G-DRAGON ANNOUNCES NORTH AMERICAN AND EUROPEAN DATES OF 2025 WORLD TOUR [ÜBERMENSCH]

Global music icon and cultural trailblazer G-DRAGON has officially unveiled the North American and European legs of his highly anticipated 2025 world tour. With Galaxy Corporation as the global promoters, and Infinite Prospects Entertainment as the local promoter, the tour will bring G-DRAGON’s most visionary live experience yet to major cities including Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Newark, and Paris.

Returning to the stage after 8 years, G-DRAGON promises a multisensory performance that redefines the limits of live artistry, blending music, fashion, digital innovation, and storytelling in a way only he can deliver. The Korean leg of the tour sold out immediately upon release with all 60,000 seats selling out in seconds. With his latest chart-topping album and record-breaking ticket sales, the icon has reached an unprecedented level of influence – surpassing his own legacy – he’s bolder and more impactful than ever before. The theme of the tour is a call for personal self-discovery and self-overcoming. Fans can expect never-before-heard music, custom stage visuals, and exclusive merchandise. The superstar recently gave a glimpse of his upcoming show at the Head in The Clouds Festival where over 36,000 fans were the first to witness the tour’s bold vision.

As the leader of the legendary group BIGBANG, G-DRAGON was instrumental in catapulting K-pop onto the international stage with hits like “Fantastic Baby” and “BANG BANG BANG.“. Widely known as the “King of K-pop,” his solo career has also redefined creative boundaries and topped international charts with albums like “Heartbreaker” and “One of a Kind.” He’s collaborated with some of today’s biggest names, such as Missy Elliott, Diplo, Skrillex, and more. G-DRAGON’s influence extends beyond music into high fashion, visual arts, and philanthropy, where he continues to shape contemporary culture. His distinctive persona has earned him a dedicated fanbase worldwide, and over the years, he has cemented his position as a cultural phenomenon.

Following the release of his third studio album Übermensch, G-DRAGON has reaffirmed his position as one of Asia’s most influential and commercially successful artists. The album debuted at No. 1 across South Korea, Japan, and China, allowing him to become the first K-pop male artist in 2025 to exceed 200 million digital points on South Korea’s Circle Chart, marking a career high in commercial reception. Praised for its bold fusion of experimental production and introspective lyricism, this album signals a mature evolution in his artistry. In tandem with his world tour, his latest album marks his highest streaming debut globally, emphasizing his unmatched cultural impact and enduring relevance in a rapidly evolving industry.

The G-DRAGON 2025 WORLD TOUR [Übermensch] kicked off in Seoul and has made stops in Tokyo, Bulacan, Osaka and Macau. The tour will be heading next to Sydney, Melbourne, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Bangkok, and Hong Kong, before heading stateside on August 22.

The G-DRAGON Official Membership Pre-sale will begin on Wednesday, June 25 at 10AM local time and run through Thursday, June 26 at 9:59AM local time. Public on-sale will begin on Friday, June 27 at 10AM local time. Please visit the official ticketing site for more information. Tickets will be available via g-dragontour.com.

G-DRAGON 2025 WORLD TOUR [Übermensch] Tour Dates:

*All dates and cities below are subject to change.* 

North America

Friday, August 22 – Prudential Center (Newark)

Sunday, August 31 – T-Mobile Arena (Las Vegas)

Friday, September 5 – Crypto.com Arena (Los Angeles)

 

Europe

Saturday, September 20 – Paris La Défense Arena (Paris)

(Photo credit: ⓒ GALAXY CORPORATION)

About G-DRAGON

G-DRAGON, born Kwon Ji-Yong, has been a prominent figure in global music and K-Pop since the age of 13. His solo career highlights include the albums Heartbreaker, One of a Kind, and COUP D’ETAT, which all topped Korea’s Gaon Chart. As a member of BIGBANG, achieving similar success with the album Remember, and many of the group’s releases in Japan were certified Gold. Amassing over 2 billion career streams and collaborated with artists like Diplo, Baauer, Missy Elliott, Boys Noize, Sky Ferreira, Taeyang, and Skrillex. He won World’s Best Album at the 2014 World Music Awards and has been featured in Elle Korea, Harper’s Bazaar Korea, Vogue Korea, Hypebeast, and more. G-DRAGON also made a name for himself in the fashion world with his brand PEACEMINUSONE, collaborations with Chanel, Nike, and BMW, and recognition as a top art collector. Recently, he launched a perfume in collaboration with Frédéric Malle and the charity foundation JUSPEACE to combat drug abuse.

