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SEVENTEEN Drops Trot Single ‘God of Light Music’

The theater kids of K-pop are now into the trot genre! On Tuesday, December 26, boy group SEVENTEEN celebrated Christmas by dropping their first trot single “God of Light Music.”

For those unfamiliar, “God of Light Musicis meant to be a parody of the “God of Music” — the title track of the group’s album SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN. 

Since it was created through the group’s variety series Going Seventeen (GoSe) as a fake promotion, fans were surprised to see the song released on official streaming platforms.

In the two-part special GoSe episode, Dino channeled his ahjussi character Pi Cheolin. As this character, he pretended to set up his agency, BOMG, with the help of producer Woozi.

Another proof that they are indeed “self-producing idols,” the group shared their process in creating “God of Light Music.” Notably, the parody track featured lyrics by the members themselves, particularly by Mingyu and Jun.

 

Undoubtedly, the group’s fandom, Carats, found the said track hilarious. Therefore, many expressed their plea to have the official release of “God of Light Music”.

“There were many requests to release the music of ‘God of Light Music,’ which was originally made as a promotional content for SEVENTEEN’s comeback,” the group’s agency, PLEDIS Entertainment said in a press release.

Alongside the release of “God of Light Music were also several releases. One of which is the instrumental version, as well as the trot remix of “God of Music.”

Notably, trot is well-known as a popular genre of Korean music, due to its distinct repetitive rhythms. With this, God of Light Musicserves as the latest addition to SEVENTEEN’s long and versatile discography.

More to come for SEVENTEEN

Aside from the newly released single, SEVENTEEN has another gift prepared for fans. On January 5, the group’s variety show with renowned producer Na Young Suk titled Nana Tour will finally be released.

To recall, Nana Tour, with the full title of Let’s Go Together: Nana Tour with SEVENTEEN” is set to showcase the members’ wits alongside Na PD’s entertainment expertise.

In the show, the members explore scenic spots in Europe while playing various games and activities along the way. Said program will have a total of six episodes, with about a 60-minute duration per episode.

In addition, the “Super” hitmakers are also set to meet their international fans for the Asia stop of their Follow world Tour. However, SEVENTEEN will continue performing with 11 members, as S.Coups and Jeonghan are currently on hiatus due to health concerns.

Featured image: SEVENTEEN releases ‘God of Light Music’ in official streaming platforms. Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

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SEVENTEEN’s S.Coups Drops ‘Me’ MV as Year-End Gift to Fans

S.Coups, the leader of SEVENTEEN, surprised CARATS with a sweet year-end gifta new song titled “Me.” The release of this song, accompanied by a music video, serves as a thoughtful present from Choi Seungcheol to the fans who have eagerly awaited his return.

S.Coups Releases ‘Me’ MV as Year-End Gift for CARATS

“Me” is not only a heartfelt expression of S.Coups’ feelings but also a powerful track that showcases his artistic prowess. The song was written and composed by S.Coups in collaboration with BUMZU, SEVENTEEN’s longtime producer. The release of “Me” offers fans a glimpse into the leader’s musical style and a meaningful connection with him during his absence from SEVENTEEN’s recent activities.

S.Coups had been on a hiatus from SEVENTEEN’s promotional activities due to a health condition. In October, PLEDIS Entertainment announced that S.Coups would not be participating in the promotions for ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN’, the group’s latest album. This decision was made in consideration of his health, as he had sustained a tear in his left anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) while filming for a show in August. The vulnerability of his knee necessitated a comprehensive medical examination, leading to the decision to prioritize his recovery and well-being.

S.Coups’ Absence in Recent SEVENTEEN Activities

Despite S.Coups’ strong desire to participate in SEVENTEEN’s activities, the agency, in consultation with medical professionals, chose to prioritize his health and avoid any physical taxing activities that could hinder his recovery. The fans, known as CARATS, have shown understanding and support for this decision, emphasizing the importance of the health and well-being of the members.

