Tag: WayV

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WayV Surprises Diners With Impromptu Performance at Korean BBQ Restaurant

WayV, currently promoting their latest comeback, recently gave diners at a Korean BBQ restaurant an unexpected and delightful treat with an impromptu performance before enjoying their meal.

WayV Treats Diners to Impromptu Performance in Unplanned Restaurant Battle

On June 16, videos of WayV began circulating online, capturing the boy group dancing and performing in what appeared to be a small BBQ restaurant. The members seemed to be in high spirits, dancing energetically in front of a small crowd who were enjoying their meals. The spontaneous performance quickly gained attention, with netizens expressing both surprise and amusement at the unusual setting for such a display of talent.

Initially, the context of WayV’s sudden performance puzzled many netizens. However, YangYang soon came online to provide an explanation, and his account added a humorous twist to the event. According to YangYang, they were seated next to some theater actors who were singing, which sparked an impromptu “battle” of performances.

The videos, combined with YangYang’s explanation, painted a vivid and amusing picture of the evening. Netizens were entertained by how WayV members seemed to seamlessly blend their free time with their performance mode. The idea of a spontaneous performance battle with theater actors at a casual dining spot highlighted the group’s playful and competitive spirit, endearing them even more to their fans.

The incident showcased WayV’s ability to entertain and connect with people in any setting, reflecting their dynamic stage presence and natural charisma. Fans and netizens alike appreciated the lighthearted moment, enjoying a glimpse of the members’ off-stage personalities and their readiness to engage in fun, impromptu activities. The memorable event added another layer to the group’s promotional activities, demonstrating their spontaneity and enthusiasm for performing, even in the most unexpected places.

WayV is currently promoting their fifth EP ‘Give Me That’ and the title track of the same name, which were released on June 3, 2024.

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Winwin Breaks Silence on Being Left Out of WayV Promotions

Winwin‘s decision to personally address his absence from upcoming WayV promotions has shed light on the situation, sparking a wave of reactions and sentiments from fans.

Winwin Breaks Silence on WayV Promotions Absence

While SM Entertainment initially attributed Winwin’s absence to his drama filming schedule, Winwin’s own statement has provided a different perspective on the matter with WayV.

“At the end of last year, I got told by the team that we would start preparing a new album in May. So from January to April this year, I participated in the TV series shooting, but the plan to produce the album was suddenly brought forward to the end of March. At that time, I was on the set, shooting my main scene, and I really couldn’t adjust the time to participate in group activities. In order to participate in the new album, I have communicated with the team about various alternatives, but the final result is that it is a pity that I can’t participate in this comeback. I want to say sorry to Wayzenni, who are looking forward to our WayV’s comeback. I also wish that WayV’s comeback can achieve good results. I will be here to support everyone,” he wrote.

Fans React to SM Entertainment’s Decision

Fans have voiced their disappointment and frustration with SM Entertainment, expressing concerns that the label may have intentionally excluded Winwin from the group’s activities. Many fans have criticized the company’s scheduling practices, highlighting a perceived lack of communication and transparency in managing their artists’ commitments.

Winwin’s decision to speak out has prompted fans to rally behind him, offering messages of support and solidarity. His willingness to address the situation directly has not only provided clarity but also underscored the importance of open communication between artists, fans, and management.

As discussions continue to unfold within the fan community, Winwin’s statement serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges inherent in the entertainment industry. Fans also remain hopeful that SM Entertainment will address their concerns and prioritize the well-being and inclusion of all artists under their label.

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Lucas Opens Up About the State of His Mental Health During His Hiatus

Lucas Wong, a former member of the K-pop groups NCT and WayV, opened up about his past controversies in a new documentary titled Freeze. Released on February 24 on his YouTube channel, this documentary is one of the steps he’s taking to return to the music industry under SM Entertainment—this time as a solo artist. The 22-minute video sheds light on what the Hong Kong-born idol has been up to during his time away from the spotlight. Lucas went on hiatus in August 2021 amid accusations of abuse and gaslighting by an alleged ex-girlfriend, along with similar claims from another individual.

