Tag: WakeOne Entertainment

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

WAKEONE Breaks Silence on Shocking Kep1er Disbandment Rumor

The agency is already working to ensure that Kep1er's group contract will be extended
The agency is already working to ensure that Kep1er's group contract will be extended

Fans of Kep1er received a mix of relief and uncertainty as their agency clarified ongoing discussions regarding the group’s potential contract extension. Amid swirling rumors of the Kep1er disbandment, WAKEONE Entertainment has finally issued an official statement.

WAKEONE Addresses Possible Kep1er Disbandment

STARNEWS reported on April 25 that discussions to extend Kep1er’s contracts had hit an impasse, leading to speculation about their impending dissolution in July. Allegedly, the group intended to bid farewell to their fans through a final album and a poignant farewell concert.

In response, WAKEONE, the agency behind Kep1er, moved swiftly to address the concerns, affirming that negotiations were still underway with each member and their respective agencies regarding the extension of the group’s activities. Moreover, they assured fans that Kep1er was actively preparing for a new album, urging for continued support to ensure the group’s return with quality music.

This development comes on the heels of previous statements from WAKEONE in early April, where they expressed optimism about extending the group’s contract, signaling a positive trajectory for Kep1er’s future. The group, comprised of nine talented members, originally emerged from Mnet’s “Girls Planet 999” survival audition program and made their debut in January 2022 under a temporary contract with WAKEONE, slated for a two-and-a-half-year promotion period.

As fans eagerly await further updates, the uncertainty surrounding Kep1er’s future underscores the complexities of the entertainment industry and the delicate balance between artistic aspirations and contractual obligations. Despite the challenges, supporters remain hopeful for a positive resolution that will allow Kep1er to continue captivating audiences with their music and performances for years to come.

For now, a possible Kep1er comeback date has not yet been officially announced by WAKEONE. However, fans are hoping that the girl group will release new music before the end of the year. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

WAKEONE Entertainment Announces Legal Action Against Violation Of ZEROBASEONE Members’ Rights

WAKEONE Entertainment has taken a firm stance to safeguard the rights and privacy of their artists ZEROBASEONE. On February 3, the agency released a statement outlining its legal response to various infringements on the group members’ rights.

WAKEONE Entertainment Takes Legal Action to Protect ZEROBASEONE Members’ Rights

The agency disclosed that it had filed criminal charges against individuals involved in trespassing on ZEROBASEONE’s dormitory premises. Additionally, legal action has been initiated against those who attempted to contact the group members by unlawfully acquiring their personal information. WAKEONE Entertainment’s proactive approach aims to address and penalize the infringement on the privacy and security of ZEROBASEONE.

Furthermore, the agency expressed its commitment to uncovering the truth behind recent incidents involving fake edits and posts about the members. Digital forensics will also be employed to ascertain the authenticity of the content circulating online, ensuring that accurate information prevails and false narratives are dispelled.

“Recently, fake edits about our artist have been spreading indiscriminately on online communities and social media.

“As we have stated in multiple previous announcements, we are currently responding with a zero-tolerance policy to crimes that threaten our artist’s safety or infringe on our artist’s rights or privacy.

“Through the law firm SHIN&KIM, we have filed a criminal complaint against the individual who came to our artist’s dorm on charges such as home invasion, and the case in question is currently being investigated.”

WAKEONE Entertainment’s decision to pursue legal avenues underscores its dedication to maintaining a secure and respectful environment for ZEROBASEONE. By taking action against those who breach the boundaries of personal space and privacy, the agency also seeks to set a precedent for the protection of artists within the K-pop industry.

The statement also serves as a public declaration of WAKEONE Entertainment’s commitment to the well-being and rights of ZEROBASEONE. It sends a clear message that any infringement on the group’s privacy will not be tolerated. As the agency employs digital forensics to unravel the truth, it also reinforces the importance of responsible online behavior and accountability in the age of digital information.

Fans of ZEROBASEONE can also find reassurance in the agency’s proactive measures to address these issues. WAKEONE intends on fostering an environment where artists can focus on their creative endeavors without compromising their personal safety and privacy.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

TO1 Members Officially Leaving WAKEONE Entertainment

All TO1 members are officially leaving WAKEONE Entertainment. The agency has confirmed that the group members’ exclusive contracts will not be renewed when it expires this month.

