The long-awaited moment has finally arrived. After nearly four years of solo journeys and the successful completion of their mandatory military service, BTS is officially reuniting for a massive 2026-2027 World Tour and a brand-new studio album.
The Grand Return: New Album & 360° Stage
The group will mark their return with a new studio album scheduled for release on March 20, 2026. Following the release, the septet will hit the road for an expansive 79-date world tour spanning 34 cities across five continents. In an exciting technical twist, the tour will feature a 360-degree in-the-round stage design, placing ARMY at the center of an immersive, high-energy experience.
Key Tour Stops & Dates
The journey kicks off in South Korea before heading to major global stadiums.
| Region | City | Date | Venue |
| ASIA | Goyang, South Korea
Tokyo, Japan Busan, South Korea |
Apr 9, 11, 12
Apr 17, 18 Jun 12, 13 |
Goyang Stadium
Tokyo Dome Busan Asiad Stadium |
| NORTH AMERICA | Tampa, USA
El Paso, USA Mexico City, Mexico Stanford, USA Las Vegas, USA East Rutherford (NJ), USA Foxborough (MA), USA Baltimore, USA Arlington (TX), USA Toronto, Canada Chicago, USA Los Angeles, USA |
Apr 25, 26
May 2, 3 May 7, 9, 10 May 16, 17 May 23, 24, 27 Aug 1, 2 Aug 5, 6 Aug 10, 11 Aug 15, 16 Aug 22, 23 Aug 27, 28 Sept 1, 2, 5, 6 |
Raymond James Stadium
Sun Bowl Stadium Estadio GNP Seguros Stanford Stadium Allegiant Stadium MetLife Stadium Gillette Stadium M&T Bank Stadium AT&T Stadium Rogers Stadium Soldier Field SoFi Stadium |
| EUROPE | Madrid, Spain
Brussels, Belgium London, United Kingdom Munich, Germany Paris, France |
Jun 26, 27
Jul 1, 2 Jul 6, 7 Jul 11, 12 Jul 17, 18 |
Riyadh Air Metropolitano
King Baudouin Stadium Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Allianz Arena Stade de France |
| LATIN AMERICA
|
Bogotá, Colombia
Lima, Peru Santiago, Chile Buenos Aires, Argentina São Paulo, Brazil |
Oct 2, 3
Oct 9, 10 Oct 16, 17 Oct 23, 24 Oct 28, 30, 31 |
TBA
TBA TBA TBA TBA |
| ASIA & OCEANIA | Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Bangkok, Thailand Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Singapore Jakarta, Indonesia Melbourne, Australia Sydney, Australia Hong Kong Manila, Philippines |
Nov 19, 21, 22
Dec 3, 5, 6 Dec 12, 13 Dec 17, 19, 20, 22 Dec 26, 27 Feb 12, 13 (2027) Feb 20, 21 (2027) Mar 4, 6, 7 (2027) Mar 13, 14 (2027) |
TBA
TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA |
Ticket Information
Demand is expected to be historic. ARMY Membership presales begin on January 22, 2026, with general sales following on January 24. Get your lightsticks ready—the purple ocean is officially returning.
— Karen Mwenda
#BTS #BTS2026WorldTour #BTSNewAlbum2026 #MarchTourBTS #kcrush #koreanpop #BIGHIT #kpop #kpopidol #newstage2026 #RM #V #SUGA #JHOPE #JIMIN #JUNGKOOK #JIN #BIGHITENTERTAINMENT #HYBE #BTSReturn #kcrushmagazine #kcrushamerica #BTSARMY #BTSFANCLUB BTSMEMBERSHIP #BTS2026 #360DegreeStageBTS
Over the past decade, Korean actresses have played a decisive role in shaping Hallyu’s global ascent. From romance and melodrama to thrillers and social commentary, these performers delivered defining works that dominated ratings, influenced pop culture, and expanded Korean storytelling onto the world stage. Each year highlights two actresses whose performances captured the cultural moment and left a lasting imprint.
1. 2014 — Jun Ji-hyun & Gong Hyo-jin
Jun Ji-hyun
Defining Work: My Love from the Star (2013–14).
Other Notable Works: Il Mare (2000), Windstruck (2004), The Thieves (2012), Assassination (2015), Kingdom: Ashin of the North (2021).
Gong Hyo-jin
Defining Work: It’s Okay, That’s Love (2014).
Other Notable Works: Thank You (2007), Pasta (2010), The Greatest Love (2011), Master’s Sun (2013), When the Camellia Blooms (2019).
2. 2015 — Hwang Jung-eum & Kim Tae-hee
Hwang Jung-eum
Defining Work: Kill Me, Heal Me (2015).
Other Notable Works: Can You Hear My Heart (2011), Secret Love (2013), She Was Pretty (2015), Mystic Pop-Up Bar (2020).
Kim Tae-hee
Defining Work: Yong-pal (2015).
Other Notable Works: Stairway to Heaven (2003), Love Story in Harvard (2004), Iris (2009), Hi Bye, Mama! (2020).
3. 2016 — Song Hye-kyo & Kim Go-eun
Song Hye-kyo
Defining Work: Descendants of the Sun (2016).
Other Notable Works: Autumn in My Heart (2000), All In (2003), That Winter, The Wind Blows (2013), The Glory (2022–23).
Kim Go-eun
Defining Work: Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (Goblin) (2016–17).
Other Notable Works: A Muse (2012), Cheese in the Trap (2016), Yumi’s Cells (2021–22), Little Women (2022), Exhuma (2024).
4. 2017 — Park Bo-young & Kim Yoo-jung
Park Bo-young
Defining Work: (2017).
Other Notable Works: Scandal Makers (2008), Oh My Ghost (2015), Doom at Your Service (2021), Daily Dose of Sunshine (2023).
Kim Yoo-jung
Defining Work: Love in the Moonlight (2016–17).
Other Notable Works: Dong Yi (2010), Moon Embracing the Sun (2012), Backstreet Rookie (2020), My Demon (2023), Dear X (2025).
5. 2018 — Seo Hyun-jin & Kim Ji-won
Seo Hyun-jin
Defining Work: The Beauty Inside (2018).
Other Notable Works: Another Miss Oh (2016), Temperature of Love (2017), Dr. Romantic (2016), You Are My Spring (2021).
Park Min-young
Defining Work: What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim (2018).
Other Notable Works: Unstoppable High Kick (2006), I Am Sam (2007), Glory Jane (2011), City Hunter (2011), Dr. Jin (2012), A New Leaf (2014), Healer (2014–15), Remember: War of the Son (2015–16), Her Private Life (2019), Forecasting Love and Weather (2022).
6. 2019 — Son Ye-jin & Kim Hye-yoon
Son Ye-jin
Defining Work: Crash Landing on You (2019–20).
Other Notable Works: The Classic (2003), Something in the Rain (2018), Thirty-Nine (2022).
Kim Hye-yoon
Defining Work: Extraordinary You (2019).
Other Notable Works: SKY Castle (2018–19), Snowdrop (2021), Lovely Runner (2024).
7. 2020 — Kim Hee-ae & Seo Ye-ji
Kim Hee-ae
Defining Work: The World of the Married (2020).
Other Notable Works: A Wife’s Credentials (2012), Secret Affair (2014), Queenmaker (2023).
Seo Ye-ji
Defining Work: It’s Okay to Not Be Okay (2020).
Other Notable Works: Save Me (2017), Lawless Lawyer (2018), Eve (2022).
8. 2021 — Jung Ho-yeon & Shin Min-a
Jung Ho-yeon
Defining Work: Squid Game (2021).
Other Notable Works: Disclaimer (2024), The Governesses (2025).
Shin Min-a
Defining Work: Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha (2021).
Other Notable Works: My Girlfriend Is a Gumiho (2010), Tomorrow, With You (2017), Our Blues (2022).
9. 2022 — Kim Hye-soo & Han So-hee
Kim Hye-soo
Defining Work: Juvenile Justice (2022).
Other Notable Works: Tazza (2006), The Thieves (2012), Signal (2016), Under the Queen’s Umbrella (2022).
Han So-hee
Defining Work: My Name (2021–22).
Other Notable Works: The World of the Married (2020), Nevertheless (2021), Gyeongseong Creature (2023–24).
10. 2023 — Ahn Eun-jin & Bae Suzy
Ahn Eun-jin
Defining Work: My Dearest (2023).
Other Notable Works: Hospital Playlist (2020–21), The Good Bad Mother (2023).
Bae Suzy
Defining Work: Anna (2022–23).
Other Notable Works: While You Were Sleeping (2017), Start-Up (2020), Doona! (2023).
11. 2024 — Kim Ji-won, Jung So-min & Moon So Ri
Kim Ji-won
Defining Work: Queen of Tears (2024).
Other Notable Works: The Heirs 2013), Descendants of the Sun (2016), Fight for my Way (2017), Arthdal Chronicles (2019), Lovestruck in the City (2020-21), My Liberation Notes (2022).
Jung So-min
Defining Work: My Lovely Liar (2023–24).
Other Notable Works: Because This Is My First Life (2017), Alchemy of Souls (2022).
Moon So-ri
Defining Work: The Queen Who Crowns (2024).
Other Notable Works: Mom’s Dead Upset (2002), The Princess’s Man (2011), Jealousy Incarnate (2016), The Legend of the Blue Sea (2016–17), Life (2018).
12. 2025 — IU (Lee Ji-eun), Jang Na-ra & Kim Hye Ja
IU (Lee Ji-eun)
Defining Work: When Life Gives You Tangerines (2025).
Other Notable Works: Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016), My Mister (2018), Hotel Del Luna (2019).
Park Eun-bin
Defining Work: Hyper Knife (2025).
Other Notable Works: Secret Door (2014), Age of Youth (2016–17), Hot Stove League (2019), Do You Like Brahms? (2020), The King’s Affection (2021), Extraordinary Attorney Woo (2022), Castaway Diva (2023).
Kim Hye-ja
Defining Work: Heavenly Ever After (2025)
Other Notable Works: Radiant – The Light in Your Eyes (2019) Country Diaries (전원일기) (1980–2002), What Is Love? (1991), Mother’s Sea (1993), The Queen of Office (2013), Dear My Friends (2016), Our Blues (2022).
— Karen Mwenda
#TopKoreanActresses2014to2025 #HeavenlyEverAfter #MothersSea #kcrush #koreandrama #kdrama #KimHyeJa #ParkEunBin #HyperKnife #SecretDoor #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #LeeJiEun #IU #WhenLifeGivesYouTangerines ##HotelDelLuna #Hallyu #Kpop #JangNaRa #MoonSoRi #JunJihyun #GongHyojin #MyLoveFromAnotherStar #ItsOkayThatsLove #KillMeHealMe #HwangJungeum #KimTaehee #Youngpal #HiByeMama #SongHyekyo #KimGoeun #DescendantsFroTheSun #GuardianTheLonelyandGreatGodGoblin #ParkBoyoung #KimYoojung #StrongWomanDoBongsoon #BaeSuzy #KimHeeae #KimHyeSoo #ShinMinax
K-Pop Demon Hunters, the animated film from Netflix and Sony Pictures Animation, won two awards at the 83rd Golden Globe Awards. The film received Best Motion Picture – Animated and Best Original Song – Motion Picture, making it one of the most awarded animated films of the ceremony.