Freeze opens with a look at a day in the life of Lucas during his hiatus before delving into the controversy that led to his official departure from NCT and WayV in May 2023. He admits that the “incident” altered his “personality and thoughts” and goes into detail about the toll it took on his mental health.

LUCAS Documentary Part1 | Freeze

“I stayed only in my room for about six months; I didn’t want to do anything,” he reveals. “In all seriousness, my hair kept falling out. I didn’t even eat properly because I had no appetite. I had terrible thoughts; I was so sorry I wanted to die because honestly, it was all my fault.”

His candid reflections on his actions and their consequences show a level of self-awareness and responsibility. He admits, “Honestly, I did the things I did in the past because I really was out of my mind.”

Lucas issues another apology

At the height of the controversy almost three years ago, he posted a handwritten note in which he apologized to “those who were hurt by my wrong behavior” without directly mentioning what happened. He issues another apology in Freeze. Lucas opening up about his mental health struggles and taking responsibility for his actions offer a glimpse into his significant growth.

“I haven’t been able to say this properly, not even once. But I feel so sorry. I’ve done a terrible thing; I feel so sorry that I let everyone down. Nothing can justify what I’ve done. Now, my views have changed; I realized many bad things about myself,” he says.

LUCAS Documentary Part2 | Unfreeze

Five days after Freeze dropped, another video titled Unfreeze dropped on Lucas’s YouTube channel. It serves as a continuation of his apology tour. (For the uninitiated, an apology tour involves a public figure making multiple appearances or statements to apologize for past mistakes and seek forgiveness, aiming to repair their reputation or address controversies.)

SM Entertainment recently launched new official social media accounts for Lucas, although the agency hasn’t announced any concrete plans for his comeback. As he makes his way back into the spotlight, his diehard fans hope people will look kindly on him and give him a second chance. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The controversy changed Lucas irrevocably. Source: X/@lucas_official.

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‘NCT Nation: To the World’ Concert Film to Premiere Worldwide

NCT poses during the release of their 'Golden Age' album. Credit: Facebook/NCT

Attention NCTzens! Renowned K-pop sensation NCT is all set to grace silver screens across the globe.

On Thursday, November 2, SM Entertainment announced that NCT’s first in-person full-group concert would soon hit theaters worldwide.

The concert film will be in collaboration with Trafalgar Releasing, who has previously distributedNCT Dream’s 2022 concert film, NCT Dream The Movie: In A Dream.

To recall, NCT Nation: To The World took place on August 26 at Seoul’s Incheon Munhak Stadium. It was held just two days before the official release of their fourth album, Golden Age. Said album boasted two title tracks, “Golden Age,” a complete unit song, and “Baggy Jeans,” which only featured members Taeyong, Ten, Doyoung, Jaehyun, and Mark.

Moreover, the NCT NATION: To The World concert featured performances by sub-units NCT 127, NCT DREAM, WayV, and the ever-evolving unit, NCT U. 

According to a press release, the concert film will showcase these performances and “exclusive behind-the-scenes” that will “add an extra layer of excitement.” 

For two nights only, on December 6 and December 10, NCT NATION: To The World will be screened in theaters. Tickets will go on sale starting November 8 via nctnationincinemas.com.

 Marc Allenby, CEO of Trafalgar Releasing, expressed his enthusiasm about the upcoming project. “We are excited to work together with the group once again, this time bringing all current units together in an unmissable cinema event for fans to experience around the world,” he said in the press release.

NCT Nation in 2023

2023 started with NCT having 23 members, but it has now whittled down to 20 following a series of changes. After a two-year hiatus, Lucas officially left NCT and WayV in May, with  SM Entertainment announcing that Lucas plans to pursue a solo career. 

Also in May, Sungchan and Shotaro left NCT. The two, who made their debut as members of NCT in October 2020, were initially expected to join NCT’s next NCT unit. However, they were transferred to SM Entertainment’s rookie boy group RIIZE, which made their debut in September. 

Meanwhile, SM Entertainment also announced plans of debuting NCT’s final unit. Initially a septet, NCT New Team was formed through the reality show NCT Universe: LASTART. In October, they released the pre-debut single “Hands Up.” As of writing, there’s no details yet about the group’s official debut. 