WAKEONE Entertainment Terminates TO1 Members’ Contracts

The announcement of TO1 members departing from their agency WAKEONE Entertainment marks a significant development in the trajectory of the group. On December 17, WAKEONE officially confirmed the mutual agreement reached with TO1 members Donggeon, Chan, Jisu, Jaeyun, J.You, Kyungho, Daigo, and Yeojeong to terminate their exclusive contracts. The termination is set to take effect on December 31, concluding their association with the agency.

This decision comes after a series of changes in TO1’s lineup, with Renta leaving the group in September. TO1, originally known as TOO, made their debut in 2020, emerging from the Mnet survival show “World Klass.” The group garnered attention for their talent, charisma, and unique dynamics. Despite facing challenges, including the departure of four initial members in 2022, TO1 pressed on and introduced new members Daigo, Renta, and Yeojeong in the following year.

The departure from WAKEONE opens up new possibilities for TO1 members as they embark on the next phase of their careers. Fans are eager to see how each member will navigate their individual paths and potential future group activities. The mutual agreement also suggests an amicable parting, and fans are expressing their support for the members’ journeys beyond the agency.

TO1’s Turbulent Journey So Far

WAKEONE, as the current home to various artists such as ZEROBASEONE, Kep1er, Jo Yu Ri, Kim Jae Hwan, Roy Kim, and more, will continue its endeavors with its remaining roster. The agency plays a role in supporting and promoting diverse talents in the entertainment industry.

The K-pop landscape is known for its dynamic nature, with groups and artists often experiencing shifts in lineups, agency affiliations, and creative directions. TO1’s story reflects the resilience and adaptability of artists in navigating the evolving landscape of the industry.

As TO1 members transition from WAKEONE, the next steps for each individual will also be closely watched by fans who have supported them throughout their journey. The announcement also serves as a juncture for reflection on the group’s achievements, challenges, and the potential for new beginnings in their careers.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

ZEROBASEONE Member Ricky to Be Absent From Asia Artist Awards 2023 Due to Visa Issues

Ricky poses for the group's profile photos. Credit: Facebook/ZEROBASEONE

Ricky from the K-pop boy group ZEROBASEONE will unfortunately be absent from the upcoming 2023 Asia Artist Awards (AAA) in the Philippines due to visa-related complications.

On Monday, December 11, WAKEONE Entertainment revealed that Ricky will not be able to attend the award ceremony. The agency representing the group explained that there’s “unforeseen” issues with passport and visa processing. 

“Despite efforts internally and externally and exploring various solutions to facilitate Ricky’s participation in the event, it has been conclusively determined that he cannot depart,” the agency said, according to a translation by Soompi. 

As a result, only eight members of ZEROBASEONE will be present at the AAA 2023.  Additionally, Sung Han Bin, one of the group members, was earlier confirmed to be an MC for the event.

Furthermore, WAKEONE Entertainment expressed their sincere apologies for any confusion caused among fans eagerly anticipating Ricky’s attendance in the show. As the agency requested understanding from fans, they also assured them that they’d provide unwavering support to ensure the group’s smooth participation in all upcoming international events and schedules.

Despite this, some fans still called out WAKEONE Entertainment as this isn’t the first time for Ricky to experience visa-related issues. Some fans also raised several instances of the company’s alleged mistreatment of the idol. Meanwhile, others are also lamenting at the missed opportunity of not having the full group in the said prestigious event. 

 

https://twitter.com/riknyang/status/1734087483934339294

The AAA 2023 is scheduled for December 14 at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan.  Over 45 acts are confirmed to grace the event. Most of the artists in the lineup are from South Korea, while there’s also representatives from Japan, China, and the Philippines.

More about ZEROBASEONE

ZEROBASEONE, a nine-member boy group formed through the talent reality show Boys Planet, officially debuted in July. Their debut album, YOUTH IN THE SHADE, achieved significant success by breaking several sales records. 

In November, the group made a highly-anticipated comeback with their second album, MELTING POINT. 

Recently, the rookie group has been receiving acclaim by winning in year-end awards. In MAMA Awards 2023, they were named the Best New Male Artist. Meanwhile, they tied with fellow rookie boy group RIIZE for New Artist of the Year at Melon Music Awards. 

Featured image: Ricky poses for the group’s profile photos. Credit: Facebook/ZEROBASEONE

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Fans Angered by Manager Scolding ZEROBASEONE’s Ricky

ZEROBASEONE's Ricky updates fans with new photo. Credit: Twitter/ZEROBASEONE

ZEROSE, fans of K-pop rookie boy group ZEROBASEONE, have expressed their discontent following a recent incident involving member Ricky and a manager. 

