K-popâs concept-shattering girl group, Dreamcatcher, is coming to the US with their REASON: MAKES DREAMCATCHER 2023 after a successful tour in the US in 9 cities and following a new Digital Single release. The girls are ready to take on nine cities in the U.S., with stops in Atlanta, Washington, D.C., New York, Reading, Chicago, Denver, Irving, Oakland and Los Angeles. The Europe tour kicks off starting in Atlanta on February 28 and continues on through seven more cities before reaching the last stop in Los Angeles on March 20.
K-pop girl group Dreamcatcher has received love from K-pop fans all around the world and was crowned “2022 Best K-pop Star” female idols by Forbes Korea. The group will reunite with their fans in the U.S. through their REASON: MAKES DREAMCATCHER 2023 tour. Their show in Los Angeles from their last U.S. tour was sold out along with other cities. Dreamcatcher has since then gained more attention and is excited to be back for this coming tour.
The 7-member girl group Dreamcatcher who debuted with the single “Nightmare” in 2017, have spread positive influence as a “global K-pop messenger” by addressing significant societal issues including topics like nightmares, the risks of the digital age, and the effects of climate change. In addition, Dreamcatcher has captured the hearts of music fans both domestically and internationally, showing aspects of a well-rounded idol with a variety of charms from strong dynamic tracks with powerful vocals to beautiful soft ballads. In recognition of their musicality, Dreamcatcher achieved remarkable achievements last year with their first music show win in Korea through their latest hit âMAISONâ in 1,924 days since their debut and being invited to a big music festival âPrimavera Soundâ in Barcelona, Spain.
Dreamcatcher showed extraordinary love to fans by preparing meaningful gifts. On January 9, despite the busy schedule ahead of the U.S. tour, Dreamcatcher surprised fans with a âSpecial Mystery Codeâ teaser for an upcoming release indicating their 6th year anniversary on January 13. The Special Digital Single âREASONâ celebrating their 6th year anniversary contains a message to fans who have been by Dreamcatcherâs side for six years, from their debut title âChase Me” to âVISIONâ, and itâs a promise to those who want to spend more time together. Dreamcatcherâs â3D VR MUSIC CINEMA: The Curse of the Spiderâ was released for free for a week, leaving a deep impression on InSomnia (official fandom name) around the world.
Fans are paying keen attention to Dreamcatcher as they are known for showing various performances across genres as self-certified talented idols. InSomnia (official fandom name) are especially excited as Dreamcatcher will be back with a new setlist. Dreamcatcher, who have continued to grow rapidly in every album, are getting ready to prove their global popularity through this U.S. tour.
Tickets will go on sale on January 19 at 12:00 PM (EST) local time. Information regarding ticketing for the shows can be found on : https://mmt.fans/bnfE
REASON : MAKES DREAMCATCHER 2023 – Tour Dates
02/28 – Atlanta, GA – Coca-Cola Roxy
03/02 – Washington, D.C. – MGM National Harbor
03/04 – New York, NY – Hulu Theater
03/06 – Reading, PA – Santander Arena
03/10 – Chicago, IL – Radius
03/12 – Denver, CO – Fillmore Theater
03/15 – Irving, TX – Toyota Music Factory
03/18 – Oakland, CA – Paramount Theater
03/20 – Los Angeles, CA – Hollywood Palladium
About MyMusicTaste:
MyMusicTaste organizes fan-initiated concerts around the world. Weâre driven by our mission to connect and amplify the voices of fans all over the world. Weâve successfully promoted concerts of artists such as EXO, Machine Gun Kelly, ATEEZ, and more in over 40 different cities. With the simple idea â empowering fans to bring their favorite artistâs concert to the city of their choice based on fan demandâMyMusicTaste is challenging the $27 billion concert market through cutting-edge technology and sophisticated, user-friendly service. Our service currently supports more than 30 countries and offers 15 languages. MyMusicTaste is truly growing as a global service. Our investors include Com2us, SK Networks, Kolon, Samsung Venture Capital, Golden Gate Ventures, KTB network, SL Investment, and umerous global firms that are recognized worldwide.
About DREAMCATCHER COMPANY:
Established in 2008, DREAMCATCHER COMPANY is a South Korean record label and entertainment agency founded by the prominent production duo E-tribe. Since the debut of its first artist Nassun, the company has grown in size over the years, producing artists and idol groups under its own name. The company also launched subsidiary labels HF Music Company, Dreamcatcher Company, and D1CE
Entertainment is garnering much attention and recognition from the public as the rising creator of future K-pop artists.
#DREAMCATCHER #REASONWorldTour #REASONUSTOUR #kcrushnews #kpop #kpopgirlgroup #REASONMAKESDREAMCATCHERTOUR2023 #2022BestKPopStarFemaleIdolsForbes #kcrushamerica #InSomnia #Dreamcatcherfans #HFMusicCompany #DreamcatcherCompany #D1CE #6thYearAnniversary
Leadership is all about inclusiveness, integrity, and insight. It is not about power, rank, or privilege, but responsibility and vision. There are and have been many leaders amongst the K-Pop sphere, but the following individuals have raised the bar when it comes to leading their groups.
1. RM (BTS)
Rap Monster (RM) is K-Popâs most influential and respected leader. RM has led BTS for the last 10 years since their debut throughout their journey to stardom. Right from the start and despite his young age then, RM has been the big brother that the members need. The best part about RM is his positive attitude and always putting others first. He is known for turning negative comments about the group into positive ones. He always compliments each of his members, including during interviews, and takes all the flaws showcasing himself as more lacking compared to his cherished members. He encourages them to express themselves and supports each of their endeavors, including their hobbies and interests. He has become more of a big brother, father, and guide to his fellow BTS members who look up to him. RM is known for placing value in each of the members referring to each of them as crucial to the success if the group. RM is also respected for his positive compliments to other K-Pop artists and group, which shows his maturity.
2. G-Dragon (BIGBANG)
G-Dragon is yet another veritable leader to reckon with. The multi-talented rapper became BIGBANGâs leader upon its debut back in 2006. His thoughtful and creative nature has seen G-Dragon manage and lead the group even through its darkest times. G-Dragon has been there for his groupmates despite the group going on hiatus for about 4 years and the members pursuing personal careers. Recently, the group made their comeback and G-Dragon seems more energetic and focused than ever.
3. Bang Chan (Stray Kids)
Stray Kids is quite a lucky group thanks to its leader, Bang Chan. Bang Chan is quite famous for his gentle personality that gives him an upper hand in understanding his members better. Â The longer training and later debut, compared to his members, has solidified Bang Chanâs will and aptitude to manage and unify the members despite their diverse personalities and perspectives. Apart from taking all the negative comments upon himself on behalf of the group, Bang Chan is adored for his lovely and encouraging expressions towards his group members.
4. Jihyo (TWICE)
In addition to being TWICEâs main vocalist, Jihyo has proudly been leading the girl group throughout their journey to fame. Elected by the group members themselves, Jihyo is always looking out for her members, including helping them with their routines. She has been praised by her members for being a trustworthy friend and colleague. Jihyo is quite good at handling tricky issues and situations related to the group. Her reliability and ability to effectively handle group matters makes her TWICEâs pillar.
5. Leeteuk (Super Junior)
Leeteuk is another legendary leader whose been showcasing his leading capabilities for over a decade now. This charming figure has been leading his other 9 members for 16 years and counting, and has been their tower of strength and solidarity throughout their entertainment career. Having been a leader of all these members at such a young age and maintaining through the years showcases Leeteukâs tenacity and capability. Leeteuk is known for his gentleness and reserved personality which enables him handle and unify the Tmembers despite their different perspectives, beliefs, and hopes.
6. Taeyong (NCT 127)
In addition to showering his members with love, NCT 127âs Taeyong is quiet a sensational leader. Taeyong is known for complimenting his teammates and helping them out in various instances, including perfecting their vocals. Taeyong hypes and encourages his group members into being the best versions of themselves. He is known for giving his members all the credit and giving each an opportunity to shine. NCT 127 members refer to Taeyong as the groupâs pillar since he unifies them putting in mind each memberâs uniqueness.
7. Yeji (ITZY)
Despite the fierce looks on stage, Yeji is known to be the most caring leader of all. The fierceness does come out when necessary, especially when protecting her groupmates. Yeji is quite affectionate towards her teammates and is always complementing them. She ensures that each of them is at their best self in all aspects, including in their professional and personal spheres. Yeji is seen as the groupâs core of strength and always looks for ways to better her teammates.
8. Irene (Red Velvet)
Irene has received praise over the years for being such a diligent leader. Her loyal personality makes Irene quite a reliable and trustworthy person. She is known to be protective of her group members and often showers them with praises. Irene has managed to create and spread the culture of being considerate of others with members often being seen taking care of each other. Being the eldest in the group gives her an upper hand to be a role model and inspiration to the younger teammates.
