoyogi Stadium in Tokyo. Doors will open at 4:00 PM, and the concert will start at 5:00 PM. Tickets are set at 11,000 JPY each, with a strict policy of being non-exchangeable and non-refundable. A purchase limit of two tickets per person is in place, and an additional handling fee of 1,000 JPY will be applied to each ticket. Ticket registration will proceed through a lottery system, which opened on March 6. It will close on March 17. For more details, visit RIIZE’s official Japanese website.

RIIZE is also set to go global. After they perform in Japan and South Korea, RIIZE will fly to Los Angeles for a show on May 20. They will then perform in Hong Kong on June 1 and Taipei on June 15. The tour will proceed with concerts in Manila on July 14, Singapore on July 20, and Bangkok on July 27 and 28, before concluding in Jakarta on August 31.

More dates and locations are expected to be announced later, promising a series of unforgettable experiences for fans and the group alike. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Now’s your chance to see Anton, Eunseok, Shotaro, Sohee, Sungchan, and Wonbin in person! Source: X/@RIIZE_official.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

RIIZE’s ‘Talk Saxy’ Disappears From TikTok After UMG Purge

When Universal Music Group (UMG) decided to pull its music from TikTok, citing the end of their contract and concerns over compensation, AI dangers, and user safety, nobody expected the fallout to hit the K-pop world quite as hard as it did. Among those caught in the crossfire was RIIZE’s infectious track “Talk Saxy,” which suddenly vanished from TikTok, leaving fans and the group reeling.

When UMG first made the announcement, fans wondered which songs would disappear from the platform. Speculation was rife that Western pop icons like Taylor Swift, Justin Bieber, and Ariana Grande, alongside K-pop powerhouses BTS and BLACKPINK, would see their music leave TikTok. But when the purge began on February 1, the impact was uneven. While many Western UMG-affiliated artists were affected, BTS and BLACKPINK weren’t—at least at first. The reason? Their contracts with UMG were mostly for distribution purposes, sparing their music from being pulled.

However, not all Korean artists were so fortunate. Tracks from several K-pop groups, including &TEAM, NCT units, Red Velvet, SuperM, and TWICE, were removed without rhyme or reason. Most of their Japanese and English releases disappeared. As February wore on, the situation escalated. In the beginning, only artists and songs directly under UMG or published via a subsidiary were purged. But the latest UMG takedown targeted music related to the company in any way, including any song with even the slightest connection to the company, whether through writers, producers, or other contributors.

‘RIIZE’ above the fray

But here’s where the story takes an uplifting turn. Enter V K (@vickyntamag on TikTok), who started whipping up acapella versions of beloved K-pop tracks silenced by the purge. Her rendition of “Talk Saxy” caught fire, amassing 1.3 million views.

@vickyntamag

@V K I know they’re not UMG but I had to 🤭😂 dc: @SAMU #riize #rizeandrealize #talksaxy #instrumental #Kpop #humour #umg #muted #tiktoksounds #fyp

♬ Talk Saxy on crack – V K ✨

RIIZE’s Sohee shared V K’s cover on TikTok with a reassuring message, “Don’t worry everyone… we still have this sound!” This post went viral, hitting 1.6 million views.

Other RIIZE members, Eunseok and Sungchan, showed their moves to V K’s version of “Talk Saxy,” further cementing the song’s undiminished appeal despite the takedown. Their engagement with V K’s content turned a moment of loss into a celebration of music and ingenuity.

@riize_official

🛗🎷 dc. @SAMU #RIIZE #라이즈 #EUNSEOK #은석 #SUNGCHAN #성찬 #RISEandREALIZE

♬ Talk Saxy on crack – V K ✨

These events shine a light on the effects of UMG’s clash with TikTok on artists and their supporters. Caught in the middle of a standoff between a leading record label and a social media powerhouse, artists like RIIZE and their fans face tough challenges. Despite these hurdles, the creative efforts and backing from fans like V K have allowed “Talk Saxy” to “RIIZE” above the fray. (See what we did there?) – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Necessity really is the mother of invention, even in the K-pop world. Source: X/@RIIZE_official.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

RIIZE Debuts New Hair at IU Concert

RIIZE’s recent appearance at the IU concert not only showcased their musical talents but also served as a platform to unveil their stunning new hairstyles. Not surprisingly, people are now convinced that the idols are preparing for another comeback!

