Tag: YG Entertainment

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YG Entertainment Teases Big Plans for BABYMONSTER Comeback

BABYMONSTER is gearing up for an exciting comeback! YG Entertainment has confirmed that they have big plans for BABYMONSTER first full album!

YG Entertainment Shares Big Plans for BABYMONSTER

On September 23, YG Entertainment officially announced that they are in the final stages of preparing for the group’s highly anticipated return with their first full-length studio album, set to be released this fall. According to the agency, they have already started producing multiple music videos for the upcoming album, including the title track.

This large-scale project will receive full backing from YG Entertainment, ensuring that BABYMONSTER’s comeback is impactful and visually stunning. Filming will also take place at various pre-secured locations, reflecting the ambitious nature of the project.

YG Entertainment’s announcement also emphasized that all recordings for the album have been completed, and they are now adding the final touches to ensure a high-quality release. In addition to the music videos, choreography for several of the tracks has also been finished, signaling that the group is ready to showcase their dynamic performances.

BABYMONSTER has also been steadily rising as a promising new girl group under YG Entertainment, known for their fresh sound and powerful stage presence. With this full-length album, the group aims to establish themselves further in the global music scene. YG Entertainment also hinted at a “bigger new start” for the group, highlighting the agency’s plans to introduce BABYMONSTER to fans abroad through this release, suggesting that international promotions may be part of the strategy.

Fans are also buzzing with anticipation, eager to see what BABYMONSTER will bring with their new music and performances. As the group continues to make waves in K-pop, this comeback is also expected to further solidify their growing popularity.

For now, the release date for BABYMONSTER’s first full album has not yet been revealed. Stay tuned for more updates on BABYMONSTER’s exciting return!

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YG Entertainment Announces Legal Action Against Inappropriate AI Deepfakes

YG Entertainment has recently announced its decision to take legal action against the creators of inappropriate AI deepfakes featuring their artists.

YG Entertainment Vows Legal Action Against AI Deepfakes

On September 2, the company posted an official statement in English on its website, making clear its intent to protect its artists from these malicious acts.

“We are continuously monitoring these extensive and malicious illegal activities, actively working to remove and block such content. We are also pursuing all possible legal measures, including criminal proceedings, to address these issues,” the statement read.

It concluded, “We are committed to firmly and rigorously responding to any illegal acts that significantly harm the dignity and reputation of our artists.”

BLACKPINK is one of YG Entertainment’s artists that were featured in the controversial AI deepfakes

This decision is a response to a disturbing trend that has gained traction online, where AI-generated deepfake pornography targeting female idols has been circulating in various chatrooms. These chatrooms, which were originally designed to humiliate and degrade women, have become a focal point of public outrage after their existence was exposed earlier this month. The issue was first brought to light when similar deepfake content was discovered being shared in school chatrooms, where explicit images and videos of classmates were being disseminated.

Entertainment Companies Vs AI Deepfakes

YG Entertainment’s announcement marks it as the third major entertainment company to take a firm stand against the creators of these harmful deepfakes. JYP Entertainment was among the first to declare legal action, aiming to protect the members of TWICE, who were also targeted by these videos. Following JYP’s announcement, FCENM also declared its intention to safeguard the members of ILY:1 from similar attacks.

These actions reflect a growing awareness and determination within the entertainment industry to protect their artists from the damaging effects of deepfake technology. By taking legal measures, YG Entertainment and other companies are sending a strong message that such violations of privacy and dignity will not be tolerated, and that they are committed to the well-being of their artists.

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YG Entertainment Finally Updates 2NE1 YouTube Channel After 7 Years

After a lengthy seven-year hiatus, YG Entertainment has finally breathed new life into the official 2NE1 YouTube channel, much to the delight of fans worldwide. The update comes just in time for the iconic girl group’s highly anticipated comeback tour.

2NE1 YouTube Channel Gets Updated After 7 Years

The last video uploaded to the account was the music video for “GOODBYE,” a poignant track that many fans regard as the group’s farewell anthem before the members pursued their solo careers. The song, composed by CL herself, marked the end of an era for 2NE1, one of K-pop’s most iconic girl groups.

On August 15, 2024, YG Entertainment surprised fans by uploading a new video: CL’s performance at TREASURE’s encore concert in Seoul. This unexpected update on 2NE1’s dormant channel struck a chord with fans, who were flooded with emotions as they saw the new video alongside the “GOODBYE” music video. CL’s guest appearance at the concert was unannounced, making her performance a thrilling surprise for attendees and viewers alike.

