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Chie Izuno works full time at an office Branch. Though she’s 30, she’s very young at heart and kind of innocent. She tries hard to go into the dating field but finds herself struggling due to her weight and self-esteem issues. She meets up with one of the company’s investors, Jin Harada, a super sucessful and young business man. However Jin has a severe lack of social skills. Chie strives to make a deal with Jin in order to aide her in her goal to lose weight and gain confidence, she tells Jin she can help him with his own flaws. Where will this agreement lead them to, and can two total opposites and flawed individuals overcome their personal demons?
How far is an artist supposed to go or allowed to go in their creative process before they’ve crossed boundaries into the unforgivable? Why are people having periods still taboo to talk, show and reference about in person and on screen? And what does all of this have to do with fermentation? These are just some questions audiences will ask of themselves after seeing the Canadian short film A Fermenting Woman, directed by Priscilla Galvez, and written by Maisie Jacobson.
Winning the Programmer’s Choice Award at the 2024 Bali International Short Film Festival’s Minikino Film Week, A Fermenting Woman stars Sook-yin Lee as Marielle Lau, a passionate chef who has dedicated her life to perfecting the art of fermentation. A process that requires time, patience, a love of science, and imagination when to create new flavors and ingredients to complement her inventive culinary inventions. But her creativity is put to the test when she learns the restaurant she works in has been bought over by a new set of owners.
With this sudden and very unwanted change, Marielle’s creativity is affected when the stress of this new situation coincides with the beginning of her period during her menstrual cycle. Priscilla and Maisie brilliantly tie the emotional stakes of Marielle’s job being threatened to the emotional turmoil women experience during their periods.
Desperate to create the perfect new dish to impress her new bosses, Marielle becomes obsessed with creating a new fermentation product, and in so doing comes up with an idea so outlandish (and perhaps stomach churning for some), but is what she believes is what’s necessary, one wonders if the stress has completely broken her.
Lee is terrific at conveying Marielle’s gradual loss of control until she crosses a line no chef should ever cross. Going from the calm and composed person introduced at the beginning of the film, Sook-yin, Priscilla and Maisie take Marielle on a journey where she seems to lose her sense of self and does the unthinkable, giving up a piece of herself to obtain the approval of others.
Jacobson writes a new narrative context to the old adage of giving of one’s “blood, sweat, and tears”, that women will find intimately and achingly – pun fully intended – familiar. In my interview with Priscilla and Maisie they shared about how Marielle’s plight is reflective of the sacrifices women are expected to make and the pain they’re expected to endure in professional setting such as the film industry, and how A Fermenting Woman, challenges audiences to examine their own thoughts on periods, why we still find them difficult to speak about. We also discussed the similarities between chefs, directors, and writers and how far is too far where a creation, whether it be a fancy dish, or an inventive film goes from enjoyment to punishment.
A Fermenting Woman, was co-produced by Priscilla and Rielle Ramos of Silent Tower, and won the Short Film Audience Award at the Strasbourg European Fantastic Festival.
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 http://Authory.com/CarolynHinds
Twitter & Instagram: @CarrieCnh12
#KCrush #MinikinoFilmWeek #CanadianFilm #AsianFilm #FemaleFilmmaker #AsianCinema #ShortFilm #InternationalFilmFestival #Indonesia #KCrushMagazine #KCrushAmerica #KCrushFeaturedInterview
SM Entertainment agency has officially terminated its contract with former NCT member, Taeil.
On October 16, one of South Korea’s giant entertainment agencies, SM Entertainment, officially terminated its contract with Taeil. Taeil left NCT group and its subunits back in August after being affiliated with a sexual crime case. Given that the allegations were still in the investigation stages, SM agency stood by their client as expected.
However, things went south after reports that Taeil was now being investigated on grounds of aggravated quasi-rape allegations. Given the change of status, SM Entertainment announced that since Taeil was now under investigation for a criminal defense case by prosecutors, contract termination became an inevitable option. SM agency further clarified that both parties, including Taeil, had amicably agreed to the contract termination. SM Entertainment also apologized for any distress caused by one of their artists.
The termination was received with mixed reactions. Some claimed that the termination was long overdue while others felt that SM expressed dedication and loyalty towards their artists by supporting Taeil until the change of circumstances forced them to withdraw.
—-Karen Mwenda
#SMEntertainmentTerminatesTaeilsContract #Taeil #SM #kcrush #NCTTaeil #kpop #kidol #koreanidol #kcrushnews #kculture #TaeilandSMEntertainment #allegationsofabuse #circumstancesforcedthetermination #kcrushmagazine
The celebrated comedian Park Soo Hong and his wife are the newest parents in Korea’s entertainment industry.