RIIZE Performs at IU Concert with Cool New Looks

The members’ transformations, ranging from bold blonde hues to classic black locks, captivated fans and sparked excitement for their potential comeback. As images of their fresh looks circulated online, netizens praised their versatility and applauded their ability to pull off a variety of styles with effortless charm.

The buzz surrounding RIIZE’s revamped appearance extended beyond the concert venue, with fans eagerly discussing the implications of their new hairstyles. Speculation about a potential comeback intensified as fans speculated whether the members’ updated looks signaled a new era for the group. With anticipation mounting, RIIZE’s return to the spotlight promises to be met with enthusiasm and anticipation from fans worldwide.

In addition to their striking hairstyles, RIIZE’s backstage group photos further fueled excitement among fans. The members’ camaraderie and undeniable chemistry were on full display, showcasing their strong bond and solidarity as a group. As fans shared and commented on the photos, the sense of anticipation for RIIZE’s future activities continued to grow.

What’s Next for RIIZE?

Amidst their evolving appearance and upcoming comeback, RIIZE received another momentous opportunity to showcase their talent on the global stage. The announcement of their participation in the prestigious Tecate Emblema 2024 music festival in Mexico City marked a significant milestone for the group and the K-pop industry as a whole. As the first K-pop act to perform at the renowned festival, RIIZE’s inclusion underscores the genre’s growing influence and appeal worldwide.

Set to perform alongside an impressive lineup of international and local artists, RIIZE’s presence at the festival highlights their rising stature in the global music scene. Sharing the stage with acclaimed acts such as Sam Smith, Måneskin, and Calvin Harris, RIIZE has the opportunity to showcase their music to a diverse and expansive audience, further solidifying their position as a powerhouse in the industry.

With their captivating new hairstyles, backstage camaraderie, and upcoming performance at the Tecate Emblema festival, RIIZE continues to garner attention and admiration from fans and industry insiders alike. As they embark on this exciting new chapter in their careers, the future looks brighter than ever for this talented K-pop group.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

RIIZE Wonbin Celebrates Birthday By Sharing Photos From Trainee Days

Wonbin is officially 22, and he had an awesome surprise for his fans! To celebrate his birthday, the RIIZE member shared photos from his trainee days!

RIIZE’s Wonbin Offers Glimpse at Trainee Days

On March 2, 2022, RIIZE’s Wonbin celebrated his 22nd birthday, marking another milestone in his journey as an idol. Unlike many idols who debut in their late teens, Wonbin entered the industry at the age of 21, a decision that resonated with fans who appreciate the group’s composition of all-adult members. As fans celebrated his birthday, Wonbin decided to gift them with a glimpse into his past by sharing some precious pictures and videos from his pre-debut days.

In these throwback images and clips, Wonbin’s timeless visuals remain strikingly familiar, showcasing a youthful version of himself at around 18 or 19 years old. His handsome features and charming side profile are as captivating then as they are now, eliciting admiration from fans who marvel at his consistency over the years. Moreover, his playful and silly personality shines through, revealing a side of Wonbin that fans have grown to adore.

However, behind the glamour of his present-day success lies a journey fraught with challenges and moments of self-doubt. During a candid conversation with fellow RIIZE member Sohee in Paris, Wonbin opened up about the struggles he faced as a trainee, admitting that he almost quit due to the intense pressure and competition.

Did Wonbin Consider Quitting as a Trainee?

His vulnerability shed light on the harsh realities of the entertainment industry, where trainees constantly grapple with feelings of inadequacy and comparison to their peers.

The presence of talented peers like Sungchan and Eunseok served as both inspiration and intimidation for Wonbin, highlighting the fierce competition inherent in the industry. Despite the challenges, Wonbin’s determination and resilience ultimately propelled him forward, leading to his debut as a member of RIIZE.