9. Bang Yongguk (B.A.P)
Bang Yongguk is known to be an inspirational and energetic leader. Having lead B.A.P boy band to fame before the group disbanded, Yongguk was diligent in executing his role. Known for his honest and meticulous nature, Yongguk was cultivated an openness culture that solidified the group membersâ bond. Even during their darkest times, especially through their disbandment period, Yongguk fought for his fellow members to the last day. His endurance in the music industry and openness regarding his vulnerability even after B.A.P disbanded showcases Yonggukâs tenacity to persevere, which is a crucial characteristic in a leader.
10. Onew (SHINee)
SHINee is one of the iconic K-Pop groups that contributed to the rise of Hallyu. The group debuted in 2008, went on hiatus for over two years since 2021, but is expected to make an official comeback this 2023. The group has had its ups and downs including losing their earlier leader, Jonghyun. Nonetheless. Onew took up the leadership role and has been keeping the group intact event through their hiatus period. Ones has even won the SBS Gayo Daejeon âLeader of the Yearâ award for his servant-leadership abilities. In addition to being smart, his meekness and care towards his fellow members crediting him the leadership role.
11. Jinjin (ASTRO)
Jinjin is another leader worthy of being named amongst the best K-Pop leaders. He is known for his unique leading style of letting the members handle issues as they see fit. That doesnât mean that Jinjin leaves them on their own, but rather gives them space while guiding and supporting them every step of the way. The charismatic and understanding icon is also respected for his wise insights as well as thoughtful comments, especially regarding the members and ASTRO.
12. JR (NUâEST)
Despite being younger than other band members, JR (Junior Royal) was chosen by the agency as NUâESTâs leader. In addition to the longer training period that birthed perseverance, JRâs respect towards other peopleâs opinions made him a great leader for NUâEST before the groupâs disbandment a decade after. He is also quite open to receiving and asking for advice when need be which ensured that he made the best decision for the members and the band as a whole.
13. Hyolyn (SISTAR)
Hyolyn is a bold and fearless being who is always looking for ways to better herself and others. As a leader of SISTAR, before the group disbanded, Hyolyn was known for her fearless personality that saw her shield her groupmates from malicious reactions from anti-fans. Despite the tough look, Hyolyn was known for putting her members first and showering them with praises. Upon leaving SISTAR, Hyolyn set up her own agency called Bridáľš despite this industry being monopolized by agencies with big names. Nonetheless, this move further confirmed Hyolynâs capability of leading.
14. Seungsik (VICTION)
Seungsik took up the leadership mantle after Seungwoo joined X1 group. The talented artist is not only known for his adorable smile, but also how he cherishes his fellow members. Seungsikâs ability to harmonize with others has given him an upper hand in unifying the group members. Seungsik is supportive and a good listener which amplifies his ability to lead his members.
15. Gyuri (KARA)
The fierce icon led KARA, the inspirational K-Pop group, throughout their stardom journey. Gyuri is a patient and thoughtful individual whose decisions are made after careful considerations. Her ability to unify the group members and bring the best in each of them, including through praises further solidifies her role as a leader. Gyuri fought tooth and nail for his group members, especially during their disbandment period. The group recently comeback together to celebrate their 15th anniversary and Gyuriâs fierce leader look was still as radiant.
—-Karen Mwenda
#KPopLeaders #GyuriKARA #BAPBangYongguk #RMBTS #Leaders #kpopgroupleaders #kpop #kcrush #kcrushamerica #SeungsikVICTION #GDragonBIGBANG #BigBang #BAP #OnewShiNee #SHINEE #HyolnSISTAR #SISTAR #IreneRedVelvet #LeeteukSuperJunior #JRNUEST #NUEST #YeJiITZY #JinJinASTRO #ASTRO #TaeyongNCT127 #NCT #JihyoTWICE #BangChangSTRAYKIDS
The âtill death do us partâ road down the aisle is a dream for many people, including K-Pop idols. K-Pop idols are increasingly shying away from officially making commitments to their other halves in fear of uproar from fans as it used to be some time ago. The last year, 2022, saw many K-Pop stars tie the knot for a lifetime journey with their partners. Below are some of the K-Pop artists who wedded in 2022.
1. Kim Eunjung (former Jewelry)
The former Jewelry member, Kim Eunjung tied the knot with her lover and talented music producer, Kei Kwangwook. The couple had a small ceremony on 16th January 2022 with Kim Eunjung surrounded by her former group mates.
2. Lime (former Hello Venus)
Lime, former Hello Venus member, tied the knot with her non-celebrity businessman lover on 29th March, 2022. Lime, who ventured in to acting once upon Hello Venusâ disbandment, preceded the marriage ceremony with a heartfelt letter to her fans that showcased how her husband to be, cherished her.
3. Jisun (Girlâs Day) and Hoon (U-KISS)
Hoon of U-KISS, announced his engagement to actress and former Girlâs Day member, Jisun, on 6th May, 2022. The couple walked down the aisle on 29th March, 2022, the private ceremony was held in Seoul amongst family and close friends.
4. Son Dam Bi (Soloist)
Son Dam Bi, a soloist and actress, tied the knot with Lee Kyu Hyuk, a speed skating coach, on 13th May, 2022. The couple had confirmed dating during the Same Bed Different Dreams 2 reality show. The ceremony was hosted by KBS Nâs sports anchor Lee Dong Geun and attended by various K-Pop idols including PSY.
5. Yeoreum (Former Hello Venus)
Yeoreum announced on her social media pages that she would be getting married to her boyfriend, a non-celebrity, through a private ceremony on 29th May 2022. Yeoreum had also caught the bouquet at Limeâs wedding, her former Hello Venus colleague.
6. Andy (Shinhwa)
After announcing his engagement in January 2022, Andy from Shinhwa exchanged vows with MBC News anchor, Lee Eun Joo on 13th June 2022. In January 2022, Andy had announced of his upcoming wedding with his marriage partner revealed a few days after.
7. Jang Na Ra (Soloist)
The talented Jang Na Ra, actress and singer, tied the knot with the love of her life, a non-celebrity, on 26th June, 2022. The private ceremony was held at Boneili Garden, Seoul and hosted by Jang Na Raâs close friend, Park Kyung Lim.
8. Lee Hae Ri (Davichi)
Lee Hae Ri of Davichi got married to her non-celebrity friend on 3rd July 2022 after a heartfelt announcement by Hae Ri on her Instagram page. Kang Minkyung, other Davichi member, helped her colleague throughout the preparations to make the small private ceremony a success.
9. Keumjo (9MUSES)
Keumjo, former 9MUSESâ member, tied the knot with Baek Ki Bum, a musical actor. The wedding took place in September 2022 alongside the other 7 former 9MUSES members, family, and friends.
10. Kevin Oh (Soloist)
The multi-talented Korean-American singer and songwriter Kevin Oh walked down the isle with his lover, actress Gang Hyo Jin. The small private ceremony was held on 11th October in New York, 2022 after two years of dating and after confirming their relationship in April 2022.
11. Ko Wo Rim (Forestella)
Ko Wo Rim, Forestella, exchanged his vows with his exceptional bride, the Olympic figure skating and gold medalist, Kim Yuna. The luxurious ceremony was held on 22nd October, 2022 at Shilla Hotel in Seoul.
12. Jiyeon (T-ARA)
T-ARAâs member Jiyeon tied the knot with her baseball player lover, Hwang Jae Gyun on 10th December, 2022. The couple had confessed of their relationship through their social media platforms. The ceremony was attended by various K-Pop idols including IU and Jin from BTS.
—-Karen Mwenda Â
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#JiyeonTARA #HwangJaeGyun #KoWoRimForestella #KimYunafigureskater #KevinOh #GangHyoJin #Keumjo9MUSES #kpop #kcrushnews #kcrushmedia #kpoprelationships #kpopmarriages #marriedtononkpopidols #BaekKiBum #LeeHaeRiDavichi #JangNaRa #LeeEunJoo #AndyShinhwa #YeoreumHelloVenus #SonDamBi #LeeKyuHyukspeedskatingcoach #HoonUKiss #JisunGirlsDay #LimeHelloVenus #KimEunJungJewelry #KeiKwangwookmovieproducer #marriageproposals #happymarriage #kpopmarriages #kcrushamerica
Program Title: Â Find Homes! (Where is my house)
Channel: Â MBC
Air Date & Time: Sunday, 10:45 pm
Viewer rating 3.4% (Nielsen Korea 2023.01.15.(Sun))
Related spin-off âChange Homes!â
Starring Kim Sook, Park Na-rae, Boom, Yang Se-hyung, Jang Dong-min, Yang Se-chan, Park Myung-jin, special guests
Episode 186th (Jan.15)
Customized real estate brokerage entertainment ‘Find Homes!’ will celebrate its 3rd year with the first pilot airing in February 2019. It is real estate entertainment tailored to the client and a pioneer in ‘home room’ entertainment. It is fun to check the properties found by the production team based on the requests and conditions presented by the client and see which house is selected. Each week, different guests and MCs form teams and present items for sale. The stories of different clients, tours of attractive houses, market price check, and final selection are fun to see. In particular, the point is that it is not a show that shows a house, but a show that finds the right house.