Park Soo Hong and Kim Da Yee welcomed their daughter on October 10. This marks 3 years since the couple walked down the aisle. The courageous couple shared that they were happy to be parents through the IVF process.
For the past 2 years or so, Park Soo Hong, comedian-turned-celebrity, has been in the spotlight because of family issues. Despite the issues, his wife stood by his side and now their small family is overwhelmed with joy from the birth of their child.
—-Karen Mwenda
#ParkSooHong #firstchild #comedian #kcrush #koreancomedian #KimDeYee #IVFprocess #celebrity #koreanentertainmentindustry #kcrushmagazine #kcrushamerica #koreannews #knews #celebritynews #birthoftheirchild #IVF #koreanculture
– ‘ODD YOUTH’ expresses their brand image through the exciting and fun vibes of teenage friendships.
– Each of the 5 members has their charm, sparking curiosity about them.
– The music video features a movie-like scale with over 100 background actors.
The new girl group ‘ODD YOUTH’ set to debut in the second half of 2024 under TOP MEDIA, has announced their official debut through the release of their brand music video “Best Friendz,” introducing the members for the first time.
On the 18th, TOP MEDIA revealed the brand music video ‘Best Friendz’ on their official SNS channel, showcasing the vibrant visuals and unique charms of members MYAH, SUMMER, MAIKA, KANIE, and YEEUM, capturing the attention of viewers.
The brand music video highlights ‘ODD YOUTH’’s bright and lively concept. While all five members have distinct visuals, the “Best Friendz” music video beautifully showcases their harmony, allowing viewers to feel their genuine friendship vibes. This brand music video was filmed in various locations in Georgia, featuring nearly 100 background actors, creating a cinematic experience.
Moreover, the lyrics of ‘ODD YOUTH’ express their honest feelings and the support of friends, reflecting teenage emotions with catchy phrases and an easy melody. They have already shared parts of the lyrics related to their story on social media, enhancing the authenticity of the song.
At midnight on the 18th, when the music video was released, many fans who had been eagerly waiting for MYAH’s debut, who is from Girls Planet 999, celebrated the official debut and expressed their excitement for ’ODD YOUTH’.
Meanwhile, TOP MEDIA’s first girl group ‘ODD YOUTH’ may appear unconventional to others, but their brand is meaningful as it brings together unique and vibrant youth to share their honest stories. The five girls, each with their personalities, will shine even brighter together as the brand ‘ODD YOUTH’. “In the future, they plan to share their authentic stories through their music.
#ODDYOUTH #GirlsPlanet999 #TOPMEDIA #kcrush #MYAH #BESTFRIENDZSbyODDYOUTH #kpop #kidol #pop #newmusic #koreangirlgroup #kpopgirlgroup2024 #teenagefriendship #friendship #youth #kcrushmagazine #kculture #SUMMER #MAIKA #KANIE #YEEUM #fivemembergirlgroup #kcrushamerica #newgirlgroupfromTOPMEDIA2024 kcommunity
ROSÉ’S FIRST STUDIO ALBUM ‘rosie’ ARRIVES DECEMBER 6TH
WATCH “APT.” VIDEO: LINK
STREAM “APT.”: LINK
Global icons ROSÉ and Bruno Mars have released new single “APT.” – available now via Atlantic Records/THEBLACKLABEL alongside an official music video directed by Daniel Ramos and Bruno Mars.
“‘APT.‘ is actually my favorite Korean drinking game that I play with my friends back home. It’s so simple, puts a smile on your face, and breaks the ice at any party,” ROSÉ explains. “One night in the studio I taught my crew how to play the game. Everyone was fascinated, especially when I started the chant, so we played around with it and I said we should make a song out of it… and after Bruno joined the track, the rest became history!”
“APT.” (produced by Bruno Mars, Cirkut, Omer Fedi & Rogét Chahayed) is the lead single off ROSÉ‘s first studio album rosie, arriving December 6th and available for pre-order now (link). The 12-track collection marks ROSÉ‘s most personal and candid release to date with her co-writing the project in its entirety, including “APT.”
As a member of BLACKPINK, one of the best-selling girl groups of all time, ROSÉ has shattered records, performed on the most heralded stages, and amassed millions of fans around the world. On her own, the Korean-New Zealand superstar’s 2021 single “On The Ground” debuted at #1 on the Billboard Global 200 chart and became the highest-charting song by a solo K-pop female on the Billboard Hot 100. Simultaneously, ROSÉ has been an unstoppable force in fashion as global ambassador for renowned brands including Saint Laurent, Tiffany & Co, Rimowa and Puma. Her influence in music, fashion and philanthropy has proven her to be a testament to the growth of Korean influence in music and fashion on a global scale.