Featured image: NCT poses during the release of their ‘Golden Age’ album. Credit: Facebook/NCT

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Wonbin Dishes on Favorite RIIZE Member and Other K-Pop Group Biases

There is little doubt that RIIZE has been making waves in the K-pop industry as one of the fifth-generation boy groups under SM Entertainment. Still, they all started out as fans who had biases in other idol groups. But which K-pop stars do Wonbin look up to? The idol dished on his favorite members and even revealed which member of RIIZE he admires!

RIIZE’s Wonbin Reveals His NCT, WayV, SEVENTEEN, and TXT Biases

In a recent video call event, a fan decided to inquire about Wonbin’s biases from other boy groups, including those outside the SM Entertainment umbrella. When asked about his favorite member from NCT Dream, Wonbin promptly responded with Mark‘s name. Continuing the inquiry, the fan wondered about members from NCT’s other subunits, NCT 127 and WayV. Wonbin revealed that Taeyong and Xiaojun were his favorites from these respective groups.

The fan then expanded the scope to non-SM Entertainment idols, beginning with the Pledis Entertainment group SEVENTEEN. To this, Wonbin expressed his fondness for Hoshi. Transitioning to TXT, he indicated Yeonjun as his favorite member.

Lastly, the fan asked Wonbin to name his favorite member from his own group. In good spirits, Wonbin humorously declared Sohee as his favorite RIIZE member within their own group. Still, fans believe that he gets along well with Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Seunghan, and Anton.

Wonbin’s responses shed light on his passion for K-Pop, revealing his appreciation for members from various idol groups and confirming that he has his biases just like everybody else. With his evident enthusiasm for the genre, fans can hope to see him collaborating with some of his favorite artists in the future.

RIIZE officially debuted with the single album ‘Get a Guitar’ in September. They are currently preparing for their first comeback with the single “Talk Saxy” on October 27, 2023.

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WayV to Release ‘On My Youth’ in November

WayV releases the digital single 'Welcome to my Paradise.' Credit: Facebook/WayV

Mark your calendars, Weyshennies! WayV, NCT’s China-based unit, is about to make their first comeback in almost 11 months. 

On Monday, October 16, SM Entertainment announced that the group is gearing up for their second full length-album On My Youth. 

According to a Naver report, the album will have a total of 10 songs of various genres. Its title track will have the same title as the album. 

Notably, all tracks will be released on digital platforms on November 1. But the physical album will only be available starting November 8. 

To note, On My Youth will serve as the group’s first album since their fourth EP Phantom came out in December 2022. 

Moreover, this will also mark WayV’s first comeback since member Lucas officially confirmed his exit from the group in May.

According to SM Entertainment, Lucas parted ways with NCT and WayV to pursue his individual endeavors. To recall, Lucas had been on hiatus since August 2021 after he was embroiled in cheating and gaslighting controversies. Following the news, he penned a letter to fans, saying that he was sorry to the members. 

With this, WayV has continued activities with the remaining six members: Kun, Hendery, Yangyang, Xiaojun, Ten, and Winwin. 

Also in May, the group released the digital single “Welcome to My Paradise.” 

2023 for WayV

In line with the release of their fourth EP, WayV also held their fan meeting tour Phantom. Between February to August, the group staged shows across several stops in Asia and Europe. 

In August, WayV also participated in the full group comeback of NCT. Aside from the release of their album Golden Age, the SM Entertainment act also held their first concert as a full group titled NCT Nation: To the World. 

WayV debuted in January 2019. The group is known for songs “Kick Back,” “Love Talk,” “Turn Back Time,” and “Miracle.” 

Featured image: WayV releases the digital single ‘Welcome to my Paradise.’ Credit: Facebook/WayV

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Former WayV Member LUCAS Shows Support for NCT U’s ‘Baggy Jeans’

The former WayV member shared his support for NCT U's latest single 'Baggy Jeans'

Former NCT member LUCAS is voicing his support for NCT U. The former WayV member announced his departure from both the group and sub-unit earlier this year. However, Lucas Wong couldn’t help but show support for his friends. On the other hand, some NCTZENs are not impressed with the gesture.

