Tag: YG Entertainment

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YG Entertainment Addresses Ahyeon’s BABYMONSTER Exit

It’s finally happening: YG Entertainment has confirmed that BABYMONSTER is set for a November debut. However, there are still some concerns about the future for Ahyeon, who has seemingly disappeared from the group’s lineup. Interestingly, the agency has since addressed Ahyeon’s possible BABYMONSTER exit.

YG Entertainment Seemingly Debunks Ahyeon’s BABYMONSTER Exit

On October 11, YG Entertainment confirmed that BABYMONSTER is ready for their debut. The recent announcement finally put an end to the anxious anticipation of fans. Originally scheduled for a September debut, the plans faced a delay, with YG Entertainment explaining that it was essential to select the perfect song for their introduction. However, all preparations have now been concluded, and the group is set to begin filming their debut music video at the end of October. BABYMONSTER’s official debut is slated for November.

While this announcement alleviated concerns about the debut, it also raised questions regarding the group’s lineup. Recent speculations have been circulating about Ahyeon, one of the supposed seven members of BABYMONSTER, potentially leaving the group. Notably, during BLACKPINK’s Born Pink Seoul finale concert in September, only six BABYMONSTER members were observed in the audience. Ahyeon’s prolonged absence from the group’s social media further fueled suspicions of her departure.

The latest notice from YG Entertainment did not specify the final lineup of BABYMONSTER either. However, a YG representative informed JTBC that Ahyeon is “also preparing for her debut.” This statement, lacking additional details, has added to the uncertainty surrounding Ahyeon’s status within BABYMONSTER. It remains unclear whether she is still part of the lineup or if she is preparing to join another girl group under the same agency.

Ahyeon had been a standout participant in “Last Evolution,” the YouTube reality content that showcased the potential skills and talents of BABYMONSTER members. Despite not having made her debut yet, Ahyeon has amassed a substantial domestic and international fanbase through her performances. Her future path within the group or in another venture remains a topic of curiosity and anticipation among fans.

The BABYMONSTER official debut date has not yet been announced but is already set for November 2023. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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Is G-Dragon Transferring to Another Agency?

G-Dragon in a concept photo for BIGBANG's 2015 'MADE' in Seoul DVD. Credit: Facebook/BIGBANG

In June, YG Entertainment confirmed that the exclusive contract of G-DRAGON with their agency has ended. Since then, fans have been keenly anticipating his next moves.

On Saturday, September 30, G-DRAGON posted a series of photos on his personal Instagram account. One photo specifically prompted fans to speculate on his career developments. 

Said photo showed an electronic display put up by Warner Music Records that read: “Welcome G-Dragon.” This led fans to speculate that the rapper has likely signed with the label. 

Prior to the photos’ release, foreign media reported that the singer visited the  Warner Music Records office in Los Angeles, California. For those who don’t know, Warner Music is one of the top three music labels in the global music industry alongside Universal Music and Sony Music.

With GD’s speculated leap in his career, fans, especially BIGBANG’s fandom VIPs, are thrilled for his return. Earlier this year, the “Crooked” singer announced that he has plans to return with a solo album.

Fans’ thoughts about the next move of G-Dragon

Although there are no official confirmations yet, fans have already brought their sentiments to social media.

Upon seeing the update, VIPs could not hide their excitement for the singer. “If it’s true that G-Dragon signed with Warner, Congratulations! Hopefully we will get music soon,” one wrote.

https://twitter.com/tttoptier131kon/status/1707001128532250988

Other fans, meanwhile, remain skeptical and believe that his visit at Warner Music is only for US promotions.

G-DRAGON’s journey with BIGBANG and YG

Known as one of the leading K-Pop artists, G-DRAGON has spent 23 years with YG Entertainment. From BIGBANG’s debut in 2006, the singer has been with the agency since he was 19 years old.

Composed of members G-DRAGON, T.O.P., Taeyang, Daesung and former member Seungri, BIGBANG has been established as one of the leading K-pop groups from the second generation. The act released numerous hits including “BANG BANG BANG”, “Still Life”, “LOSER”, and a lot more throughout their career. 

