Tag: SEVENTEEN

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SEVENTEEN’s Jeonghan to Take Temporary Hiatus Following Ankle Surgery

Jeonghan poses for the group's 2024 Season's Greetings. Credit: Facebook/SEVENTEEN

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

Na PD releases a highlight teaser for SEVENTEEN's 'Nana Tour.' Credit: YouTube/Channel Fullmoon

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 Music” singers 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

The quartet poses during their 'Born Pink' encore concert in Seoul. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

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

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

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’

NewJeans poses for their 2024 Season's Greetings. Credit: Twitter/NewJeans

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 “Spicy” and BTS Jungkook’s “Seven” feat. 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's Joshua poses with a product from Givenchy Beauty.' Credit: Twitter/Givenchy Beauty

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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BTS and BLACKPINK Are the Most Streamed K-Pop Groups on Spotify in 2023

BTS during their 'Permission to Dance' concert. Credit: Facebook/BTS

Did you make it to the Top 1% listeners of your favorite K-pop acts? On Thursday, November 29, Spotify unveiled its compilation of the most streamed K-pop artists and songs for the year 2023. 

For those unfamiliar, the Spotify Wrapped feature is an annual end-of-the-year event wherein the music giant showcases the top artists, songs, albums, and podcasts in their streaming platform. 

As for the most streamed K-pop artists, BTS reigned supreme, securing the coveted top spot again. Within the same category, Jungkook and Jimin claimed the third and sixth positions, respectively. Both BTS members released their solo debut albums this year—Jungkook with Golden and Jimin with Face—and set Guinness World Records for their individual releases. 

Meanwhile, BLACKPINK earned the title of the most streamed girl group of the year, and ranked second to BTS in the top 10. Overall, the Top 10 most streamed K-pop artists include four boy groups, four girl groups, and two solo artists. 

In terms of the most streamed K-pop songs, Jungkook clinched the top spot with his debut solo track “Seven (feat. Latto).” Additionally, Jimin’s “Like Crazy” secured the third position on the list. Interestingly, they’re the only entries in the Top 10 that came from a male act. Other entries in the Top 10 were mainly from female acts, with NewJeans securing four entries out of 10. 

Furthermore, Jungkook’s “Seven” also dominated the worldwide charts, ranking fourth at the most streamed song globally. According to Spotify, the only songs that racked up more Spotify streams in 2023 were Miley Cyrus’ “Flowers,” SZA’s “Kill Bill,” and Harry Styles’ “As It Was.”  What makes this achievement even more impressive is that “Seven” was only released in mid-July. 

Top songs, artists for 2023 according to Spotify Korea

Spotify’s Top 10 Most Streamed K-pop Artists are:

  1. BTS
  2. BLACKPINK
  3. Jungkook
  4.  NewJeans
  5. Stray Kids
  6. Jimin
  7. TWICE
  8.  SEVENTEEN
  9. TOMORROW X TOGETHER
  10. LE SSERAFIM

Meanwhile, the Top 10 Most Streamed K-pop Songs are:

  1. Jungkook “Seven“
  2. FIFTY FIFTY “Cupid“
  3. Jimin “Like Crazy“
  4. NewJeans “OMG“
  5. NewJeans “Ditto“
  6. NewJeans “Super Shy”
  7. Lisa “Money“
  8. Jisoo “Flower“
  9.  BLACKPINK “Shut Down”
  10. NewJeans “Hype Boy”

Featured image: BTS during their ‘Permission to Dance’ concert. Credit: Facebook/BTS

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HYBE Artists Win Big at Mama Awards 2023

NewJeans poses for their 2024 Season's Greetings. Credit: Twitter/NewJeans

HYBE-affiliated artists dominated the 2023 MAMA Awards, with K-pop groups BTS, SEVENTEEN, and NewJeans taking home the big prizes for the prestigious two-day event held in Japan. 

For those unfamiliar, the MAMA Awards, which is organized by CJ ENM, primarily celebrate outstanding achievements in the music industry, and put the spotlight on K-pop talents. 