As one of YG’s legendary artists and a pioneer in the Hallyu wave, CL’s stage presence captivated not only TREASURE’s fans but also sparked widespread admiration across the internet. Netizens were quick to praise her, celebrating her enduring influence and unmatched charisma.

During the concert, CL performed two of her iconic tracks, “THE BADDEST FEMALE” and “MTBD,” delivering powerful live renditions that left the audience in awe. The younger artists of TREASURE, as well as the fans, were visibly honored to share the stage with such a trailblazer in the industry.

Adding to the excitement, 2NE1 is set to reunite for a special three-day concert titled “2024 2NE1 CONCERT [WELCOME BACK]” at the Olympic Hall in Seoul this October. Following their Seoul performances, the group will continue their reunion tour in Japan in November and December, marking a highly anticipated comeback that fans have eagerly awaited for years. This reunion promises to be a monumental event, celebrating the legacy of 2NE1 and their lasting impact on the K-pop industry.

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Weverse, YG Plus, SM, and JYP Refund Violation Accusations

The Korea Fair Trade Commission sanctions major K-pop companies for illegal refund practices

The Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) has taken action against several major companies in the K-pop industry. This includes Weverse Company, YG Plus, SM Brand Marketing, and JYP 360. These companies, which handle the online sales of idol merchandise, faced sanctions for illegal refund practices that unfairly targeted consumers, particularly teenagers.

The KFTC discovered that these companies have been shortening the legally mandated refund period. Under current e-commerce law, customers are entitled to withdraw from a purchase within three months or within 30 days of discovering a defect. However, Weverse Company and others informed customers that even defective products could only be refunded within seven days. Additionally, they imposed unreasonable restrictions, such as requiring video evidence of the unboxing process to qualify for refunds.

This behavior, known in Korea as “gapjil” (abuse of power), effectively shifted the burden of proof onto the consumers, violating e-commerce laws. These practices not only limited customers’ rights but also exploited the loyalty of teenage fans, who are less aware of their legal protections.

   

The idol merchandise shops of the four biggest K-Pop agencies, Weverse, YG Plus, JYP 360, and SM Brand Marketing, have been sanctioned by Korea’s Fair Trade Commission. Photos via Wikimedia Commons.

In response, the KFTC issued corrective orders and imposed fines totalling 10.5 million KRW (approximately 7,740 USD) on the companies involved. Weverse Company was fined approximately 3 million KRW (2,210 USD), while YG Plus, SM Brand Marketing, and JYP 360 each received fines of 2.5 million KRW (1,840 USD). The fines were reduced as the companies voluntarily corrected their practices following the investigation.

A KFTC representative emphasized protecting teenage consumers in the entertainment industry and stated that the commission would continue to monitor for similar violations. They warned that stricter penalties, including business suspensions, could follow if such practices persist.

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HYBE and Other Three Big Agencies’ Online Stores Fined By Fair Trade Commission

The Fair Trade Commission (FTC) fined South Korea’s four largest K-pop entertainment companies—HYBE, SM, YG, and JYP—for violating e-commerce consumer protection laws. On August 11 KST, the FTC imposed a total fine of 10.5 million KRW (approximately $7,700 USD) on these agencies and issued corrective orders to ensure they comply with the ‘Electronic Commerce Act’.

The FTC penalizes the Big 4 K-pop agencies for violating consumer protection laws in their online stores

Fair Trade Commission found that these companies set excessively strict and unfair conditions for refunds on idol-related merchandise, including albums and official goods. The FTC highlighted practices like shortening the legally mandated refund period and requiring unreasonable documentation, such as filming product unboxings to qualify for refunds when items were missing.

Weverse Company, associated with HYBE, received a fine of 3 million KRW. SM Brand Marketing (SM), YG Plus (YG), and JYP Three Sixty (JYP) were each fined 2.5 million KRW.

Among the violations, SM’s policy required customers to return products due to a change of mind within seven business days of delivery, which goes against the law, allowing customers seven days from the receipt date to decide on a return. SM and JYP also broke the law by demanding that customers submit claims for defective or incorrect items within seven days of delivery, while the law permits returns within three months from receipt or 30 days from discovering the defect.

The companies also denied compensation for lost items after a specified period, restricted returns if packaging was opened or damaged, and demanded video proof of unboxing for claims of missing items. These actions placed an undue burden on consumers, violating legal protections that should favor the buyer.

Korea’s Big 4 K-Pop Agencies face fines ordered by the Fair Trade Commission. The 4 agencies have revised policed to comply with FTC’s terms. Photos via Wikimedia Commons.