Undoubtedly, the group’s leader GD has led BIGBANG to be one of the most influential K-Pop groups in history.

Sadly, BIGBANG went on an indefinite hiatus in 2018, releasing the song “Flower Road.” Said song served as a farewell song while the members completed their mandatory military service.

In 2019, the youngest member Seungri departed from the group after being embroiled in the infamous Burning Sun scandal. 

In 2022, T.O.P. also decided to not renew his contract with the agency, and announced that he would no longer participate in the group. Meanwhile, Taeyang transferred to THEBLACKLABEL, which is a subsidiary of YG Entertainment.

Regardless of whether there’s official confirmation yet or not, fans are already looking forward to G-DRAGON’s comeback as a solo artist.

Featured image: G-Dragon in a concept photo for BIGBANG’s 2015 ‘MADE’ in Seoul DVD. Credit: Facebook/BIGBANG

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BIGBANG G-Dragon Possibly Signed Warner Music Distribution Deal

There is little doubt that G-Dragon’s comeback is one of the most highly awaited releases of the past few years. But is it possible that the BIGBANG leader is taking time to ensure all global fans will get a taste of his music? Several reports suggest that GD has signed a distribution deal with Warner Music to make sure his next album is released internationally.

G-Dragon has been dropping hints about his upcoming album for quite some time, keeping fans eagerly anticipating his return to the music scene. However, YG Entertainment, his agency, has not officially confirmed any details about his comeback.

BIGBANG Leader G-Dragon Welcomed By Warner Music

Recent reports have revealed that G-Dragon is currently in the United States, particularly in Los Angeles, California. Speculation has arisen as he was reportedly seen visiting the Warner Records office in LA. This visit has piqued the interest of fans, who suspect that it could signify a significant development in his career.

Many fans are now speculating whether G-Dragon has entered into a distribution deal with Warner Records for his highly anticipated solo comeback. Some have even noticed indications of his affiliation with Warner Music Group through a Google search, which has further fueled speculation about his global music distribution plans through the label.

While fans eagerly await official confirmation from G-Dragon or YG Entertainment regarding these developments, his potential collaboration with a prominent record label like Warner Records has generated excitement and high expectations for his upcoming music release.

G-Dragon is currently the last BIGBANG member to stay with YG Entertainment. Taeyang has signed with YG affiliate THE BLACK LABEL while Daesung signed a contract with R&D Company in April 2023. The idols are all expected to continue promoting with their group.

YG Entertainment has not yet confirmed whether G-Dragon is preparing for a solo comeback. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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Fans Raise Concern as YG Entertainment Delays Debut of New Girl Group BABYMONSTER

BABYMONSTER updates fans with a group picture. Credit: Instagram/BABYMONSTER

Fans of upcoming rookie girl group BABYMONSTER might have to wait a little longer as YG Entertainment seemingly appeared to have delayed the group’s debut, which was initially set for September. 

On Saturday, September 23, Naver reported that YG Entertainment is delaying the debut of BABYMONSTER due to “quality enhancement.” Moreover, the group’s debut song will reportedly fall under the strong hip–hop genre. Hence, the agency is reportedly putting more effort into the song. 

Initially, YG Entertainment confirmed in July that their new girl group will debut in September. At the time, the agency shared that the members were already working on the song’s choreography and preparing for the filming of the music video. 

However, with September already drawing to a close, the agency has yet to release teasers or announcements related to BABYMONSTER’s debut. As of writing, the label also didn’t provide an update on the situation. 

Understandably, this delay has left many fans disappointed as they have been anticipating BABYMONSTER’s debut since the start of 2023. Still, most fans remain patient and hopeful with the final unveiling of the group.

What we know so far about BABYMONSTER

Composed of Ruka, Pharita, Asa, Ahyeon, Haram, Rora, and Chiquita, the seven-member girl group were formed through YG Entertainment’s survival show Last Evaluation.

Initially, only five members were supposed to debut. But the agency’s founder Yang Si Hyuk listened to the viewers’ opinions of having all the seven members take part in the group.