Follow G-DRAGON on social media:

Instagram: @xxxibgdrgn

YouTube: @xxxibgdrgn

Twitter/X: @IBGDRN

Facebook: @gdragon

Official Tour Website: https://g-dragontour.com/

Official Fan Community: https://gdragon.ai/

 

#GDRAGON #GDRAGONWorldTour2025 #GDRAGONInTheUS2025 #kcrush #kpopidol #kpop #pop #tour #kcrushmagazine #kcrushamerica #worldtour2025 #GDRAGONBIGBANG #BIGBANG #GDRAGON2025 #LosAngelesGDRAGON #LasVegasGDRAGON #Newark #Paris #ÜBERMENSCH #koreanpop #koreanfashion

From gritty lyricism to turbo-charged beats, SC4F has quickly carved out his name in Korea’s rising underground hip-hop scene. Known for his high-octane “Twin Turbo” series and dynamic collaborations with MADII, SC4F continues to push sonic and creative boundaries. With each release, he delivers a unique blend of raw emotion, rhythm, and streetwise storytelling. As he rides the momentum of Twin Turbo Vol. 2.5, including standout tracks like “Silhouette” and “Afterparty,” we caught up with the artist to talk about his journey, inspirations, and what drives the engine behind his powerful sound.

1. Can you share the story behind your stage name, “SC4F” and what inspired you to pursue a career in hip-hop, of all other music genres?

Hello, nice to meet you! I’m SC4F, a hip-hop artist from South Korea.

There is no particularly significance behind my stage name. It’s simply roots from a scarf, a common accessory. I’ve always been drawn to scarves because they’re fashionable, stylish, and elegant. I’ve also always admired characters in various manga and creative works – especially Japanese anime- who wear scarves. So, I removed the “r” from “scarf” and replaced the ‘a’ with a “4,” which resulted in my current stage name.

I chose hip-hop is because when I was young, my older sister – four years older than me – had a ringtone from Korean rapper Tiger JK. From then on, I became interested in hip-hop music and developed a love for the culture as a fan. Later on, when I was a regular college student wondering what I wanted to do in society, I thought about trying hip-hop music, and that’s how I ended up here.

2. Your latest “Silhouette” and “애프터파티 (Afterparty)” tracks, from ‘Twin Turbo Vol. 2.5’ EP, have had fans elated from their addictive rap and rhythm. How did these two masterpieces come to be?

“Silhouette” track is a beat by producer WIZFIT. I wanted to create a song centered around a guitar riff, so I requested him to produce the beat. After receiving the beat, I composed the melody and lyrics. I recorded the hook and bridge sections with my own voice and asked my colleague MADII to sing them. The result turned out better than expected, which was a pleasant memory.

“Afterparty” track was handled by a producer ROCK. I tried to capture the various emotions felt at clubs or party venues, and asked him to create a beat that evoked the feel of old music from the 90s. The song’s outro is very long and fades out at the end but those parts were intentionally designed to feel like the songs that used to play on my dad’s car radio when I was a kid.

3. If your rap flow was an animal, what animal would it be and why?

That’s a very interesting question. I’ve never thought about it before, but if I had to imagine it, I would say I try to rap like a cat that can fit into any kind of container or box. I strive to design my flow to fit perfectly into any situation, like a cat trying to squeeze into a narrow space!

4. You went viral for your first ‘Twin Turbo’ series and are now in Vol. 2.5. What inspired the ‘Twin Turbo’ concept, and how has it evolved through Vol.1 to Vol.2.5?

The name “Twin Turbo” was given to us by my fellow rapper LIL GIMCHI. Since MADII and I were doing the album with two voices and two hearts, we thought it was a good name.

Vol. 1 was like the debut album, released shortly after we started. So, it has a lot of rough and bold energy good for such a season. Vol. 1.5, released just two months after Vol. 1, was an extension of Vol. 1.