Wonbin’s journey serves as a testament to the strength of his character and his unwavering passion for music and performance. As he continues to grow and evolve as an artist, fans remain steadfast in their support, inspired by his authenticity and courage in facing adversity.

As Wonbin celebrates another year of life and success, his journey serves as a reminder that every obstacle overcome and every moment of doubt conquered only adds to the depth of his story. With each step forward, he paves the way for others to find solace and strength in their own struggles, making him not just an idol, but a source of inspiration for fans worldwide.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

RIIZE To Perform Tecate Emblema 2024 In Mexico City

It’s official: RIIZE is headed for Mexico City! The idol group has been confirmed to perform at the upcoming Tecate Emblema 2024!

RIIZE Confirmed for Tecate Emblema 2024

The announcement of RIIZE’s inclusion in the prestigious Tecate Emblema 2024 music festival lineup marks a historic moment not only for the group but also for the K-pop industry as a whole. As the first K-pop artist set to perform at the renowned festival in Mexico City, RIIZE is poised to make a significant impact on the global music scene and further solidify K-pop’s presence on the international stage.

Scheduled to perform on Day 1 of the festival, which spans two days at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, RIIZE joins a stellar lineup of both international and local artists. With headliners such as Sam Smith, Måneskin, Marshmello, Calvin Harris, Christina Aguilera, and Nelly Furtado, RIIZE’s inclusion underscores their growing influence and popularity in the global music industry.

RIIZE-ing to Fame

The news comes as a testament to RIIZE’s rapid ascent since their debut in September 2023 with the single album ‘Get a Guitar’. Despite being a relatively new entrant into the K-pop scene, RIIZE has garnered attention and acclaim for their dynamic performances, catchy music, and charismatic members. With six current members—Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Sohee, and Anton—RIIZE has captured the hearts of fans worldwide and continues to captivate audiences with their unique blend of music and style. It is still unclear whether Seunghan, who is currently in hiatus, will join them in Mexico City.

For RIIZE, the opportunity to perform at Tecate Emblema represents a milestone achievement and a chance to showcase their talents on a global platform. As they prepare to take the stage in Mexico City, the members of RIIZE are undoubtedly filled with excitement and anticipation, eager to deliver an unforgettable performance that will leave a lasting impression on festival-goers and music enthusiasts alike.

Moreover, RIIZE’s participation in Tecate Emblema highlights the increasing global reach and influence of K-pop, demonstrating its ability to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries. By breaking new ground and paving the way for future K-pop acts, RIIZE continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the international music landscape and inspiring fans around the world.

As fans eagerly await RIIZE’s performance at Tecate Emblema, the anticipation and excitement surrounding the event serve as a testament to the group’s rising popularity and the bright future that lies ahead for K-pop on the global stage.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

RIIZE Wonbin Reveals Why He Almost Quit as a Trainee

In the competitive world of K-pop, where aspiring idols are surrounded by seemingly endless talent and beauty, the journey to success can often feel like an uphill battle. Wonbin’s candid confession that he almost quit as a trainee in the latest episode of ‘RIIZE in Paris’ shed light on the internal struggles that many trainees face on their path to debut.

Wonbin Reveals Why He Almost Quit RIIZE

As a member of RIIZE, a rising K-pop group under the spotlight, Wonbin’s admission of feeling inadequate before his debut resonated with viewers. In a vulnerable moment shared with fellow member Sohee during a car ride in Paris, Wonbin revealed the depth of his insecurities upon entering the entertainment industry. He recounted a pivotal moment when he reached out to his parents, overwhelmed by self-doubt and a sense of inferiority.

Wonbin’s revelation highlighted the immense pressure placed on trainees to measure up to the standards set by their peers. In an environment where talent, looks, and skill abound, it’s all too easy for self-doubt to creep in. The presence of fellow RIIZE members Sungchan and Eunseok, who impressed Wonbin with their striking appearance and exceptional dancing abilities, served as a stark reminder of the fierce competition within the industry.