CONNECT WITH ROSÉ:
RosesAreRosie.com | Instagram | TikTok | X | YouTube | Press Assets
#ROSE #BRUNOMARS #APT #producedbyBrunoMarsCirkutOmerFediRogétChahayed #kcrush #kpop #pop #kidol #kmusic #BLACKPINKROSE #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #directedbyDanielRamos #THEBLACKLABEL #APTKoreanfundrinkinggame #RoseFirstStudioAlbum #AtlanticRecords #listentoRoseandBrunoMars #kfashion #koreangirlgroup #OnTheGrounddebutedonBillboardGlobal200 #kcrushnews #koreannews #kpopnews
K-pop sensation FIFTY FIFTY is set to embark on their highly anticipated first-ever tour with FIFTY FIFTY : Love Sprinkle Tour in USA. Fresh off the success of their chart-topping single Cupid and the release of their mini-album Love Tune, the group will now bring their dynamic performances across 8 cities in the United States, giving TWENY (official fandom name) an unforgettable experience.
FIFTY FIFTY recently released their second mini-album Love Tune with the title track, “SOS,”. “SOS” quickly climbed the ranks on YouTube’s trending music chart and made its way into Korea’s Melon Top 100, signaling the group’s strong comeback. Four tracks from the album—”SOS,” “Push Your Love,” “Starry Night,” and “Gravity”—appeared on Melon’s Hot 100, reflecting widespread interest and a successful start for this era.
In collaboration with MyMusicTaste, FIFTY FIFTY showcased their exceptional live vocals through a special MMT Live performance of “Gravity.” The teasers released prior to the live performance garnered enthusiastic feedback from TWENY, and the performance video quickly ascended to number 7 on YouTube’s Trending in Korea, highlighting the immense anticipation surrounding their return.
Expanding their global influence, FIFTY FIFTY continues to captivate audiences with their unique blend of retro pop, synth-driven melodies, and introspective themes. Fans can expect an immersive concert experience that not only showcases the group’s vocal prowess but also features exclusive live performances and stunning stage productions. As FIFTY FIFTY embarks on this exciting new chapter, fans can look forward to a show filled with captivating performances and a celebration for the group’s growth into global stars.
Tickets for the FIFTY FIFTY : Love Sprinkle Tour in USA will go on sale on October 18, 2024, 9 AM PDT. The details about the tour will be provided via the MyMusicTaste website (mmt.fans/b02X) as well as FIFTY FIFTY’s official social media channel (@we_fiftyfifty).
About ATTRAKT Entertainment:
ATTRAKT Entertainment creates music and content that resonates with audiences by embracing the values of comfort, empathy, and connection. With K-pop emerging as a key player in global cultural content, ATTRAKT Entertainment is committed to fostering lasting interest rather than fleeting attention. By setting a clear vision and engaging in diverse global projects, the company seeks to shape the future of K-pop. FIFTY FIFTY, the current artist under ATTRAKT Entertainment, is part of this innovative journey.
About MyMusicTaste:
MyMusicTaste (MMT) is a pioneering platform dedicated to fulfilling the wishes of K-pop fans around the globe. As an all-rounder in the music industry, MMT empowers fans by transforming their voices into action. By leveraging fan-initiated campaigns, MMT brings top-tier K-pop artists to cities worldwide, bridging the gap between artists and their global audiences. MMT’s mission extends beyond concert planning; with the newly-launched MMT App, MMT aims to create immersive, fan-centric experiences, and exclusive content that resonate deeply with the K-pop community. Additionally, MMT also offers a wide range of K-pop albums and exclusive merchandise, providing fans with unique and memorable collectibles. Through innovative technology and a passion for music, MMT is committed to reshaping the landscape of fan engagement and setting new standards in the entertainment industry
#FIFTYFIFTY #firstUSTour #kpop #MMT #MyMusicTaste #ATTRaKT #TWENY #kcrush #kpopidol #KENNA #CHANELLEMOON #YEWON #HANA #ATHENA #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #LoveSprinkleTour #FIFTYFIFTYLoveSprinkleTour #2024USTour #kpopcommunity #kfashion #korean #kmusic #pop #happytour #koreanpop #kcrushtopentertainmentmagazine #breakingnews
Author Han Kwang, from South Korea, scooped the 2024 Literature Nobel Prize.
The 53-year-old fiction-story writer is the first Korean and 18th woman to win the Nobel Literature Prize for The Vegetarian piece. Han Kwang was awarded for her intense poetic prose confronting historical traumas while exposing human life’s fragility.
The Vegetarian, published in 2007 and translated to English in 2015 and 2016, portrays the patriarchal sovereignty over the female body oozing ecofeminist and anti-capitalist uprising. Like its title, the book comprises nuances of vegetarianism as the protagonist woman fights against food intake norms.