On Tuesday, October 31, Ricky initiated a solo live stream to catch up with his fans. Aside from him, fellow ZEROBASEONE members Gyuvin and Gunwook are also doing a live stream in the same room as him.

Since a single device couldn’t accommodate all three members comfortably, they decided to do a live stream simultaneously through different phones. 

During the live stream, Gunwook was seen telling Ricky to check his KakaoTalk. Although Gunwook muted his live, Ricky didn’t. Which left fans able to hear that the latter was being instructed to conclude the live stream.

In response, Ricky abruptly ended his stream after apologizing to fans., “I have to end the live now, bye. I don’t think I can continue, sorry,” he said. 

Even though Ricky’s stream has ended, Gunwook and Gyuvin continued their live session.

And through that,  fans were able to discern a series of voices, which they deduced belonged to the manager. According to fans, the manager could be heard scolding Ricky in the background, uttering phrases like: “You didn’t inform us before you started the live show” and “Do you understand what I’m saying.” 

Apologize to Ricky

Recordings of the incident quickly circulated on social media, with fans deeming the manager’s reprimand as overly severe.

Many are upset at how the manager treated the idol, given that Ricky starting a stream without informing them shouldn’t be considered to be a major transgression. Additionally, some fans are also in disbelief at the manager’s brazen actions given that other ZEROBASEONE members are also present in the room. 

Following the incident, fans of ZEROBASEONE and Ricky are calling for the management, particularly the group’s agency, WAKEONE, to take appropriate measures against the manager’s deeds. Moreover, some supporters have also sent complaints regarding what they view as excessive and condescending treatment toward Ricky.

As of writing, WAKEONE Entertainment and Ricky have yet to address the issue. 

Currently, ZEROBASEONE is gearing up for their upcoming comeback with Melting Point. ZEROBASEONE or ZB1 is a nine-member group formed via Boys Planet. 

Aside from Ricky, the other members are Sung Han-bin, Zhang Hao, Seok Matthew, and Kim Tae-rae. Ji Woong, Kim Gyu-vin, Park Gun-wook, and Han Yu-jin are also part of the lineup.

ZB1 made their debut on July 10 with the release of their mini-album YOUTH IN THE SHADE.  Shortly after, YOUTH IN THE SHADE set the record for being the best-selling debut album in K-pop history. Over 1,240,700 copies were sold in just 24 hours of sales.

Featured image: ZEROBASEONE’s Ricky updates fans with new photo. Credit: Twitter/ZEROBASEONE

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Kep1er’s Yeseo to Sit Out Activities Due to Health Issues

Yeseo's concept photo for Kep1er's 'Magic Hour' album. Credit: Facebook/KEP1ER

Yeseo of K-pop girl group Kep1er will temporarily not participate in upcoming scheduled activities due to health issues. 

On Thursday, September 21, WAKEONE and SWING Entertainment released a statement about the idol’s current well-being. 

According to the agency, Yeseo’s “health suddenly [took] a turn for the worse,” making her not able to attend some scheduled events. 

One of the events she’ll be missing is the 2023 KPOP NATION X KOREA Music Festival in Poland set for September 23. Only eight members will proceed with the show. 

Currently, Yeseo is resting and focusing on getting better, according to the agency. 

Moreover, WAKEONE and SWING Entertainment also assured fans that they will “take all measures necessary” to help Yeseo with her recovery. 

On social media, fans quickly sent their well-wishes for Yeseo. Meanwhile, others are also worried as to whether the idol will be participating in the group’s comeback activities as they’d rather have her focus on her recovery first.

As of writing, WAKEONE and SWING Entertainment have yet to address Yeseo’s participation in the group’s upcoming comeback. 

More about Kep1er

Formed through Girls Planet 999 in January 2022, Kep1er debuted with nine members. Its members include Kim Chae-hyun, Huening Bahiyyih, Choi Yu-jin, Kim Da-yeon, Seo Young-eun, Kang Ye-seo, Hikaru Ezaki, Mashiro Sakamoto, and Shen Xiaoting.

Currently, Kep1er is preparing for their fifth EP Magic Hour which will be released on September 25. It will serve as the group’s return in five months following the release of their fourth EP Lovestruck! in April. 