Interestingly, the seven members came from various countries. Ahyeon, Haram and Rora are the South Korean members of the group. Meanwhile, members Asa and Ruka are from Japan. Lastly, Thai members Pharita and Chiquita completed the lineup.

Even before making their debut, BABYMONSTER had already earned recognition from K-pop fans due to their “all-rounder” skills. All eight of their Last Evaluation episodes on Youtube have surpassed eight millions views each. 

In May, BABYMONSTER teased the fans with their pre-debut track “DREAM.” Within four months of its release, the music video for the track has already garnered over 50 million views.

Fans’ assumptions over YG’s moves

While fans’ anticipation for the group’s debut becomes higher, the uncertainty gets more extreme as well. With the announcement of the delay, fans cannot help but raise assumptions over YG Entertainment’s moves.

Some fans have speculated that the group’s debut was delayed due to one of its members leaving. Eagle-eyed fans have pointed out that Ahyeon has been missing from the group’s social media content with her last video posted in July.

The group was also seen attending BLACKPINK’s Born Pink finale concert in Seoul, but only six members were present. Based on the photos circulating online, Ahyeon wasn’t in attendance.

With Ahyeon’s absence and the label keeping mum about it, fans continue to worry for the singer. Out of all the members, Ahyeon is considered as one with the most public recognition as she went viral for her cover of Charlie Puth’s “Dangerously.”

On the other hand, some fans are speculating that YG Entertainment is delaying BABYMONSTER’s debut due to their unsettled contract negotiations with the label’s other girl group BLACKPINK. 

Currently, the worldwide sensation superstars are in talks with the agency as their seven-year contract has expired in 2023. Although there are rumors of the members leaving the agency, YG Entertainment remains firm that there’s no final decision yet. 

 

BABYMONSTER is set to be YG Entertainment’s first girl group in about seven years, after BLACKPINK’s debut in 2015.

Featured image: BABYMONSTER updates fans with a group picture. Credit: Instagram/BABYMONSTER

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YG Entertainment: Blackpink Contract Renewal Still Ongoing

BLACKPINK posing for a photo from their 'Shut Down' promotions. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

BLINKs, it seems like there’s a few more days of uncertainties as YG Entertainment revealed that the discussion on the BLACKPINK members’ contract renewal is still underway. 

On Thursday, September 21, the agency responded to reports and rumors surrounding the possible departure of several BLACKPINK members from YG Entertainment. 

“Currently, BLACKPINK’s contract renewal has not been confirmed and is being discussed,” the label told Korean media. 

Rumors surrounding BLACKPINK’s move 

At first, it was only member Lisa who was initially rumored to be not renewing her contract. 

Several reports and “industry insiders” have claimed that the Thai rapper has rejected two offers from YG. One of the alleged contracts is reportedly worth 50 billion South Korean won. 

Furthermore, other reports are claiming that Lisa might sign with an American agency instead. Aside from the worth of the contract, the deal also promises business and promotional opportunities for the artist. 

However, recent circulating reports are claiming that only member Rosé will be re-signing with YG Entertainment. Which means that Jennie and Jisoo will also leave the agency, aside from Lisa. 

According to the Daily Sports Seoul, the three members are in the final negotiations with other agencies. In the report, it also claimed that Jisoo is planning to expand her acting career. 

In response to these rumors, YG Entertainment reiterated that nothing has been finalized yet regarding the members’ contract. 

What future awaits BLACKPINK? 

For months, the ongoing saga about BLACKPINK’s contract renewal has caught the attention of the media. Given that the group marked their seventh debut anniversary on August 8, those familiar with the industry know that BLACKPINK’s renewal news is just around the corner. 

With the group primarily focusing on wrapping up their BORN PINK world tour, industry insiders are expecting that the announcement might be delayed until September or October. 

While many are already keen that most of the members will leave YG Entertainment, several reports have also raised discussions about the chances of the group renewing with the agency. Some reports have even projected possible payouts that the BLACKPINK members will receive should they stay with the label. 

However, given the uncertainties, it’s undeniable that it will shake YG Entertainment, with some reports showing that the agency’s stocks have plummeted. 

Even fans are concerned as there’s still no assurance whether BLACKPINK will stay together,  disband, focus on solo projects, or continue with group activities despite being in different agencies. 