During the ceremonies on November 28 and 29 at the Tokyo Dome, rookie girl group NewJeans took home two coveted Daesang” (grand prizes). These are for Artist of the Year and Song of the Year with their hit single “Ditto.” 

Meanwhile, SEVENTEEN secured the Album of the Year award for their April release, FML. Notably, this is the 13-member group’s first Daesang for MAMA Awards in their career.

In a groundbreaking milestone, the global sensation BTS claimed the Worldwide Icon of the Year award, marking their sixth consecutive win in this category. With their recent wins, the septet made history as the first artist to amass 50 MAMA trophies.

Despite the absence of BTS members at the event, Jungkook, the group’s youngest member, expressed gratitude in a pre-recorded video message. “We are immensely grateful for our ARMYs’ steadfast love,” he said. “Although we are not all here today, we will reunite as a stronger one soon. Until then, stay healthy and joyful at every moment.” 

Given these, all three Daesang recipients—BTS, SEVENTEEN, and NewJeans—emerge from HYBE, the entertainment conglomerate encompassing diverse sub-labels. To note, BTS is under Big Hit Music, SEVENTEEN is under Pledis Entertainment, and NewJeans under ADOR. 

With the HYBE family sweeping the 2023 MAMA Awards, it underscores their collective dominance and influence in the dynamic realm of Asian music.

MAMA Awards 2023 Winners

Meanwhile, the rest of the winners are: 

  • Best Male Group: SEVENTEEN 
  • Best Female Group:  NewJeans
  • Best Male Artist: BTS’ Jimin 
  • Best Female Artist: BLACKPINK’s Jisoo
  • Best Dance Performance (Male Group): SEVENTEEN
  • Best Dance Performance (Female Group): NewJeans 
  • Best Dance Performance (Male Solo): BTS’ Jungkook
  • Best Dance Performance (Female Solo): BLACKPINK’s Jisoo
  • Best Vocal Performance (Group): AKMU
  • Best Vocal Performance (Solo): Parc Jae Jung 
  • Favorite Dance Performance (Male Group): TREASURE
  • Favorite Dance Performance (Female Group):  LE SSERAFIM
  • Favorite Global Performer (Male Group): ATEEZ
  • Favorite Global Performer (Female Group): (G)I-DLE
  • Best New Male Artist:  ZEROBASEONE
  • Best New Female Artist: TripleS
  • Best Music Video: BLACKPINK’s Jisoo (“Flower“)
  • Best OST: BTS (“The Planet“)
  • Best Rap & Hip Hop Performance: Agust D (“People Pt.2” feat. IU)
  • Best Collaboration:  BTS’ Jungkook (“Seven” feat. Latto)
  • Favorite New Artist – RIIZE, ZEROBASEONE
  • Favorite International Artist: Yoshiki
  • Favorite Asian Girl Group: Kep1er
  • Favorite Asian Boy Group: INI 
  • Inspiring Achievement: TVXQ
  • Galaxy Neo Flip Artist: TREASURE

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

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SEVENTEEN’s Dino Reacts to Unexpected Dating Question

Dino had a hilarious reaction to being asked an unexpected dating question. The SEVENTEEN maknae was recently asked if he is seeing anyone and Lee Chan’s reaction endeared him even more to his fans!

Dino Reacts to Unexpected Dating Question

SEVENTEEN’s Dino recently appeared on Kim Jaejoong’s show “Jaefriends” where he became the center of attention for his candid response to a question about dating. Known for his exceptional skills as an all-around idol, Dino has captured the hearts of fans with his talents in vocals, rap, dance, visuals, and charisma since his debut.

During the episode, Kim Jaejoong playfully asked Dino about his dating experiences, a topic that often sparks curiosity and speculation in the K-pop industry. The question seemed to catch Dino off guard, evident in his confused reaction. With a seasoned approach gained from years in the industry, Dino diplomatically explained that he understands the feeling of “liking someone” without delving into specific details.

Jaejoong continued the light-hearted banter by revealing, “I’m currently dating someone. But my fans know.” The statement, a common trope in the K-pop world where idols humorously claim to be in a relationship with their fans, momentarily left Dino surprised. He quickly caught on and responded with a touch of humor, saying, “There was an answer you wanted to hear?” and then playfully shared that he is dating CARATs, SEVENTEEN’s dedicated fanbase.