Given that they’re a project girl group, they’re only planned to have activities for two and a half years. Which means that Kep1er is expected to conclude their contracts in July 2024. 

However, WAKEONE Entertainment has revealed that they’re discussing extending each idol’s promotional contract. Although no decision has been finalized yet, the agency said that they’ve already sent proposals to all partnered companies.

Featured image: Yeseo’s concept photo for Kep1er’s ‘Magic Hour’ album. Credit: Facebook/KEP1ER

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

WAKE ONE Entertainment Wants To Extend Kep1er Group Contract

The agency is already working to ensure that Kep1er's group contract will be extended

WAKE ONE Entertainment, the agency behind Kep1er is in the midst of negotiations with the member’s respective agencies. Interestingly, the company is pushing for the extension of each idol’s promotional contract. These discussions come as the project group contract term approaches its conclusion.

Kep1er’s Company Already Preparing for Group Contract Extension

Reports indicate that WAKE ONE Entertainment held meetings with representatives from the agencies of Kep1er’s members to explore the potential for extending the activities of the group. This offer was extended uniformly to all member agencies, although no formal agreement was reached during the initial discussions. Nonetheless, the agency has expressed its keen interest in continuing these conversations, indicating a willingness to collaborate further on the project.

“As Kep1er’s project group time has passed the midway point, it was time for us to have a meeting with the agencies to establish the roadmap for the future and the strategy for the long-term activities of the artist. We made the same proposal to all of the agencies,” the company said in a statement.

It was also confirmed that negotiations are still underway. However, WAKE ONE Entertainment is not giving up on the hope that the group contract will be extended.

“We did our best to reach an agreement with all of the agencies but no agreement was made yet. There is still time for their activities, so we will continue to hold these discussions,” the statement read.

Kep1er’s members include Kim Chae-hyun, Huening Bahiyyih, Choi Yu-jin, Kim Da-yeon, Seo Young-eun, Kang Ye-seo, Hikaru Ezaki, Mashiro Sakamoto, and Shen Xiaoting. The group was formed through “Girls Planet 999” in January 2022 and was initially planned activities for two and a half years. The contract involving all nine members will conclude in July 2024. Potential discussions about extending their activities suggest the possibility of becoming the first audition program group to successfully surpass their originally planned tenure.

In the meantime, Kep1er is preparing for their fifth EP ‘Magic Hour’ which will be released on September 25, 2023

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

ZEROBASEONE Member Zhang Hao Diagnosed with COVID-19

Zhang Hao is taking some time off for his health. The ZEROBASEONE member has been diagnosed with COVID-19. Unfortunately, this means that the Chinese singer will be missing some of the group’s upcoming schedule.

WAKE ONE Entertainment Shares Update on ZEROBASEONE’s Zhang Hao’s Health

On August 25, WAKEONE Entertainment issued a statement regarding Zhang Hao’s health. According to the agency, they immediately noticed that the ZEROBASEONE member was unwell.

“Zhang Hao’s condition was abnormal, and he suffered from light body aches,” the statement read. “After preemptively taking a rapid antigen test, he was confirmed to have COVID-19.”

Zhang Hao has been reported to be experiencing only a minor symptom of a sore throat, and as a precautionary measure, he is undergoing a five-day isolation period to minimize the risk of infection transmission. In a positive development, all other members of ZEROBASEONE have undergone testing, and their results have come back negative, indicating they are currently free from infection.

Regrettably, due to Zhang Hao’s health condition, he will be unable to participate in the face-to-face signing event originally slated for August 25, 26, and 27. Additionally, the video call event initially planned for the 26th of August has been postponed to a later date. The group and organizers are also prioritizing the safety and well-being of all involved. In line with this, further updates will be provided as Zhang Hao’s condition evolves.

ZEROBASEONE or ZB1 emerged as a South Korean boy band created from Mnet’s competitive reality show “Boys Planet”. Under the management of WAKEONE Entertainment, this ensemble comprises nine talented members. Kim Ji-woong, Zhang Hao, Sung Han-bin, Seok Matthew, Kim Tae-rae, Ricky, Kim Gyu-vin, Park Gun-wook, and Han Yu-jin made their dazzling debut on July 10, 2023. They released the extended play titled “Youth in the Shade” on the same date. Moreover, the group is set to captivate audiences for a span of 2 years and 6 months.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Look: I-Land 2 to Hold Global Audition Tour in 9 Countries

Mnet partners up with THEBLACKLABEL for 'I-LAND 2.' Credit: Twitter/Mnet I-LAND

Still hesitating to make your K-pop idol dreams come true? Well, the opportunity is coming closer to your doorstep! 