Han Kwang was also awarded the International Man Booker Prize for the same book in 2017. Han Kwang’s writing ability runs in their bloodline as her father, Han Seung Won, is also a celebrated novelist in South Korea. Before debuting as a fiction short story writer in 1995 with Love of Yeosu, Han Kwang published her first pieces, five poems in the Literature and Society magazine, in 1993.
The celebrated writer is currently working on her sixth novel. Some of Han Kwang’s most notable pieces include 2023’s Convalescence and 2014’s Human Acts. Han Kwang is the second Korean national to win a Nobel Prize after the Late former President Kim Dae Jung who scooped the 2000 Nobel Peace Prize for his democracy restoration efforts.
We want to offer our congratulations to author Han Kwang.
—-Karen Mwenda
#HanKwang #HanKwangNobelPeacePrizeWinner #koreanwriter #koreanliterature #kcrush #PresidentKimDaeJung #TheVegetarian #literaturewinnerofNobelPeacePrize #InternationalManBookerPrice #koreanculture #respectedwriter #HanKwangConvalescence #HumanActs #kcrushmagazine #kcrushamerica #kcrushnews
J-Hope has finally finished his 18-month mandatory military service.
BTS’ J-Hope was discharged from the military on October 17 after diligently enduring the over 1-year grueling service compulsory for all males in Korea. J-Hope is BTS band’s second member to wrap up the required service after Jin was discharged months ago.
Jin welcomed J-Hope with a bouquet congratulating him on his latest milestone. Despite their global eminence, BTS members put their careers on hold to undertake the obligatory service. Although this broke the fans’ hearts, the group also earned the same fans’ respect for doing what’s expected of them despite their fame.
J-Hope was released at Wonju military base where a swam of fans were waiting to greet him and thank him for his service. In a few words, J-Hope thanked the fans for showing love and support to those undertaking military duties. He shared his respect for those serving to protect the country.
—-Karen Mwenda
#JHOPE #JHOPEreleasedfrommilitary #JHOPEdischarged #JHopegreetsfans #kpop #kidolreleasedfrommilitary #JHopeWonjumilitarybase #JHopeJin #kcrush #kcrushnews #JINwelcomedJHope #flowersforJHope #kculture #JHopeservedinmilitary #kcrushmagazine #BTS #ARMY #BTSARMY #JHopethanksARMY #BTSJHOPE #JHOPEBTS #JHOPEtalksnewactivities
Former LABOUM member, Yulhee, poured the beans on her life after divorce.
On October 15, Yulhee appeared on TV Chosun’s trailer for the ‘Now Alone’ show. Yulhee finally spoke about her 5-year marriage that came to an end about 2 years ago. Yulhee was married to FTISLAND’s Choi Min Hwan in 2018 and have 3 children together.
In the preview, Yulhee battles to hold back her tears as she answers some of the questions she has strived to keep from discussing for the last 2 years. An inquiry on whether she abandoned her children and chose to enjoy her life brings the former idol into tears.
Yulhee highlights that she constantly took photos of her children before officially leaving their family house after the divorce. After the divorce, Choi Min Hwa got custody of the children and is currently making appearances on KBS’s ‘The Return of Superman’ show.
—-Karen Mwenda
#LABOUM #Yulhee #FTISLAND #ChoiMinHwa #divorce #postdivorce #kcrush #TheReturnofSupermanShow #kpop #kband #kcrushmagazine #KBS #TVChosunNowAloneShow #NowAloneShow #koreanTV #koreanmusic #custodyofchildren #ktv #koreannews #kcrushamerica #recentnews #hallyu
BLACKPINK’s Lisa took Victoria Secret’s fashion show by storm with outstanding looks and performances.
The LLOUD Co. founder made this year’s Victoria secret’s fashion show a memorable moment for the attendees. The show, which returned to New York City after about 6 years, started off with a strong opening after Lisa gave an outstanding performance of her solo debut hit, “ROCKSTAR”.
After an exceptional opening act themed to resemble a fashion show presentation, Lisa took a break before returning to the runway to close the show with her latest “Moonlit” track. In addition to the performance, Lisa made a memorable entrance with a lingerie look resembling Victoria Secret’s fashion line.
—-Karen Mwenda
#BLACKPINK #Lisa #BLACKPINKsLisa #Moonlit #VictoriasSecretFashionShow #lingerie #kcrush #kpop #kidol #LisaperformsatVictoriaSecretFashionShow #ROCKSTER #kcrushamerica #kfashion #NewYorkCity #kcrushmagazine
√ Five-member girl group ‘ODD YOUTH’, which is about to debut in 2024, is expected to debut by unveiling the brand logo
√ A member “Myah” was appeared in M.net “Girls Planet 999” before debut, and she also made it to the program’s final round.