Dating in the K-pop Industry

Dino’s adorable and genuine reaction to the unexpected dating question endeared him to fans even more. The lighthearted exchange showcased Dino’s down-to-earth personality and ability to navigate playful moments on variety shows. Netizens appreciated his sincerity and found the interaction between Dino and Jaejoong amusing, highlighting the human side of idols when faced with an unexpected dating question.

As SEVENTEEN continues to engage with fans through various media appearances, moments like these contribute to the group’s connection with audiences. Dino’s endearing response on “Jaefriends” adds to the list of memorable and relatable moments that fans cherish, further solidifying his status as an idol loved for both his talent and personality.

Dino is currently promoting his first solo mixtape ‘Wait’ and the single of the same name.

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SEVENTEEN Shares Inspiring Message at Historical Appearance in UNESCO Youth Forum

SEVENTEEN makes history at UNESCO Youth Forum in Paris. Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

Breaking new ground, K-pop powerhouse SEVENTEEN recently delivered an inspiring message of unity and optimism at the 13th UNESCO Youth Forum in Paris. This marked a historic moment as SEVENTEEN became the first K-pop act to address an entire session at a significant UNESCO event, held alongside the UNESCO General Assembly.

On Tuesday, November 14, at the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, several SEVENTEEN members – Seungkwan, Jun, Woozi, Mingyu, Joshua, and Vernon took the stage during a special session. 

Apart from their impactful speeches, the group also performed their uplifting hits such as “WORLD,” “Darl+ing,” “Headliner,” and “God of Music.” Notably, they also surprised fans with an English version of their song “Together,” which only had Korean and Japanese versions before. 

SEVENTEEN looks back on their career

 As the first speaker, member Seungkwan reflected on his journey from a boy with big dreams on a World Heritage island to standing before the UNESCO headquarters. 

Next is Jun, who talked about the group’s camaraderie. Speaking in his native language Chinese, he shared how they overcame distance to become a united team facing challenges together. “Because we were so far from each other, I never imagined that we could grow to become friends with our hands joined for all challenges to come,” he said. “We may not be perfect as individuals, but together, we are the best team SEVENTEEN.”  

Meanwhile, Woozi, who served as the group’s producer and vocal unit leader, recalled how many doubted them when they were starting. “Others liked to say that 13 members was too many for a boy band. Many also believed our average age, which was 17 at the time of our debut, made us too young. That we wouldn’t get along, and that we would have a hard time finding and building our original sound. But we were too young to be discouraged.” 

Following that, he spoke about the gradual formation of SEVENTEEN’s identity through shared passions and strengths. Moreover, he also  expressed gratitude and acknowledged each member’s contributions individually.

On the group’s advocacy 

As for the remaining half of SEVENTEEN speakers, the members talked about the initiatives that their group had for certain causes. 

For instance, Mingyu, in his address, highlighted the group’s commitment to philanthropy. During their first anniversary, he recalled that they donated 13 goats to children in Tanzania with the money they earned as a group.

Since then, he shared that the group had been making annual donations. “We do it because we want to make sure that no young people, no matter who they are, or who they’re coming from, ever give up on their dreams or get discouraged,” he said. 

Meanwhile Joshua discussed SEVENTEEN’s collaboration with the Korean National Commission for UNESCO and the #GoingTogether campaign. In his speech, he recognized the crucial role of their fans, CARATs, in supporting educational initiatives. Moreover, he hoped that their group’s actions through UNESCO would inspire young people globally. 

To wrap up the session, Vernon introduced the songs performed at the forum using lyrics from SEVENTEEN’s discography. Through this, he expressed their hope that their stories and music would resonate with the audience.

Following their appearance at the UNESCO Youth Forum, their fans quickly took to social media to express how proud they are of SEVENTEEN. Additionally, UNESCO HQ also recorded their largest-ever crowd for Youth Forum ahead of the K-pop group’s appearance. 

Featured image: SEVENTEEN makes history at UNESCO Youth Forum in Paris. Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

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