Tag: STRAY KIDS

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Stray Kids’ Felix Becomes Youngest Member to Join UNICEF’s Honors Club

UNICEF Korea reveals Stray Kids' recent donation to the organization. Credit: Twitter/UNICEF Korea

On Thursday, January 4, UNICEF’s Korean Committee revealed that Felix of the K-pop boy group Stray Kids became the youngest member to join its esteemed Honors Club. 

Through the organization’s social media account, it was announced that Felix made a generous donation of 100 Million Won (around $76,000) to UNICEF. Said donation aims to assist children in Laos who are struggling with stunted physical development. 

Aside from being the youngest member, the 23-year-old rapper is also the first person to join the Honors Club in 2024. 

 

In a press release, Choi Mi Jin, the secretary general of UNICEF’s Korean committee, relayed his gratitude to the artist. “We thank Felix’s donation and for giving hope and courage to the children in Laos,” he said. Moreover, they also described the idol as a person who has “always taken the lead in donation activities for underprivileged neighbors.” 

In response, Felix said that he wanted to participate in this donation because he wanted to share the love he has been receiving. “We hope that Laos children, who suffer from various difficulties due to polluted water, hygienic conditions, and insufficient nutrition, will grow up healthy in a safer environment in the new year,” the singer said.

For those unfamiliar, UNICEF Korea’s Honors Club features a select group of donors who have contributed at least 100 million won to the organization as a support to their causes. In 2019, BTS’ Jin and Girls’ Day Hyeri became members of the UNICEF Honors Club. 

STAYs can’t help but be proud of Felix

Upon seeing the announcement, several fans took to social media to share their thoughts about Felix’s warm gestures.

“You truly do have a heart of gold. We are so proud of you,” one fan wrote. Meanwhile another said: “I am so proud Felix is heavily involved in helping children. Other fans also called the idol a good role model and an “angel.”

Moreover, fans couldn’t help but be awe by the idol as this isn’t his first philanthropic gesture. In February 2023, the Stray Kids member had donated 50 Million Won to the nongovernmental organization World Vision for the victims of earthquake in Turkey and Syria.

In March 2023, Felix was also appointed as a member of the Save the Children’s Honors Club. Since 2020, the singer has continuously shown support for the organization’s campaign. 

Featured image: UNICEF Korea reveals Stray Kids’ Felix recent donation to the organization. He is the youngest member to join the esteemed Honors Club. Credit: Twitter/UNICEF Korea

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Stray Kids Unveils Exciting Plans for 2024 in ‘STEP OUT’ Video

ray Kids kicked off 2024 with a bang by releasing their STEP OUT 2024 video at midnight KST on January 1. The video not only celebrates their achievements in 2023 but also serves as a preview of what lies ahead for the group and their fans.

SKZ “STEP OUT 2024”

Stray Kids’ 2023 achievements

Stray Kids made history on the Billboard charts in various ways. Their eighth EP ROCK-STAR went to No. 1 on the Billboard 200. Furthermore, its title track, “LALALALA,” charted on the Billboard Hot 100. Adding to their accolades, at the 2023 Billboard Music Awards, the group was honored with the Top K-Pop Album award for their third Korean-language studio album 5-STAR.

The group’s appearance at the 2023 MTV Music Video Awards was quite significant. They won the Best K-Pop award for their song “Thunderous” from 5-STAR.

Stray Kids‘ performance at Lollapalooza Paris in July 2023 was a historic moment for the group and for K-pop in general. They were the first K-pop act to headline this prestigious festival, which had an audience of 60,000. This performance not only showcased their musical talents but also their ability to engage with a large, diverse crowd.

Lollapalooza Paris 2023 | [Stray Kids : Docuseries]

Their plans for the year ahead

In the second segment of the STEP OUT 2024 video, the group unveiled a full slate of activities for the year ahead. They’re set to embark on their third world tour and hold their fourth fan meeting. They’re also preparing to release new material, which includes a new album, eight SKZ-PLAYER releases, and more content for 1Kid’s Room & 2Kids show. There will also be SKZOO pop-up stores in Busan and Seoul.

As fans are now aware of Stray Kids‘ upcoming activities, the excitement and anticipation for their third world concert are building up. Fans are hoping the group will add more dates to their tour so more STAYs can see them in person. They’re also excited for the upcoming fan meeting and are wondering what the members have in store for that particular activity.