Moreover, in response to the FTC’s findings, all four companies corrected their policies voluntarily, which led to reduced fines. However, the FTC’s actions serve as a reminder of the importance of fair consumer practices in the e-commerce space, especially within the influential K-pop industry.

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YG Entertainment Announces BABYMONSTER World Tour in Late 2024

Get ready for the BABYMONSTER World Tour! YG Entertainment has just confirmed that the new girl group will be touring the globe with their music later this year.

BABYMONSTER World Tour Confirmed for Late 2024

The news was confirmed in a special announcement video featuring YG Entertainment founder Yang Hyun Suk. In the video, Yang shared the company’s major plans for 2025. This included the BABYMONSTER world tour that will kick off before the end of 2024.

“BABYMONSTER…will start their world tour at the end of this year,” Yang said in the video.

It’s truly exciting news for BABYMONSTER who just made their debut in April 2024. Although they dropped two pre-release singles in 2023, the group was missing member Ahyeon who was in hiatus due to health reasons. Luckily, Ahyeon rejoined the team for the release of their debut EP ‘BabyMons7er’ in April this year.

A Big Year for BABYMONSTER and YG Entertainment

It has also been confirmed that BABYMONSTER is preparing for the release of their first studio album later this year. It was previously reported that the LP would be dropped around October. Although Yang previously mentioned October in the video, the English subtitles intriguingly translated his statement to “either September or October,” leaving some room for speculation and anticipation. The album will be BABYMONSTER’s first full-length project, marking a significant milestone in their career and promising a comprehensive showcase of their musical range and growth.

BABYMONSTER isn’t the only YG Entertainment girl group who is set for a major comeback. Yang Hyun Suk also announced the return of 2NE1 who will then embark on a new global tour in 2025. Moreover, the founder confirmed that BLACKPINK is getting ready for a 2025 comeback which will be supported by a new world tour.

Needless to say, 2025 is set to be a big year for BABYMONSTER and YG Entertainment. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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BLACKPINK Set for 2025 Comeback and World Tour

Get ready for BLACKPINK in your area! YG Entertainment has just confirmed that the girl group is gearing up for a comeback and world tour starting in 2025!

YG Entertainment Confirms BLACKPINK’s 2025 Comeback and World Tour

The news comes YG Entertainment founder Yang Hyun Suk who released a special announcement video detailing the company’s major plans for 2025. In the video, Yang confirmed that there are several big plans for BLACKPINK whose members are currently focusing on solo ventures.

“There will be a highly anticipated comeback from BLACKPINK. It will also be the year BLACKPINK starts their world tour,” Yang said.

This is truly promising news considering that it has already been two years since BLACKPINK released an album. Their second studio album ‘PINK VENOM’ was released back in 2022 and the girl group has also just wrapped up the ‘BORN PINK World Tour’ that supported their release. Needless to say, BLINKS are also eager to hear new music from Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa in the upcoming year.

A Busy 2025 for Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa

It looks like BLACKPINK will be truly busy in the second half of the year. In addition to preparing for their comeback and world tour, the girl group is also getting ready for a special fan sign event to celebrate their 8th debut anniversary.

Adding to the anniversary festivities, BLACKPINK will release a concert film titled “BLACKPINK WORLD TOUR [BORN PINK] IN CINEMAS” on August 31. The film, which captures electrifying live performances from their successful “BORN PINK” world tour, will also be screened in over 110 countries, marking it as the most widely screened concert film by a girl group to date.

As BLACKPINK marks this significant milestone, fans can also look forward to more memorable moments and celebrations with their beloved idols in the upcoming year.

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YG Entertainment Announces 2NE1 New Global Tour

It’s official: 2NE1 is making a grand return! The iconic girl group is gearing up for a new global tour that will kick off in Seoul later in October!

2NE1 Confirmed for New Global Tour

On July 22 at midnight KST, YG Entertainment released a special announcement video featuring founder Yang Hyun Suk, who unveiled the exciting plans for the iconic girl group’s comeback. After a 15-year hiatus, 2NE1 is set to reunite for a global tour, starting with a concert in Seoul this October. The tour will then take the group to Osaka in late November, followed by Tokyo in December, and continue into 2025, bringing their much-loved music to fans worldwide.

The news comes after YG Entertainment confirmed in June that the four 2NE1 members—CL, Dara, Bom, and Minzy—had an “extremely meaningful” two-hour conversation with Yang Hyun Suk. This meeting marked their first discussion in eight years, where they explored possibilities for their future together.

Although no concrete plans were finalized during the meeting, Yang Hyun Suk, who has a deep affection for 2NE1, listened to the members’ aspirations and empathized with their desires. The agency hinted at promising developments, expressing eagerness to share good news with the fans soon.