(Centre) Maggie Kang
The film won Best Motion Picture – Animated over Zootopia 2 and Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle. With this win, director Maggie Kang became the first Asian woman to receive the Golden Globe for Best Animated Motion Picture.
(L-R) Rei Ami, EJAE, Audrey
The song “Golden” won Best Original Song – Motion Picture. The song is performed by the fictional K-pop group HUNTR/X, with vocals by EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and REI AMI. The award was presented to the song’s credited writers, including EJAE and Mark Sonnenblick. K-Pop Demon Hunters was also nominated for Cinematic and Box Office Achievement, but the award was won by Sinners, a film directed by Ryan Coogler.
— Karen Mwenda
#KPOPDemonHunters #83rdGoldenGlobeAwards #KPOPDemonHuntersWins #EJAE #Kpop #MarkSonnenblick #ReiAmi #Audrey #MaggieKang #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #BestMotionPictureAnimatedAward #BestOriginalSongMotionPicture
“Where is the justice?” is the question that builds the foundation of filmmaker Riani Singgih’s documentary short Traces of My Brother / Dia Pergi dan Belum Kembali, which screened at the 2025 Minikino Film Week in Bali, Indonesia.
On May 15, 1998, a sudden fire swept through Yogya Mall, Klender East Jakarta. As the fire quickly spread through the busy shopping center, the over two hundred inhabitants inside rushed in panic to escape, only to find the exits barricaded from the outside, trapping them. Witnesses reported seeing groups of men believed to be agitators taking part in looting during one of the nearby riots, heading towards the busy shopping center just before the fire started. These riots which had been taking place all across Jakarta and Sumatra, initially sparked off as a result of students and civilians protesting the Suharto dictatorship and New Order regime, and its targeted racism towards those of ethnic Chinese identity at that time.
Hundreds of people were killed and hurt during encounters with violent rioters, soldiers and , in other malicious acts of arson in different cities across Indonesia
One of the people trapped in what is now known as the Klender Mall fire, was 16-year-old Stevanus, the son of Maria Sanus and brother of Magdalena Wulan. Since that day 25 years ago (Traces of My Brother was filmed in 2023), Maria has asked when her son will return and when she will receive answers and justice from a government that remains silent. For almost three decades, she has wept bitter tears of grief at the injustice of not knowing exactly what happened to Stevanus. Did he indeed die in the fire, or was he disappeared like thousands of others during the many years of government oppression, civil unrest, and genocides throughout Indonesia’s tumultuous history?
For Wulan, the question of Stevanus isn’t only a query about a brother she knew only for a brief moment in time; it’s a mandate to seek justice inherited from her mother. Like so many other families who’ve lost loved ones in various tragedies, such as the 1989 Talangsari Lampung incident, the 2001 military emergency case in Central Aceh, northern Sumatra, and the violence of colonial oppression still happening to the indigenous people of West Papua, Wulan is desperate for her and Maria to receive signs of accountability from the Indonesian government. To date, there has been no serious indepth official investigation into the fire, and identification and prosecution of the perpetrators who killed hundreds of people and forever changed the lives of their families that fateful day.
At the age of 17, Wulan wrote an essay to Stevanus asking where he was, if he was happy there, and when he would return. The essay is poignantly simple letter to a brother long gone and a prayer to God to protect him, and guidance for Wulan on this long arduous journey set forth by her mother.
For Riani, this letter becomes her narrative guide in how to follow Wulan’s thought process in figuring out how she can best be of service to her mother’s cause and how tragedies like the fire reshape and change a family and its individual members. Throughout the film, Riani uses an interesting visual motif of superimposing passages from the essay, notes Wulan makes to herself, and her daily schedule on the walls of the family’s home. ”
Riani employs this creative technique very well to highlight how Stevanus still has such a strong presence in the family home and Wulan’s life. As Maria ages, she has less energy to attend meetings organized by Kontras, the Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence in Indonesia, so Wulan attends the sessions in her place. But they both go to every rally showing their dedication to the lost son and brother whom they both speak of in both the past and present tense.
There are various scenes of Wulan tending to her mother, playing football with neighbourhood boys—much as Stevanus would’ve done when he was alive, visiting the grave site for the victims of the May 14th tragedy, and attending Kontras meetings. But curiously, there are none with Wulan just having a day all to herself, or with other young women her age enjoying each other’s company, and you can’t help but ask the question, “Who is Wulan when she’s not being a daughter or a sister?
Riani understood that in making this film about the 1998 fire, it was important to create space in the narrative and editing process for audiences to understand that this event is inextricably linked to the Indonesian government’s failure to serve and protect its citizens for decades. Recently, this has become all too clear for the world to see in the lack of effective emergency response to the devastating December floods in Sumatra that killed over one thousand people, and destroyed tens of thousands of homes, schools, medical facilities, and community centres.
The flood’s destructive force was in part exacerbated by the wanton destruction of millions of hectares of precious forests and wildlife habitats, to be replaced by palm oil plantations, logging sites, and mineral mines operated by foreign companies.
In making a documentary centered on a traumatic event that still has a profound impact on the families of victims, Riani’s film style is far from intrusive. She wanted Wulan to be present in the film in ways that accommodate her comfort and moments of deep introspection.
Traces of My Brother / Dia Pergi dan Belum Kembali carefully centres a young woman who seems almost sidelined in her own life, carrying a mantle placed on her shoulders by her mother, on behalf of a brother whose absence is almost tangible. Riani’s approach was imperative with a story not only about personal loss and grief, but also the communal tragedy of governmental violence, neglect, and apathy.
In my interview with Creative Producer Brahmantyo Putra at MFW11, we discussed the fine balancing act he and Riani achieved in their responsibility as filmmakers with a story to tell, and their responsibility to protect Wulan’s emotional and mental wellbeing as a person and film subject. We also spoke about making short film documentaries in Indonesia, and how they obtain funding for their production house Seven10 Media.
*All images courtesy of Seven10 Media.
Carolyn Hinds
Freelance Film Critic, Journalist, Podcaster & YouTuber
African American Film Critics Association Member, Tomatometer-Approved Critic
Host & Producer Carolyn Talks…, and So Here’s What Happened! Podcast
Bylines at Authory.com/CarolynHinds
Twitter & Instagram: @CarrieCnh12
#MinikinoFilmWeek11 #TracesOfMyBrother #BrahmantyoPutra #CreativeProducer #kcrush #filmfestival #interview #kcrushinterview #kcrushmagazine #kcrushamerica #filmmakerRianiSinggih #internationalfilm #DiaPergidanBelumKembali #Bali #Indonesia #documentaryshort #YogyaMall #KlenderEastJakarta
Completing the epic “Übermensch” journey with 825,000 fans worldwide through 39 performances in 17 cities across 12 countries, redefining the global standard for solo world tours
Courtesy of ⓒ GALAXY CORPORATION
Global music icon and cultural trailblazer, G-DRAGON, has concluded the monumental journey of his 2025 world tour with a triumphant finale in Seoul, once again proving himself as a “living legend” by setting new records and benchmarks for solo artists worldwide. The epic journey titled, “Übermensch”, completed with 825,000 fans worldwide — redefining the standard for solo world tours with 39 shows across 17 cities in 12 countries. A tour where music, direction, and fashion converged into one — spanning Asia, Oceania, North America, and Europe at an unprecedented dome-and-arena-level scale.
From December 12 to 14, G-DRAGON successfully wrapped up “G-DRAGON 2025 WORLD TOUR [Übermensch] IN SEOUL : ENCORE, presented by Coupang Play” at Gocheok Sky Dome. During the Seoul encore, the artist distilled the essence of the world tour by performing a powerful sequence of signature tracks including “PO￦ER,” “MichiGO (GO),” “Crayon,” and “Crooked.” The carefully crafted progression leading into the finale song “Untitled, 2014” heightened emotional intensity and pacing, drawing the audience into a deeply immersive experience.
G-DRAGON: “I truly worked hard this year. Next year marks BIGBANG’s 20th anniversary — warming up begins in April.”
A standout moment came during “HOME SWEET HOME (feat. TAEYANG, DAESUNG)”, when TAEYANG and DAESUNG made a surprise appearance, showcasing BIGBANG’s unmistakable chemistry. The encore continued with “WE LIKE 2 PARTY” and “A Fool of Tears,” delivering the group’s long-standing teamwork and synergy, and pushing the crowd’s energy to its peak. Shared across generations, the music and on-stage energy transformed the Seoul encore into more than a finale — it became a symbolic moment in K-pop history. The surprises didn’t end there. During “TAKE ME,” the superstar was joined by choreographer Bada for a surprise “Smoke (Prod. Dynamicduo, Padi)” challenge, igniting thunderous cheers from fans throughout the venue.
Reflecting on the encore concert, G-DRAGON shared, “I returned to Korea for an encore concert after eight months. Beyond the performance itself, I wanted a show filled with real back-and-forth energy with the fans.” He continued, “Looking back on this year, I truly worked hard — and so did all of you. Next year marks BIGBANG’s 20th anniversary. We’ll start warming up from April.”
Adding to the emotional weight of the night, a special video conveying the deeper meaning of the world tour was unveiled, drawing focused attention from fans in attendance. The world tour began in March with shows in Goyang, Korea, and continued through Tokyo, Bulacan, Osaka, Macau, Sydney, Melbourne, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Hong Kong, Newark, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Paris, Hanoi, and finally concluded with the Seoul encore. Completing a large-scale global tour as a solo artist after years of hiatus stands as an unprecedented achievement within the Korean music industry. Through this tour, the icon reaffirmed his irreplaceable global influence and commanding stage presence.
The “Übermensch” tour was widely praised for reinterpreting the concept through G-DRAGON’s unique artistic language, presenting a clear narrative and cohesive flow throughout the entire tour. Rather than simply performing hit songs, the show expanded the message of “transcending existence” step by step through music, performance, and visuals, delivering a deeply immersive artistic experience. Production scale also reached new heights for a K-pop solo artist. Each city featured newly reconfigured multidimensional stage designs, dragon bike performances, and massive LED walls that combined into a powerful visual narrative. Constantly evolving costumes and styling further completed a performance experience where music, direction, and fashion seamlessly converged.
Audience response across cities was equally remarkable. Tokyo and Osaka sold out completely — including limited-view seats — despite being G-DRAGON’s first visit in eight years. In Macau, more than 680,000 fans flooded ticketing queues, demonstrating extraordinary demand. Encores followed in Taipei and Osaka, while Hanoi achieved full pre-sales purely from performance announcements, dominating local media and social platforms. Major Vietnamese corporations — from IT and telecom companies to street brands and restaurants — joined city-wide “GD shout-out” campaigns using daisy motifs, transforming the entire city into a cultural festival. In the U.S., the tour received extensive coverage from major outlets including Forbes, alongside nationwide outdoor advertising, reaffirming G-DRAGON’s global presence.