Stray Kids’ agency JYP Entertainment is expected to release more details on the group’s plans soon. Watch this space for updates! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: It looks like the year ahead will be a busy one for Stray Kids! Source: X/@ABSCBNNews.

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Stray Kids’ Hyunjin Makes Surprise Appearance in aespa’s Dance Challenge Video

STRAY KIDS’ Hyunjin has made a surprise appearance in Giselle and Ningning’s “Drama” dance challenge. The unexpected interaction with the aespa members certainly created a delightful and amusing moment for fans.

Hyunjin’s Surprise Appearance in aespa’s TikTok Video Has Fans Laughing

Dance challenges have become a popular way for K-pop idols to engage with their fans and promote their releases. These challenges often lead to unexpected interactions between idols, adding an element of surprise and joy for fans.

In the case of STRAY KIDS, their dance challenges prior to the release of “S-CLASS” were primarily filmed with other JYP Entertainment artists. However, the landscape changed when NCT’s Taeyong joined the scene, contributing to a broader range of interactions between groups. Amazingly, it would lead to another awesome interaction, albeit an accidental one.

@aespa_official

#ImtheDrama with #TAEYONG 🤘💫 #NCT #NCT127 #태용 #aespa #에스파 #GISELLE #지젤 #NINGNING #닝닝 #Drama #aespaDrama #shorts

♬ Drama – aespa

Following the release of “Drama,” aespa engaged in numerous dance challenges with various artists. On December 28, aespa fulfilled another fan request by sharing a challenge video featuring NCT leader Taeyong during the 2023 SBS Gayo Daejeon. While the idols showcased their dance skills, fans couldn’t help but notice an unexpected guest in the background.

As Giselle, Ningning, and Taeyong passionately danced, Hyunjin made a surprise appearance around the corner, quickly retracting upon realizing that a video was being filmed. Fans were quick to spot Hyunjin’s impromptu cameo, finding his reaction amusing and endearing.

K-Pop Fans React to Hyunjin’s Surprise Appearance

Some fans playfully expressed their joy at witnessing Hyunjin’s unexpected participation in the dance challenge, even if it was from a distance.

The unplanned interaction between Hyunjin and aespa added a lighthearted and entertaining moment to the ongoing trend of dance challenges in the K-pop industry. Fans appreciated the humor and camaraderie between idols, showcasing the fun and friendly atmosphere within the K-pop community.

In related news, STRAY KIDS has been named one of the eight recipients of the prestigious Prime Minister’s Commendation for the 2023 Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards. This distinction is a significant recognition bestowed upon individuals and groups who have made substantial contributions to the promotion and dissemination of Korean culture.

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Stray Kids Felix Has Sad Reaction To Being ‘Disrespected’ During Fan Call

Fan calls have been a great way to interact with idols, especially for admirers who live in a different country. Unfortunately, not all fan calls are a great experience for the celebrity. Stray Kids member Felix was recently disrespected during a fan call and his sad reaction had STAYs up in arms.

Stray Kids Member Felix’s Sad Reaction to Disrespectful Fan Call

A recent fan call with Stray Kids’ Felix gained attention and sparked discussions about the need for better safeguards during virtual interactions between idols and fans. In a TikTok clip that has since been taken down, the fan told Felix that they needed to apologize to him because he used to be their bias, but they now favored another member. Felix, maintaining professionalism, responded with a smile, stating that he was used to being “cheated” on.

@z0.minh0

i found the fancall on twitter and i decided to put subtitles and to make fun of it because nuh uh #z0minh0 #felixstraykids #straykids #fancall #stay #kpop #fyp #skz

♬ original sound – asa

This incident is part of a broader issue where fan call winners misuse their opportunity to communicate with idols, exhibiting disrespectful or inappropriate behavior. In some cases, the artists’ staff members have had to intervene and prematurely end the call, but by then, the damage is already done.

Since the fan call, the Stray Kids fans reacted strongly, expressing their support for Felix and trending hashtags such as “JYPE PROTECT FELIX” and “RESPECT_FELIX.” STAYs are calling for JYP Entertainment, the agency representing Stray Kids, to implement more proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of their artists during virtual interactions.