Requests are received through the homepage, and the main focus is on what reason they are looking for a house. When looking for a house, important factors include whether it is a suitable property for the client, and not only the interior, but also the distance, the type of the house, and whether it is for sale or rental. Most importantly, the program tries to grasp what the clients want based on their story and search for the right house for the clients. When a client is decided, they go through both online and in-person listings one by one, looking for a house and place that suits the client.
Now in Korea, a house and real estate is a very important issue both as an investment and as a standard of the success for most people. Though it raised issues a few times, it is a very unique program in that it provides virtual real estate, such as showing the actual transaction price in each neighborhood.
—-Jiyoung Lee
Â
#KimSook #ParkNarae #Boom #YangSehyung #JangDongmin #YangSechan #ParkMyungjin #KoreaTV #FindHomes #WhereIsMyHouse #celebrityguests #koreanrealestatetvshow #realestate #helpfindahome #kcrush #kcrushamerica #homeroomentertainment #MBC
On the 17th, a press conference for the music talk show ‘The Seasons – Jay Park’s Drive’ was held at KBS New Building in Yeouido, Seoul.
On this day, the production presentation was attended by main performers such as Jay Park, band master Dong-hwan Jeong (Melomance), CP Jo Jun-hee, PD Seok-hyung Park and Chang-soo Lee, who will be MCs, and MC Bae’s pre-host ‘The Seasons – Jay Park’s Drive’. It unfolded as a time to share various behind-the-scenes stories and thoughts related to the broadcast.
‘The Seasons’ is KBS’s new music talk show following ‘Yoo Hee-yeol’s Sketchbook’, which finished with 600 episodes in July last year.
This program introduces various musicians’ works that transcend genres, continuing the 30-year-old KBS late-night music program that follows Roh Young-sim’s small concert, Lee Mun-se Show, Lee So-ra’s proposal, Yoon Do-hyun’s love letter, and Lee Ha-na’s Peppermint.
In particular, unlike the ONE MC system before, it is expected that you will be able to feel a more diverse and rich sense of stage communication by adopting the ‘annual project’ method, which has been reorganized into a 4MC system, which is hosted by each MC per season.
The first season, ‘Jay Park’s Drive’, features musician Jay Park, who has been in his 15th year since his debut, as the main MC. Along with the pressure of being the first solo MC on terrestrial broadcasting, it seems that a variety of talk will unfold based on his musical understanding, which has a multi-talented charm from dance, rap, singing, and producing.
Jay Park said, âI first saw Yoon Do-hyunâs Love Letter in 2005, and I appeared in Yoo Hee-yeolâs Sketchbook dozens of times. I finished the first recording impromptu because it tends not to go well if I just follow the script, and it went better than I thought.â “I think carefully in that I am the first terrestrial music talk MC to bet on my name after 15 years of debut. I feel honored to carry on a 30-year tradition,” he added.
Later, when asked which guests he wanted to invite, Jay Park replied, “I would be grateful if IU or New Jeans appeared.”
The first episode of ‘Jay Park’s Drive’, featured a guest lineup such as Lee Young-ji, Yang Hee-eun, Crush, and AKMU Lee Chan-hyuk, as well as Jung Dong-hwan and the session’s rich sense of sound and attractive stage performance.
Overall, ‘The Seasons – Jay Park’s Drive’ is expected to emerge as a flexible yet distinctive program that can bring out the inflection points of various music while maintaining the texture of the KBS music show that promotes various K-pop trends and musicians to the public.
Meanwhile, ‘The Seasons – Jay Park’s Drive’ will be broadcast on KBS2 every Sunday at 10:55 pm with the first broadcast on February 5th.
—-Jiyoung Lee
Â
#JayPark #JayParkTheSeasons #JayParksDrive #KBS2 #LeeYoungji #YangHeeeun #Crush #AKMULeeChanhyuk #Conghwan #KBSmusicshow #YooHeeyeolsSketchbook #February52023 #kcrushnews #kcrushamerica #traditionalkoreanmusic #kpop #kpopidol #Seoul #KBS
Following Blockberry Creative (BBC) expelling Chuu from LOONA, nine members (Kim Lip, Heejin, Jinsoul, Choerry, Yves, Haesul, Yeojin, Gowon, and Olivia Hye) filed to have their exclusive contracts suspended. Initially, BBC claimed these reports were not true and even started teasing LOONAâs comeback as an 11-member group this January before postponing the comeback.
On January 13, 2023, Seoul Northern District Court Civil Division 1 determined members Kim Lip, Heejin, Jinsoul, and Choerry won their lawsuits against BBC. Due to the win, their contracts with BBC have been terminated.
In response to the four membersâ win, BBC said, âWe are currently looking into this. We plan to share a statement later on.â
While four members scored a lawsuit win, Yves, Haesul, Yeojin, Gowon, and Olivia Hye lost their cases. According to the court, their contracts had provisions made in the past, therefore, they must continue to carry out their contracts.
Â
LOONA Speaks Out
Following the verdict, Yves, Haseul, Choerry, Yeojin, Kim Lip, Gowon, and Jinsoul posted on Fab to communicate with Orbit, their fandom.
Haseul, who confirmed the lawsuit news, said:
Orbits, itâs been a really long whileâŚ
Itâs been a long time but coming with news like this, I donât really know what to say.
The news is true, and I, for the team and for myself, will try until the end, so please cheer for us lots..!
There will be long and hard fights in the future too, but if Orbits are by our side I think weâll be able to overcome it.
And the content about payments, there was a lot of speculation thinking that weâve been receiving payments.
I canât tell you in detail now, but O think I can tell you that that part is not true.
Letâs be together forever, and be sure to be happy.
I love you.
Sorry I havenât contacted you for all this time.
Later, Haseul wrote:
Thank you for your support and encouragement, Orbits.
Itâs thanks to you that Iâm staying strong.
There were many days where I fell asleep after being exhausted from crying, and the days where worries and uncertainty wouldnât leave me alone kept repeating, every day. I tried not to show myself being like this to Orbits, but the weight of the pain that I had to endure was heavier than I thought, and it feels like itâs getting heavier as time goes onâŚ
But because Orbits are here, Iâm taking heart and trying.
Iâll be of strength for Orbits too, for the day where our days are filled with laughter only, letâs stay strong together, I love you.
Really thank you so much and I love you.
Iâll return all the love youâve given me.
Orbits have you been doing well? Itâs my first message in so long so Iâm really nervous, but first the news is true. Since I was young, up until now, it has been a very difficult time to endure, and the lawsuit was scary and difficult but because we had Orbits I think I was able to come up with the courage. It will be scary and fearful again, but if Orbits will be by our side, I think Iâll be able to come up with the courage again⌠Iâm so sorry that I havenât contacted you for all this time. Iâm really sorry.
I donât want to hurt Orbits again, but things arenât really working out like how Iâd like⌠Even now, all your warm words are fiving me a lot of strength, thank you very much. Iâll come up with the courage so that we donât have any more hard times. Please cheer a lot for our members.
Iâll work harder as Orbitsâ idol forever, so please stay by my side, Orbits Iâm so sorry and thank you and I love you.
On January 14, Yeojin added:
I had a lot of thoughts today, because Orbits encouraged and supported me yesterday and today, my anxious feelings are slowly calming down..! thought about the reason for which I was working so hard up until now, over the past months. At first, because of the Orbits who love me, and because of my family that supports me, Iâve endured until now. But hope faded away, and the anxiety of nothing remaining by my side made things hard for me all day. I thought countless times about how I could escape this period of time, could I run away. I havenât wished for a lot, I merely wanted fair treatment, but it feels like my dreams have collapsed, even while writing this now, Iâm in such dread and Iâm scared, but for Orbits who are supporting me, Iâll try not to cry anymore and to get through this. To protect all the time that the members have dedicated, please stay by our side Orbits. Iâm very sorry, and thank you again, Orbit I love you.
Later on, Yeojin wrote another message that read:
Orbit, are you asleep? I was watching videos of our performances… After going back and forth between crying and laughing while watching these, my head hurts so much you know? What if I can never get back on the stage⌠This anxious thought keeps circling in my head and I donât know what to do. Tour videos, group and solo fancams from the music shows weâve done, the concert we did after coming back to Korea, videos of us that Orbits made for us, there are so many videos. Iâm so thankful to Orbits who made me memories again just today, you knowâŚ? Watching the fancams makes me tear up because I want to get back on the stage⌠I want to do concerts again and music shows and fansigns and fan meetings and so many things I want to do from one to ten⌠Iâm so frustrated and upset and angry⌠Iâm so sorry to bring up something like this late at night⌠I know Orbits are having a hard time too and Iâm so sorry to make you read something like this. Iâve never been this desperate before, from where to where did things go wrong⌠I donât know⌠Iâm so scared that Iâll never get back on the stage⌠Iâm so afraid that Iâll never get to see Orbits again⌠Orbits, I miss you so, so much.
I get so hung up over how I didnât tell you more often that I love you, and Iâm just full of guilt that I didnât make you happier, so I think right now is the moment that I would like to erase the most⌠Itâs dark right now. I want to go back to the days when it was bright. Letâs go back togetherâŚ
Choerry, who also opened her own Instagram account, shared:
Orbits you were really surprised right⌠Itâs really been a very long time, and sorry that I havenât been able to talk with you often⌠I really missed you, and Iâm sorry I havenât been able to come by, and thank you for always being by my side… I was reading all your messages and letters, and all the strength I got from reading, I was the really most reassured person in the world. I really missed Orbits⌠<3 I love you Orbit, I love you LOONA.