Vol.2 was created after MADII’s military enlistment was confirmed. Since MADII’s enlistment meant we wouldn’t be able to perform together for nearly two years, it was an album that felt like a temporary farewell, though not an eternal one. That’s why it has a lot of sad and emotional tones.

Of all Twin Turbo series, Vol. 2.5 album took the longest to craft. It therefore features many musical experiments that were not attempted in previous albums, with each track intentionally designed to be diverse in terms of genre and theme. Efforts were made to ensure that listening to the entire album would not become monotonous or tedious.

5. Your “Back on a Stu” track, comeback after ‘Twin Turbo Vol. 1’ EP, set the bar even higher. What inspired this masterpiece, and what keeps you going in this competitive hip-hop industry?

“Back on a Stu” wasn’t a track I put that much effort into or thought much about; it was more of a freestyle track, so there’s pretty much little to say. My secret to continuously thriving in the hip-hop industry is simply because I love this work. After all, when you love something and find it interesting, you do it without anyone telling you to do so, and keep doing it even when told not to.

6. If you could design your own merch line, what would be the first item you’d drop?

If I could design merchandise, I’d want to create earphones or headphones. Earphones or headphones designed to make listeners enjoy whichever created album.

7. You’ve done several collaborations with MADI. How did you two meet, and what’s the music creation process like compared to when working alone as a single artist?

MADII and I were classmates in the first year of middle school. We’ve been close since then and hanged out often. When I was in college and thinking of what to do, I decided to become a rapper. But I thought it would be too lonely and difficult if I did it alone. At the time, MADII was also interested in the same thing, so we had a lot of discussions and ended up working together.

Making music together is twice as fun than working alone, but sometimes it’s also twice as hard. However, we always enjoy what we do.

8. If you were not in the music industry, what else would you be doing?

I studied design in high school, so I think I would either be continuing down that path or trying to make money through social media or YouTube.

9. “SOCAR” track is another mesmerizing piece from the latest ‘Twin Turbo Vol. 2.5’ EP. What story or vibe did you want to express through the song?

SOCAR is a car rental service company in Korea. Typically, new drivers who don’t own a car yet often rent cars through SOCAR for drives. I created the song based on my experience renting a SOCAR and driving it around a year after getting my license. I thought of the ambience of hanging out with friends on a good weather day.

10. What’s one fun fact about you that your fans might not know?

Hmm… An interesting fact about me is that I am not good at cooking, at all. But I recently started thinking I should start trying. So lately, I’ve been trying various things. I’m not very good at it, but I’m trying my best to make it tasty. Now that I’ve said it, it doesn’t seem very interesting…

11. What’s one lesson you’ve learned throughout your career, and where do you see your music evolving in the next few years?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned through music is that people are all so different. You can’t please everyone, and even if everyone listens to the same thing, they feel it differently. So, I think you have to create something that you yourself can enjoy and be satisfied with. In the future, I hope my music will develop not only in terms of skill but also in terms of reaching the ears of many more people. This doesn’t mean aiming for mainstream music, but as mentioned earlier, sharing my appeal with people of various perspectives and tastes.

12. What would you like to say to your fans?

All I can think to say is thank you. From the moment I started making music, released it, to when a single soul listened to it, I realized that every part of my life is no longer just my own. I always commit to doing my best and working hard for the fans who always listen to my songs and support me. Oh! And we’re planning to release a new album in July, so please continue supporting us! Please spread the word as well. Thank you for always showering us with love, both I (SC4F) and my fellow artist MADII.

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

스카프(SC4F)와의 인터뷰

거친 서정성부터 “Turbo”로 충전된 비트까지, SC4F는 한국의 떠오르는 언더그라운드 힙합 씬에서 빠르게 자신의 이름을 드러냈습니다. 고옥탄 “Twin Turbo” 시리즈와 MADII와의 역동적인 협업으로 유명한 SC4F는 음향적이고 창의적인 경계를 계속 허물고 있습니다. 그는 매번 음악을 공개할 때마다 원초적인 감정, 리듬, 그리고 거리적인 스토리텔링을 독특하게 조화시킵니다. “Silhouette”와 “Afterparty” 같은 대표곡이 담긴 Twin Turbo Vol. 2.5의 여세를 몰아가는 가운데, 우리는 아티스트 SCAF를 만나 그의 음악 여정과 영감, 그리고 풍부한 사운드를 움직이게 하는 원동력에 대해 이야기 나누었습니다.