The incident highlights the vulnerability of idols in these fan call scenarios and the need for enhanced security measures to prevent disrespectful or hurtful interactions. Fans are hopeful that future virtual events will include mechanisms to create a safer space for idols, protecting them from potentially distressing situations.

As virtual fan interactions become more prevalent, agencies may need to prioritize the mental well-being of their artists by implementing stricter guidelines and monitoring during these events. Establishing clear rules and consequences for inappropriate behavior can help create a more respectful and enjoyable experience for both idols and fans.

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‘2023 SBS Gayo Daejeon’ Reveals Special Collaboration Stages

The anticipation for the 2023 SBS Gayo Daejeon is reaching new heights! The event has revealed an exciting lineup of special collaboration stages that promise a night filled with diverse and captivating performances.

Special Collaboration Stages For SBS Gayo Daejeon Officially Announced

One of the highlights of the event will be a special stage featuring ITZY member Yuna and TXT’s Yeonjun, who will collaborate for performances of covers from two iconic K-pop groups BTS and BLACKPINK. The theme of their stage is titled “I am SOLO,” providing a retrospective look at the international success of solo activities within the K-pop industry throughout the year. The collaboration between members of the popular idol groups adds an extra layer of excitement for fans.

Another noteworthy joint stage is set to take place with NCT 127 and Stray Kids teaming up for a performance under the theme “LOVE & PEACE.” The collaboration between these two powerhouse boy groups is sure to bring a dynamic and energetic showcase to the stage.

Additionally, the event will feature a collaboration stage between (G)I-DLE and LE SSERAFIM, incorporating the theme “I AM FEARLESS.” This collaboration also aligns with the concepts of (G)I-DLE’s “I AM” album and LE SSERAFIM’s “FEARLESS,” promising a visually stunning and powerful performance.

Scheduled to take place on Christmas Day, December 25, at the INSPIRE Arena in Incheon, Korea, the 2023 SBS Gayo Daejeon is shaping up to be a grand celebration of K-pop talent and creativity. With a diverse lineup of special stages featuring popular groups and captivating themes, the event is also poised to provide fans with memorable moments and performances that showcase the industry’s vibrant and dynamic nature. As fans eagerly await the event, the anticipation also continues to grow for what promises to be a spectacular night of entertainment.

SBS Gayo Daejeon 2023 will be held at the INSPIRE Arena on December 25, 2023.

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

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

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

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

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

 

Billboard Music Awards 2023 Winners

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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Stray Kids Charts 4th No. 1 Album on Billboard 200 With ‘Rock-Star’

The group poses for concept photo of 'Rock Star.' Credit: Facebook/STRAY KIDS

Stray Kids continues to dominate the K-pop scene, securing their fourth consecutive No. 1 entry on the prestigious Billboard 200 chart with their latest mini album ROCK-STAR.

On Monday, November 20, Billboard announced that ROCK-STAR joined the ranks of its predecessors, ODDINARY, MAXIDENT, and 5-STAR. All of which had previously claimed the top spot on the chart. 

For those unfamiliar, the Billboard 200 rankings are based on equivalent album units, which consider traditional album sales, track equivalent albums, and streaming equivalent albums. According to Billboard, ROCK-STAR secured its top position with a total of 224,000 equivalent album units earned in the United States, including 213,000 traditional album sales, predominantly from CD sales, and 11,000 streaming equivalent album units.

Additionally, Luminate further detailed that the album’s success was driven by 98% CD sales and 2% digital downloads, totaling 213,000 traditional album sales. The streaming component, contributing 11,000 streaming equivalent album units, equates to an impressive 15.68 million on-demand audio streams during the week ending on November 16.

Stray Kids makes history anew

 With this, Stray Kids have now become the first artist, and notably the first K-pop act, to achieve such a remarkable streak since Alicia Keys in the early 2000s.

“All four of Stray Kids’ chart entries have debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, making them the first act to see their first four chart entries debut at No. 1 since Alicia Keys in 2001 to 2007,” Billboard noted. 

Moreover, this remarkable achievement comes less than two years after their debut at the US charts. Furthermore, it establishes them as the first Korean act to consecutively debut their first four albums at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 – a feat not seen in 16 years.