New girl group ‘ODD YOUTH’ (TOP Media), set to debut in the second half of 2024, announced its official launch by releasing their brand logo.
The brand logo of ‘ODD YOUTH’, which was unveiled on its official social media on the 7th, was designed by LMNT Company, a firm known for its global expertise in creative brand design, having won awards such as the Red Dot Awards, the world’s third-largest design awards, the IF Awards, and the German GDA.
‘ODD YOUTH’ may seem unconventional from others’ perspectives, but it represents a collective of unique individuals expressing their honest stories.
While it differs from the mainstream, the group plans to unfold the narrative of ‘ODD YOUTH’ in the future, centering around the keyword “friend,” which holds great significance for youth and young people pursuing their dreams with individuality.
In particular, the core design element of the ‘ODD YOUTH’ brand logo features two symbols that represent the bond between friends and the solidarity between artists and their fandom.
The new girl group ‘ODD YOUTH’ consists of five members: MYAH, SUMMER, MAIKA, KANIE, and YEEUM. Among them, MYAH reached the final round of Mnet’s “Girls Planet 999,” where she was beloved by many viewers as the youngest contestant. It is expected that she will debut as a member of ‘ODD YOUTH’ after honing her skills through her experience on the audition program.
Meanwhile, ‘ODD YOUTH’, which is on the verge of debuting, plans to release a “Brand Logo Motion” video today (the 8th) to kick off a countdown to their official debut. In the future, additional content featuring the members will be released, along with official debut information.
#MYAH #SUMMER #MAIKA #KANIE #YEEUM #ODDYOUTH #newband #TOPMEDIA #LMNTCompany #logodesign #kpop #willdebut #MnetsGirlsPlanet999 #BrandLogoMotion #RedDot #kcrushnews #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #korean #koreangirlgroup #ODDYOUTHdebut
NewJean’s Hanni broke down while testifying during the parliamentary audit.
On October 15, NewJean’s Hanni appeared before the National Assembly’s Environment and Labor Committee held a parliamentary audit. Hanni appeared as a reference while HYBE’s CEO, Kim Jooyoung, appeared as a witness. The audit was concerning workplace harassment and bullying of K-pop idols. This also followed Hanni’s previous comments that a HYBE label manager had told other idols to ignore her.
In the session, Hanna revealed that this incident of a manager encouraging other idols to ignore her is not the only work harassment and bullying case that she experienced while under HYBE. She added that since her debut, she always brushed shoulders with high-ranking officials who never acknowledged her greetings. Hanni clarified that despite following the Korean culture of respecting elders, none of her greetings were acknowledged, terming it as unprofessional and disrespectful to human beings.
Hanni also highlighted the incident where HYBE employees badmouthed NewJeans on the Blind platform undermining the group’s accomplishments. Hanni confirmed that her efforts of fighting for justice were trashed after HYBE’s CEO downplayed the incident claiming the lack of valid evidence. In confidence, Hanni commented that HYBE is trying to bring NewJeans down for their skyrocketing success. In tears, Hanni thanked Korea for allowing her to do what she loves, but also expressed her frustrations because the individuals and parties who should be apologizing are avoiding responsibility. Hanni closed the curtain highlighting that although the law may not solve all world problems, respecting each other as human beings would eliminate workplace harassment and bullying.
—-Karen Mwenda
#NewJeans #HYBE #Hanni #Hannibreaksintotears #HannispeaksattheNationalAssemblysEnvironmentandLaborCommittee #kpop #KimJooyoung #HYBECEO #bullying #Korea #Koreanidol #kcrush #kcrushmagazine #breakingnewsatkcrush #respectforNewJeans
Popular Japanese idol group Snow Man have released their new song ‘One’, available globally on various music streaming platforms for the first time.
Since their debut in January 2020 with the million-selling single ‘D.D. / Imitation Rain’, Snow Man have achieved numerous record-breaking CD sales. In 2023, their third album ‘i DO ME’ achieved million-seller status, making them the first male artist group to have three consecutive albums reach cumulative million sales. Additionally, they have won Artist of the Year at the Japan Gold Disc Awards for three consecutive years (2021-2023). The group’s first ever five-dome tour begins in November 2024.
Snow Man’s first ever song to be released on subscription services, ‘One’, is the ending theme song for the TV anime ‘Blue Lock VS. U-20 JAPAN’. This mid-tempo ballad is a powerful song with lyrics about the unbeatable strength of those with burning passion who pursue their dreams.