1. “SC4F”이라는 예명에 담긴 이야기를 들려주실 수 있나요? 그리고 다른 음악 장르 중에서도 힙합을 선택하게 된 계기는 무엇인가요?

안녕하세요 반갑습니다! 한국에서 힙합음악을 하고 있는 스카프(SC4F)라고 합니다.

제 예명의 뜻은 큰 의미가 있지는 않아요. 흔히 볼 수 있는 악세서리인 scarf에서 따온 이름입니다. 패셔너블 하기도 하고 멋있고 근사한 악세서리이기도 하고 여러가지 만화나 창작물 속에서 특히 일본 애니메이션 등에서 스카프를 두르고 있는 캐릭터들을 좋아했어요. 그래서 scarf 에서 r을 빼고 a를 4로 표기를 하게 된게 지금의 제 예명입니다.

힙합을 선택하게 된 이유는 저의 4살 많은 친누나가 어렸을 때 휴대폰 컬러링이 한국 래퍼 타이거JK 의 곡이었어요. 그 때부터 힙합을 알게 되고 힙합 음악에 관심이 생겼고 팬으로서 그 문화에 사랑을 가지게 되었습니다. 그러다가 평범한 대학생이던 제가 사회에서 무얼 할까 고민을 할 때 힙합음악을 해볼까 싶어서 하다가 여기까지 오게 되었습니다.

2. 최신 EP Twin Turbo Vol. 2.5에 수록된 “Silhouette”와 “애프터파티 (Afterparty)”는 중독성 있는 랩과 리듬으로 팬들을 열광하게 만들었습니다. 이 두 곡은 어떻게 탄생하게 되었나요?

실루엣이라는 곡은 WIZFIT이라는 프로듀서의 비트에요. 기타 리프가 메인인 곡을 만들고 싶어서 그 친구에게 비트 제작을 의뢰했고 비트를 받고나서 멜로디와 가사를 만들게 되었습니다. 훅과 브릿지 등을 제 목소리로 녹음을 하고 그걸 제 동료인 마디(MADII)에게 불러달라고 했는데 생각보다 더 잘 나와서 좋았던 기억이 있네요.

애프터파티는 ROCK 이라는 프로듀서가 담당해줬습니다. 클럽이나 파티장소에서 느끼는 여러가지 감정들을 담아내려고 노력했고 90년대 즈음의 옛날 음악 느낌이 나도록 비트를 제작해달라고 얘기했죠. 노래의 아웃트로가 굉장히 길고 페이드 아웃이 되면서 끝나는데 그런 부분들이 어렸을 적 아빠 차의 라디오에서 흘러나왔던 노래들처럼 느껴지게 의도한 부분들입니다.

3. 만약 당신의 랩 플로우가 동물이라면, 어떤 동물일까요? 그리고 그 이유는 무엇인가요?

굉장히 재밌는 질문이네요. 한번도 생각해본 적은 없지만 한번 떠올려본다면 어떤 형태의 통이나 박스안에도 잘 들어가는 고양이처럼 랩을 하려고 노력합니다. 적재적소에 잘 들어맞게 플로우를 디자인하려고 노력해요. 비좁은 틈에 들어가려고 하는 고양이처럼!

4. 첫 번째 Twin Turbo 시리즈로 입소문을 타며 주목을 받으셨고, 이제는 2.5까지 출시되었습니다. Twin Turbo라는 콘셉트는 어떻게 탄생하게 되었고, Vol.1부터 Vol.2.5까지 어떤 식으로 진화해 왔는지 궁금합니다.

Twin Turbo 라는 이름은 저의 동료 래퍼 LIL GIMCHI가 지어줬어요. 저와 마디(MADII) 둘이서 서로 두개의 목소리와 심장으로 굴려가는 앨범이기 때문에 좋은 이름이라고 생각했어요.