More than a concert series, this tour proved how far the world of “G-DRAGON” can expand. Through record-breaking achievements, artistic completeness, and global influence, G-DRAGON once again established himself as an unparalleled icon representing K-pop on the world stage. The “G-DRAGON 2025 WORLD TOUR [Übermensch]” has officially come to a close — setting a new standard for solo artist performances. G-DRAGON’s global influence remains very much present tense.
Courtesy of ⓒ GALAXY CORPORATION
About G-DRAGON
G-DRAGON, born Kwon Ji-Yong, has been a prominent figure in global music and K-Pop since the age of 13. His solo career highlights include the albums Heartbreaker, One of a Kind, and COUP D’ETAT, which all topped Korea’s Gaon Chart. As a member of BIGBANG, achieving similar success with the album Remember, and many of the group’s releases in Japan were certified Gold. Amassing over 2 billion career streams and collaborated with artists like Diplo, Baauer, Missy Elliott, Boys Noize, Sky Ferreira, Taeyang, and Skrillex. He won World’s Best Album at the 2014 World Music Awards and has been featured in Elle Korea, Harper’s Bazaar Korea, Vogue Korea, Hypebeast, and more. G-DRAGON also made a name for himself in the fashion world with his brand PEACEMINUSONE, collaborations with Chanel, Nike, and BMW, and recognition as a top art collector. Recently, he launched a perfume in collaboration with Frédéric Malle and the charity foundation JUSPEACE to combat drug abuse.
Follow G-DRAGON on social media:
Instagram: @xxxibgdrgn
YouTube: @xxxibgdrgn
Twitter/X: @IBGDRGN
Facebook: @gdragon
Official Tour Website: https://g-dragontour.com/
Official Fan Community: https://gdragon.ai/
#GDRAGON #GDRAGONCompletes2025WorldTour #GDRAGONBIGBANG #BIGBANG #KwonJiYong #kcrush #kpop #koreanpop #KoreanCulture #KoreanEntertainment #kcrushmagazine #kcrushameria #GDRAGONWorldTour #GDRAGONCOUPDETAT #Koreanmusic #Übermensch #GDShoutOuts #kpopsoloartist #daisymotifs #BIGBANG20thAnniversary2026 #KingOfKPop #ÜbermenschWorldTour #GDRAGONOnStage #kfashionista #GALAXYCORPORATION #KoreanIdol #Kfashion #GDRAGONGALAXYCORPORATION #GlobalmusiciconGDRAGON #culturaltrailblazerGDRAGON #KingOfKPop
A New Key Visual has been Revealed! Episode 1 is Now Available for Early Streaming!
Beloved kitten illustrator Juno, known for their viral SNS artwork, brings you Shark Meow, a fluffy cat in a shark costume, along with a cast of whimsical little kitties! A short anime adaptation has been officially confirmed!
Starting Wednesday, January 7, 2026, new episodes will be released weekly at 8:00 AM JST on the QTORY YouTube channel and other streaming platforms!
To celebrate the anime adaptation, we have also unveiled the official key visual.
Anime Key Visual
Beloved kitten illustrator Juno, known for their viral SNS artwork, brings you Shark Meow, a fluffy cat in a shark costume, along with a cast of whimsical little kitties! A short anime adaptation has been officially confirmed!
Starting Wednesday, January 7, 2026, new episodes will be released weekly at 8:00 AM JST on the QTORY YouTube channel and other streaming platforms!
To celebrate the anime adaptation, we have also unveiled the official key visual.
Anime ”mofusand” Episode 1 “Hungry Outburst”：
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Svh_xgdMWlU
Special Illustration from “mofusand” Creator Juno Arrives!
To celebrate the anime adaptation, a newly drawn illustration from creator Juno has arrived!
Anime “mofusand” Information
【HP】https://www.mofusand-anime.jp/
【X】@mofusand_anime (https://x.com/mofusand_anime)
【Streaming Information】
New episodes will be streaming every Wednesday at 8:00 AM JST starting January 7, 2026 on the QTORY YouTube channel and other streaming platforms.
【Introduction】
Shark Meow is an orange tabby kitty who wears a shark suit.
A little clumsy and always taking things at their own cozy pace,
but every day with their best kitty friends — and the rescued baby kitty, Little Meow —
is filled with unexpected little mishaps and sweet adventures.
A sunny warm spot in the park, the sparkle of the sea,
steam rising from freshly roasted sweet potatoes,
the fluttery feeling of the first snowfall…
These small everyday moments fill their world with warmth and delight.
You can’t help but smile and think, “So true!”
A soft and snuggly kitty anime that brings joy to everyday moments.
【Staff】
Original Story：Juno ”mofusand”
Director：Hazumu Sakuta
Screenplay：Sei Yoshitsuki
CG Director：Yoshinari Irikawa
Modeling Director：Aya Ishibashi
Lead Animator：Yuka Iwasaki
Conceptual Art：Haruka
Sound Director：Takeshi Takadera
Music：Shota Kowashi
Sound Effects Editor：Yoko Sakurai
Sound Production：Bit grooove promotion Inc.
Animation Producer：Tomoya Naraoka
Project Producer：QTORY inc.
Animation Production：Monster’s Egg
【Cast】
Shark Meow：Yurika Kubo
Orca Meow：Satomi Akesaka
Little Meow：Maria Sashide
Strawberry Meow：Kaori Maeda
Rabbit Meow：Yuko Goto
©mofusand
#mofusaand #kittenillustratorJuno #SharkMeow #orangetabbycat #Anime #kcrush #Japanese #QTORY #adaptation #AnimeAdaptation #sharksuit #SNSartworkJuno #HungryOutburstEpisode1 #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine
KPOP CLUB NIGHT Announces: We are coming up on our last shows of the year and they are going to be big ones! Don’t miss out, we can’t wait to dance the night away with you!
KPOP CLUB NIGHT UPCOMING DATES DEC 2025 —> MAR 2026
Dec 19 – Houston (18+) – NOTO – DJ Angie
Tickets: https://kpop-htx.eventbee.com/ DISCOUNT CODE: STAY
Dec 19 – Orlando (18+) – Celine – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kpop-club-night-w-dj-chen-fri-121925-tickets-1867301863139
Dec 20 – New York (18+) – Irving Plaza – DJ Chen & Angie
Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.com/kpop-club-night-18-new-york-new-york-12-20-2025/event/0000633C49E85DA9
Dec 27 – Chicago – House of Blues Chicago (18+) – DJ Chen & Angie
Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.com/kpop-club-night-xmas-party-chicago-illinois-12-27-2025/event/04006328D9701B96
Dec 31 – KPOP NYE in Detroit (18+) – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://nye-detroit.eventbee.com/ DISCOUNT CODE: STAY
Jan 23 – Nashville (18+) – The Vinyl Lounge – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://www.eventbee.com/v/kpop-nashville#/tickets DISCOUNT CODE: STAY
Jan 24 – Birmingham AL (18+) – Saturn – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://wl.eventim.us/event/kpop-club-night-with-dj-chen/663746?afflky=SaturnBirmingham
Jan 30 – Gulfport MS (18+) – Club IV – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://www.tickeri.com/events/d4kichdng0gg/k-pop-club-night
Jan 31- Austin (18+) – Vulcan Gas Co – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/65946738/kpop-night-in-austin-austin-vulcan-gas-co-sd-presents
Feb 7 – Honolulu – HB Social (18+) DJ Chen & Angie
Tickets: https://wl.eventim.us/event/kpop-night-at-hb-social-club/671887?afflky=WeAreMetta
Feb 12 – Salt Lake City (18+) Soundwell (18+) – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://tixr.com/e/165732
Feb 13 – Washington DC (18+) – Howard Theatre (18+) – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://www.ticketweb.com/event/k-pop-club-night-howard-theatre-tickets/14699643
Feb 14 – Miami (18+) – Mad Live – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://kpop-miami.eventbee.com/ DISCOUNT CODE: STAY
Feb 20 – Montreal (18+) – Ausgang Plaza – DJ Angie
Tickets: https://lepointdevente.com/billets/xd0260220001 DISCOUNT CODE: STAY
Feb 21 – Ottawa (19+) – Sky Lounge – DJ Angie
Tickets: https://kpop-ottawa.eventbrite.ca/ DISCOUNT CODE: STAY
Feb 21 – Boston (21+) – Royale Boston – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://kpop-boston.eventbrite.ca/ DISCOUNT CODE: STAY
Feb 27 Fresno – Club Encore (21+)
Tickets: https://fresno-kpop.eventbee.com/ DISCOUNT CODE: STAY
Mar 14 – Kansas City MO (18+) – Warehouse on Broadway- DJ Chen
Ticekts: https://warehouseonbroadway.com/event/kpop-club-night-2/warehouse-on-broadway/kansas-city-missouri/
Mar 14 – Seattle (21+) – Ora – DJ Angie
Tickets: https://tickets.oraseattle.com/e/kpop-club-night-ft-dj-angie-at-ora-5/tickets
Mar 27 – San Jose (21+) – Pure – DJ Chen & Angie
Tickets: https://kpop-sj.eventbrite.ca/ DISCOUNT CODE: STAY
See you on the dance-floor!
Look at our updated pics&videos! We’ve uploaded hundreds more photos & videos from the last few months of parties, find yours and download them now at https://www.facebook.com/kpopclubnights/photos_albums
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#KPOPClubNight #December2025ToMarch2026 #danceparty #listofkopclubnight #kcrush #dancewithDJ #Pure #DJChen #Angie #kpopsongs #kpopdancemusic #danceparty #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #Houston, #Orlando #NewYork #Chicago #SanJose #Honolulu #Montreal #Washington #Boston #KPopClubNightDates #DJAngie
Imprint Debuts with Lineup: 22Bullets and DJ Lizzy Wang
Lizzy Wang’s new single “Glow” Out Now
Hong Kong — Pacific Music Group (PMG), the newly launched global entertainment company founded by NE-YO, Sonu Nigam, MC Jin, and veteran music executive Jonathan Serbin, has announced the debut of its new electronic and dance music imprint, Ghostone Records. The imprint will serve as PMG’s home for cutting-edge electronic artists across Asia and around the world, with a mission to elevate Asian electronic talent onto the global stage while serving as a cultural bridge between East and West within the rapidly growing global dance market.
Internationally acclaimed Thai DJ/producer 22Bullets has been appointed President of Ghostone Records, where he will guide A&R, creative direction, and the label’s long-term vision. Widely known for his genre-blending productions and global collaborations, 22Bullets will also release music on the imprint as part of its founding roster. As one of Southeast Asia’s most successful electronic artists, he has collaborated with major names including Timmy Trumpet, KSHMR, and Hardwell, performed at leading festivals such as Tomorrowland, Ultra, and EDC, and became the first Thai artist ever to enter the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs list.