▼ Snow Man / ‘One’
Released October 14, 2024 12:00 (Japan Standard Time):
https://mentrecording.lnk.to/one
The music video for ‘One’ will premiere on YouTube at 21:00 JST today, October 14, so don’t miss it!
▼ Snow Man / ‘One’ music video (YouTube Premiere October 14, 21:00 JST)
‘One’ will also be included on Snow Man’s fourth album ‘RAYS’, which releases on October 30. You won’t want to miss this!
▼ Snow Man 4th album ‘RAYS’
Released October 30, 2024
Preorder here:
https://SnowMan.lnk.to/4thalbum_overseas
▼ Snow Man links
Official website: https://mentrecording.jp/snowman/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SnowMan.official.9
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/snowman.official.9/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@snowman_mentrecording_s
X (Twitter): https://x.com/SN__20200122
Weibo: https://www.weibo.com/SnowManofficial
Japanese ensemble band NAQT VANE have released ‘FALLOUT’, their first new song since welcoming new member Yunoa, who joins original member Harukaze as twin vocalists. ‘FALLOUT’ is based on the themes of a “new me”, an “ideal me”, and “life after being reborn anew”, depicting the transformation of someone who takes the opportunity to embrace change – and all the madness such curiosity may bring.
The music video for ‘FALLOUT’ was released on September 20, offering a refreshing new look at NAQT VANE’s twin-vocal lineup. And that’s not all – this time, members Hiroyuki SAWANO, Harukaze and Yunoa even try their hand at acting! The video is based around an escape room-style mystery, and the three members’ humorous and surreal acting style is unmissable.
‘FALLOUT’ is the theme song from the movie ‘Ano Hito ga Kieta’, which was released in Japan on the same day and directed by Itaru Mizuno (who was also the music video’s director of photography). As such, the video is linked with the story of the movie, so look out for key items and concepts from the movie.
True to NAQT VANE’s spirit of “creating an uplifting tailwind to guide those with a challenger spirit”, ‘FALLOUT’ sees the group attempting a new form of expression, combining musical performance with acting. Don’t miss this truly special band as they continue to take on all-new challenges in the future.
About NAQT VANE
“A team project creating an uplifting tailwind to guide those with a challenger spirit.”
NAQT VANE is an ensemble project produced by Hiroyuki SAWANO. The group features vocalist Harukaze, who spent eight years living abroad before returning to Japan’s music scene, along with art collective Classic 6 who handle the group’s art direction. They made their debut on September 16, 2022 with the digital single ‘Break Free’.
The group breathe new air into their stories, freeing their true new selves.
Hiroyuki SAWANO｜Overall Producer
Born in Tokyo in 1980, Hiroyuki SAWANO is a highly celebrated composer and producer, providing compositions for music artists, TV shows, anime and movies.
In 2014, he began the project SawanoHiroyuki[nZk], undertaking star collaborations with renowned artists such as Akihito Okano (Porno Graffitti), Sukima Switch, Aimer, Jean-Ken Johnny (MAN WITH A MISSION), Aina the End (BiSH), Yuuri, Taiiku Okazaki, ASKA, suis (Yorushika) and more.
In 2019, he held a solo performance at the Mercedes-Benz Arena in Shanghai, China, with an audience of more than 10,000 fans, marking his advance to the global stage.
After meeting vocalist Harukaze, he launched the team project NAQT VANE in September 2022, participating as overall producer. The group have been releasing original music in Japan and around the world.
Harukaze｜Vocalist
Born in Hokkaido in 1998, Harukaze left Japan at age 15 to attend high school and college abroad. While studying Music Business in Los Angeles, she got a taste of a music culture that was different from what she’d experienced in Japan, and began to make music with people she met in the local scene. She became involved in NAQT VANE after meeting Hiroyuki SAWANO in 2021.
Yunoa｜Vocalist
Yunoa was born in 2003. Influenced by her parents, she grew a taste for Western music such as soul music from an early age, and from her mid-teens she has wanted to become a singer. Yunoa’s vivid yet powerful singing voice allows her to express the negative side of her emotions, giving voice to disappointment, resignation, weakness and contradiction. Yunoa sublimates the unvoiced screams rampant in modern times and turns them into songs.
In March 2024, Yunoa released her first single, ‘sadless’, marking the start of her solo career. Then in May of the same year, she joined the team project NAQT VANE.
Classic 6｜Art Direction
Classic 6 are a creative collective active in Japan and overseas. They undertake art direction and overall production for the fashion, art and music industries, including graphic design, video and venue production. With a focus on visual branding that emphasizes stories and concepts, they are constantly exploring new creative outlets as a collective across a wide range of genres.