Vol.1은 아무래도 데뷔앨범과도 같은 시작한지 얼마 안된 시점의 앨범이라 그 당시에만 보여줄 수 있는 거칠고 당찬 에너지가 많은 앨범입니다. Vol 1.5는 Vol.1을 발매하고 두 달이 안된 시점에서 냈기 때문에 Vol.1의 연장선 같은 앨범입니다.

Vol.2는 마디(MADII) 군입대가 확정되고 만든 앨범입니다. 마디(MADII)가 입대를 하면 2년 가까이 둘이서 활동을 할 수 없기에 영원한 끝은 아니지만 약간의 작별인사 같은 앨범이었어요. 그래서 그런지 슬프고 감성적인 무드가 많습니다.

Vol.2.5는 정말 오랜만에 만든 Twin Turbo 시리즈입니다. 그래서 이전 앨범들에서 하지 않았던 다양한 음악적 시도들을 많이 했고 각각의 트랙들이 장르적으로나 주제적으로나 다채롭게 느껴지게 의도했습니다. 그래서 앨범을 통으로 다 들었을 때 최대한 질리거나 물리지 않도록 노력했어요.

5. ‘Twin Turbo Vol. 1’에 이어 컴백한 “Back on a Stu”는 랩의 한층 더 높은 기준을 세웠습니다. 이 곡은 어떤 계기로 만들어졌고, 경쟁이 치열한 힙합 업계에서 계속 활동할 수 있는 비결은 무엇인가요?

Back on a stu는 사실 별로 공들이거나 여러 생각을 하고 만든 트랙은 아니고 그냥 프리스타일에 가까운 트랙이 었어서 그 곡에 대한 얘기는 크게 할건 없어요. 계속 힙합업계에서 활동할 수 있는 비결이라면 정말 단순하고 일차원적으로 이 일이 좋아압니다. 원래 자기가 좋아하고 재밌있는 일은 시키지 않아도 하고 하지 말라고 해도 하게 되는 법이잖아요.

6. 직접 머천다이즈 라인을 디자인할 수 있다면, 가장 먼저 출시하고 싶은 아이템은 무엇인가요?

제가 머천다이즈를 디자인할 수 있다면 저는 이어폰이나 헤드셋을 만들고 싶어요. 어떤 앨범을 만들고 그 앨범을 훨씬 더 흥미롭게 들을 수 있게끔 사운드가 세팅 된 그런 이어폰이나 헤드셋이요.

7. MADI와 여러 차례 협업을 하셨죠. 두 사람은 어떻게 만났고, 혼자 작업할 때와 비교했을 때 음악 제작 과정은 어떤가요?

저와 마디(MADII)는 중학교 1학년 때 같은 반 친구였어요. 그 때 부터 친해서 자주 놀다가 제가 대학교가서 뭐할지 고민할 때 래퍼가 되기로 마음먹었고 혼자 하기는 너무 외롭고 힘들것 같아서 당시에 비슷한 분야에 관심이 많았던 마디(MADII)와 얘기를 많이 하게 되면서 같이 하게 되었습니다.

혼자 작업할 때보다 함께 음악을 만들면 재미도 두배가 되고 때로는 수고도 두배가 돼서 힘들 때도 있어요. 하지만 늘 즐기면서 하고 있습니다.

8. 음악 활동을 하지 않았다면, 어떤 일을 하고 있었을 것 같나요?

저는 고등학교때 디자인을 배웠었는데, 그 길을 그대로 가고 있거나 아니면 SNS나 유튜브 같은 걸 활용해서 돈을 벌려고 했을 것 같아요.

9. ‘Twin Turbo Vol. 2.5’의 또 다른 매혹적인 트랙인 “SOCAR”는 어떤 이야기나 분위기를 담고 싶으셨나요?

SOCAR는 한국의 자동차 대여 서비스 회사입니다. 보통 아직 차가 없는 초보면허 운전자들이 주로 SOCAR를 통해 차를 빌려서 드라이브를 많이 하는데, 제가 면허 단지 이제 1년쯤이 됐을 때 SOCAR를 빌리고 운전했던 경험을 살려서 곡을 만들었습니다. 날씨 좋은 날 친구들과 떠나는 분위기를 생각했어요.

10. 팬들이 모르는 당신에 대한 재미있는 사실 한 가지는 무엇인가요?