The vulnerability displayed by Wonbin humanized the idol journey, reminding fans that behind the glamour and success lies a multitude of emotions and challenges. His honesty resonated with viewers who may have experienced similar feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt in their own pursuits.

The Struggle to Stardom

Wonbin’s journey serves as a testament to resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. Despite his initial struggles and doubts, he ultimately found his place within RIIZE, showcasing his own unique talents and charm. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring idols and fans alike, demonstrating the importance of staying true to oneself and pushing through obstacles to achieve one’s dreams.

As ‘RIIZE in Paris’ continues to document the group’s journey, Wonbin’s candid confession serves as a powerful reminder of the human experience behind the glitz and glamour of the K-pop industry. It’s a testament to the strength of character and the unwavering determination required to succeed in an environment where the stakes are high and the competition fierce.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

IU Confirms Unexpectedly Long Friendship with RIIZE Anton

IU has been in the entertainment industry for several years but it looks like she has an unexpectedly long friendship with a rookie! The soloist confirmed she has known RIIZE member Anton for a lot longer than expected.

IU Has Unexpectedly Long Friendship with RIIZE’s Anton

IU’s recent comeback sparked a wave of excitement among her devoted fans, who wasted no time in launching the “IStanU” challenge to celebrate the occasion. Among the unexpected participants in this viral challenge was RIIZE’s very own Anton, who took to his group’s social media platforms to showcase his support for the iconic singer-songwriter.

Anton’s involvement in the “IStanU” challenge garnered significant attention, particularly after IU herself acknowledged his participation. The acclaimed artist not only watched Anton’s challenge but also took the time to repost a screenshot of it on her Instagram account, accompanied by words of praise. In her caption, IU commended Anton, affirming that he was “totally a pro” and showcasing her genuine appreciation for his efforts.

What makes Anton’s participation in the challenge even more noteworthy is the longstanding connection between IU and his family. IU’s close relationship with Anton’s father, Yoon Sang, has been well-documented over the years, with the two artists sharing a deep bond that transcends their respective careers in the music industry. As a result, IU has played a significant role in Anton’s life, offering support and guidance as he navigates his own path in the entertainment world.

Friends Since Pre-Debut

Prior to Anton’s debut as a member of RIIZE, he shared fond memories of spending time with IU, including a memorable meal they shared together and a generous gift of Louis Vuitton shoes from the esteemed singer. IU’s support for Anton extends beyond mere social media interactions, as evidenced by her decision to follow his personal Instagram account even before his official debut.

The enduring friendship between IU and Anton serves as a heartwarming testament to the genuine connections forged within the entertainment industry. Despite their busy schedules and demanding careers, IU and Anton have maintained a strong bond rooted in mutual respect, admiration, and shared experiences. As IU continues to inspire audiences with her music and artistry, it’s clear that her impact extends far beyond the stage, touching the lives of those fortunate enough to call her a friend.

As IU and Anton’s friendship continues to thrive, fans eagerly anticipate the possibility of future collaborations and interactions between the two artists. In the meantime, their heartwarming exchange on social media stands as a touching reminder of the power of genuine connections and the enduring influence of friendship in the world of entertainment.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

RIIZE Release ‘Love 119’ Japanese Ver

RIIZE has officially unveiled the music video for “Love 119” Japanese Ver. Interestingly, the new MV is not very different from the original version.

RIIZE Sets Sights on International Success with “Love 119” Japanese Ver

Following the triumph of the Korean original, RIIZE is gearing up to enchant a wider audience with the Japanese rendition of “Love 119,” showcasing the group’s musical prowess and aiming for increased global recognition. The song, originally celebrated for its irresistible melody and heartfelt lyrics, is expected to resonate with listeners on an international scale.

“Love 119” is a pop dance track that draws inspiration from izi’s “Emergency Room,” infusing RIIZE’s distinctive style into the song. The Japanese version retains the catchy tunes and nostalgic themes, presenting a fresh take on the well-received original. The piano riff interplays with a rhythmic drum line, creating an atmospheric and captivating musical experience.