Further information
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | YOUTUBE |TIKTOK
Now that you know how to! Let’s click the MAKE button and make your wishes to see FIFTY FIFTY come true!💖👇
With over 240,000 YouTube subscribers and over 70 million total plays, Japanese musician Emi Noda will release her new single ‘ties’ on October 14. The song is featured as the ending theme song to the hit anime series ‘FAIRY TAIL: 100 Years Quest’.
The song’s stripped-back piano arrangement that underpins Noda’s incredible singing voice was handled by Teppei Kakuda, who has produced and arranged songs for female Japanese artists such as Friday Night Plans and sato moka. The result is a contagiously positive song that conveys the image of friends helping one another get back up over and over again in the face of defeat – inspired by the story of ‘FAIRY TAIL: 100 Years Quest’.
This fall, Noda will begin her first national solo tour of Asia, which will include shows in four cities in China.
Emi Noda profile
Emi Noda is a female Japanese musician with over 240,000 subscribers on YouTube and over 70 million total plays. Her creative talent and unique perspective are unbound by genres, and her intimate music provides endless comfort and courage for her listeners, adding color to their daily lives as if she were right beside them. Her incredible singing voice and worldview continue to captivate her audience, while her impressive songwriting skills and passionate performances make her an artist unlike any other.
Further information
WEBSITE | X (TWITTER) | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | OTHER LINKS
* List of countries outside Japan to be announced soon
As they celebrate the 10th anniversary of their debut, Japanese rock band I Don’t Like Mondays. release their latest EP, ‘FOCUS’, on Wednesday, October 9. This set of songs fully captures the band’s identity, which has always incorporated global trends, channeling them into their own unique style.
‘FOCUS’ shows the unique musicality that IDLMs. have developed over the past decade, culminating in an EP that is not merely a retrospective of the past 10 years, but a statement of their intention to “focus” on the future.
A Music Video for ‘Shadow’, a track taken from their EP, was also released on YouTube.
▼’Shadow’ Music Video
https://youtu.be/JzDenVu6GcM?si=3vH9HeT2FU7kKeFr
The quiet and serious intro gives a sense of the beginning of a story, resulting in a danceable track that combines darkness and pop. Additionally, the lyrics written by YU express the ‘Negativity’ inherent in humans, portraying how, amidst a society filled with irony, we carry loneliness and conflict, yet resist by dancing in the shadows.
The group will kick off their ‘FOCUS’ ASIA TOUR kicks off in October, with the list of countries outside of Japan to be announced soon.
About I Don’t Like Mondays.
I Don’t Like Mondays. are a four-piece rock band from Japan. With their musical roots in the 1980s and a meticulous sound and groove, they transcend the boundaries between Japanese and Western music. Their songs are filled with the feeling of exhilaration you get when cruising through the city streets.
Known to their fans as IDLMs., the group are renowned for their sophisticated and passionate concerts that recreate the atmosphere of attending an exclusive overseas high-end fashion show. Their live performances have found enthusiastic audiences not only in Japan but also in places around the globe including South America, Asia and Europe.
Further information
MUSIC | WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | YOUTUBE
Japanese boyband Da-iCE released their new album ‘MUSi-aM’ on Wednesday, October 2.
Da-iCE’s first new original album in a year and four months, its release coincides with the 10th anniversary of the group’s major-label debut. The album title is pronounced “museum”, and as the name suggests, the album pays homage to the group’s history up till now.
The album’s 16 songs include the hit ‘I wonder’, which has been played over 100 million times on streaming services, as well as anime series ‘FAIRY TAIL: 100 Years Quest’ opening theme song ‘Story’, YouTube channel Teikou Penguin opening song ‘A2Z’, TV Tokyo drama series ‘Hyena’ theme song ‘Nai Mono Nedari’, and even some new songs produced by the group members themselves.
▼ ‘MUSi-aM’ streaming and download links:
▼ Da-iCE / New album ‘MUSi-aM’ all songs teaser video:
Additionally, the music video teaser for the album’s lead track ‘TAKE IT BACK’ is also out now. The lyrics for this song were written by members Taiki Kudo and Sota Hanamura, with lyrics, composition and arrangement by STY. This aggressive dance tune squeezes 10 years of Da-iCE into one song. In the teaser, various video cuts change in quick succession, evoking a unique worldview, while the eye-catching footage of the group members makes for a teaser that builds anticipation for the full video when it is eventually released.
▼Da-iCE / ‘TAKE IT BACK’ music video teaser:
Da-iCE are currently on tour to mark the 10th anniversary of their major-label debut. On Sunday, October 6 – the final date of the Da-iCE 10th Anniversary Instore Event 2024 -MUSi-aM- tour – the group will hold a special event that includes a live performance at Makuhari Toyosuna Park in Japan’s Chiba Prefecture.