I hope Orbits have the happiest new year⌠đ
Itâs been a while since I last called for you, Orbit.
Thank you sincerely for waiting, I have been looking over the messages and letters of support all this time.
I thought a lot about what to say but I canât think of anything other than thank you and sorry. I will keep singing, I love you Orbit!
And have a food night.
Gowon simply said, âIâm sorry Orbit.â
My Orbits Iâm always thankful, and youâll keep staying with me, right? In the days to come, for all of our members! I ask that you support everyone. Though I feel so apologetic to be asking you, but I will work hard so I can show you things that are that much better!
 Itâs late but Happy New Year Orbits!
Sleep easy without dreaming everyone byee.
Finally, Yves wrote:
Orbit, itâs Yves.
Iâm sorry I couldnât give you any updates during this time.
Mentally, every day has been a painful oneâŚ
Nights that I could not fall asleep, with a heaviness that felt like a truck weighing down my chest. I didnât want to show it to Orbits but⌠Iâm sorry.
I ponder about what I can do, when Iâve now become used to this despair that I fel when I open my eyes and when I go to close them.
How long it will take, how much more pain Iâll have to ensure, I have no idea⌠But Iâm going to try everything, as far as I can goâŚ
In this mental state, standing at the edge of a cliffy every day, all I can do, all I can grab onto, is Orbitsâ coattails, and so Iâm sorry once again.
Lastly⌠Please believe in us.
I love you Orbit.
Â
Meanwhile, ViVi and Hyunjin did not file a lawsuit against BBC. It is unclear what will happen to them in the meantime. Itâs also unclear if Yves, Haesul, Yeojin, Gowon, and Olivia Hye will file an appeal. Stay tuned for more updates as they become available!
—-Olivia Murray
#LOONALawsuitwin #kcrushnews #BBCLOONALawsuit #KimLip #Heejin #Jinsoul #Choerry #LOONAOrbit #BlockBerryCreative #fourwinlawsuit #kcrushamerica #Haesul #Yves #Yeojin #Gowon #OliviaHye #Vivi #Hyunjin #twodidnotfilelawsuitagainstbbc #kpop #kpopgirlgroup #LOONAkoreankpopgroup
Jimin, a member of BTS, is about to make his solo debut.
On the 16th, a source from Big Hit Music, the agency of BTS, announced, “The schedule of Jiminâs solo debut will be announced once it is finalized.” Previously, Donga reported on the morning of the same day that Jimin is preparing to release a solo album aiming for February.
Jimin is the main dancer and lead vocalist of BTS and is greatly loved by global music fans for his excellent performance and unrivaled tone.
Last summer, Jimin appeared on BTOB Radio and announcing that he was working on a personal song. Famous overseas producers, including Tommy Brown, who is well-known for working with The Weeknd and Justin Bieber, recently announced their meeting with Jimin through social media, making it more probable that Jimin’s solo album is coming soon.
Meanwhile, after the anthology album âProofâ released in June of last year, BTS is continuing their music activities as soloists after taking a break from their music activities as a whole.
The only members left to release a solo album are Jimin, Jungkook, and V. J-Hope, Jin, and RM previously released solo albums.
—-Jiyoung Lee
#BTSJIMIN #JIMIN #JIMINBTS #kcrushnews #Jimintoreleasesolo #JimindebutinFebruary2023 #kcrushamerica ##BIGHIT #BTOBRadio #TommyBrown #Jiminsoloist #Jimins #kpop #kpopmaindancer #leadvocalistofBTS #Dongareported
Global superstars TAEYANG (of BIGBANG fame) and Jimin of BTS came together January 13, 2023, for one of the most anticipated and unexpected K-Pop releases of the 2020s. Listen to “VIBE (feat. Jimin of BTS)” HERE via THEBLACKLABEL/Interscope Records.
The magnitude of the collaboration cannot be understated. Not only is it a cross-generational release uniting superstars of different eras, it also connects two artists from the biggest boy bands of all time. If anyone can live up to that hype, it’s TAEYANG. The BIGBANG legend and lead singer has inspired generations of K-Pop artists.
It’s impossible to talk about K-Pop’s global ascent without discussing BIGBANG, one of the most influential and decorated acts in the late 2000s and 2010s. They were the first to gain global recognition, performing at stadiums worldwide for millions of fans in record-breaking numbers and have influenced countless acts in the genre for their various musical styles and self-production. Dubbed the “Kings of K-Pop“, BIGBANG is one of the best-selling boy bands of all time, winning over 100 awards, being on the New York Times “Best Concerts List“, and winning “Best Worldwide Act” at the MTV Europe Awards.
In addition to making history with the band, TAEYANG is also an accomplished solo artist, releasing four massively successful albums including two that have gone #1 on Billboard’s World Albums chart with a string of hits including “Eyes, Nose, Lips” which won “Song of the Year” on all the major Korean award shows.
As both TAEYANG and Jimin are vocalists with outstanding dancing ability, their collaboration is effortlessly smooth and flawless. TAEYANG and Jimin both partook in the song composition along with TEDDY, a long-time collaborator and Producer for TAEYANG and BIGBANG. TEDDY is also the Founder of THEBLACKLABEL. Also participating is an established lineup of Songwriters and Producers in Kush, Vince, and 24 from THEBLACKLABEL.
The track is accompanied by a suitably dazzling visual, which showcases the duo’s slick dance moves and undeniable charisma. Watch it HERE.
With “VIBE”, TAEYANG and Jimin add another undeniable anthem to their already glittering discographies while celebrating this unprecedented moment in K-Pop history.
Taeyang – “VIBE (feat. Jimin of BTS)”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cXCBiF67jLM
#BlackLabel #VIBE #Taeyang #JiminBTS #BIGBANG #TaeyandJimincollaboraton #kpop #hiphop #kcrushnews #20millionviewsyoutube #InterscopeRecords #kpopidol #Jimin #kcrushamerica #TEDDY #EyesNoseLips #KingsOfPopBIGBANG #kushsongwiters #Vincesongwriters #producers #newmusic #newsingle
The craze for K-pop is expected to continue this year as well. The music industry has been experiencing a comeback rush since the New Year. Rookie New Jeans heated up the K-pop market from the beginning of the New Year with their new song âOMGâ, followed by Legendary group Big Bangâs Taeyang and BTSâ Jimin to release a new song.
Taeyang’s new digital single ‘VIBE’, released on the 13th, attracted the world’s attention at once. The fact that K-pop legends Big Bang and BTS held hands became a hot topic. The music video surpassed 20 million views on YouTube in just one day of release. Taeyang’s agency, The Black Label, announced on the 15th that it ranked No.1 on the ‘World Wide’ chart of the global music streaming platform iTunes as soon as it was released on the 13th.
Taeyang said that he suggested collaborating with Jimin on the advice of Teddy, the executive producer of his agency, and said that it felt like an old hip-hop duo. Taeyangâs new digital single âVibe,â featuring Jimin, is Taeyangâs first solo song in six years since his third full-length album, âWhite Night,â released in 2017. Taeyang participated in writing the lyrics and composition, and Jimin contributed to the featuring and composition. The music video in which the two appeared together recorded 31.97 million views on YouTube as of the 15th.
New Jeans, who opened the door to this year’s comeback relay, has maintained the second place on the Melon chart for nearly two weeks with the new song “OMG.” The top spot is also held by New Jeans’ Ditto. In addition, on SBS ‘Inkigayo’ on the 15th, they won first place with the title song ‘OMG’ of the same name from the single album ‘OMG’, winning 6 crowns on music broadcasts with the new album ‘OMG’.
New Jeans entered the ‘UK Official Chart’, one of the world’s two largest pop charts along with the US Billboard as well. It is known that the official chart has a higher threshold than the Billboard chart. In Korea, there are only a handful of teams that ranked on this chart, including Psy, BTS, and BlackPink.
The group BTS, which temporarily suspended their activities, is still at the center of the topic. Jungkook took first place in the list of ‘World’s Most Handsome Men’ for two years in a row from the year before last to last year. The voting website King Choice held a vote for ‘100 Most Handsome Men in the World in 2022’ until the end of last year. Besides Jungkook, among Korean stars, Lee Min-ho ranked 4th, BTS Jin ranked 6th, Lee Joon-gi ranked 7th, BTS V ranked 8th, Astro Cha Eun-woo ranked 9th, and Ji Chang-wook ranked 10th.
Meanwhile, Jimin (BTS), Eunwoo Cha (Astro), and Jungkook (BTS) took the top 3 in January’s boy group individual brand reputation. Meanwhile, according to the big data results of January 2023 of the girl group’s personal brand reputation, the analysis was analyzed in the order of 1st place New Jeans Minji, 2nd place Black Pink Jennie, and 3rd place New Jeans Hani.