SEVENTEEN, despite S.Coups’ temporary absence, has continued to achieve remarkable success. Their latest album ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN’, recorded over 5.2 million pre-orders, making it the most pre-ordered K-pop album in history. Additionally, the group received their first MAMA Awards Daesang for Album of the Year on November 29, marking a significant achievement in their illustrious career.

The release of “Me” by S.Coups serves as a meaningful bridge between the artist and CARATS, providing fans with a special connection and a heartfelt musical gift as they eagerly await S.Coups’ full return to SEVENTEEN’s activities.

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SEVENTEEN’s ‘Pretty U’ Hits 100M Streams on Spotify

Global boy band SEVENTEEN has added another illustrious achievement to their repertoire, as their 2016 hit single “Pretty U” crossed the remarkable milestone of 100 million streams on Spotify. The momentous occasion, which unfolded on December 22 KST, marks the ninth song by SEVENTEEN to reach this substantial stream count on the popular music streaming platform.

‘Pretty U’ Finally Reaches 100 Million Spotify Streams

“Pretty U” holds a special place in SEVENTEEN’s discography, having been released on April 25, 2016, as the title track of their first full-length album ‘Love & Letter’. The infectious charm of the song, combined with SEVENTEEN’s signature blend of vocal harmonies and dynamic choreography, catapulted it to success. Notably, “Pretty U” secured the group their first two consecutive wins on “Show Champion” in May 2016, further solidifying its impact and resonance with fans.

Beyond the domestic accolades, “Pretty U” also made its mark internationally by charting at an impressive number three on Billboard’s World Digital Songs chart. This achievement marked a significant milestone for Seventeen at the time, showcasing their growing global influence and setting the stage for their continued success on the international stage.

The fact that it took “Pretty U” approximately 7 years and 7 months to amass 100 million streams underscores the enduring popularity and longevity of SEVENTEEN’s music. This achievement is a testament to the sustained dedication and loyalty of their fanbase, known as CARATs, who have continued to support the group’s music throughout the years.

SEVENTEEN’s journey on Spotify has been nothing short of remarkable, with “Pretty U” joining a prestigious lineup of other tracks, including “Super,” “HOT,” “Darl+ing,” “Rock with you,” “Left & Right,” “Don’t Wanna Cry,” “Very Nice,” and “Clap,” in the coveted 100 million streams club.

As SEVENTEEN continues to break barriers and set records, the achievement of 100 million streams for “Pretty U” serves as a celebration not only of the group’s musical prowess but also of the unwavering support and enthusiasm of their global fanbase. It signifies a beautiful synergy between the artists and their fans, creating a legacy that transcends time and borders.

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SEVENTEEN’s S.Coups Donates 50M KRW to Shelter for Abandoned Pets

S.Coups, the fearless leader of the boy group SEVENTEEN, recently made another significant contribution to animal welfare. He donated 50 million KRW (approximately 38,500 USD) to Angels’ Nest, a private, non-profit shelter for abandoned animals in South Korea. His agency, PLEDIS Entertainment, revealed what he did.

A warm and healthy winter

Angels’ Nest will use S.Coups’s donation to care for the animals living in the shelter and cover their medical expenses. This shelter is a no-kill facility, meaning it doesn’t euthanize animals that haven’t been adopted yet. Currently, Angels’ Nest has about 200 animals in its care. It relies on donations and volunteers across various fields to sustain its operations.

In South Korea, animal shelters like Angels’ Nest play a key role in offering shelter, protection, and medical treatments for stray, sick, lost, or abandoned animals. These shelters often put animals up for adoption. After a certain period of time, they euthanize those no one adopts.

S.Coups’s donation comes at a crucial time for Angels’ Nest, and the people running it are deeply grateful for his help. “We are sincerely thankful for S.Coups’s benevolence,” the shelter expressed. “Thanks to his warm support, the animals can spend a warm and healthy winter.”

@cheolswallet

🥺🥰💖 #animalsoftiktok #dogsoftiktok #furbabies #kkuma #choiseungcheol #scoups #seungcheol #cutedogs #seventeen

♬ Original Sound – Unknown

S.Coups is a real animal lover

Known for his efforts to promote animal welfare, S.Coups’s actions are not surprising, especially considering how much he loves his own pet. Kkuma, a white Maltese dog, has been a major source of comfort and strength for S.Coups, especially when he went on hiatus for a while to focus on his mental health.