RIIZE made their debut in September with “Get A Guitar,” immediately gaining attention for their musicality and dynamic performances. Despite facing challenges, such as member Seunghan’s indefinite hiatus announced by SM Entertainment in November, RIIZE has persevered with the remaining six members—Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Sohee, and Anton. Their January comeback also marked a significant moment in the group’s evolution.

Notably, RIIZE, along with ZEROBASEONE, clinched the prestigious New Artist of the Year award at the 2023 Melon Music Awards. This achievement also solidified their position within SM Entertainment’s roster, joining the ranks of past winners like SHINee and Super Junior. The recognition underscores RIIZE’s promising trajectory and potential for continued success.

As RIIZE unveils the Japanese version of “Love 119,” the group’s dedication to musical excellence and global outreach becomes increasingly evident. With their knack for catchy tunes, captivating performances, and a resilient spirit, RIIZE is also poised to leave a lasting impact on the international music scene, captivating audiences with their distinctive sound and artistic flair.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Yoon Sang Refutes Nepotism Claims About RIIZE’s Anton

Yoon Sang, a highly acclaimed musician in South Korea, recently appeared on tvN’s You Quiz on the Block. He was joined by his son Yoon Chan Young, who debuted in SM Entertainment’s new boy group RIIZE as Anton.

@riize.city

Part 3 | So Anton & his mom persistently asked Yoonsan permission to be an Idon for 1 year! Woww #anton #앤톤 #yoonsang #윤상 #riize #라이즈 #youquizontheblock

♬ original sound – RIIZE city – RIIZE city

Yoon Sang denied involvement in his son’s career

Yoon Sang’s reputation in the music industry is well-established. He started his career in the 1980s and gained fame for blending various genres, including pop, electronic, and classical music. Over the years, Yoon Sang worked on numerous musical projects, both on his own and with other artists. In fact, he has produced and written songs for some of SM Entertainment’s top acts, including BoA and TVXQ.

Because of Yoon Sang’s ties to SM Entertainment, some have accused Anton of trading on his father’s name to become famous. These speculations have followed the idol since his debut with RIIZE in September 2023. So when the father-son duo sat down with You Quiz on the Block host Yoo Jae Suk, they seized the opportunity to clear the air.

@riize.city

Part 4 | ANTON IS “AUDITION” TO SM Yeorobuun!!! #anton #앤톤 #yoonsang #윤상 #riize #라이즈 #youquizontheblock

♬ original sound – RIIZE city – RIIZE city

During the interview, Yoo Jae Suk asked Anton how he got into SM Entertainment as a trainee. Anton replied that he won a spot on the agency’s roster after passing several auditions. Eventually, his hard work paved the way for him to get into RIIZE. Yoo Jae Suk expressed his surprise, saying, “Wow, you auditioned after signing up by yourself? Well, people have said Yoon Sang got you in.”

In response, Yoon Sang remarked, “Whenever I hear such things, I always think that people really don’t know how the world works.” With that one statement, he indirectly denied any involvement in his son’s career.

@riize.city

Part 5 | Riize introduce by Yoonsang & performing Love 119 & Get a guitar at You Quiz on the Block #riize #라이즈 #youquizontheblock #anton #앤톤 #yoonsang #윤상

♬ Love 119 – RIIZE

Important perspectives

This wasn’t the first time Anton and Yoon Sang addressed the nepotism allegations. A few weeks ago, Anton went viral for his response to a netizen calling him a “nepo baby,” a derogatory term used to describe those who purportedly benefit career-wise from their famous or successful parents. This happened after he and his father performed together at the 2023 Gayo Daejejeon.

The debate on nepotism in entertainment is complicated, but Anton and Yoon Sang offer important perspectives. They counter the common beliefs and rumors about artists with connections or family ties in the industry. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Anton and Yoon Sang say the K-pop idol got into SM on his own merits. Source: X/@soonkyut.

Exit mobile version