As the boom in the K-pop market continued, last year’s album exports reached a record high of 300 billion won.
According to the Korea Customs Service’s import and export trade statistics on the 16th, last year’s album exports were $233,113,000 (approximately KRW 289.5 billion), up 5.6% from the previous year. Korea’s record exports have grown every year since exceeding $40 million for the first time in 2017, exceeding $100 million and $200 million in 2020 and 2021, respectively.
The countries that imported the most Korean albums last year were Japan, China, the United States, Taiwan, the Netherlands, Thailand, Hong Kong, Germany, Indonesia and France.
Looking at the annual album chart, which combines exports and domestic consumption last year, it seems that large idol groups such as BTS, Stray Kids, and Seventeen, and new girl groups that have emerged in the music industry have led these achievements.Â
Looking at the Circle Chart’s annual album chart, BTS’ ‘Proof’ was recorded as the best-selling album of the year with 3.48 million copies. This was followed by Stray Kids’ “MAXIDENT” with 3.18 million copies, Seventeen’s “Face the Sun” with 2.87 million copies, and BlackPink’s “Born Pink” with 2.52 million copies.
—-Jiyoung Lee
#VIBE #BlackLabel #Taeyang #kcrush #Jimin #BlackPink #NewJeans #kpop #hiphop #RnB #KoreanCustomsServices #Koreanalbums #StrayKids #Seventeen #SBSInkigayo #WhiteKnightTaeyang #TEDDY #BTS #leeMinho #Jungkook #kcrusharticles #kcrushamerica #NewJeansOMG #kpopmusic #kpopidol #CircleChart #USBillboard #UKOfficialChart #koreasrecordexport
We are excited to bring you the news that the powerful and heartwarming new movie BROKERÂ starring Song Kang-ho and Ji-eun Lee (IU) will be in theatres across Canada starting this Friday Jan 13th.
Check your local listings for showtimes (and check Cineplex https://www.cineplex.com/movie/broker-korean-west).
Click here https://www.instagram.com/p/CnF-Vi8plIk to enter an amazing contest running with Sarah & Tom’s to win free tickets to the film and a gift basket of IU CD’s and posters!!
Watch the full trailer here:Â https://youtu.be/p6xpZ2aEmJY
KPOP CLUB NIGHT
———————
UPCOMING EVENTS WITH DJ YUKA K: (and sometimes Host MC triple-threat Poison Aivy).
OTTAWA 01/12 Hyde & Seek
TORONTO 01/20 The Rec Room 80% TICKETS SOLD
DETROIT 01/27 EL CLUB
CHICAGO (Skokie) 1/28 Ignite
PHILADALPHIA 02/02/ Concourse
STATE COLLEGE PA 02/04 Stage West
MISSISSAUGA 02/11 The Rec Room
WINNIPEGÂ 02/17 The Rec Room
VANCOUVERÂ 02/18 The Rec Room
NASHVILLE 02/24 Hard Rock Cafe
ORLANDO 02/25 Level 13
MONTREALÂ 03/04 Ausgang Plaza
CALGARYÂ 03/24Â The Rec Room
EDMONTONÂ 03/25 The Rec Room
SEATTLE 03/31 The Hard Rock Cafe
**** JUST ANNOUNCED!
HALIFAX 04/06 Marquee (Tickets go on sale this Friday)
LONDON ONÂ 04/08 The Rec Room
Make requests one week before the show at http://tiktok.com/@kpopclubnight
Tag us on http://instagram.com/kpopclubnight
Watch live streams at http://twitch.tv/kpopclubnight
Listen to past mixes at http://mixcloud.com/kpopclubnight
All tickets on sale now at http://kpopclubnight.com
Stay warm and see you on the dance-floor! VIBE!!!!!!
(Please stay home if yr sick and eat chicken noodle soup. your purchased ticket is is transferrable to another show if you cant make it! no explanation necessary the QR code is still valid until scanned )
#KPOPClubNight #kcrushnews #DJYukaK #MCPoisonAviy #newkpopclubnightlocations #newmoviereleaseBroker #kopclubnightlivestream #comedance #dancenight #havefunsafely #kpop #dancekpop #kpopmusic #IUcontest
In Theatres Across Canada January 13th
Directed by:Â Hirokazu Kore-eda
Starring: Song Kang-ho, Dong won-Gang, Ji-eun Lee, Doona Bae, Joo-young Lee
Five years after winning the Palme dâOr for Shoplifters, Academy award nominated filmmaker Hirokazu Kore-eda returns with Broker, starring Cannes Best actor winner Song Kang Ho (Parasite) and Korean pop music superstar Ji-Eun Lee (IU).
The film follows two brokers who sell orphaned infants, circumventing the bureaucracy of legal adoption, to affluent couples who canât have children of their own. After an infantâs mother surprises the duo by returning to ensure her child finds a good home, the three embark on a journey to find the right couple, building an unlikely family of their own.
In Theatres Across Canada January 13th
Check local listings for show times.
#IU #BROKER #filmmakerHirokazuKoreeda #SongKangHo #JiEunLee #ParasiteSongKangHo JiEunLeeIU #kcrushnews #kcrushamerica #newmovierelease #CannesBestActorSongKangHo #directorofShoplifters #Canada #worldwiderelease #IUKoreanactress #IUKoreansinger #IUKpop
Style commerce platform Ably announced this yearâs shopping trend, âA.T.T.E.N.T.I.O.N (Attention)â on the 12th. This year, it is expected that the âY2K (fashion that was popular from the late 1990s to the early 2000s)â style will evolve amid the âNewtro (New + Retro)â craze that reinterprets retro products.
âAttentionâ came from â˛Glamorous and cheerful Airy style â˛Consumption for yourself during recession (Treat yourself) â˛Tech accessories are part of fashion â˛Evolution of Y2K trend â˛Fashion without boundaries of gender and season (Neutral Fashion) â˛Increase in the linked purchases between fashion and beauty (TPO Makeup) â˛Inner beauty, self-beauty trend â˛Outdoor fashion â˛Expanding the Newtro craze into daily life.
First of all, as âwork from homeâ ends and going-out increases, âAiry Styleâ, which gives a colorful and light feeling such as lace and shirring, is expected to gain popularity. Details such as ruffles and fringes, and materials such as shiny satin and silk, reminiscent of party costumes, are typical.
The consumption trend for myself continues during the recession. Rather than excessive consumption, it is to enjoy âsmall but certain happinessâ and styling effects at the same time with fashion accessories. From November to December of last year, searches for leg warmers and balaclava increased by 760% and 370%, respectively, compared to the same period last year. During the same period, âGiant Yarnâ, a knitted bag made of thick yarn, increased by about 4,580 times, and items using clothing materials such as padded scarves (210%) and bubblegum hats (330%) also received high attention.
It is also characteristic that âtech accessoriesâ such as phone cases, watch straps, griptok, and headphones have become part of fashion. Searches for phone cases that reflect the sense of the season, such as padded cases (160%) and bubble cases (150%), also surged. Last year, the watch strap transaction amount doubled compared to the previous year.
With the 2000s style âNew Jeans lookâ recreated by the girl group New Jeans last year, it is expected that the Y2K style will also evolve and expand. The Y2K look has diversified beyond the existing crop tees and wide pants to outerwear and suits. The âshucket (a compound word of shirt and jacket)â style, in which a checkered pattern shirt of the 2000s was worn as an outerwear, was rapidly emerging, and check shirts and shirt jackets received high attention. Vest suits (180%) and suit vests (60%) were also searched a lot due to the popularity of vest styles that were popular in the past instead of suit jackets.
Neutral fashion, which has no boundaries between gender and season, is also expected to gain popularity. As personalities and tastes diversify, overfit, suit setup, and neckties are rapidly emerging within the Ably app. As overseas travel increased, coats, scarves, swimsuits, and resort looks also rose in the real-time search word rankings of Ably last month.
As situational TPO (Time, Place, Occasion) makeup is activated, purchases related to fashion beauty are also rapidly spreading. Analysts say that as the daily life recovers, the number of fashion and beauty-linked purchases that go well with the makeup concept has increased.
Inner beauty and self beauty are also strong. The popularity of self-beauty products such as hair removal/waxing, nail art, and eyelash perm that can be easily and frequently managed at home without visiting specialized shops is also on the rise. In the past, sales of self-beauty were concentrated in summer, but sales surged in winter last year as well.
It is predicted that outdoor fashion will continue to become commonplace. âGorpcore Lookâ, which means outdoor fashion that naturally matches everyday wear, and âBlockcore Lookâ, which is a soccer uniform style, are typical examples.
The Newtro craze has spread beyond fashion to life. Among the Gen-Z, âlife 4 cuts,â âsticker photos,â and âfilm camerasâ are popular, and analog photo culture is a hot topic. Last year, the amount of transactions in the photo album and colbook categories increased by 140% compared to the previous year. The number of related products has increased by 25 times. In particular, the ‘retro case’, which imitated the shape of a cell phone with an antenna in the 1990s, was sensational and the number of searches soared by 560%.