This isn’t the first time S.Coups has extended his support to animal welfare. In September, he donated 30 million KRW to the animal rescue organization WEACT to help save dogs from breeding farms. In February, he donated 20 million KRW to aid recovery efforts after a massive earthquake hit Turkey and Syria.

S.Coups’s acts of kindness underscore the ongoing need for support and attention to animal welfare issues in South Korea. The efforts of organizations like Angels’ Nest are crucial in addressing these issues. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: S.Coups is a dog lover through and through. Source: The Korea Times, X/@rubykies777.

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SEVENTEEN’s Jeonghan to Take Temporary Hiatus Following Ankle Surgery

Jeonghan of K-pop boy group SEVENTEEN will temporarily take a break from participating in upcoming activities as he has recently undergone ankle surgery. 

On Thursday, December 14, PLEDIS Entertainment revealed the singer’s condition through a statement posted on the fan community Weverse. According to the agency, the SEVENTEEN member has “suffered an injury to his left ankle.” Although the label didn’t disclose when it occurred, they assured fans that the idol has been receiving “several conservative treatments” since then. 

Despite his condition, PLEDIS Entertainment shared that Jeonghan has been “highly determined to participate in all activities.” With this, the agency allowed him to push through with his schedule as long as he’s getting regular checkups on his ankle. 

However, the singer’s ankle pain has recently worsened as he continues to participate in the group’s ongoing FOLLOW concert tour. After a diagnosis from the medical staff, Jeonghan was admitted to the hospital on December 13 and promptly underwent surgery on the morning of December 14.

According to PLEDIS Entertainment, the “surgery was successful” and that the artist is currently recuperating. 

Following his current condition, the agency has decided to prioritize the artist’s recovery and rehabilitation first. As such, they continued that it will “be difficult for Jeonghan to participate in official activities.” Among the listed events that the idol will miss are the Asia leg of the group’s FOLLOW concerts. 

“We will do our very best to support Jeonghan’s treatment and recovery so he can meet the fans as his healthiest self again,” PLEDIS Entertainment said. 

Jeonghan assures fans 

After the official announcement, Jeonghan also took to Weverse to assure fans that he’s doing okay. 

“You must be worrying so much by now. My surgery went well and I’ll do my best at rehab,” he wrote. “But I’m okay so don’t worry. And I’m sorry to make you worried with things like this.”

Additionally, the singer also apologized to fans and fellow SEVENTEEN members for not being able to participate in group activities. “I’ll try my best to get better quickly. And I’ll try to get hurt less from now on,” he wrote. 

In the comments section, several SEVENTEEN members such as Seungkwan, Hoshi, S.coups, Joshua, and Vernon wrote their well-wishes for him. 

Aside from Jeonghan, SEVENTEEN’s leader S.coups is also currently on hiatus. In August, PLEDIS Entertainment announced that the rapper was diagnosed with a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). In October, the agency updated fans that he’s still receiving post-surgery care and doing rehabilitation exercises.

Because of his condition, S.coups wasn’t able to participate in the group’s comeback activities for their album SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN as well as filming for the travel variety show NANA Tour. 

With two members currently on hiatus, only 11 members of SEVENTEEN are partaking in the group’s activities.

Featured image: Jeonghan poses for the group’s 2024 Season’s Greetings. Credit: Facebook/SEVENTEEN

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SEVENTEEN’s ‘Nana Tour’ With Na PD Gets a Release Date

Carats, you’re about to start the new year right! SEVENTEEN’s new variety program Nana Tour has finally been revealed to premiere on January 5, warmly welcoming the year 2024. 

For those unfamiliar, Let’s Go Together: Nana Tour with SEVENTEEN is an upcoming travel show where the members and famous South Korean producer Na Young Suk explore Italy together. 

To note, the program is SEVENTEEN’s own version of Na PD’s famous Youth Over Flowers series. Said show is known for its unique aspect of tricking the unprepared celebrities into overseas trips. In its previous seasons, boy group WINNER, and actors from the dramas Reply 1988 and Reply 1994 have visited different countries across the world.