음… 저에 대한 재밌는 사실이라고 한다면..제가 원래 요리를 아예 못했는데 최근에 요리를 좀 해 봐야겠다는 생각을 하게 됐어요. 그래서 요즘에 이것저것 해보고 있습니다. 잘은 못 하지만 나름 맛있게 만들려고 노력해요. 말하고 나니 별로 재미있지는 않네요..

11. 음악 활동을 하면서 배운 가장 큰 교훈은 무엇인가요? 그리고 앞으로 몇 년 안에 당신의 음악이 어떤 방향으로 발전하길 바라시나요?

음악을 하면서 배운 큰 교훈은 정말 사람들은 다 다르다는 걸 많이 느껴요. 모두를 만족시킬 수 없고 모두 각 같은 걸 듣고 봐도 다르게 느끼기 때문에, 결국 자기 자신이 만족하고 즐길 수 있는 무언가를 만들어야 한다고 생각해요. 앞으로 제 음악이 발전하길 바라는 부분은 실력도 물론 더 늘어가겠지만 훨씬 더 많은 사람들의 귀 속에 저희 음악이 들릴 수 있도록 발전시키고 싶습니다. 대중적인 음악을 지향한다는 뜻은 아니고, 아까 말한 여러가지 관점과 입맛을 가진 사람들에게 저희의 매력을 알려야 하겠죠.

12. 마지막으로 팬들에게 한 말씀 부탁드립니다.

언제나 고맙다는 말 밖에 떠오르지가 않아요. 제가 음악을 시작하고 그 음악을 발매하고 그 음악을 들어주는 사람들이 한명이라도 생긴 그 시점 이후부터는 제 삶의 모든 부분이 저만의 것이 아니라고 생각해요. 항상 들어주고 응원해주는 팬분들을 위해 최선을 다하고 열심히 해야겠다는 다짐을 많이 하는 것 같아요. 아 그리고 곧 7월에 새 앨범을 낼 것 같은데 앞으로도 많이 관심 가져주세요! 소문도 많이 내주시구요. 저희 스카프(SC4F) & 마디(MADII)라는 아티스트를 사랑해주셔서 늘 감사합니다.

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#KCrushInterviewWithSc4F #SC4F #hiphop #koreanhiphop #TigerJK #MADII #kcrush #indie #kmusic #idol #WIZFIT #AfterParty #Silhouette #TwinTurboVol2point5EP #rapandrhythm #rap #kcrushmagazine #kcrushamerica #ProducerROCK #guitarriff #BackonaStutrack #SOCARtrack #SOCARKoreanCarRentalService #newalbumJuly2025

Kdramas have continued to evolve, and the 4^th generation – spanning from around 2018 to 2023- brought its fresh storytelling, standout acting, and unforgettable soundtracks. The era introduced bold themes and global stars. Here are 22 of the best 4^th generation K-dramas that captured hearts and screens across the world.

1. Destined With You

A civil servant uncovers a cursed book and an unexpected romance with a lawyer. A mystery, fate, and forbidden love collide in this magical slow-burn fantasy drama.

2. Behind Your Touch

A veterinarian with psychic powers teams up with a detective in a small town. This quirky mystery blends supernatural comedy with unexpected emotional depth.

3. Strong Girl Nam-soon

A girl with superhuman strength returns to Korea to find her birth parents. An action, crime, and laughter come together in this fun female-led adventure.

4. Crash Course in Romance

A former athlete and a star math tutor fall into an unlikely romance. This heartfelt story mixes slice-of-life struggles with sweet chemistry.

5. Bloodhounds

Two young boxers get caught in a dangerous loan shark underworld. A full of action, loyalty, and intensity, this drama is a gripping underdog story.

6. Weak Hero Class 1

A quiet top student uses strategy to fight bullies in a violent school. A raw and emotional, it’s a survival story wrapped in brutal realism.

7. Alchemy of Souls

A powerful soul is trapped in a weak body in a magical world. A fantasy, romance, and stunning lore define this epic two-part saga.

8. Unlock My Boss

A tech CEO gets trapped in a smartphone, and a jobless man finds it. In this drama, tech meets fantasy in this humorous and heartfelt underdog tale.