—-Jiyoung Lee
#ATTENTION #NewJeansTrend #NewJeans #GorpcoreLook #BlockcoreLook #kcrushnews #Netrocraze #GenZ #AblyShoppingTrendKeywords #kpopfashion #kpop #kcrushamerica #kcrush #fashiontrends #AblyShoppingTrend #AblyApp #innerbeauty #outerbeauty #theshucket #YWKlook #techaccessories #outdoorfashion #phonecases #griptok #airystyle #ruffles #fringes #silk #satin #shiny #retrocasesearch #Koreanstyletrend #Koreanshoppingtrend
‘2023 SM Global Audition’ will be held in Busan, Daegu, Gwangju and Daejeon, starting with Seoul, Korea on the 28th. It will be held in 6 cities in Japan in March, and the host country will be released sequentially.
‘SM Global Audition’ is SM’s large-scale global audition that started in 2006 and covers all of Asia and the Americas. The artists who debuted through this audition include Red Velvet Wendy and Joy, Johnny, Yuta, Ten, Mark, Renjun, Lucas, Kun and Yangyang of NCT.
Above all, this ‘2023 SM Global Audition’ is meaningful in that it is a large-scale on-site audition that hasnât been going on for a long time since the Covid pandemic.
Online pre-registration for the audition is conducted through the â2023 SM Global Auditionâ website from the 11th, and anyone born between 2004 and 2012 can select one of the four categories: vocal, dance, rap, and acting.
—-Jiyoung Lee
#SMEntertainment #SMGlobalAudition #Kpop #rap #acting #dance #vocalaudition #kcrushnews #2023SMGlobalAudition #Korea #Japan #Canada #China #Australia #Thailand #kcrushamerica #Busan #Daegu #Gwangju #Daejeon #auditionforSM
Japanese tennis star and four-time Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka will miss the 2023 tennis season after announcing she and her boyfriend, Grammy-nominated rapper Cordae, will be welcoming a child this year.
âCanât wait to get back on the court but hereâs a little life update for 2023,â Osaka wrote on Instagram.
View this post on Instagram
In the post, Osaka shares, “The past few years have been interesting to say the least, but I find that it’s the most challenging times in life that may be the most fun. These few months away from the sport has really given me a new love and appreciation for the game I’ve dedicated my life to. I realize that life is so short, and I donât take any moments for granted, everyday is a new blessing and adventure. I know that I have so much to look forward to in the future, one thing Iâm looking forward to is for my kid to watch one of my matches and tell someone, âthatâs my mom,â haha. 2023 will be a year thatâll be full of lessons for me and I hope Iâll see you guys in the start of the next one cause Iâll be at Aus [Australian Open] 2024. Love you all infinitely.â
Osaka continues, âSidenote: I donât think thereâs a perfectly correct path to take in life, but I always felt that if you move forward with good intentions youâll find your way eventually.â
Osakaâs baby news comes three days after she announced she would not be playing in this yearâs Australian Open (January 8-29, 2023).
The Haitian-American and Japanese tennis star, who has had a successful career overall, has been playing tennis on-and-off since 2021. In 2021, her withdrawal from the French Open after not participating in a post-match press conference to take care of her mental health helped to start conversations about destigmatizing mental illness in the sports sphere and in every day life.
Congratulations to Naomi Osaka and Cordae as they prepare for their child!
—-Olivia Murray
#NaomiOsaka #Cordae #NaomiOsakababynews #kcrushnews #Japanese #tennisplayer #kcrushamerica #grandslamtenniswinner #AustralianOpen #tennisstar #OsakaNaomi #grammywinnerCordae
On January 10, 2023, the release of the official Coachella lineup confirmed BLACKPINK will be one of the headliners at this yearâs event. Prior to the announcement, rumors circulated on social media the YG Entertainment quartet would be part of the festival held in April this year.
While K-Pop artists have performed at Coachella in the past, BLACKPINKâs appearance will mark the first time a K-Pop act will headline the yearly festival. Other headliners include Bad Bunny and Frank Ocean.
BLACKPINKâs inclusion as a headliner marks only the sixth time a female artist or group has headlined the festival. This is also BLACKPINKâs second appearance since 2019.
In addition to BLACKPINK, other Asian, artists of Asian descent, and groups featuring members of Asian descent include Jackson Wang, DPR Ian, DPR Live, Sunset Rollercoaster, Linda Lindas, Horsegirl, Umi, and Yaeji.
If you plan to attend Coachella, BLACKPINK as well as Yaeji, Umi, Linda Lindas, Sunset Rollercoaster, and Horsegirlâs performances will be Saturday April 15 and Saturday April 22. Jackson Wang, DPR Ian, and DPR Live will perform on Sunday April 16 and Sunday April 23.
Presale registration early access is open now with presale beginning January 13, 2023. Pass tiers are available here with limited availability for weekend one.
Do you plan to attend Coachella? Let us know in the comments!
—-Olivia Murray
#Coachella #BlackPink #kcrushnews #BlackPinkheadlinesCoachella #kpop #BlackPinkPop #BlackPinkKpop #kcrushamerica #JacksonWangCoachella #DPRIan #DPRLive #SunsetRollercoaster #LindaLindas #Horsegirl #Umi #Yaeji #Asianperformers #CoachellaFestival
Following the news that Omega X sued Spire Entertainment due to ongoing abuse allegations, the 11-member group announced they won their lawsuit against the Spire Entertainment. The groupâs been granted an injunction suspending their contracts with the company.
In the January 11, 2023 Instagram post, the group wrote:
Hello, this is OMEGA X.
Today, we won the lawsuit we filed against our agency to suspend the validity of our exclusive contract.
We were able to achieve this thanks to all of you giving us courage and reaching out a hand.
Thank you for worrying about us and supporting us up until now.
FOR X, Â we truly love you and thank you.
We will repay you in the future with even better music and admirable performances.
Thank you.
OMEGA X ⥠FOR X
View this post on Instagram
In November 2022, Omega X filed their contract termination lawsuit against Spire Entertainment. In addition to filing to have their exclusive contracts terminated, the group filed criminal charges against the agencyâs CEO and chairmanâa husband and wife teamâdue to physical and verbal abuse the group members endured. The CEO ultimately stepped down after the claims and evidence surfaced supporting Omega X.
It’s unclear if Spire Entertainment plans to appeal the ruling.
Congratulations to Omega X on their win. Hopefully a brighter futureâs ahead!
—-Olivia Murray
#OMEGAX #SpireEntertainment #lawsuit #OMEGAXlawsit #exclusivecontractsterminated #kpop #kcrushnews #kpopidol #koreanboygroupOMEGAX #kcrushamerica
Nexon leaps forward as a global comprehensive content company that crosses games and movies. To this end, it became the largest shareholder of ‘AGBO’, the Avengers production company in Hollywood, USA last year, and recently signed an agreement with Barunson E&A, the production company of ‘Parasite’, which led the global K-movie craze, to share content production experience. In addition, it introduced ‘Face Play’, a platform where anyone can create and share videos.
On the 10th, game company Nexon entered into a strategic business alliance (MOU) with Barunson E&A, which holds copyrights for ‘Parasite’ and ‘Mother’, to share video and game production know-how and intellectual property (IP) owned by both companies. In addition to video production using franchise game IPs such as Nexon’s ‘Kart Rider’ and ‘Maple Story’, game content production using movie IPs such as Barunson E&I’s ‘Parasite’ is also expected.
If you make a game using existing IP, you can discover materials and stories relatively easily, and it is advantageous for marketing. Netmarble’s games ‘I Only Level Up’ and ‘Tower of God’ are based on web novels and webtoons. Krafton is preparing to release a game based on <The Bird that Drinks Tears>, a fantasy novel by author Youngdo Lee.
In July 2021, Nick van Dyke, an entertainment business expert, was appointed as Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) and is operating the ‘Nexon Filmed Entertainment’ organization in the United States. Various strategies are being devised to expand the influence and value of Nexon’s global IPs, such as ‘Dungeon & Fighter’, ‘The Country of the Wind’, ‘Maple Story’, ‘Kart Rider’ and new works developed by Embark Studio.
Last year, it invested in AGBO, a global entertainment production company founded by world-renowned film directors, the Russo brothers, to expand Nexon IP into film and TV, and became the largest shareholder. It plans to provide opportunities for global users to enjoy Nexon’s IP through various channels such as games, movies, TV, streaming, and product sales.
Furthermore, Nexon established ‘YN C&S’ joint venture in cooperation with YG Entertainment, Naver, WYSIWYG Studio, and NP to produce futuristic content that combines VFX (visual effect) and XR (extended reality) technology. Nexon is expected to be able to produce contents that can expand its IP in various ways by utilizing the infrastructure created by YN C&S.
Recently, it introduced ‘Face Play’, a service that combines the ‘social media’ function, in which users consume content, and the ‘social production’ function, which provides a content production environment. It is a platform where anyone can create and share short-form content. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive production function that builds an environment in which each content production, such as movies, dramas, entertainment, music, and games, can be produced.