A Highly Anticipated Return

2NE1’s return has been long-awaited by fans around the globe, who have continued to celebrate their legacy and influence in the K-pop industry. The upcoming tour also promises to be a spectacular reunion, featuring their iconic hits and new surprises that are sure to captivate both longtime fans and new listeners alike. As anticipation builds, the announcement has also reignited the excitement surrounding 2NE1’s unique style and powerful performances, setting the stage for a remarkable comeback.

The exact dates for the 2NE1 reunion have yet to be revealed. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting story.

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BABYMONSTER Take on Fame in ‘FOREVER’ MV

BABYMONSTER has just released the glamourous ‘FOREVER’ MV! The girl group is clearly embracing their fame and success with the new digital single.

BABYMONSTER Embraces Glamour in ‘FOREVER’ MV

The ‘FOREVER’ MV was dropped at midnight on July 1, 2024. The upbeat song features a powerful concept, showcasing the group members embracing their newfound fame and success. Fans are treated to BABYMONSTER’s excellent vocals and stunning visuals, making the music video a visual and auditory delight.

‘FOREVER’ marks the beginning of an exciting year for BABYMONSTER. YG Entertainment founder Yang Hyun Suk previously confirmed that the girl group plans to release a full-length album around October.

A Busy Year for BABYMONSTER

Interestingly, while Yang Hyun Suk mentioned October, the English subtitles translated his statement to “either September or October,” adding an element of anticipation and speculation. The upcoming album will be BABYMONSTER’s first full-length project, representing a significant milestone in their career. It promises to be a comprehensive showcase of their musical range and growth, solidifying their place in the K-pop industry.

Ahead of the full album release, BABYMONSTER will build excitement with a pre-release single from the album. This strategy aims to maintain momentum and keep fans engaged as they eagerly await the full album. The pre-release single will provide an early glimpse into the new music, setting the tone for the album and giving fans something to look forward to.

BABYMONSTER’s journey to this point has been marked by impressive achievements and a growing fan base. With ‘FOREVER,’ they continue to demonstrate their talent and potential, captivating audiences with their dynamic performances and charismatic presence. The upcoming album and pre-release single are highly anticipated, as fans are eager to see how the group evolves and what new musical directions they will explore.

In the ‘FOREVER’ music video, BABYMONSTER not only celebrates their current success but also sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting and impactful year ahead. Fans can look forward to a series of releases that will undoubtedly further elevate the group’s profile and showcase their exceptional abilities.

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YG Entertainment Teases ‘Good News’ About 2NE1 Reunion

YG Entertainment has hinted that a 2NE1 reunion might be on the horizon, sparking excitement among fans worldwide!

Is the 2NE1 Reunion Finally Happening This Year?

Earlier this week, YG Entertainment confirmed reports that all four members of 2NE1 were scheduled to meet with executive producer Yang Hyun Suk. At the time, the agency declined to provide further details, leaving fans in suspense.

On June 28, YG Entertainment officially announced that the previous day, the four 2NE1 members—CL, Dara, Bom, and Minzy—had an “extremely meaningful” conversation with Yang Hyun Suk during an official meeting that lasted approximately two hours.

The agency stated, “As this was producer Yang [Hyun Suk] and the 2NE1 members’ first conversation in eight years, although no concrete plans have been made, Yang—who has particular affection for 2NE1—listened to the members’ requests and empathized with them, so we are looking forward to being able to convey good news to the fans soon.”

This announcement has fueled speculation and excitement about a possible 2NE1 comeback. The group’s last release as a full unit was in 2014 with the album “Crush,” and their disbandment in 2016 left fans yearning for more from the iconic quartet. Despite the disbandment, the members have remained active in the music industry, with solo projects and occasional reunions at special events, such as their surprise performance at Coachella 2022.

When Is the 2NE1 Comeback?

The potential for a 2NE1 reunion is significant not only for their dedicated fanbase, known as Blackjacks, but also for the broader K-pop community. 2NE1 was a pioneering force in K-pop, known for their edgy style, powerful performances, and hit tracks like “I Am the Best,” “Fire,” and “Lonely.” Their influence on the genre and their trailblazing role for female artists in K-pop cannot be overstated.

Fans have taken to social media to express their excitement and anticipation, hoping for the return of the legendary girl group. The mere possibility of new music or performances from 2NE1 has reinvigorated their loyal following and generated buzz across various online platforms.

Are you excited to potentially see 2NE1 make their long-awaited comeback? The possibility of new projects and music from this iconic group promises to be one of the most highly anticipated events in the K-pop industry.

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