Mnet announced on Friday, August 4, that they’ll be holding an offline global audition tour for I-LAND 2 across 12 cities in nine countries. 

The stops for the offline audition will include Toronto, New York, and Los Angeles. Meanwhile, the Asia stops will be in Tokyo, Osaka, Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi, Bangkok, and Shanghai. 

Additionally, the audition tour will also go to Berlin, London and Sydney in September. 

Mnet added that details and instructions for the audition stops in each country will be updated sequentially. 

What we know so far about I-LAND 2:

It was in July when Mnet announced that they’re launching the second season of the audition program I-LAND.“Ready to be the biggest K-pop girl group of 2024?,” they teased. 

The first season of the hit reality survival series saw the formation of K-pop boy group ENHYPEN. The show was initially a joint project between Mnet and Belift Lab, an entertainment agency established through a joint venture between CJ ENM and HYBE. 

However, the second season will now be a collaboration between Mnet and YG Entertainment’s THEBLACKLABEL. 

 

The online applications ran from July 10 to August 6. Only girls who are born before January 1, 2011 and can travel internationally were allowed to apply. 

Online applicants also had to submit three videos: a self-introduction, a rap or vocal performance, and a dance routine.

The program is expected to air in the first half of 2024, but a final release date has yet to be announced. 

The trainees who will survive the challenges in I-LAND 2 will debut as a girl group under agency WakeOne Entertainment, the same label that handles ZEROBASEONE and Kep1er. 

ZEROBASEONE were chosen from the audition program Boys Planet, while Kep1er was formed through the series Girls Planet 999. 

Featured image: MNet partners up with THEBLACKLABEL for ‘I-LAND 2.’ Credit: Twitter/Mnet I-LAND

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Zerobaseone’s ‘Youth in the Shade’ Becomes Best-Selling K-Pop Debut Album

The highly-anticipated debut of rookie group ZEROBASEONE (ZB1), the K-pop boy group formed through the reality survival series BOYS PLANET, is off to a good start. 

On Monday, July 10, the nine-member group released their mini-album YOUTH IN THE SHADE, with “IN BLOOM” as its title track. 

The music video for “IN BLOOM” shows the ZB1 members flaunting their fresh charms and vocal prowess as they sing about their determination to do well in this new journey they’re embarking on. 

 

During their debut showcase, the members talked about their resolve as a rookie group. 

“We will become an artist who can give back the love we have received,” member Kim Tae Rae, according to a translation by Soompi. 

Member Kim Ji Woong added: “We feel a greater sense of responsibility, so we hope to show that going forward to return the love and show our best performance.” 

And in just 24 hours of sales, the album YOUTH IN THE SHADE has sold over 1,240,700 copies, making it the best debut album in K-pop history. 

The record was previously set by X1’s QUANTUM LEAP, which sold around 500,000 copies during its first day. 

In addition, YOUTH IN THE SHADE has also become the fifth highest-selling album in first-sales day in 2023. They trail behind SEVENTEEN’s FML, Stray Kids’ 5-STAR, TXT’s The Name Chapter: TEMPTATION, and aespa’s MY WORLD. 

However, there’s a damper on the group and fandom’s celebration as member Kim Gyu Vin had to take a break due to his health condition. 

WAKEONE Entertainment, ZEROBASEONE’s agency, announced on Tuesday, July 11, that Kim Gyu Vin is “experiencing dizziness.” 

They added that said member will visit the hospital for a thorough examination and treatment. 

ZEROBASEONE or ZB1 is composed of Sung Han-bin, Kim Ji-woong, Zhang Hao, Seok Matthew, Kim Tae-rae, Ricky, Kim Gyu-vin, Park Gun-wook, and Han Yu-jin. 

They’re a project group that will promote under WakeOne Entertainment, a CJ ENM subsidiary, for around two and a half years. 

Boys Planet, which premiered in February and ran for 12 weeks, served as the sequel to the 2021 reality competition Girls Planet 999. Said series formed the girl group KEP1ER. 

WakeOne Entertainment, in partnership with Mnet, also recently announced that they’ll be forming a new girl group through the audition program I-LAND 2.

Featured image: ZEROBASEONE’s Twitter

Exit mobile version