In addition to Nexon, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) for the purpose of securing IP are also on the rise in the industry. Com2uS, a game company famous for âSummoners Warâ, became a hot topic in the industry by making a big hit as âthe youngest son of a conglomerateâ within a year after acquiring WYSIWYG Studio, a content production company, last year. Jaejoon Song, CEO of Com2uS, emphasized, âWe will develop Com2uS into an IP company that encompasses various contents, not just a game company.â
CJ ENM spent about 1 trillion won last year to acquire Hollywood production studio âFIFTH SEASONâ. This was done while the movies âParasiteâ and âMinariâ and the dramas âSquid Gameâ and âPachinkoâ have gained popularity and won awards on the world stage in recent years. It was evaluated as having prepared a global advance base for K-content.
—-Lee Jiyoung
#NEXON #WYSIWYG #Com2uS #IPcompany #CJENM #Parasite #Minari #SquidGame #Pachinko #Kcontent #kcrushnews #FacePlay #AGBO #gaming #VFX #kcrushamerica #YGEntertainment #Naver #NickvanDyke #MOU #Baranson #SummonersWar #JaejoonSong #FIFTHSEASON #Kmovie #BarunsonandEandA
TEEN TOP CHUNJI held “too late TEENTOP CHUNJI LIVE & RELEASE EVENT” from the 6th to the 9th to commemorate the release of his first solo album [too late] in Osaka and Tokyo, Japan.
CHUNJI, who met with domestic fans through various events at the end of last year, held a total of four days of live events in Osaka and Tokyo to meet Japanese fans who had not met during the military hiatus for the New Year.
CHUNJIÂ rewarded the fans who were with him on the scene by performing his own songs “Age” and “Hold Your Hand” as well as his new songs “Too late” and “Farewell” for the Japanese fans after a long time. In addition, it presented behind-the-scenes talks for the album and various corners for each episode, as well as communicating closely with fans through special events held after the end of the live event, drawing enthusiastic responses from fans.
Meanwhile, CHUNJIÂ released its first solo album [too late]Â in December, drawing attention through various events such as bungeoppang and pocha events, and will be on stage as a whole group with Super Junior, Viviz and MCND at “K-POP MEGA CONCERT in Malaysia” in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on February 18.
#CHUNJI #Bungeoppang #soloalbum #Pocha #Osaka #Tokyo #Japanesefans #kpop #TEENTOP #CHUNJIAGE #CHUNJIHoldYourHand #TooLateCHUNJI #FarewellCHUNJI #kcrushnews #TEENTOPMalaysiaFebruary18 #kcrushamerica #TOOLATETEENTOPCHUNJILiveReleaseEventJapan
The world’s largest IT and consumer electronics exhibition ‘CES 2023’, which opened in Las Vegas on the 5th (local time), ended successfully on the 8th.
About 3,200 companies from 174 countries participated in CES 2023, which was held in person for the first time in three years after COVID-19 pandemic. Considering that the number of companies participating in ‘CES 2020’ was close to 4,400, it is said to have recovered a lot to before-the-pandemic level.
323 of the Fortune Global 500 companies, including Google and Microsoft, which did not exhibit on-site last year, participated in the event. At least 100,000 people visited the exhibition hall, a significant increase from last year when the number of visitors was 45,000.
At this year’s CES, the title of the largest participating country except for the United States was gained by Korea. In Korea, more than 550 companies, including Samsung Electronics, LG Electronics, SK, Lotte, Hyundai Mobis, HD Hyundai, Body Friend, and Seoul Semiconductor participated, drawing attention from all over the world. Among others, Samsung built the largest exhibition hall, and LG succeeded in gaining popularity with a super-large OLED sculpture at the entrance of the exhibition hall. Korean local governments, universities also joined CES as well as the high executives from the large conglomerates.
TechCrunch, a media specializing in information technology, picked “Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics along with Sony and Panasonic as the most noteworthy companies at this CES.”
At this year’s CES, major companies brought smart home technology to the fore. Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics introduced ‘SmartThings’ and ‘LG ThinQ’, which are smart home platforms, respectively, as representative items. The two companies participated in the Home Connectivity Alliance (HCA), a smart home platform interlocking consultative body, and demonstrated it publicly.
HCA, which was born at CES last year, showed control of third-party air purifiers, refrigerators, and air conditioning systems with different brand apps within one year of its launch. Samsung Electronics even controlled smart devices of other companies, such as operating and controlling Aero Tower, an air purifier of LG Electronics, with the SmartThings app. For example, they simply check the remaining washing time of the LG Wash Tower in another brand app or preheat the GE oven with the Samsung SmartThings app.
HCA is participated by global home appliances and air-conditioning companies such as Samsung, LG Electronics, GE, Haier, Electrolux, Arcelic, Train, Ridigio, and Bestel.
Smart mobility technologies such as autonomous driving, electric vehicle charging, and purpose-based vehicle (PBV) were also gathered.
Harman, a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics, introduced future mobility solutions at this CES. It introduced ‘Ready Tune’ and ‘Ready On Demand’, car audio solutions that provide a more immersive and differentiated personalized sound experience to help drivers enjoy a pleasant driving experience.
SK launched a virtual experience program for Korean Urban Air Transportation (K-UAM). It was so popular that long lines lined up around the SK Integrated Exhibition Hall to experience the virtual experience simulator in the form of a UAM aircraft installed in the exhibition hall.
LG Innotek exhibited various electronic parts that will be responsible for the era of autonomous driving, such as advanced camera modules. LG Display also unveiled ultra-large, slidable, and transparent OLED (organic light-emitting diode) to target the premium automotive display market.
Samsung Electronics prepared an exhibition hall of 3368ăĄ, the largest among participating companies at this CES. Various exhibition zones were also organized with the keywords of ‘sustainability’, ‘smart things’, and ‘partnership’.
This year, it is not just a simple product exhibition, but it is also eye-catching that it consists of customer experience-oriented exhibitions such as â˛Sustainability â˛Home Security â˛Family Care â˛Health & Wellness â˛Entertainment â˛Smart Work.
Samsung Electronics decorated the entire exhibition hall with a variety of bespoke home appliances, from the 2023 Neo QLED 8K to the new Family Hub products, as well as mobile devices such as the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Flip 4, and the Galaxy Watch, and smart monitors.
In particular, it introduced for the first time a ‘large-capacity integrated greenhouse gas treatment facility (RCS, Regenerative Catalytic System)’ that safely handles process gases used in semiconductor manufacturing. Samsung Electronics is the first and only company to use RCS in the semiconductor industry.
Eco-friendly products such as a microplastic-reducing washing machine developed in collaboration with Patagonia, ‘Net Zero Home’, a futuristic eco-friendly housing type, ‘SmartThings Energy’ and ‘AI Energy Mode’, which allow you to see at a glance the amount of power consumed by devices connected to SmartThings. ‘ and other energy-saving solutions were also exhibited.
It is said to have regained its past reputation as the âLas Vegas Auto Showâ. With the goal of transforming into an âintegrated platform specialistâ, Hyundai Mobis unveiled âM Vision TOâ, an electrified self-driving concept car. This concept car, which moves separately with four wheels equipped with a steering and braking system, moves sideways like a crab or rotates in place.
The number of participants and exhibits related to marine mobility, Marine Tech, also increased. HD Hyundai introduced new functions and business plans of Avicus, a subsidiary specializing in autonomous navigation assistance, and a vision to fundamentally change the perspective and utilization of the sea, as well as the future of large merchant ships and energy.
Various entries were also presented in the metaverse sector, and new products in the field of smell and touch drew attention. Korean tactile solution developer Behaptics participated and attracted attention.
—-Jiyoung Lee
#CESInLasVegas2023 #CESLasVegas #Samsung #LG #Koreancompanies #kcrushnews #Korea #HDHyundai #ecofriendly #SamsungSmartThings #LGThinQ #fortune500companiesatCES #HCA #kcrushamerica #HarmanReadyTune #HarmanReadyOnDemand #TechCrunch #SKKoreanUrbanAirTransportation #IT #electronics #Lotte #Hyundai #Mobis #BodyFriend #SeoulSemiconductor #originalkcrush #kcrush2014 #ITandconsumerelectronicsexibition #LGElectronicsOLED #purposebasevehicle
This year, CJ CheilJedang will advance into new countries beyond US, Europe, and Japan to expand its âK-Foodâ territory in earnest.
Choi Eun-seok, CEO of CJ CheilJedang, said on the 8th, âWe will make full-fledged entry into countries that we have not entered this year and achieve innovative growth centered on seven global strategic products such as dumplings, ready-to-eat rice, chicken, K-sauce, kimchi, seaweed, and rolls.â
CJ CheilJedang plans to use its four existing bases, namely Korea, the US, Europe/Asia-Pacific, and Japan, as outposts for advancing into neighboring countries by increasing the scale. Japan promotes a local organization to headquarters to strengthen the position of âMichoâ, a fermented fruit vinegar, and actively fosters HMR products such as Bibigo dumplings. In the US market, it strengthens its product line through its subsidiary Schwans. In Europe, the company plans to expand its dumpling business, mainly in Germany and the UK, and expand Asian cuisine types and products.