Ghostone Records launches with inaugural artists 22Bullets (Thailand) and Lizzy Wang (China).
“Ghostone Records represents exactly what Pacific Music Group was built to champion: world-class talent, global collaboration, and the future of music,” said Jonathan Serbin, Co-Founder of Pacific Music Group. “22Bullets is one of the most visionary and dynamic producers in the electronic space, and his leadership will set the tone for a new era of creativity across Asia and beyond.”
“I am incredibly honored to lead Ghostone Records and help shape a platform that elevates electronic artists from Asia onto the world stage,” said 22Bullets. “This imprint is focused on innovation, culture, and breaking boundaries.”
To mark the launch, Chinese DJ/producer Lizzy Wang, the first official signing to Ghostone Records, has released her new single “Glow”, accompanied by an official lyric video. The release precedes her highly anticipated performance at EDC Thailand this January. See more here.
Lizzy, recently ranked in the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs, continues to rise as one of Asia’s most globally recognized electronic artists. Her recent live highlights include shows in Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, and Singapore, with upcoming performances including her EDC Thailand debut on January 17.
“I am thrilled to join Ghostone Records as its first signing and to release ‘Glow’ as the imprint’s debut,” said Lizzy Wang. “This moment represents a new chapter for me creatively.”
The launch of Ghostone Records marks the next step in PMG’s multi-genre imprint strategy, spanning pop, hip-hop, R&B, and electronic/dance music. Read more about the company launch in Variety and Billboard.
About Ghostone Records
Ghostone Records is the electronic and dance music imprint of Pacific Music Group, dedicated to discovering, developing, and elevating the next generation of Pan-Asian electronic talent for the global stage.
About Pacific Music Group
Pacific Music Group is a next-generation music company founded in 2025 by NE-YO, Sonu Nigam, MC Jin, and Jonathan Serbin. Headquartered in Hong Kong with a Pan-Asian presence.
About 22Bullets
22Bullets is one of Asia’s most influential electronic music producers and a leading force in Thailand’s global music scene. He was the first Thai artist ever to enter the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs list and has performed at Tomorrowland, Ultra, EDC, and Creamfields.
About Lizzy Wang
Lizzy Wang is China’s top female DJ and producer and the first Chinese woman to perform at Ultra. She entered the global DJ Mag Top 100 DJs at #96 in 2023 and has performed at EDC, Ultra, Singapore F1 Grand Prix, and more.
#PacificMusicGroup #Ghostone #DanceMusicImprint #LizzyWang #22Bullets #NEYO #SonuNigam #MCJin #JonathanSerbin #HongKong #China #Thailand #PanAsian #ElectronicMusic #GlowLizzyWang
Tickets On Sale January 2026
Right Angle Entertainment and Maple Tree Entertainment today announced the ultimate K-Pop fan night out with a brand-new concert experience set to burst onto stages around North America beginning in March 2026. Inspired by the worldwide K-Pop phenomenon and recent smash-hit film KPop Demon Hunters, Forever K-Pop – A Celebration Concert (www.ForeverKpopLive.com) brings a next-level, fan-forward tribute experience and high-octane production featuring today’s biggest K-Pop hits to life on stage in a cinematic spectacle unlike anything audiences have seen in a tribute concert before. A tour schedule including scores of North American and international cities will be announced in the coming weeks with a presale waitlist now open, and tickets going on-sale to the general public in January 2026.
“K-pop’s worldwide popularity is truly staggering. Its creativity, its passion, its community — all of that energy has inspired us to craft a concert event that captures the joy and spectacle fans crave,” says Justin Sudds, executive producer at Right Angle Entertainment. “We’ve built this show for the fans who live for K-pop, dance practice videos, fancams, music video premieres, and the electrifying sensation of seeing their favorite songs performed onstage.”
From the creators and producers of Ninja Kids Infinite Possibilities: Live!, Jay Shetty: Love Rules, The Life and Music of George Michael, and The Simon & Garfunkel Story, Forever K-Pop – A Celebration Concert promises a euphoric night powered by breathtaking vocals, razor-sharp choreography, and the unmistakable pulse of the global K-pop wave. Every musical number becomes a sensory event — a whirlwind of light, movement, and sound that transports audiences straight to a stadium in Seoul. Fan experiences elevate the night even further, with lobby dance takeovers, selfie zones, and branded backdrops, exclusive photocards, and jumbo-screen shoutouts. “The result is a massive dance-powered party for tweens, teens, families, and superfans alike,” says Dean Elliott, Executive Creative Director at Maple Tree Entertainment.
K-pop’s global momentum shows no signs of slowing. According to Forbes, in just six months K-pop acts generated $228 million in ticket sales across 1.6 million fans. Now, with Forever K-Pop – A Celebration Concert, audiences everywhere can feel the rush of the genre’s signature sound and spectacle — live, loud, and up close.
For more information and special offers, visit www.ForeverKpopLive.com and follow
@ForeverKpopLive on Instagram and TikTok; #foreverkpoplive.
ABOUT RIGHT ANGLE ENTERTAINMENT (Producers)
Right Angle Entertainment (RAE) specializes in the production, marketing, management and distribution of live theatrical, digital, and concert events. RAE’s proud roster includes: “Wheel of Fortune Live!,” Hasbro’s “Clue: A Walking Mystery” immersive experience, “The Price is Right LIVE!,” “The Masked Singer National Tour Live!,” “Jay Shetty Love Rules – World Tour,” “The Simon & Garfunkel Story,” “The Psychology of Serial Killers,” “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical,” and London’s close-up magic show “The Magician’s Table” among many others. www.rightangleentertainment.com
ABOUT MAPLE TREE ENTERTAINMENT (Producers)
Operating in both the U.S. and the UK, Maple Tree Entertainment specializes in putting together unique live shows, primarily in theatres/concert halls worldwide. These include the multi-award winning The Simon & Garfunkel Story, Neighbours – The Celebration Tour, Hollyoaks – The 30th Anniversary Tour, Buddy – The Musical, The Psychology of Serial Killers, The Young Ones – Live In Conversation, The Life & Music of George Michael, An Evening with Richard Dreyfuss and Johnny Cash – The Official Concert Experience. https://www.mapletreeentertainment.com
#ForeverkPop #RightAngleEntertainment #MapleTreeEntertainment #kcrush #celebrationconcert #ultimatefannightout #kpop #forfans #foreverkpoplive #northamericantourMarch2026 #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #globalkpopwave #NinjaKidsInfinitePossibilities #dancepracticevideos #fancams #musicvideopremieres #kpopfans #kpopconcert #NorthAmericanTour #InternationalTour
Photo Courtesy of: THEBLACKLABEL
THEBLACKLABEL‘s breakout co-ed group, ALLDAY PROJECT, has released their highly anticipated first-ever EP, “ALLDAY PROJECT”, marking a defining milestone in their young career as they close out a successful debut year. The release arrives alongside the bright and unrestrained title track “LOOK AT ME”, and features a total of three group tracks and three unit/solo performances that showcase a wide range of styles, further reinforcing the group’s reputation as artists who refuse to be defined by boundaries. Listen HERE and watch the accompanying music video HERE.
After debuting last June with “FAMOUS,” which became a runaway smash and entered the Billboard Global 200 at #43, the group returned just three weeks ago with “ONE MORE TIME,” unveiling a bold new direction that quickly climbed to #1 on YouTube’s Trending Music Videos worldwide – and a preview of what was still to come.
Now enters their debut self-titled EP, “ALLDAY PROJECT”, placing the group’s name front and center – a bold statement of who they are and an assertion of their identity. Their refusal to set limits, whether on themselves or on what they pursue, radiates with confidence, and that mindset is evident from the album’s title alone. Where each member’s world collides, something new takes shape. Across six tracks, the project unveils the multidimensional spectrum of ALLDAY PROJECT’s sound – combining fluid genre shifts, emotional depth, and the dynamic synergy that defines them both as individuals and as a collective. The album is anchored by three core group tracks: “ONE MORE TIME,” “LOOK AT ME,” and the atmospheric “YOU AND I.”
“LOOK AT ME” explodes with bright, bold energy, pairing jersey club rhythms with melodic vocals and sharp rap verses to capture the group’s confident, magnetizing presence. In contrast, “YOU AND I” trades intensity for emotion, blending soft atmospheric tones with an Afrobeat pulse to reveal a more delicate side, highlighted by YOUNGSEO’s standout vocal performance.
The EP’s unit and solo tracks spotlight the members’ individuality while expanding the group’s sonic spectrum. ANNIE and WOOCHAN deliver the playful hip-hop track “WHERE YOU AT”, trading sharp verses over a stripped-back beat that builds into an electrifying dance finale. “HOT” showcases TARZZAN and BAILEY’s effortless chemistry through a rhythm-shifting, early-2000s-inspired hip-hop groove, balancing carefree confidence with melodic swagger. The project culminates with TARZZAN’s solo performance on “MEDUSA,” a rage-inspired anthem driven by gritty distortion, sharp synths, and a commanding hook that acts as a fierce self-portrait.
ALLDAY PROJECT continues to redefine what a group act can be – uniting multi-talented artists celebrated for their artistry in rap, vocals, choreography, and fashion. As one of the few co-ed groups in modern music and the first under THEBLACKLABEL, they embody the label’s forward-thinking spirit and creative freedom.
Founded by Teddy Park (a.k.a. TEDDY), THEBLACKLABEL is home to artists including MEOVV, JEON SOMI, Vince, BIGBANG’s TAEYANG, and BLACKPINK’s ROSÉ.
(From left: TARZZAN, BAILEY, YOUNGSEO, WOOCHAN, ANNIE)
Photo Courtesy of: THEBLACKLABEL
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About ALLDAY PROJECT:
ALLDAY PROJECT — comprised of ANNIE, TARZZAN, BAILEY, WOOCHAN, and YOUNGSEO — unites five artists, each with a distinct origin story. From dance prodigy to rap phenom to fashion trailblazer, they were among the most talked-about pre-debut talents of their generation, and now stand at the forefront of a new era. Together, they push the boundaries of creative expression, challenge convention, and deliver something entirely new and unprecedented. With sophisticated music, daring visuals, and powerful performances – much of which they write and choreograph themselves – ALLDAY PROJECT transcends labels and defies expectations. They don’t fit into a box – because no title can define what’s never been experienced before. Welcome to ALLDAY PROJECT.
About THEBLACKLABEL:
THEBLACKLABEL is a South Korean entertainment company, record label, and creative agency founded by TEDDY in 2016 and home to acts such as TAEYANG, JEON SOMI, ROSÉ, MEOVV and Vince.