In addition, the group will hold an arena tour from November this year, creating an anniversary year where fans can experience the history of Da-iCE through performances at the Nippon Budokan, live concert halls, in-store venue and arenas. Keep an eye on the group as they continue to go from strength to strength!
Release information
■ New album ‘MUSi-aM’ released Wednesday, October 2
▼ Streaming and download links:
▼ Physical edition purchase links:
https://da-ice.lnk.to/1002MUSi-aM
▼ Album details:
https://da-ice.jp/news/detail.php?id=1117565
Deluxe edition with nameplate: Album + DVD 3-disc set / album + Blu-ray 3-disc set 22,000 yen (tax included)
Deluxe edition: Album + DVD 3-disc set / album + Blu-ray 3-disc set 20,000 yen (tax included)
Video edition: Album + DVD 2-disc set / album + Blu-ray 2-disc set 9,680 yen (tax included)
Standard edition: Album 3,900 yen (tax included)
Da-iCE profile
Da-iCE are a five-piece boyband with twin vocalists who boast an impressive four-octave singing range. The members are vocalists Yudai Ohno and Sota Hanamura, and performers Taiki Kudo, Toru Iwaoka and Hayate Wada.
Released in November 2020, their song ‘CITRUS’ became the first song by a Japanese male dance and vocal group to surpass 100 million streams, and won an award at the prestigious 63rd Japan Record Awards in 2021. Their song ‘Star Mine’, which was released soon after, became a huge hit thanks to its Reiwa Era-style festival vibe and wide-ranging appeal, and in 2024, the group celebrated the 10th anniversary of their major-label debut.
Next, their song ‘I wonder’ was released in April this year to massive success, with 900 million views on TikTok and over 100 million total streams, making it their third song to reach that milestone! Their latest album ‘MUSi-aM’ was released on October 2, 2024.
Da-iCE links
▼ Da-iCE official website: https://da-ice.jp
▼ Da-iCE official YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DaiCECH
▼ Da-iCE_STAFF official X (Twitter) account: https://twitter.com/Da_iCE_STAFF
▼ Da-iCE_STAFF official Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/da_ice_staff/
▼ Da-iCE_OFFICIAL TikTok account: https://www.tiktok.com/@da_ice_official
ChoA, a former member of Crayon Pop has revealed that she was diagnosed with cervix cancer.
On October 13, ChoA shared on her social media platforms that she was diagnosed with cervix cancer in May 2023. The celebrity, who had just gotten married and is just in her early 30s, spent most of her newly-wed life in hospitals trying to beat this predicament. ChoA stated that after the shocking revelation, she went on to visit the country’s 5 biggest university hospitals hoping that each would give her a different answer. After finally coming to terms with the reality, ChoA and her newly-wed husband started the test and treatment.
ChoA revealed that she was diagnosed with Stage 1 cervix cancer with a 3 cm tumor. Her world shuttered further upon hearing that despite a successful treatment, the chances of preserving her fertility were in the balance. Amidst tears and heartbreak and with her husband’s unwavering support and prayers, ChoA started the treatment. ChoA revealed that she is finally on her fourth follow-up exam after a successful surgery that reduced the tumor and thankfully her fertility was preserved. She added that she is scheduled for another surgery to further protect her fertility since her cervix was removed. ChoA will have her uterine body tied in advance to prepare for pregnancy. ChoA finished by sharing her desires of being a mother even as she makes a full recovery.
—-Karen Mwenda
#ChoA #CrayonPop #CrayonPopChoA #CancerDiagnosis #kcrush #kpop #kidol #medical #CervixCancer #ChoAbreakingnews #wishherwell #fullrecovery #husbandstandsbyher #kcrushannouncement #kcrushmagazine #koreanculture #cervixtreatment
An international account affiliated with RIIZE boy band has shut down.
RIIZE FILM, an international fan account that has been supporting RIIZE and Seunghan as well has shut down. The account, which has been in operation for about 2 years, has given RIIZE a global platform harnessing the power of an international fan base.
However, amidst an internet uproar regarding Seunghan’s return to RIIZE after a hiatus because of a personal controversy and his official step down from RIIZE, the account was officially shut down. Before the closedown, the account posted a picture of RIIZE with all 7 members. One of the final posts wished happiness to RIIZE band and Seunghan in his future endeavors. The administrator thanked BRIIZE for the 2 years filled with memorable moments. The closed down was met with mixed reactions from supporters and critics of Seunghan.
—-Karen Mwenda
#RIIZE #RIIZEInternationalFanAccountClosesDown #kcrush #kpop #Seunghan #RIIZEBRIIZE #koreanpopnews #kidol #koreanculture #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #RIIZEFiLM #RIIZEFILMClosesAccount #koreangroup