It plans to export dumplings and ready-to-eat rice to Canada, a neighboring country, by utilizing the existing US infrastructure. In Australia, where exports of meat-containing products are difficult, sales will be strengthened by securing a local dumpling production base and promoting entry into large distribution channels.
Taking advantage of Thailand’s geographical proximity to Vietnam, which already has production capacity, it plans to raise the brand awareness of Bibigo through K-content. In Indonesia and Malaysia, which are Muslim countries, it is a policy to secure local production capacity and develop it as an advance base for âK Halal Foodâ.
On the other hand, according to the industry, E-Mart will exclusively sell ‘Baek Ramen’, which reflects the special secret recipe of Baek Jong-won, CEO of The Born Korea, starting on the 12th. It can only be purchased at offline E-Mart and The Born Market sites.
In addition, since last year, E-Mart has been independently introducing ramen products with a different taste through various collaborations with manufacturers. For example, in the case of the âPaldo Niche Ramen Extreme Experienceâ, which was independently planned as the spiciest ramen in Korea in cooperation with Paldo in January 2022, 300,000 of the initial planned quantity were sold out in about two months, and an additional 300,000 were planned. Since April of last year, it has been released as an official product in Paldo.
In May of last year, ‘Ottogi Real Yeoljjolmyeon’ in cooperation with Ottogi and ‘Paldo Fire Bibimmyeon Extreme Experience’ in cooperation with Paldo were introduced. Last November, âPaldo Bibimmyeon Lemonâ was released as a stand-alone product, and it is receiving good responses from consumers.
Lastly, as products such as zero calorie, zero sugar food and beverages, and soju continue to be released this year, the ‘sugar-free craze is expected to continue. Zero sugar and calorie products, which stood out as carbonated drinks, are taking their place as a mainstream trend in the liquor industry thanks to the response of the 20s and 30s. Analysts say that ‘Healthy Pleasure’, which means ‘enjoying health care’, has become a trend centering on consumers in their 20s and 30s.
According to industry sources on the 9th, liquor industries such as Muhak, Daeseon Brewery, Lotte Chilsung Beverage, and Hite Jinro are competitively releasing unsweetened soju. Last year, Lotte Chilsung Beverage received a great response with ‘Chum Churum Saero’. The product lowered calories by 25% by using stevia and erythol instead of fructose.
Muhak also improved an existing soju product ‘Perfect! Good Dayâ to be unsweetened. In 2021, it has released the product ‘good day without fractose’. Daeseon Brewery is also conducting marketing campaigns emphasizing its unsweetened soju through phrases such as ‘0% fructose, sugar-free, lighter tomorrow’. Hite Jinro is also planning to launch a new version of its representative soju product, ‘Jinro is Back’, as a sugar-free product.
—-Jiyoung Lee
#KFOODS #NewTerritories #CJCheilJedang #EMart #kcrushnews #Korea #Muhak #DaeseonBrewery #Lotte #LotteChilsungBeverage #nonfructose, #HiteJinroSoju #sugarfree #OttogiRealYeoljjolmyeon #BaekRamen #JinroisBack #MZGeneration #dumplings #readycookedrice #kimchi #seaweed #kcrushamerica #BaekJongwonCEO #koreanfoods #KHalalFood
As the new year rolls in, itâs important you know which dramas youâll need to keep an eye out for! Here are ten amazing dramas coming out this year.
Doona! (Netflix)
Starring: Suzy, Yang Se-jong
Release: 2023
Synopsis: Doona! is a romance between a recently retired star and a college freshman. Joon (Se-jong) moves into his college flat, not realizing an ex-celebrity, Doona (Suzy), lives downstairs. Romance blooms between them as Doona finds comfort from her past life in Joon. Based on a popular webtoon, this is sure to be a hit!
Vigilante (Disney +)
Starring: Nam Joo-hyuk, Lee Joon-hyuk, Yoo Ji-tae
Release: 2023
Synopsis: Based on a webtoon of the same name, Vigilante is about a misunderstood hero who is being tracked by an investigation team. This vigilante is on the hunt for his enemy who has escaped justice. He enters the police force to take matters into his own hands. With twists and turns, Vigilante is sure to keep you guessing what happens next!
Gyeongseong Creature (Netflix)
Starring: Park Seo-jun, Han So-hee
Release: Early 2023
Synopsis: Taking place in 1945, this thriller involves Jang Tae-sang (Park Seo-jun), a rich man in Gyeongseong who values money over people. However, his poor ideals are threatened when he encounters Yun Chae-ok (Han So-hee). As missing person cases are on the rise, Yun Chae-okâs specialty comes into play as she investigates these cases. Already set to have a second season, Gyeongseong Creature is expected to be an extremely popular drama.
Queen Maker (Netflix)
Starring: Kim Hee-ae, Moon So-ri
Release: 2023
Synopsis: Two powerful, opinionated women fight together to reach their common goalâjustice. Kim Hee-ae stars as a planning manager whose duty is to take care of cases at her company. Moon So-ri plays a lawyer who fights for human rights and is running to be the mayor of Seoul. These women work together despite their differences, and are the power duo to watch in 2023!
Crash Course in Romance (tvN)
Starring: Jeon Do-yeon, Jung Kyung-ho
Release: January 2023
Synopsis: Jeon Do-yeon plays a national athlete turned side-dish store owner. She decides to go into education, where she encounters an instructor, played by Jung Kyoung-Ho. He is a bit rough around the edges, as success has made him bitter. As he interacts with Jeon Do-yeon, and her optimism, he starts to fall for her. Destined to be a feel-good drama, Crash Course in Romance is a great way to start the year.
Squid Game 2 (Netflix)
Starring: Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun
Release: Late 2023-Early 2024
Synopsis: Although no official release year has been stated, many speculate the highly anticipated second season of Squid Game will drop in 2023. Gi-hun and the Frontman are set to return, along with a whole new round of Squid Game. Director Dong-hyuk told E! News, “I have a set outline, with season 2 having new games and new characters. I like it. I think it’s good. It’s better than what I expected.”
Daily Dose of Sunshine (Netflix)
Starring: Park Bo-young, Yeon Woo-jin, Jang Dong-yoon, Lee Jung-eun
Release: 2023
Synopsis: This drama is sure to be one that makes you laugh and cry. Daily Dose of Sunshine centers on different cases in a psychiatric ward. Based on the webtoon Morning Comes to The Mental Ward, itâs sure to be popular. The drama specifically follows Jang Da-eun, a nurse in the psychiatric ward. Also based on true stories, Daily Dose of Sunshine is one to watch!
The Glory (Netflix)
Starring: Song Hye-kyo, Lim Ji-yeon, Jung Ji-so, Shin Ye-eun
Release: Dec 2022
Synopsis: This show is already in the Netflix Top Ten! The Glory is all about revenge. This story follows a young woman who chose to drop out of school due to bullying. Years later, she becomes a primary school teacher and encounters the son of the bully who plagued her at school. How will she enact her revenge? Watch The Glory for all the drama and be prepared to be hooked!
A Time Called You (Netflix)
Starring: Jeon Yeo-been, Ahn Hyo-seop, Kang Hoon, Lee Min-goo
Release: 2023
Synopsis: This might be the standout romantic drama of the year. A Time Called You is based on the Taiwanese drama Someday or One Day. A womanâs boyfriend passed away and even though it has been a year, she is still heavily grieving the loss. Somehow, she travels back in time to the year 1998 and finds herself in the body of a high school student. While in high school, she meets a male student who resembles her deceased boyfriend. A Time Called Youâs unique plot is sure to keep watchers on their toes!
Moving (Disney +)
Starring: Jo In-seung, Ryu Seung-yong, Han Hyo-joo, Cha Tae-hyun
Release: Early 2023
Synopsis: Moving is a unique drama about superpowered individuals. A father and daughter share a unique abilityâimmunity to pain and the power to regenerate. An NIS agent can fly, whilst his wife has super senses. Another lead character has the ability to generate electricity, another super strength. What will happen as these superpowered humans go about their lives in society? Watching Moving to find out!
—-Ellie Boyd
#2023Kdrama #MovingKDrama #DisneyPlusKDrama #JoInseung #RyuSeungyojg #HanHyojee #ChaTaehyun #AtimeCalledYouKDrama #NetflixKDrama #Kdrama #JeonYeobeen, #AhnHyoseop #KangHoon #LeeMingoo #TheGloryKDrama #SongHyekyo #LimJiyeon #JungJiso #ShinYeeun #DailyDoseOfSunshineKDrama #ParkBoyoung #YeonWoojin #JangDongyoon #LeeJungeun #webtoon #SquidGame2 #LeeJungjae #LeeByunghun #FrontmanSquidGame #GihunSquidGame #kcrush #kcrushamerica #CrashCourseInRomance #tvN #Korea #UnitedStatesKDrama #KdramaUnitedStates #AmericaLovesKDramas #kcrushamerica #JeonDoyeon #JungKyungho #QueenMakerKDrama #KimHeeae #MoonSori #GyeongseongCreature #ParkSeojun #HanSohee #VigilanteKDarma #NamJoohyuk #LeeJoonhyuk #YooJitae #DoonaKDrama #Suzy #YangSejong #MissA