#ALLDAYPROJECT #THEBLACKLABEL #ANNIE #TARZZAN #BAILEY #WOOCHAN #YOUNGSEO #kcrush #kpop #newkpopgroup #awardwinningkpopgroup #TEDDY #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #TEDDYPark #SouthKorea #koreanidol #Multidementional #SELFTITLEDDEBUTEP #LookAtMe #newEP #ALLDAYPROJECTNewEP #TEDDYFounderofTHEBLACKLABEL
When middle school senior Jun-gang’s (Oh Ja-hun, Racket Boys) father is convicted of the violent murder of the parents of his classmate Gi-sun (Moon Seong-hyun, Alchemy of Souls), Jun-gang knows that his life, and that of his little sister Jun-hui (Kim Kyu-na) have instantly changed for the worst. Being raised solely by their father who struggles to stay on the straight-and-narrow, the children face heavy stigma from their peers at school and community.
And then the murders happen.
In South Korea, there’s a disturbing practice where police take those suspected of committing violent acts such as murders to the scene of the crime. There, with their hands bound with rope, and their faces exposed, the suspect is forced to reenact the crime they allegedly committed in front of dozens of reporters, police officers and investigators, prosecutors, and civilians, some family of the victims, many curious onlookers, but all clamouring to witness this barbaric act, shouting insults and condemnation on the suspect.
What makes this sequence in Fragment uniquely significant, is that in this scenario where Jun-gang’s father is the suspect, Kim Sung-yoon shows how traumatic it is for a child, the child of the victim and believed perpetrator (for at this point, there is still no legal conviction, and in real life situations many people who’ve been proven innocent have had to go through this ‘perp walk’), and the child of the victim to witness this reenactment – which in itself is violent and sensationalizes the violence of the crime committed.
In Fragment, Kim centers the emotional and social fallout children are made to go through when society fails them in every way conceivable.
From adults, Jun-gang and Jun-hui receive pitying comments and even recriminations whispered behind their backs but within ear-shot about the shame they should bear on behalf of their father. At school, Jun-gang is attacked with persistent jeering and physical bullying by the classmates he thought were his friends, as teachers–with the exception of one who helps him in secret until he too, gives in to peer pressure to step back from associating with Jun-gang–willfully turning a blind eye to the violence being committed in their very presence. And for Jun-hui, this little girl with no adult to turn to, is shunned by children she once happily played with, when their parents warn them against interacting with her to preserve their families’ reputations because even children are considered guilty by association.
As Jun-gang and Jun-hui try to figure out what becomes of their lives now that they’ve been abandoned, and he struggles under the staggering weight of trying to protect himself and create a sense of stability for his sister, Gi-sun is experiencing his own chaos. Just as Kim Sung-yoon does a terrific job of delving into various ways, the children of those who commit crimes suffer detrimental consequences for their parent’s actions, he does the same with Gi-sun as a child of the victims.
For Gi-sun, the sudden loss of his parents due to such violent circumstances have plunged the teen into an intense state of depression. Though he has an Aunt and Uncle trying their best to help by providing meals and even taking him for therapy, he vehemently rejects every overture they make towards him, convinced that his pain is the only emotional attachment he has left of his parents. His house is in complete disarray with clothes and discarded containers strewn everywhere with the residue of leftover food rotting and festering in them. The atmosphere created through the cinematography of Jung Seok-chae, score by Kwang Sun-wang, and set decoration is overtly oppressive giving the space the feeling that instead of being a home for the living, has become a tomb for a child trapped in his grief.
When he overhears some of the boys at school speaking about Jun-gang, Gi-sun’s grief turns to rage, and he makes his classmate the target of his emotional outlet, wanting Jun-gang to impossibly take responsibility for his father’s actions. Through many gut-wrenchingly heartbreaking interactions performed with incredible poignancy and maturity by Oh Ja-hun, Moon Seong-hyun, and Kim Kyu-na, each child has to figure out that the pain they carry isn’t unique to them, but is shared and perhaps having this excruciatingly painful bond is the only way they can survive their shattered world through forgiveness, compassion, and empathy for themselves and each other.
In this, Fragment, becomes a very layered and distinct portrayal of how trauma can become a coping mechanism and how society easily turns its back on children when they need reassurance and guidance at the most pivotal points in their lives, resulting in the most vulnerable members being left to work their way battered and bruised through of the broken fragments of their lives.
In my interview with Kim Sung-yoon via Zoom, during Fantasia, he spoke about why he chose Fragment to be his debut feature after working years as an assistant director, the importance of having a character like Jun-gang having the unexpected responsibility of dealing with Jun-hui having her period for the first time, and how the two homes of the characters act as physical representations of their mental state.
Fragment premiered at the 2024 Busan International Film Festival where it won the Vision Award, and Chorokbaem Media Award amongst others, and was an official selection at the 2024 Asian Film Festival in Rome.
Interpretation for the interview conducted by Shelly Bang. Images courtesy of Finecut Co., Ltd.
Carolyn Hinds
Freelance Film Critic, Journalist, Podcaster & YouTuber
African American Film Critics Association Member, Tomatometer-Approved Critic
Host & Producer Carolyn Talks…, and So Here’s What Happened! Podcast
Bylines at Authory.com/CarolynHinds
Twitter & Instagram: @CarrieCnh12
#Fragmet #KimSungYoon #KimSungYoonFilmmaker #FantasiaIFF2025 #kcrush #filmfestival #2024BusanInternationalFilmFestival #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #kcrushinterview #crime #childrenofaccussedcriminals #aboutthechildren #koreanperpwalk #trama #internationalfilms
Why Rain? Why Now?
Why Rain? Why Now?As a longtime K-pop fan, Rain has always been my gold standard for performance and charisma. Since his debut in 2003, he’s set the bar for what it means to be a “power idol”—and at 41, he’s still redefining what’s possible on stage. I couldn’t pass up the chance to see this legend live in the U.S.
The Journey Begins: Brooklyn Bound
This wasn’t just another concert—it was a pilgrimage. I hopped on a flight to Brooklyn for one night, squeezed in some sightseeing, and spent the day buzzing with anticipation. By the time I met up with my friends, we were already debating which Rain classics would make the setlist. The energy at Barclays Center was electric, with fans of all ages and backgrounds ready for something special.
The Show: Rain in His Element
Rain didn’t just walk on stage—he exploded onto it, sprinting shirtless on a treadmill while his abs lit up the jumbotrons. The crowd’s reaction? Pure awe and delight. From the sharp choreography of “Gang” to the dramatic lighting of “I’m Coming,” every moment was a masterclass in showmanship. Rain’s connection with the audience was palpable—he reached out, we responded with light stick bracelets (provided to us, I might add!) as the energy bounced back and forth from stage to audience all night.
Highlights & Hilarious Moments
- Iconic Moves: Rain’s rapid-fire hip gyrations had us roaring with nostalgia and admiration.
- Personal Touches: His banter about visa delays was genuinely funny—he almost missed the concert, and his storytelling had the whole venue laughing.
- Surprise Covers: Bruno Mars’ “24k Magic” and “Leave the Door Open” brought a fresh twist, complete with Rain’s own choreography and DJ skills.
- Setlist Surprises: Yes, “Love Song” made the cut, but he skipped the infamous “shirt over the head body roll.” I’m still a little bummed, but honestly, the rest of the show more than made up for it.
The Finale: Rain’s Lasting Impact
As the night wrapped up, it was clear Rain’s star power hasn’t faded—it’s grown. The Still Raining: Encore tour wasn’t just a concert; it was a celebration of K-pop’s global influence and the deep bond between artist and fans. Whether you’re new to Rain or a lifelong fan, this show was a perfect introduction to the genre’s passion and spectacle. For me, it was a dream come true, and I left feeling inspired, connected, and ready for the next encore.
If you’re ever on the fence about seeing Rain live—don’t hesitate. He’s a phenomenal performer, and his enduring appeal proves why he’s a K-pop legend.
—- CoolHappyTash
#RAIN #RAINSTILLRAININGENCORE #kpop #koreanconcert #kpoptour #kcrush #RAIN2025Tour #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #RAINFans #kpopglobalinfluence #YesLove #RAINsReturn #RAINPerformsinBrooklyn #kpopidol
New Hong Kong–based global music label aims to discover and develop top Pan-Asian talent for the global stage and serve as a gateway for international artists entering Asia
Three-time, Grammy Award-winning superstar NE-YO, Indian music legend Sonu Nigam, and pioneering Chinese American rapper MC Jin have joined forces with veteran music executive Jonathan Serbin to launch Pacific Music Group, a visionary new entertainment company headquartered in Hong Kong poised to reshape the global music industry.
Pacific Music Group aims to build world-class music careers from the heart of Asia, with a focus on discovering, mentoring, developing, and promoting the region’s most promising talent. The company also offers international artists a powerful entry point into Asia’s rapidly expanding music landscape.
Launching with multiple genre-spanning imprints, including pop, R&B, Hip-Hop, electronic, and regional Asian styles, Pacific Music Group will develop a dynamic roster of artists across borders. Its reach spans Asia, stretching east to west from Japan to India and north to south from China and Korea to Southeast Asia. The company is committed to delivering impactful releases, original music, and culturally resonant collaborations.
“Asia has emerged as one of the most dynamic forces in the global music industry. With half the world’s population and three of the top ten music markets, the region is primed to lead on the world stage. At the same time, rapidly growing markets like India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines offer immense potential. We believe the time is right for a music company born in Asia, but built with a global perspective from day one,” said Jonathan Serbin, former Co-President of Warner Music Asia. “NE-YO, Sonu and MC Jin have all achieved long-standing global success, and they know exactly what it takes to build international music careers. I’m honored to partner with these legends. Pacific Music Group artists will gain invaluable insight from their experience and vision.”
“Launching Pacific Music Group isn’t just a business move, it’s a personal mission,” NE-YO said. “As an individual of Chinese descent, I’m proud to use my resources to help discover and elevate the next generation of talented Pan-Asian superstars. I’ve toured across Asia several times and witnessed the evolution of the music scene, so I’m really excited to make history and bring the region’s rich culture to the forefront of the global stage.”
MC Jin, who will head up Pacific Music Group’s Hip-Hop imprint, stated, “The influence of Hip Hop on a global scale is undeniable. For me, it provided a way to find my voice as an artist, explore my identity as a Chinese American and share my truth as a storyteller. As a fan of the music and a student of the craft, I’m looking forward to connecting with artists who are also on that journey. Asia is full of talent with unique stories, fresh styles and authentic messages waiting to be shared with the world. With Pacific Music Group, these individuals will now have a chance to share their art rooted in creativity and culture in an impactful way.”
Sonu Nigam, one of India’s most celebrated performers, added, “India alone has 1.6 billion people, but Indian artists want to connect well beyond our borders. The same is true across Asia. There is a hunger to grow globally and the potential to bring the richness of our cultures to the world. With Pacific Music Group, we’re not just exporting talent, we’re helping artists thrive both at home and abroad.”
NE-YO, Sonu Nigam, and MC Jin will provide A&R guidance and mentorship to the label’s artists, drawing on decades of success as globally renowned performers and hitmakers. Jonathan Serbin, who helped drive Warner Music’s expansion across Asia and launched its first dedicated K-Pop label, brings extensive regional expertise and a proven track record in artist development and strategic investment.