Featured image: BLACKPINK posing for a photo from their ‘Shut Down’ promotions. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

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End of an Era: Blackpink Emotionally Wraps up ‘Born Pink’ World Tour

BLACKPINK during the Las Vegas stop of their 'Born Pink' world tour. Credit: Twitter/BLACKPINK

How are we feeling, BLINKs? K-pop girl group BLACKPINK officially wrapped up their 11-month long Born Pink  world tour in a two-day concert in Seoul’s Gockeok Sky Dome on September 16 to 17. 

The sensational girl group electrified the stage with hits “Pink Venom,” “Pretty Savage”, “How You Like That,” and many more.

As they finally put an end to the Born Pink era, Jisoo, Jennie, Rose, and Lisa couldn’t help but be emotional as they reminisced about their entire tour journey. 

“One year ago, around this time, we started in Seoul, and one year later now, we got to wrap up the concert. So I’m happy to wrap up with good memories until the end,” Jisoo shared.

Meanwhile, Rose looked back on their first concert. “Our first-ever Seoul concert feels like it was just yesterday,” she said. “It feels like we’ve become one with BLINK, and although this is our last, it feels like we will be together forever.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q2yr0QVpQhs

Then,  Lisa took the time to thank BLINKs, the group’s fandom, for their support. “To our BLINKs, it’s been over 2,596 days since we met. Thank you BLINKs for this amazing experience, and I really love you all. And thank you BLINKs for making my 20s shine.” she said.

Lastly, Jennie expressed her sentiments on the tour finale. “BLINKs, thank you for loving and cheering us on as always. We will work hard and continue to be BLACKPINK who always impresses,” she said. 

In the middle of a few performances, netizens noticed how Jennie seemed to have held back tears.

BLACKPINK’s achievements with Born Pink

With the final concert in Seoul, the Born Pink world tour now records a staggering total of 66 shows. In a span of 11 months, the four members traveled across North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania to meet BLINKs.

In April, Touring Data reported that the Born Pink world tour became the highest-grossing tour by a female group in history. BLACKPINK accomplished an impressive milestone of having sold 366,000 tickets for the first 26 shows alone. With this, the K-Pop idols surpassed legendary acts such as Spice Girls, Destiny’s Child, and TLC.

For the tour’s fourth show, Touring Data revealed that Born Pink has achieved another record as it becomes the first tour by a female act in Asia to surpass 200 million USD in ticket sales.

Showing off their global influence, BLACKPINK also writes their name down in history as the first artist to headline and sell out several stadiums across the world including Mexico, France, Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore.

Born Pink: As if it’s BLACKPINK’s last concert

Amidst these momentous milestones, fans are extra sentimental with the Born Pink finale as the members’ contract with their agency, YG Entertainment, also comes to an end. 

Debuted in 2016, BLACKPINK marked their seventh debut anniversary in August 2023.  Which means their seven-year contract has also expired.

Numerous South Korean media outlets have reported that Lisa rejected two offers for renewal. However, YG Entertainment addressed the rumors stating: “We are still discussing contract renewals with Lisa. The rumors that are going around are nothing that is confirmed.”

As of writing, none of the BLACKPINK members have finalized their contract renewal yet— making fans keen and anxious of the group’s future activities.

Featured image: BLACKPINK during the Las Vegas stop of their ‘Born Pink’ world tour. Credit: Twitter/BLACKPINK

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YG Entertainment’s ‘Project Your Side’ Exhibition Set for September

YG Entertainment announces 2023 edition of Project Your Side. Credit: Website/Naver

Project Your Side, the initiative by YG Entertainment to bridge cultural gap, is returning for a new set of activities in September. 

On Wednesday, September 13, the agency announced that the event will return for a 2023 edition. It will take place at the Y-STAR Youth Creative Center in Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk-do for three days from September to 21 to 23. 

According to reports, Project Your Side will feature a pop-up exhibition space where attendees can experience various popular culture content from YG Entertainment.