Interestingly, numerous clips of the SEVENTEEN getting “kidnapped” surfaced online last September. The quick Carats, SEVENTEEN’s fans, spotted the group at an airport accompanied by Na PD and a filming crew. 

In October, the group’s performance team leader Hoshi mentioned in a Weverse Live that they went to shoot the show after their concert in Japan. Later, it was revealed that the filming took place someplace in Europe. 

With the confirmation of the program’s airing, fans can’t wait to see the group’s bond with Na PD, as both are well-known for their entertainment tactics.

SEVENTEEN’s bond with Na PD

Carats are even more excited for Nana Tour as this will be SEVENTEEN and Na PD’s fourth project together.

The “God of Musicsingers and the famous producer first met on HYBE LABEL’s Game Caterers episodes. Although only members Joshua, Jun, Mingyu, Hoshi, Minghao, Seungkwan, and Dino made an appearance, SEVENTEEN showcased their variety skills alongside fellow artists under the agency.

After the HYBE series, SEVENTEEN finally appeared in complete attendance for their own Game Caterers series. With a total of eight episodes, the “theater kids of K-Pop” played a series of games where they showed their wits. Through this project, the group also gained their chance for the Youth Over Flowers program as the grand prize in the last episode.

In their latest work together, Na PD released two clips of his new program Wageul Wageul also known as Chattering with Na. There, the group and the producers of Nana Tour had a chit-chat over alcoholic drinks. In addition, the crew also celebrated SEVENTEEN’s comeback as well as Dino’s mixtape release.

What to expect for ‘Nana Tour’ 

On Friday, December 15, a five-minute highlight reel of Nana Tour was released. As this is the first look at the upcoming travel variety show, fans were definitely excited to see more of the group’s adventures in Italy. 

Notably, leader S.coups wasn’t able to participate in the show as he was already on a health-related hiatus when it was filmed. Despite being physically absent, the highlight revealed that the SEVENTEEN members made sure that they’ll include S.coups in the show. One clip showed the group calling him, while other clips featured standees of the rapper in several filming locations. 

As part of the variety show, Nana Tour will also be releasing official merchandise and photobooks that fans can avail.

Featured image: Na PD releases a highlight teaser for SEVENTEEN’s ‘Nana Tour.’ Credit: YouTube/Channel Fullmoon

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Billboard Names BLACKPINK as the Highest-Grossing K-Pop Tour in 2023

On Monday, December 11, Billboard published the top 10 highest-grossing K-Pop tours of 2023, and the phenomenal quartet BLACKPINK has just proved they’re still in the area!

According to Billboard, the official figures were recorded data between November 1, 2022 to September 30, 2023.

With a whopping $148.3 Million gross for 29 shows, the quartet topped the charts with their BORN PINK World Tour. According to the reports, the group composed of Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa have sold over 703,000 worldwide. With this, the “Shut Down” singers easily clinched the first spot in the list for the K-pop category. 

Moreover, BLACKPINK is also the only Asian act in the Top 10 of the All-Genre Top 100 Billboard List. In the global list, the group from YG Entertainment ranked 10th. 

Notably, this data only covers their arena and stadium performances across America, Europe, Mexico, and Australia. Since the group’s Asian stops were not reported, fans are claiming that the numbers should be higher for the group. 

Aside from BLACKPINK, here are the other acts who made it to the list: 

Meanwhile, Suga of BTS placed second with his SUGA Agust D world tour. Based on the reports, it earned $57.1 Million gross in 26 shows. Interestingly, Suga sold over 318,000 tickets for his first tour as a solo artist. What makes this achievement even more impressive is Suga is the only solo act to be part of the list. 

Following the two acts, K-pop groups TWICE, TOMORROW X TOGETHER, and SEVENTEEN took home the third, fourth, and fifth spots respectively. As for TWICE, the nine-piece act garnered a total of $54 Million in gross for 18 shows of their Born To Be World Tour. TXT and SEVENTEEN, both under HYBE LABELS, also earned around $46.8 Million and $43.3 Million in gross each.