LUCAS Endorses NCT U’s Latest Single

On August 28th, NCT U unveiled the music video for their latest track, “Baggy Jeans.” The track features the same iconic lineup of members that made “The 7th Sense” a sensation. Taeyong, Doyoung, Ten, Jaehyun, and Mark are officially back and their return caused a wave of excitement among NCTZENs. Not surprisingly, fans have eagerly embraced this new offering from the talented quintet.

With the return of this beloved lineup and their captivating new music, “Baggy Jeans” promises to be another milestone in NCT U’s journey. It is set to unite fans and former members alike in celebration of their artistry.

The positive response to “Baggy Jeans” extends beyond the fanbase, as former WayV member LUCAS also expressed his thoughts on the track via Bubble. This demonstrates the enduring camaraderie and mutual support among NCT members, past and present.

“‘Baggy Jeans’ is too cool, please support it a lot,” LUCAS wrote.

Although it is awesome to see LUCAS supporting NCT U, most fans were not impressed. The messages he posted were featured in an online forum thread, and the overwhelming sentiment in the comments section was clearly disapproving of the idol’s actions. Many expressed irritation at his attempt to insert himself into the “Baggy Jeans” conversation.

Prior to his exit from NCT and WayV, LUCAS had been on hiatus since August 2021. He was initially set to release a new single with fellow WayV member Hendery. However, it was postponed as LUCAS faced controversy over a cheating scandal. He is expected to make his solo debut this year.

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Watch: NCT U Makes Stylish Return With “Baggy Jeans”

"Baggy Jeans" is the second title track to NCT's Golden Age album. Credit: Twitter/NCT

NCT’s revolving sub-unit NCT U finally returned with new music on Monday, August 28, with the release of “Baggy Jeans.” 

Said track is one of the two title tracks of NCT’s fourth studio album Golden Age. The members featured in the sub-unit’s performance are Taeyong, Mark, Doyoung, Jaehyun, and Ten. 

 

Meanwhile, the other title track, “Golden Age,” was led by all 20 members of the group. Its cinematic music video was also released days ahead of the album. 

 

Aside from the two title tracks, Golden Age also has eight other tracks. The list  includes “Call D”, “PADO”, “The BAT”, “Alley Oop”, “That’s Not Fair”, “Kangaroo”, “Not Your Fault”, and an interlude track “Oasis.” 

Moreover, GOLDEN AGE serves as NCT’s first full group comeback in more than a year and a half. Their last was the studio album Universe that was released in December 2021. 

NCTzens misses NCT U

What really made “Baggy Jeans” special is that it marks the sub-unit’s first comeback in seven years. NCT U last came together in 2016 with their debut track “The 7th Sense.”

 

After the music video dropped, fans brought their sentiments to the social media where they shared how addicting the song is. Even the comment section is also packed with positive comments as fans enjoy the unit’s new music.

“Finally NCT U’s unit comeback again with an iconic song and choreography! The music video is also unique! I love it,” one fan commented. 

 

The whirlwind of activities in NCT Universe 

Prior to the release of Golden Age, the act also held their first-ever offline concert as a full group titled NCT Nation: To The World. The members carefully curated a 40-song setlist, including the live performances of their latest titles “Baggy Jeans” and “Golden Age”.

After their South Korean stop, NCT will take the tour to Osaka and Tokyo in Japan.

 

Additionally, NCT 127, another NCT subunit, also announced that they’re making a comeback in October with their fifth full-length album Fact Check. 

Earlier this month, NCT also announced four upcoming releases from its NCT LAB project. This includes a solo track titled “Horizon” by Jaehyun, which was already released. 

 

Other upcoming songs include a duet by Taeil and Haechan, a solo track by Kun, and another unit song by Kun, Xiaojun, Renjun, and Chenle. For those unfamiliar, NCT LAB is a SM STATION series which allows the members to release their self-composed solo and unit tracks.