Pacific Music Group’s debut artists will be unveiled in the coming months, with initial music releases scheduled for Fall 2025. The company will operate with offices and talent hubs across Asia, creating a vibrant, cross-cultural ecosystem for artist development, collaboration, and growth.
A New Model for a Global Music Future
Pacific Music Group also reflects a broader shift in the industry. Eighty years ago, when Atlantic Records was founded, the Atlantic Ocean symbolized the dominant music axis, linking the U.S. and U.K. Today, that axis has shifted. Three of the world’s largest music markets (Japan, China, and Korea) are in Asia, alongside some of the fastest-growing new markets, including India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines.
The name Pacific Music Group reflects this new reality. Asia is now the epicenter of creative energy, musical innovation, and fan engagement. Just as Atlantic Records once captured the spirit of its time, Pacific Music Group speaks to a future where influence flows across the Pacific Ocean from Pan-Asia to the world.
About Pacific Music Group
Pacific Music Group is a next-generation music company founded in 2025 by NE-YO, Sonu Nigam, MC Jin, and Jonathan Serbin. Headquartered in Hong Kong with a Pan-Asian presence, the company is committed to developing global careers from Asia and fostering cultural exchange between East and West. The label supports emerging and established artists through world-class production, strategic promotion, and mentorship from industry icons.
Jonathan Serbin
Jonathan Serbin brings over 25 years of leadership experience in the music and media industries across Asia and the U.S. He has served as Co-President of Warner Music Asia, overseeing 11 countries/territories, regional growth, and launching the label’s first dedicated K-Pop imprint. Serbin has signed and developed a diverse roster of emerging artists and superstars across genres such as pop, Hip-Hop, rap, and electronic music, including Lay Zhang, Elva Hsaio, Coco Lee, G.E.M., Eric Chou, Vava, Jam Hsiao, Jolin Tsai, and Fish Long. He previously led Billboard’s expansion into China and Southeast Asia and played a key role in strategic investments in the region. Jonathan has also partnered with U.S.-based media company iHeartMedia to develop celebrity-driven content for Asia. A former music attorney and media-sector investment banker, Serbin’s deep industry expertise spans business development, artist management, and international partnerships.
NE-YO
NE-YO is a three-time GRAMMY® award-winning hitmaker, songwriter, actor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. His debut single, “So Sick,” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was certified quadruple-platinum. Since then, the Compound Entertainment recording artist has racked up a collection of global hits including “Sexy Love,” “Closer,” “Because of You,” and “Miss Independent,” among others. Additionally, NE-YO has proven to be as powerful with his pen as he is in the recording studio and on stage, penning bangers like Rihanna’s “Unfaithful,” “Russian Roulette,” and “Take a Bow,” along with Beyoncé’s 2006 breakup anthem “Irreplaceable” and songs for artists including Jennifer Hudson, Usher, Carrie Underwood, Celine Dion and Mario.
MC Jin
MC Jin is a pioneering Chinese American rapper, actor, and cultural figure widely recognized for breaking barriers and expanding Asian representation in global music and entertainment. He rose to national prominence on BET’s 106 & Park Freestyle Fridays, becoming the first Asian American solo Hip Hop artist to sign with a major U.S. label. Over his career, Jin has released music in both English and Chinese, toured internationally, and appeared across film and television in the United States and Asia. His work bridges cultures, languages, and audiences, shaping a path for the next generation of artists.
Sonu Nigam
Sonu Nigam is one of the most iconic voices in India and a longtime mainstay of the music industry. For nearly two decades, he has written and performed dozens of songs for many of India’s most beloved films. As a live performer, he has captivated audiences in over 50 countries with his one-of-a-kind voice, vocal versatility, and magnetic stage presence. With a global fan base in the millions, he remains one of the most-streamed artists in India.
#Neyo #GrammyAwardWinner #MCJin #SonuNigam #JonathanSerbin #PacificMusicGroup #kcrush #GlobalMusicPowerhouses #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #Japan #China #Korea #India #newmusic #AnRGuidance #HongKong #newartists #AsianCulture #AsianAmerican #workwithnewAsianartists
Listen To “FLAMES” HERE
Watch “Sweet Tooth” Music Video HERE
Philippines’ history-making girl group, BINI, releases their new album titled, “FLAMES,” as a follow up from their hit single “First Luv,” now available on all digital streaming platforms via ABS-CBN. The body of work follows a breakthrough year with hits such as “Shagidi,” “First Luv” and “Blink Twice” for the group as they racked up over one billion global audio/video streams, further solidifying their place as pioneers of the rapidly rising “Asian pop” genre. Now, after their continued success, the octet is set to make history as the first Filipino group at the world-renowned Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival in 2026. The inclusion of performing at their first-ever U.S. music festival marks a major step towards worldwide recognition alongside headliners Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, and Karol G.
Fresh off their winning streak from the 38th annual Awit Awards in the Philippines and BreakTudo Awards in Brazil, the award-winning collective continues to deliver fans across the world riveting melodies and heartfelt lyrics across seven tracks that radiate confidence, energy, and unity. Known for their dynamic blend of pop hooks and empowering messages, the group leans fully into themes of girl power, self-expression, and resilience. Drawing inspiration from the nostalgic Filipino game “F.L.A.M.E.S.,” which playfully predicts love and compatibility, the album carries a sense of youthful excitement and discovery. Starting with the previously released playful and upbeat “First Luv,” BINI radiates pure sunshine through a vibrant sound that blends infectious pop energy with breezy island rhythms. Switching seamlessly between Tagalog and English, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of youthful romance, the exhilarating moments, and the thrill of wondering if someone special feels the same way. Much like the unpredictability of the game flames, each song offers a new twist that is always filled with heart. Each letter in “FLAMES” stands for different meanings and each has a corresponding song in the album: Friendship (Infinity), Longing (Katabi), Affection (Sweet Tooth), Motivation (Bikini), Endearment (First Luv), and Self-discovery (Paruparo). With polished production, infectious choruses, and lyrics that celebrate individuality and togetherness, the album positions the record-breaking group not just as rising stars, but as role models for a new generation of fans across the globe.
The focus track being “Sweet Tooth” is a shimmering, slow-burn pop song with a deceptively soft exterior. Equal parts tender and addictive, desire turns into a metaphor for sugar, with lines that confess a compulsive need for more. Just like candy, there can be too much of a good thing, especially when you know it’s not good for you. But unlike this song, this guilty-free pleasure will keep you listening over and over again.
The global touring act has added several major milestones to their growing international profile. In February 2025, they launched the “BINIverse World Tour” with a historic sold-out concert at the Philippines Arena in Bulacan, becoming the first Filipino act to achieve a solo sell-out in the world’s largest indoor venue with 50,000 capacity. The tour spanned Asia, Europe, and North America, with stops in Dubai, London, and multiple U.S. and Canadian cities. BINIverse, which released this past February, marked a milestone that expanded their reach and cemented their standing on the global stage. The group is set to perform again on November 29 for their BINIfied concert at the prestigious Philippines Arena making them the only Filipino act to perform multiple concerts at this venue.
Their recognition has grown steadily from Forbes Asia 30 Under 30 2025 to being named one of Spotify’s Breakout Artists of 2024 as the only Filipino act on the list, and featured in GRAMMY.com’s “14 Pinoy Pop Acts You Should Know.” The group also collaborated with Spanish-Mexican singer BELINDA (11.2 million monthly Spotify listeners) on Blink Twice (Dos Veces Remix), marking the first collaboration between a Mexican artist and a Filipino group. Most recently, they earned three nominations at Brazil’s 2025 BreakTudo Awards and won “Female Group of the Year” at the 2025 Jupiter Music Awards, further solidifying their growing global presence.
Alongside these significant milestones, BINI became the first Filipino pop group to perform at KCON Los Angeles, the world’s largest Korean culture and music festival, captivating global audiences. They have also earned major accolades including MTV EMA’s Best Asia Act and continue to live up to their title as the Philippines’ ‘Nation’s Girl Group.’ As they enter their new era of music, the group stands at the forefront of Filipino pop music’s international breakthrough, bringing Filipino music to bigger stages and broader audiences worldwide.
Tracklist:
- First Luv
- Sweet Tooth
- Bikini
- Katabi
- Paruparo
- Infinity
- Shagidi
(Photo credit: ABS-CBN Music)
About BINI
BINI is an eight-member Filipino girl group (Aiah, Colet, Maloi, Gwen, Stacey, Mikha, Jhoanna, and Sheena) redefining global pop with their radiant sound and powerhouse performances. Crowned the Philippines’ “Nation’s Girl Group,” they have achieved a string of historic milestones, from becoming the first Filipino act to sell out the 50,000-seat Philippine Arena with their BINIverse World Tour, to making history as the first Filipino group confirmed on the lineup of Coachella 2026 alongside international stars Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, and Karol G. With over 1 billion global streams, BINI has delivered viral hits like Shagidi, which trended #1 in the Philippines and sparked a dance craze across TikTok and YouTube, as well as fan favorites Blink Twice and Cherry On Top. Their collaboration with Spanish-Mexican star Belinda on Blink Twice (Dos Veces Remix) marked the first-ever partnership between a Mexican and Filipino pop act. Recognized as one of Spotify’s Breakout Artists of 2024 and featured in GRAMMY.com’s “14 Pinoy Pop Acts You Should Know,” the group has also earned major accolades including three nominations at Brazil’s 2025 BreakTudo Awards and winning “Female Group of the Year” at the 2025 Jupiter Music Awards. From stages across Dubai, London, the U.S., and Canada, to appearances at KCON Los Angeles, BINI continues to captivate audiences worldwide. With honors including MTV EMA’s Best Asia Act and growing recognition in Billboard and GRAMMY features, they are at the forefront of the global rise of Filipino pop, bringing their music to bigger stages and broader audiences than ever before.
CONNECT WITH BINI: OFFICIAL WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | X | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE
#BINI #FLAMES #GirlPower #kcrush #Filipino #FilipinoGirlGroup #ABSCBNMusic #Aiah #Colet #Maloi #Gwen #Stacey #Mikha #Jhoanna #Sheena #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #Awardwinninggirlgroup #CherryOnTop #FirstLuv #newBINImusic #AsianPop #pop #filipinopop #BlinkTwice MTVEMAsBestAsiaAct #Grammy14PinoyPopActsYouShouldKnow
LISTEN HERE | WATCH THE MV HERE
Courtesy of Fantagio
Global artist, actor, and ASTRO member CHA EUN-WOO has released his highly anticipated 2nd mini album ELSE, marking his first music project in a year and nine months. ELSE is out now via Fantagio and Kakao Entertainment — listen HERE and watch the music video for “SATURDAY PREACHER” HERE. The new body of work captures CHA EUN-WOO’s evolution as a vocalist and performer, revealing a side of him fans have yet to see.
ELSE — meaning “other” or “different” — explores what emerges when CHA EUN-WOO steps outside expectations and breaks free from the familiar frameworks that once defined him. If his first solo album ENTITY served as a reflective search for his inner essence, ELSE pushes past those boundaries, offering a dynamic, unfiltered chapter rooted in instinct, emotion, and artistic freedom.