9. Business Proposal

An office worker pretends to be her friend on a blind date – only to meet her boss. This workplace rom-com is full of laughs, heart-flutters, and lovable side characters.

10. Vincenzo

A Korean-Italian mafia consigliere returns to Korea for revenge. A stylish, darkly funny, and intense, this crime drama has a cult following.

11. Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha

A city dentist opens a clinic in a seaside village and meets the local handyman. This feel-good romance captures healing, humor, and small-town charm.

12. True Beauty

A girl masters makeup to hide her appearance and finds unexpected love. A high school rom-com that explores beauty standards, identity, and growth.

13. The Uncanny Counter

Demon hunters disguised as noodle shop workers fight evil spirits. An action-packed and emotional, this supernatural team drama is full of heart.

14. It’s Okay to Not Be Okay

A caregiver and a troubled author confront their traumatic pasts together. A visually stunning and deeply emotional, this healing drama is unforgettable.

15. Tale of the Nine Tailed

A nine-tailed fox protects humans while searching for his reincarnated lover. This fantasy romance blends mythology, action, and past-life love.

16. Mr. Queen

A modern-day chef’s soul ends up in the body of a Joseon queen. A hilarious, sharp, and full of twists, it’s a time-travel period comedy like no other.

17. Hospital Playlist

Five doctors and lifelong friends navigate work, love, and music. A heartwarming and slice-of-life, this medical drama is comfort food for the soul.

18. Crash Landing on You

A South Korean heiress crash-lands in North Korea and meets a soldier. Their forbidden love story is emotional, romantic, and culturally rich.

19. Angel’s Last Mission: Love

A mischievous angel must help a blind ballerina find love to return to heaven. A fantasy, tragedy, and romance intertwine in this moving love story.

20. Her Private Life

A professional art curator hides her obsession with a K-pop idol. A funny, steamy romance that explores identity and fangirl culture.

21. The Secret Life of My Secretary

A cold-hearted boss softens after losing his ability to recognize faces. This rom-com blends corporate life, memory twists, and a heartwarming love story.

22. Romance Is a Bonus Book

A single mom lies about her credentials to land a job at a publishing house. This is a slow-burn noona romance that celebrates second chances in life and love.

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#22Best4thGenerationKDramas #kcrush #koreandrama #kdrama #kpop #hallyu #koreanculture #HerPrivateLife #RomanceIsABonusBook #TheSecretLifeOfMySecretary #AngelsLastMissionLove #CrashLandingOnYou #MrQueen #HospitalPlaylist #TailOfTheNineTailed #ItsOkNotToBeOK #TheUncannyCounter #HometownChaChaCha #Vincenzo #TrueBeauty #kcrushmagazine #kcrushamerica #BusinessProposal #UnlockMyBoss #AlchemyofSoul #Bloodhounds #WeakHeroClass1 #CrashCourseInRomance #StrongGirlNamSoon #BehindYourTouch #DestineWithYou #action #drama #kbeauty #kfashion #koreanactors #koreanactresses #fantasy #comedy #melodrama #hallyu #lifeandlove

Dream Con logo, DreamCon.com

Dream Con 2025 came to my hometown, Houston, Texas, from May 30th to June 1st. It is the largest and fastest growing Black-owned anime and gaming convention in the United States where Blerds can celebrate and indulge in their love for anime, cosplaying, gaming, sports, film, music, pop culture and more. I consider it a blessing to have partaken in that moment of Black joy dripping in Black Excellence. I walked away from Dream Con with something I never expected to encounter: healing. That’s probably the last thing you expected me to say, right?

I’ve been to other music, anime, and cultural conventions before, but this was my first Blerd convention. It wasn’t the dizzying levels of creativity that went into each cosplay outfit surrounding me at every turn. Nor was it the many spontaneous dance breaks in the middle of the convention halls that managed to tear down the shell protecting my closely guarded secret. The thing that created heaven for me was the feeling of absolute acceptance that washed over me from the moment I stepped through the doors of George R. Brown Convention Center. The atmosphere was so electrifying that I had to take a moment to breathe as my eyes soaked in wave after wave of smiling, happy Black people admiring one another and interacting freely as nerds. For three days, I traversed through the convention halls across three floors engaging in as many activities as time would allow. By the time I plopped down in my car at the end of day three, all of the guards I previously had up had been thoroughly thrashed. I had found my tribe. More importantly, I had received the permission that it’s OK to be a Blerd that my inner child always so desperately craved.