One of which is the album zone, wherein visitors can see the real albums from YG artists. Next is a costume zone where BLACKPINK’s outfits for Coachella are housed. And there’s also a photo zone so attendees can pose with YG’s representative mascot Krunk. 

Furthermore, there will also be a poster zone which houses images of YG artists. Interestingly, said zone will also feature special posters made by ‘special designers’ with developmental disabilities from Key Muse Studio.

Aside from these executions, YG Entertainment will also hold auditions and audition special lectures or question and answer sessions for the youth of Gyeongsan for the first time. 

In addition to that, there will also be special programs that will be headlined by YG artists. Singer Sean will discuss concerts while YGX will hold dance workshops. All of these programs are also open for free. Those interested to attend Project Your Side should pre-register through the Naver Happy Bean page. 

More about Project Your Side

Project Your Side is a new social contribution activity led by YG Entertainment. The agency first started their YG WITH Campaign in 2009. Since then, the label is set to participate in volunteer activities, as well as fundraising projects. 

In particular, the Project Your Side initiative aims to promote popular culture content to local communities. 

“We will take the lead in filling the cultural gap and increasing opportunities for young people to enjoy culture,” the agency said about the project. Their first Project Your Side event was held in Wanju Urban Culture Support Center in December 2022. 

Because of these efforts, YG received the “Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Award” at the 2023 Cultural City Expo and International Conference. 

Currently, YG Entertainment is home to the following artists: BIGBANG’s G-Dragon, duo AKMU, and groups Sech Kies, WINNER, BLACKPINK, and Treasure.

Featured image: YG Entertainment announces 2023 edition of Project Your Side. Credit: Website/Naver

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iKON Members Officially Reclaim Group Trademarks From YG Entertainment

The iKON members now officially own all their group trademarks following their split from YG Entertainment

The iKON members are officially free. In a groundbreaking moment for the idols and a significant milestone in the K-Pop industry, the talented members of the renowned boy group iKON have successfully gained ownership of all their group trademarks following their departure from YG Entertainment.

iKON Members Finally Claim Group Trademarks Since YG Entertainment Exit

As confirmed by the Korean Intellectual Property Rights Information Service (KIPRIS), a total of 13 trademarks associated with the K-Pop sensation “iKON” have now been officially transferred to its members. This remarkable development extends to the group’s dedicated artists, including Kim Jin Hwan (Jay), Song Yun Hyeong (Song), Kim Ji Won (Bobby), Kim Dong Hyuk (DK), Koo Jun Hoe (Ju-Ne), and Jung Chan Woo (Chan).

This significant achievement signifies that each member of iKON is now a proud owner of their group’s valuable trademarks, marking a historic moment in their artistic journey and underlining their autonomy in shaping their future endeavors.

In the previous year, iKON bid farewell to YG Entertainment by releasing their final mini-album ‘Flashback’ under the agency and embarking on a memorable Japan tour. This marked a significant transition in their career. On December 30, the members collectively declared their departure from YG Entertainment, setting the stage for a new chapter in their journey. Shortly thereafter, they embarked on this fresh adventure by signing with 143 Entertainment.

Their first release under 143 Entertainment was the eagerly anticipated album ‘Take Off’ which debuted in May of this year. However, an important detail persisted – although the album bore the group’s iconic name, iKON, the members still did not possess the legal rights to that name. Despite their newfound creative freedom, this legal distinction underscored the ongoing importance of resolving their trademark ownership, paving the way for their artistic autonomy and continued success in the ever-evolving world of K-Pop.

The iKON members have been on a long journey since their debut. Needless to say, owning the rights to their songs and the group name is a major milestone.

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CL Ends Management Partnership with Konnect Entertainment

Former 2NE1 member CL concluded her two-year domestic management partnership with Konnect Entertainment

The collaborative domestic management partnership between the renowned artist CL and Konnect Entertainment has officially concluded. Both CL’s record label Very Cherry and Konnect Entertainment have confirmed the conclusion of their two-year partnership. Although this puts the idol in an uncertain situation, BLACKJACKs are hoping it means new content from the former 2NE1 member.