Structured around two contrasting emotional directions, ELSE balances raw, instinctive energy with delicate, sharpened sensitivity, presenting a compelling tension that draws listeners into his expanded world. Through genre-spanning production, intimate vocal delivery, and cohesive storytelling, the mini album showcases CHA EUN-WOO’s musical depth and his willingness to reveal more of his true self.
“Sweet Papaya” opens the album with a burst of pop-funk energy, blending funky guitar riffs and a laid-back groove with playful, tropical imagery that channels his youthful, effortless charm. Anchoring the album is the infectious focus track “SATURDAY PREACHER”, a retro-inspired disco anthem blending nostalgic synth textures with a groovy, pulsing bassline. With its addictive hook and CHA EUN-WOO’s captivating falsetto, the track embodies the electric energy of a Saturday night — portraying an irresistible presence capable of awakening the passion hidden inside everyone. “Selfish” shifts into a more cinematic pop sound, fusing trap beats with soft rock textures as it tenderly explores the innocent desire to be a little selfish in love. The mini album closes with “Thinkin’ Bout U”, a warm and emotive pop ballad that captures the quiet ache of longing. Across all four tracks, CHA EUN-WOO’s distinctive tone and versatility shine through, weaving a narrative that is both personal and sonically diverse.
Up next, the music video for “Sweet Papaya” is slated for release Nov 28, 3:30pm KST / Nov 27, 10:30pm PST. CHA EUN-WOO is currently completing his mandatory military service, with his discharge scheduled for January 2027.
Courtesy of Fantagio
CHA EUN-WOO 2ND MINI ALBUM – ELSE Tracklisting:
- Sweet Papaya
- SATURDAY PREACHER *focus track
- Selfish
- Thinkin’ Bout U
ABOUT CHA EUN-WOO
CHA EUN-WOO is a globally recognized South Korean singer, actor, and member of the boy group ASTRO. Since debuting in 2016, he has become one of Asia’s most prominent multi-hyphenate entertainers, active across music, television, film, and major global brand campaigns.
Renowned for his expressive vocals and charismatic presence, CHA EUN-WOO has starred in a series of hit productions, including “My ID Is Gangnam Beauty,” “True Beauty,” “Island,” “A Good Day to Be a Dog,” and “Wonderful World”. His artistry and popularity have earned him numerous accolades, such as the Rising Star Award, Best New Actor, Excellence Acting Award, AAA Emotive Award, MTV VMAJ Global Icon Award, and Korea’s Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Award for Popular Culture & Arts.
With a social reach of over 60.9 million and a growing global fanbase, CHA EUN-WOO continues to expand his influence as one of Korea’s leading cultural figures.
CONNECT WITH CHA EUN-WOO
Official IG | Personal IG | TikTok | X | YouTube | Spotify
#ChaEunWoo #ASTRO #CHAEUNWOO2ndMiniAlbum #kcrush #koreansinger #actor #kpop #koreanpop #wndMiniAlbum #KoreasMinisterofCultureAward #SweetPapaya #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #ThinkinBoutU #globalbrand #Fantagio #KakaoEntertainment #mandatorymilitaryservice #globalfanbase #SaturdayPreacherfocustrack #Selfish #listennow
WATCH 
Courtesy of: THEBLACKLABEL
THEBLACKLABEL‘s breakout co-ed group, ALLDAY PROJECT, make their highly anticipated return with “ONE MORE TIME,” unveiling a bold new direction and taking their sonic spectrum to unprecedented heights. Listen HERE and watch the accompanying music video HERE.
Following their explosive debut last June with “FAMOUS,” ALLDAY PROJECT immediately captivated the world – rising to #1 on YouTube’s Trending Music Videos worldwide, topping all major real-time charts in Korea, and debuting at #43 on the Billboard Global 200. These achievements firmly positioned the group as one of the most exciting new forces in music, with the “FAMOUS” music video surpassing 48 million views on YouTube to date.
Now, with the announcement of their first EP, ALLDAY PROJECT returns with “ONE MORE TIME” – a track that radiates energy and passion, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their artistic evolution. Building upon the foundation they set with their debut, the group pushes forward with renewed confidence and creativity. Through lyrics that reflect life’s meaningful moments, the song emphasizes a single message: “Let’s enjoy the present together.”
Musically, “ONE MORE TIME” blends a liquid drum & bass foundation with a smooth bassline and progressive beats, interwoven with elements of trap, jersey club, and hyperpop – a testament to the group’s genre-fluid versatility. The track was written by ALLDAY PROJECT members TARZZAN and BAILEY, alongside Vince, Jesse Bluu, and KUSH, and produced by TEDDY, KUSH, Dominsuk, and VVN of THEBLACKLABEL.
ALLDAY PROJECT continues to redefine what a group act can be – uniting multi-talented artists celebrated for their artistry in rap, vocals, choreography, and fashion. As one of the few co-ed groups in modern music and the first under THEBLACKLABEL, they embody the label’s forward-thinking spirit and creative freedom.
Founded by Teddy Park (a.k.a. TEDDY), THEBLACKLABEL is home to artists including MEOVV, JEON SOMI, Vince, BIGBANG’s TAEYANG, and BLACKPINK’s ROSÉ.
(Clockwise from left: TARZZAN, BAILEY, WOOCHAN, ANNIE, YOUNGSEO)
Courtesy of: THEBLACKLABEL
FOLLOW ALLDAY PROJECT
TikTok | Instagram | X | Threads | YouTube | Facebook
About ALLDAY PROJECT:
ALLDAY PROJECT — comprised of ANNIE, TARZZAN, BAILEY, WOOCHAN, and YOUNGSEO — unites five artists, each with a distinct origin story. From dance prodigy to rap phenom to fashion trailblazer, they were among the most talked-about pre-debut talents of their generation, and now stand at the forefront of a new era. Together, they push the boundaries of creative expression, challenge convention, and deliver something entirely new and unprecedented. With sophisticated music, daring visuals, and powerful performances – much of which they write and choreograph themselves – ALLDAY PROJECT transcends labels and defies expectations. They don’t fit into a box – because no title can define what’s never been experienced before. Welcome to ALLDAY PROJECT.
About THEBLACKLABEL:
THEBLACKLABEL is a South Korean entertainment company, record label, and creative agency founded by TEDDY in 2016 and home to acts such as TAEYANG, JEON SOMI, ROSÉ, MEOVV and Vince.
#ALLDAYPROJECT #THEBLACKLABEL #ONEMORETIME #kcrush #kpop #koreangroup #ANNIE #TARZZAN #BAILEY #WOOCHAN #YOUNGSEO #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #TEDDY #ALLDAYPROJECTReturns #koreanpop #LetsEnjoyThePresentTogether
Photo Credit – Warner Music Thailand
Award winning Thai artist, Jeff Satur, is wrapping up his huge “Year of Red Giant” era with the release of his Red Giant EP on November 17th. The EP serves as the perfect finale to a massive year, reaffirming his place as a major global force. The Red Giant concept represents the intense, transformative state of a star right before it bursts into a brand-new beginning.
The “Year of Red Giant” kicked off on January 10th with the fan-favorite track, “Ride or Die.” The campaign quickly became a global phenomenon, featuring a huge Red Giant Tour that wowed fans across five South American cities (Sao Paolo, Chile, Peru, and two cities in Mexico) and seven cities in Asia. Things peaked in May with two sold-out nights for the incredible Red Giant Concert at Bangkok’s Impact Arena. That’s where Jeff first played “Tell Me The Name,” which was officially released on June 19th.
The Red Giant EP completes the “Year of Red Giant” musical journey with three exciting new tracks that highlight Jeff Satur’s amazing vocal range and signature mix of genres. The first new single, “ของขวัญปีใหม่ (Golden Night)” (Thai version), dropped on November 13th. This track comes with a gorgeous music video featuring actress and influencer Janistar. The song and video are all about how, if you truly believe, miracles can actually happen twice.
The full Red Giant EP is officially out on November 17th, led by the English Version of “Golden Night.” You’ll also get two other brand new tracks: “Passion Fruit” and “Call It Over.” All three songs will have exclusive visualizers designed to creatively and emotionally capture the vibe of each track. The “Red Giant” EP is both a final statement and a big celebration, capturing all the intense energy and creative growth from this era. Fans should pre-save the EP now and get ready for the final, huge chapter of this campaign.
Tracklist:
- Ride or Die
- Tell Me the Name
- Golden Night (English Version) (New Track)
- Passion Fruit (New Track)
- Call It Over (New Track)
- ของขวัญปีใหม่(Golden Night) (New Track)
Credit: Warner Music Thailand
About Jeff Satur
Jeff Satur is a highly versatile Thai singer-songwriter and producer known for his unique artistic identity and powerful musical storytelling. With strong abilities in both vocal performance and music production, he continues to expand his creative footprint across various genres, earning recognition as one of Thailand’s most dynamic rising artists. Beyond music, Jeff has delivered notable acting performances that highlight his emotional range and on-screen presence, further solidifying his reputation as a multi-disciplinary talent. His influence extends into the brand and creative industries, where he has been selected as a global brand ambassador and brand presenter for leading brands, reflecting his growing impact and international appeal.
#JeffSatur #TPop #Thailand #risingartist #kcrush #newmusic #musicalstorytelling #TheRedGiant #newEP #WarnerMusicThailand #GoldenNightEnglish #JeffSaturActor #songwriter #producer #kcrushamerica #RideOrDie #TellMeTheNamebyJeffSatur #kcrushmagazine #ThaiPop
Disclaimer: Some of the topics discussed would be mature and provocative in theme – the topics discussed are mature in nature.
Award winning production designer, writer and director Whammy Alcazaren (Bold Eagle, Whether the Weather is Fine) is a creative not afraid to push boundaries in his visual and narrative storytelling, and his 2025 short film Water Sports, which screened at Minikino Film Week 11 in Denpasar, Bali, is no exception.
In this visually unique and provocative film, two highschoolers, Ipe played by Elijah Canlas (Sunshine, Gameboys) and his boyfriend Jelson played by John Renz Javier (The Gospel of the Beast) are faced with the existential thought of what finding and holding onto love means at the end of the world. Though this is a narrative that has been explored countless times in other films, shows, and books, Whammy takes things a step further than most by focusing the story on two queer young men and their friends bravely facing their imminent doom in a Philippines washed in shocking shades of orange, yellow, and reds from the blazing sun beating down on an earth with no protective layers of atmosphere to provide a barrier from the scorching irradiated heat, and the irony that the very thing they and the earth are in desperate need of the most, water, will be their very destruction in the form of a tsunami.
Stranded in an isolated, crumbling school with no running water, an empty pool, and a teacher (Ricky Davao) showing no interest in his students, Ipe and Jelson both have deep conversations with each other, their few remaining classmates, and themselves about what’s the purpose of romantic and platonic love and relationships when the end to everything has already been determined and is fast approaching.