As of writing, NCT has a total of five subunits: NCT 127, NCT Dream, WayV, NCT U, and NCT DoJaeJung. However, SM Entertainment earlier confirmed that they’re forming the group’s last sub-unit, NCT Tokyo. 

Through the reality survival series NCT Universe: Lastart, a six-member boy group will be formed. 

Featured image: “Baggy Jeans” is the second title track to NCT’s Golden Age album. Credit: Twitter/NCT

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NCT to Return as a Full Group With ‘Golden Age’

NCT poses for their third album 'Universe.' Credit: Facebook/NCT

2023 is looking to be an eventful year for K-pop act NCT and they’re capping it off with a new album as a full group. 

On Wednesday, August 9, NCT released the teaser for their fourth studio album Golden Age, which will be out on August 28. 

SM Entertainment confirmed that all 20 members in NCT’s different subgroups; NCT 127, NCT Dream, and WayV, will take part in the album.

The album will have two title tracks, including the full unit song “Golden Age.” Meanwhile, the other title track will be called “Baggy Jeans.” Only members Taeyeong, Ten, Doyoung, Jaehyun, and Mark reportedly took part in “Baggy Jeans.” 

Other details about the album have yet to be announced. 

Additionally, Golden Age will serve as NCT’s first full group comeback in more than a year and a half. Their last was the studio album Universe that was released in December 2021. 

Prior to the release of Golden Age, NCT will also hold their first-ever offline concert as a full group. Titled NCT Nation: To The World, it will be held on August 26 at the Incheon Munhak Stadium

 

NCT in 2023

2023 started with NCT having 23 members, but it has now whittled down to 20 following a series of changes. 

After a two-year hiatus, Lucas officially left NCT and WayV in May. SM Entertainment announced that Lucas plans to pursue a solo career. 

Also in May, Sungchan and Shotaro left NCT. The two, who made their debut as members of NCT in October 2020, were initially expected to join NCT’s next NCT unit. 

As of writing though, Sungchan and Shotaro are now members of RIIZE, SM Entertainment’s newest boy group. The seven-piece act is expected to debut on September 4 with the single album Get A Guitar.

 

Meanwhile, the members of NCT’s final unit will be formed through the predebut reality show NCT Universe: LASTART. 

 

Only six members will reportedly be part of NCT Tokyo. Four members are going to be chosen from the reality show NCT Universe: LASTART, while the other two members are SM Rookies Yushi and Sion.

Aside from that, NCT Lab also recently unveiled its lineup for four new releases and debuts. 

Featured image: NCT poses for their third album ‘Universe.’ Credit: Facebook/NCT

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Smtown Live 2023 Is Coming to Jakarta in September

Rejoice, Indonesian K-pop fans because SM Entertainment is bringing their highly-anticipated company-wide concert SMTOWN LIVE 2023 to Jakarta! 

The agency announced on Wednesday, July 26, that the concert featuring artists from SM Entertainment will be held at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium in Jakarta, Indonesia on September 23. 

The one-night show will feature performances and appearances from eight acts, including TVXQ!, Super Junior, Red Velvet, NCT 127, NCT Dream, WayV, aespa, as well as SM Entertainment’s upcoming new boy group. 

The label added that the celebration is even more special as 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and Indonesia. “With our upcoming show, we will reflect on the meaning of harmony while promoting more active cultural exchange between the two countries.”

The SMTOWN LIVE 2023 in Jakarta might serve as the first international schedule for SM’s new boy group. Although the agency remains tight-lipped about the upcoming act, a representative has earlier confirmed that said group is gearing up for a September debut. 

SM Entertainment’s CEO Jang Cheol Hyuk has also revealed that the new boy group will have former NCT members Sungchan and Shotaro and SM Rookies Eunseok and Seunghan as part of its lineup. The seven-piece act will also feature other members of Korean and American nationalities. 

First staged in 2008, SM TOWN LIVE is a concert tour held by SM Entertainment artists. It had stops in Japan, China, Singapore, Thailand, and the United States. 

The last SM TOWN LIVE 2023 concert in Jakarta will be the second time it’ll be held in Indonesia, with the first being in September 2012. 

Featured image: Red Velvet’s Facebook

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