CL Parts Ways With Konnect Entertainment, Ends Management Partnership

On August 29, Very Cherry shared the news about CL’s domestic management partnership. The record label confirmed that the idol concluded the collaboration with Konnect Entertainment. “The partnership that has prevailed for the past two years has come to an end,” they said.

This partnership, initiated in July 2021, served as a platform for several significant projects, including the promotion of domestic broadcasting activities for ‘ALPHA,’ which marked CL’s debut solo studio album. The collaboration was instrumental in bringing CL’s music to a wider audience during this period.

With the closure of the partnership between CL and Konnect Entertainment, CL is poised to reconnect with her devoted fan base. A representative from Very Cherry, her record label, dropped hints about forthcoming plans,

“We are strategically planning to continue our activities through various forms of partnerships,” they said.

The Future for CL

This suggests that while one chapter closes, CL and Very Cherry are already looking ahead to new and diverse avenues for their artistic endeavors. CL’s fans can anticipate exciting developments as she explores fresh opportunities on her creative journey.

Last year, CL reunited with fellow 2NE1 members Bom, DARA, and Minzy to perform at the 2022 Coachella Festival. This would be the group’s first performance in over six years since the 2015 Mnet Asian Music Awards in December 2015.

In related news, fellow 2NE1 member DARA dropped her first solo album “Sandara Park”. This would be her first album release in South Korea and her first release overall in 14 years since the promotional single “Kiss” in 2009.

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Bang Ye-Dam Signs With New Agency; Thanks Yg Entertainment and Treasure

GF Entertainment shares photo of their new artist, Bang Ye-dam. Credit: Press release/GF Entertainment

Former TREASURE member Bang Ye-dam will be starting afresh as a solo artist with his new agency GF Entertainment.

In his personal Instagram account on Wednesday, August 23, Ye-dam shared a heartfelt message showing gratitude to his former label YG Entertainment, previous group TREASURE, and their fans, Treasure Makers or TEUMEs. 

The 21-year-old artist looked back at how his idol journey started, saying that YG Entertainment has supported and has allowed him to grow to who he is now. 

 

For their part, GF Entertainment is also looking forward to having Ye-dam under their agency. 

“We are glad to sign with a talented artist. We plan on relentlessly supporting Bang Ye-dam, so he can be a musician who can excel as a producer, singer, and in other aspects.” GF Entertainment said in a press release.

 

​​Aside from Ye-Dam, the agency also currently manages the 7-member boy group Kingdom.

Fans’ reaction to the news 

Fans, especially TEUMEs who have waited for a long time, have expressed their support and excitement towards Ye-dam’s new path as an artist. 

“I wanna hug everyone who waited for this day to come. Finally guys, war is over. Ye-dam is finally with his new agency and will be releasing his new music soon,” one fan wrote.

 

Another fan congratulated Ye-dam on his new journey and feels touched with the mention of TREASURE, Teumes, and YG Entertainment  in his post.  

 

Overall, the majority of them are anticipating Ye-dam‘s solo career. 

From TREASURE member to solo artist

Bang Ye-dam made his debut in August 2020 as a member of the 12-piece South Korean-Japanese group TREASURE. 

However, in May 2022, YG Entertainment announced that Ye-dam and Mashisho will be taking a hiatus from group activities. According to the agency, Ye-dam will be working on his career as a producer and studying music for the time being. 

Come November 2022, YG Entertainment announced that Ye-dam and Mashiho are parting ways with the agency, leaving TREASURE as a 10-member group.The only remaining members are Choi Hyunsuk, Jihoon, Park Jeongwoo, Yoshi, Junkyu, So Junghwan, Yoon Jaehyuk, Asahi, Doyoung, and Haruto. 

Additionally, Ye-dam spent nine years in YG Entertainment, with seven years as a trainee and two years in TREASURE. 

Since his departure from YG Entertainment, Ye-dam has updated fans through his Instagram account. He opened it on his birthday this year, in which he initially hinted at making a comeback. 

“If you just wait a little longer, I’ll be back with good news. I’ll be back again as a cool Bang Ye-dam! Thank you always,” he said then.

Featured image: GF Entertainment shares photo of their new artist, Bang Ye-dam. Credit: Press release/GF Entertainment

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