Water Sports is a short film that effectively uses what seem to be absurd visual tricks, vignettes, a score that can’t quite be followed, and unpredictable editing styles and scene transitions by filmmaker Carlos Francisco Manatad–or whose 2021 disaster feature film Whether the Weather is Fine, Whammy won multiple awards for his production design–to convey the chaotic reality being lived by these characters.
I use the word “seem”, because at first the editing and production design of the school and environment seem sort of haphazard, but with time it fairly obvious to anyone who spends a significant amount of time on social media, that all of the elements, perfectly capture the current state of the internet as it is now. So much of what we consume visually and audibly consists of fast moving images, reels, thoughts and sped up streams on consciousness, that over time it all just melds into an almost overwhelming and crashing down on you in cacophony of noise, emotions, and colours, much like the world ending tsunami forecasted to soon arrive.
Whammy being able to interpret all of this so concisely and correlate it to the film’s overarching theme of climate change, environmental conservation, queer identity, and teen angst is quite brilliant. Oh, and I can’t forget the religious context which is presented in many overt and subliminal ways. With Catholicism being the main religion in the Philippines since the arrival of the Spanish to the islands and their subsequent colonization, there’s no avoiding…or perhaps escaping might be a more apt term, the discussion of queer love in the context of religious conservatism and the guilt that stems from being taught that who you are and who you love is seen as a mortal sin that could cause you eternal damnation.
But as Jelson and Ipe ponder, if they’re existing in a world that’s been damned through the negligence of those who had the power to avert environmental destruction, what’s the point is denying oneself comfort and love in a world already literally on fire?
Whammy’s years as a production designer with a fine eye to getting every small detail right, come through very clearly in every scene of Water Sports. Every set piece serves a purpose and tells us what he’s thinking of and trying to convey to audiences. For the casting he wanted all of the young male actors to look alike and have similar body structures and makeup to encourage audiences to think about what facades teenage boys and young men are expected to project even as they’re facing mental and existential challenges.
In My KCrush interview with producer Alemberg M. Ang (Bold Eagle) at Minikino, we discussed a variety of topics including Alemberg’s process of give and take working with a filmmaker who has a very specific vision in and working to supporting that vision for a film like Water Sports, what makes the casting choices unique, and how audiences could perceive and interpret the provocative themes in the film that could be uncomfortable for some.
*All images courtesy of Dalyuyong Studios.
One interesting tidbit is that the name of Alemberg’s production company is Dalyuyong which means “large tidal waves that can be as massive as a tsunami” in Tagalog.
Credits for the video: Music – “Evening Melodies” by MsBlink
“Carmina Burana – O Fortuna” by Carl Orff (The song is permitted for non-commercial use under license Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported (CC BY-NC-ND 3.0)
On Friday, November 7, 2025, the Asia Society Texas Center in Houston’s Museum District hosted its annual “Night Market” celebration. The festival brings the vibrant energy of street markets in East and Southeast Asia to the Gulf Coast, all while centering greater Houston’s diverse Asian and Asian American communities.
Credit: Asia Society Texas Center
From 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., the event transformed the Center’s outdoor parking lot and interior spaces into a lively village of flavors, artistry and connection. Guests of all ages could explore dozens of food and artisan vendors, enjoy dance performances, and some games for free. Inside the Center and for a small fee, there were anime screenings, more games, sumo-wrestling demonstrations! For those who have never experienced the beautiful museum, the Center offered after-hours art access.
Credit: “Pilot,” who’s been great behind the camera!
I was excited to experience this event through the eyes of my husband, Pilot, who continues to dive into these adventures with an open heart and mind. Being the foodies that we are, we were especially excited to try the cuisines! Although overall positive, it was a disappointment that two hours into the festival, several food options weren’t available. For the options that were available, such as Filipino and some Japanese and Korean fusion bites, the lines were painfully long. We opted instead for exploring more of the festival booths.
It’s been at least 10 years since I last enjoyed the festival and my understanding of the various communities and cultures represented have come a long way. This impact is the goal of the festival, actually. The Night Market supports the mission of the Asia Society Texas Center to elevate Asian and Asian American voices in Houston’s cultural landscape. There’s intentionality about placing a positive spotlight on cultural celebration, community entrepreneurship and cross-cultural exchange. The result? A festive, inclusive evening offering something for all ages.
Ashley Borjon, Host & Historian
Ashley is a content creator, educator, and public speaker. As an authority on the Hallyu phenomenon, she has collaborated on projects and events with various domestic and international companies and brands as a music historian. As the host of An Album a Day, she leads an English-language podcast promoting commentary on South Korean pop music. Learn more about her at https://www.a3daypodcast.com
#NightMarket #Houston2025NightMarket #Fillipino #Korean #Japanese NightMarketFoods #kcrush #foodies #festival #HoustonMuseumDistrict #EastandSouthEastAsia #kcrushmagazine #kcrushamerica #HoustonAsianFestival
“Cursed Bunny” by Korean author Bora Chung is a bold and unsettling short-story collection that blends horror, fantasy, and dark satire to expose the hidden anxieties of modern life. Longlisted for the International Booker Prize, this collection has captivated global readers with its imaginative plots and sharp social commentary.
The book contains several surreal and thought-provoking stories, all connected by themes of fear, power, and the unexpected cruelty embedded in ordinary situations. Among the most memorable is the title story, “Cursed Bunny,” where a family of curse-makers creates a vengeful object to fight back against a ruthless corporation. Through this tale, Chung cleverly reveals how injustice can twist generations and how revenge often comes at a heavy cost.
Other stories in the collection explore the burdens of social expectations, the pressures placed on women, and the blurred lines between the human and the monstrous. In “The Head,” a woman is stalked by a speaking, severed head emerging from her toilet — a bizarre yet powerful symbol of guilt and responsibility that refuses to be ignored. While each story is unique, they collectively paint a vivid picture of how people navigate fear, trauma, and societal pressure in unexpected ways. Translated into English by Anton Hur, the collection retains all the eeriness, humor, and cultural nuance of the original Korean text. “Cursed Bunny” is not just a horror collection; it is a daring reflection on the systems that shape our lives and the strange, often haunting ways people cope with them.
—-Karen Mwenda
#CursedBunnybyBoraChung #BoraChung #CursedBunny #AntonHurtranslated #koreanauthor #kcrush #horror #injustice #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #koreanculture #koreanwriter #socialexpectations #burdens #humanversusmonstrous #shortstorycollection #InternationalBookerPrize #sharpsocialcommentary #fear #power #unexpectedcruelty #revenge
Fastest-rising, record-breaking, fifth-generation idol group fresh off MAMA Award Nomination for “Best New Artist”
(Courtesy of: Uncore Entertainment)
LISTEN TO ALBUM “BLACKOUT” HERE
WATCH MUSIC VIDEO “X” HERE
The dynamic, rising K-Pop powerhouse CLOSE YOUR EYES is ushering in a bold new chapter with the release of their highly anticipated third mini album, “blackout.” Following breakout hits, “All My Poetry” and “Snowy Summer,” the seven-member group deliver a musically rich project that blends R&B and house-inspired. This release redefines the boundaries of modern K-Pop while showcasing growth and artistry that have propelled them to global recognition. The latest release fresh off the heels from their nomination for “Best New Artist” at the prestigious upcoming MAMA Awards. The recognition is just one of many this year alone across multiple accolades, such as The Fact Music Awards – Hottest Award, Brand of the Year Awards – Rookie Male Idol, K-WORLD DREAM AWARDS – New Vision Award, and TikTok Music Awards – New Wave Artist Award.
Expanding the group’s artistic evolution, the album delivers an emotionally charged landscape that reflects vulnerability and strength. Centered on themes of one’s journey of growth, the project braves the power of transformation beyond past limitations.
Opening the album is “X,” a dynamic yet powerful R&B infused dance track characterized by its restrained bassline and diverse synth layers. The lyrics, written by member Jeon Min-wook, express a determined mindset to break through personal limits and move forward. The first collaboration track, “SOB,” features Grammy-Award winning producer, Imanbek, on a heavy bass with house-style drums. Built on a house-inspired dance-pop foundation, “CHIC” features striking synthesizer arpeggios and a catchy hook that highlight the group’s distinctive charm and playful individuality. Continuing with R&B influences on blended textures and keyboards is “2.0” – a transition between halftime and double-time rhythms in the chorus to create an engaging, pulsating contrast. “Who’s Day? (Jane Doe)” sensually portrays the allure and mystery of an unidentified figure from a dreamscape, closing the album with an air of intriguing falsettos. Closing the album is the English version of “X.”
The rising rookie septet has quickly established themselves as one of the most exciting new acts in the global music scene. Formed through JTBC’s survival show “Project 7,” CLOSE YOUR EYES, officially debuted on April 2, 2025 with their first mini album, “ETERNALT”, which sold 316k units in the first week of release. They continued to stack achievements with their second mini album “Snowy Summer”, which was released in July, selling over 200k albums on its first day of release. They also won first place on SBS M’s The Show and MBC M’s Show Champion concurrently, then later won a trophy on KBS’s Music Bank with the title track “Snowy Summer.’ Their speed to success made history, accomplishing a Music Bank win just nine days after their official debut, solidifying their place as the fastest fifth-generation group to win on the show and second fastest group in all-time history.
blackout Tracklist:
- X
- SOB
- CHIC
- 0
- Who’s Dat (Jane Doe)
- X (English Ver.)
(Courtesy of: Uncore Entertainment)
About CLOSE YOUR EYES
CLOSE YOUR EYES (CYE) is a 7-member multinational K-pop boy group is comprised of Jeon Min-wook, Ma Jingxian, Jang Yeo-jun, Kim Sung-min, Song Seung-ho, Kenshin, and Seo Kyoung-bae. The group formed through the global audition show PROJECT7, produced by SLL and YGP. Chosen by over 17M global fan vote, including 91% from overseas, CYE debuted in 2025 with their new album ETERNALT, which sold 316K copies. The title track “All My Poetry” earned them their first music show win just 9 days after their debut, making them the one of the fastest groups to achieve this milestone in K-Pop history. Their followup release, “Snowy Summer”, continued to build on this momentum with multiple music show wins including “The Show”, “Show Champion”, and “Music Bank.” Known for their powerful performances, CYE quickly rose to become one of the most talked-about rookie groups. With stunning visuals, creative energy, and a commanding stage presence, they are leading the new wave of global K-pop.
Follow CLOSE YOUR EYES: Facebook | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | X
#CLOSEYOUREYES #UnicoreEntertainment #JeonMinwook #MaJingxian #JangYeojun #KimSungmin #SongSeungho #Kenshin #SeoKyoungbae #PROJECT& #kcrush #kcrushmagazine #kcrushamerica #kpop #koreanpop #koreanentertainment #MAMAAwards #nomination #SLL #YGP #CYE #ETERNALT #MusicBank #kpopmusic #ShowChampion #blackoutbyCloseYourEyes #kpopnewboygroup #musicvideoblackout