Furthermore, groups from the 4th generation also took over for the rest of the list. Also under HYBE LABELS, ENHYPEN placed 6th with a $33 Million gross for 19 shows. Next are boy groups Stray Kids and ATEEZ with $16.1 Million gross and $13.9 Million gross, respectively.

Only three girl groups made it to the list. In the ninth place are Unforgiven” singers LE SERRAFIM who secured the spot with their first world tour “FLAME RISES” having garnered $8 Million gross.

Closing off the top 10 list is SM Entertainment’s NCT DREAM earning $7 Million gross and selling over 36,900 tickets for only four shows.

Congratulations to all groups included in the list!

Featured image: The quartet poses during their ‘Born Pink’ encore concert in Seoul. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

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SEVENTEEN Gets Emotional After Winning Their First Daesang at the Mama Awards

SEVENTEEN achieved a significant milestone at the 2023 MAMA Awards, clinching their first Daesang for Album of the Year with their 10th mini-album, FML.

Notably, it was the act’s third accolade from the award-giving body as they already triumphed in the Best Male Group and Best Dance Performance Male Group categories.

Furthermore, the impact of SEVENTEEN‘s win extended beyond their stellar performance, resonating deeply with fans, industry figures, and netizens alike. Actress Uhm Jung Hwa, who announced the final award of the night, couldn’t contain her emotions as she revealed the group’s well-deserved win for FML. “It’s finally them, everyone. It’s finally them,” she said, echoing the sentiments of devoted CARATs worldwide.

Notably, leader S.Coups, who had been on hiatus due to an injury since August, made a surprise appearance during the MAMA Awards. Such appearance, as well as all the members doing a group hug, intensified the emotional atmosphere.

SEVENTEEN members expressed their gratitude

In each members’ heartfelt speeches, they reminisced how their journey started from humble beginnings. In particular, Hoshi recalled how they weren’t able to take home any win during their first MAMA Awards appearance. But their daesang win has proven their monumental progress as they walked away with the grand prize nine years later. 

Meanwhile member DK admitted that he never even dreamt of receiving such a prestigious award in his life. “All 13 of us worked so hard until here and we’re going to continue doing so,” he said. 

Throughout the almost 10 minute speech, the members also visibly appeared to be holding back tears as they expressed their gratitude to fans and industry peers. 

Even Woozi, the group’s songwriter and producer, couldn’t contain his emotions as he looked back at their rough start. “Our group had a lot of fingers pointed at us at the beginning – that we won’t make it, that there’s too many of us so it won’t work. But it’s been over 10 years since I’ve been making music for SEVENTEEN. Now that it’s the 10th/11th year, I really thank CARATs for rewarding us with this moment,” he said. 

As the last speaker, Seungkwan also made sure to extend appreciation to fellow artists in the industry. “Whether or not you received an award, this job isn’t easy. But I hope we can keep supporting each other going forward,” he said. 

In a touching moment, Seungkwan remembered Moonbin, a close friend and supporter of SEVENTEEN. The ASTRO member passed away in April 2023 at the age of 25. “Thank you to my friend Binnie who has always loved and supported our team,” he added. 

Following the group’s win, many of their fans worldwide took to social media to commend SEVENTEEN for their touching speeches. 

Featured image: The group poses with their trophies after the MAMA Awards 2023. Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

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These Are the K-Pop Songs That Made It to Rolling Stone’s ‘Best Songs of 2023’

Several K-pop tracks have earned a place on Rolling Stone‘s prestigious list of “Best Songs of 2023,” underscoring the genre’s growing influence on the global music scene.

Of particular significance is NewJeans‘ exceptional achievement as the sole K-pop group featured in both the “Best Albums of 2023” and “Best Songs of 2023” categories by Rolling Stone. 

On December 1, the authoritative music media outlet unveiled its highly-anticipated list for “The 100 Best Songs of 2023.” For the first time, a total of nine K-pop releases were featured in the list. 