On top of that, the speed at which Stray Kids achieved this milestone is equally impressive, taking them less than 20 months to accumulate four No. 1 albums. Notably, this rapid success places them in the company of Taylor Swift, as the fastest artist to achieve four No. 1s since August 2020.

Following the achievement, Stray Kids expressed their gratitude towards their fans through a video message. “Thank you to STAY and everyone who has been listening to our music,” they said. 

On November 9, the group released their newest mini-album Rock Star, with the title track “LALALA.”

Featured image: The group poses for concept photo of ‘Rock Star.’ Credit: Facebook/STRAY KIDS

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Stray Kids Earn 2nd US Gold RIAA Certification For ‘5-STAR’

Stray Kids has achieved a remarkable feat in the United States, as their latest album has been officially certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). This prestigious certification is granted when an album reaches over 500,000 units sold in the U.S. Amazingly, this is the second time that the idol group has earned gold RIAA certification in the span of three years!

Stray Kids Confirms Gold RIAA Certification for ‘5-STAR’

The album in question is “★★★★★ (5-STAR)” and it holds a special place in Stray Kids’ discography. Notably, this marks the group’s first album to receive the gold RIAA certification, signifying a significant milestone in their international success. Not surprisingly, they excitedly posted about the certification on social media.

The latest accomplishment is particularly noteworthy because it adds to Stray Kids’ previous RIAA certification for their 2020 hit song “God’s Menu” which achieved gold status earlier in the same month.

By achieving this latest certification, Stray Kids joins an exclusive club of K-pop artists who have received recognition from the RIAA. They are only the second K-pop act, following the immense global success of BTS, to earn gold RIAA certifications for both an album and a single. This achievement underscores Stray Kids’ growing influence in the U.S. music market.

Furthermore, Stray Kids’ gold RIAA certification for “★★★★★ (5-STAR)” places them among the elite K-pop acts that have achieved this distinction. Prior to Stray Kids, only BTS and TXT had albums certified as gold in the United States. This accomplishment solidifies Stray Kids’ position as a major player in the international music scene.

The remarkable achievement is a testament to Stray Kids’ talent and the dedicated support of their global fanbase. The group has made substantial strides in the U.S. music industry, and their success continues to reach new heights. Congratulations to Stray Kids for this well-deserved recognition and their exciting accomplishment in the United States!

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Stray Kids Receives Exclusive Award From Korea’s Prime Minister

STRAY KIDS can now add another remarkable achievement to their already extensive list of accolades. The idol group has just been honored with an exclusive award that only a select few K-Pop groups have received in the history of the industry.

STRAY KIDS Awarded With Prime Minister’s Commendation

STRAY KIDS has been named one of the eight recipients of the prestigious Prime Minister’s Commendation for the 2023 Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards. This distinction is a significant recognition bestowed upon individuals and groups who have made substantial contributions to the promotion and dissemination of Korean culture. The awards program, held annually by the South Korean government, features four potential accolades: Order of Cultural Merit, Presidential Commendation, Prime Minister’s Commendation, and Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Commendation.

This is amazing news considering that there have only been six other K-pop groups in history to receive this award. It was previously given to legendary K-Pop groups such as Girls’ Generation, 2NE1, JYJ, SHINee, EXO, and most recently, SEVENTEEN. STRAY KIDS are also the first fourth-generation idol group to receive the exclusive award. The special club of recipients signifies the remarkable impact STRAY KIDS has had on the global stage and their substantial contribution to Korean culture.

STRAY KIDS’ extraordinary popularity has propelled them to perform at prestigious events like Lollapalooza Paris 2023 and the 2023 VMAs, in addition to several other accolades.

Their most recent album ‘5-STAR’ has solidified their position as one of the industry’s front-runners. The group made history by surpassing five million preorders for the album and achieved over 2.3 million in first-day sales. Only BTS and SEVENTEEN have previously accomplished this feat, underlining STRAY KIDS’ exceptional impact and fan base in the world of K-Pop.

In the meantime, STRAY KIDs is set for a comeback in November. The idol group recently released a cinematic prologue video to announce their comeback with the upcoming mini-album ‘ROCK-STAR’. On October 19, they shared the teaser for the first track “MEGAVERSE”.

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