NewJeans‘ pre-released track and title song, “Super Shy, from their 2nd mini-album Get Up, secured an impressive 6th position. Notably this marked the highest-ranking K-pop song on the list. According to Rolling Stone, the particular track was a “breakthrough” for the girl group. “The song is one of the purest pop thrills of the year, with a dreamy melody,” they added. “In true K-pop fashion, the accompanying music video is just as captivating.” 

Prior to this ranking, NewJeans’ Get Up also secured the 33rd position in Rolling Stones “The 100 Best Album of 2023.” 

Other K-pop songs that made it to Rolling Stone’s list

Meanwhile, SEVENTEEN‘s “Super” claimed the 47th position. The title track from their 10th mini-album FML is the second-highest among K-pop songs. In their list, Rolling Stone praised the group’s inspiration drawn from Chinese mythological creature Sun Wukong. As well as using this as a metaphor for their impressive growth in their eight-year journey. 

Next K-pop songs that made it to the list are TWICE’s pre-released English single “Moonlight Sunrise,” from their 12th mini-album Ready to Be, which secured the 55th spot. 

Meanwhile, V of BTS earned the 58th position with his pre-released track Rainy Days” from his first solo album Layover. With this, Min Hee-jin, the producer of NewJeans and CEO of Ador, is the only Korean producer with two songs on the chart. To note, she also helped produce V’s solo debut album. 

Other K-pop songs on the list include BLACKPINK Jisoo’s solo debut song “Flower” at 67th spot and FIFTY FIFTY’s viral song “Cupid at the 75th spot. Also part of the roundup are XG at 77th with their title track “Left Right” from their third single Shooting Star. 

Placing 95 and 99, respectively, are aespa’s Spicyand BTS Jungkook’s “Sevenfeat. Latto. 

How do you feel about this ranking? Should there be more K-pop songs included in the list? 

Featured image: NewJeans poses for their 2024 Season’s Greetings. Credit: Twitter/NewJeans

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Look: Seventeen’s Joshua Is New Givenchy Beauty Ambassador

SEVENTEEN member Joshua has been tapped as the latest ambassador of cosmetic brand Givenchy Beauty. 

On Friday, December 1, Givenchy Beauty introduced the K-pop idol as the newest addition to their growing roster. Based on the photos and website, Joshua’s inaugural campaign will center around the theme of “Prism Libre” and “Prism Libre Skin Care Ring Corrector.” 

Notably, this isn’t the first time that Joshua has worked with Givenchy Beauty. To recall, he and fellow SEVENTEEN member Jun have previously appeared in a video for the brand. In the clip, they posed with the lipstick and perfume products from the Prism Libre collection. 

Now that he’s officially an ambassador for Givenchy Beauty, he’ll be joining the likes of Hyungwon from MONSTA X and Nayeon from TWICE

For Joshua, aligning with Givenchy Beauty felt like a natural fit, as he has long admired the brand. In his statement posted on the site, the SEVENTEEN member expressed his happiness in the new partnership. 

“I am very happy and honored to have been chosen as an ambassador for Givenchy Beauty, a brand that I have always loved. And at the same time, I am excited about my future endeavors. I feel that this is a unique yet witty side to it. I am very much looking forward to expressing myself together with such a brand,” he said. 

Meanwhile, Givenchy Beauty is also delighted with having the SEVENTEEN member onboard. According to the brand, the idol’s diverse charms resonated with their image.

“We believe that Joshua, a talented and creative artist, is the perfect personality to serve as Givenchy’s beauty ambassador and to represent the charm of Prism Libre,” the brand said. 

Eventful 2023 for Joshua 

Being the new brand ambassador of Givenchy Beauty is the latest addition to a jam-packed year for Joshua. In February, he also modeled for NBA Korea’s 23SS collection. In September, he attended the Paris Fashion Week for the brand Marni

Additionally, he also participated in the variety show Bro and Marble and featured in  SEVENTEEN’s remix collaboration with New Kids on The Block

All of these on top of SEVENTEEN’s activities – releasing million-seller albums FML and SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN.

Featured image: SEVENTEEN’s Joshua poses with a product from Givenchy Beauty.’ Credit: Twitter/Givenchy Beauty

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