Why is this important?

Blerd is simply a unisex term used to describe Black people who are also nerds. We share the same appreciation and adoration for our chosen topics as anyone else. Similar to other nerd communities, that appreciation and adoration can sometimes also be a source of hurt for us. Moreover, that pain often comes from the people closest to us. When I was young, living in a Black community, being a nerd was fine, but only smart nerds were truly accepted since that usually produced positive rewards. I have always loved watching animation and was even interested in cosplaying at one time. However, being a nerd that enjoys dressing up as a cartoon character or even watching cartoons past a certain age was deemed childish and weird. Like most people, the last thing I wanted to be described as was weird. Added to that, things like anime and cosplaying were shunned in many Black communities because it wasn’t considered a “Black thing” to do. And this doesn’t even include how utterly unwelcoming many nerd communities have always been towards Blerds. Life was hard enough. I wasn’t going to add to it just because I liked cartoons. It was just easier to hide my interests deep in my heart rather than face ridicule from family, friends, and even strangers. Attending Dream Con was basically me finally allowing myself to acknowledge this love publically. Being able to do so without having to explain my interests, deny a desire to be some other race, or accept being “othered” in some way was like releasing a boulder from my chest. No one cared whether or not I only wore an anime shirt but didn’t cosplay. They were just happy to be there, doing their thing. No one noticed that my head was on a swivel, absolutely enamored by all of the amazing cosplay units because they were doing the same thing. No one questioned my Blackness just because I purchased a cute anime license plate cover for my car. They were in line too. Even when I walked to my car at the end of each night, no strangers pointed or whispered. The crowd just hummed with the same excitement I felt for what we saw and hopedo see again. I didn’t feel like I needed to change anything about myself to fit in. I just automatically belonged in whatever way I arrived.

Artwork display at Dream Con 202; Houston Tx

The convention was packed to the brim with all maner of fans. Everyone seemed so happy to be a part of the event. Attendees ranged from every age, shape, size, skin tone, and gender. Friends and family members cosplayed characters together. Some joined in the fun by wearing their favorite anime, gaming, or comic related merchandise like I did. I had to know if this feeling was unique to me or if others had also experienced something similar. So I asked a few people how they feltl about the convention and if it is important to the Blerd community. The overwhelming response was without a doubt, “YES!” One gentleman said, “This convention gives us a home, a place of warmth free from judgement. It allows us to explore our creativity freely without the restrictions others place on us.” I could not have worded it better. And it is evident that RDCWorld, the founders of Dream Con, understood this need deeply as they planned the convention.

Dream Con, +Dream Con 2024 Official Recap Video

There was a lively mix of panels and activities that ranged from fun and entertaining themes such as live manga readings and Q&A sessions with authors like LA West to topics impacting Blerd professionals like Martian Blueberry’s “Breaking Boundaries in Animation: A Conversation with Martian Blueberry.” Each day presented opportunities to engage in a variety of activities, no matter your interest. There were tabletop games, video game tournaments with amazing cash prizes, volleyball and other sports events that attendees could sign up for, anime and gaming meetups, and even K-pop activities like “From Seoul to Shonen: The Ultimate K-Drama & Anime Showdown” and a K-pop random dance. I also cannot forget to mention the plethora of stars that dropped in to share in the fun including Megan Thee Stallion, Tony Weaver, Jr, and Carl Jones .

There were so many activities and panels that specifically celebrated, supported, and encouraged Blackness and nerdom in a positive way, that it was practically impossible to walk out without a change of attitude. Do most conventions have great content and activities? Yes (well, at least the ones I have attended). But I have never felt a connection to other attendees like I felt at Dream Con. I have never felt seen or even welcomed quite the same. I encourage everyone to experience Dream Con or one similar in the future. Particularly other Blerds that are struggling with community or personal acceptance. While the event is obviously meant to be fun, it unquestionably delivers on building the community through education, acceptance and respect. It’s an event that can heal your inner child while enjoying what you love.

Dream Con 2025 Attendees participating in painting a custom art piece, Houston, Tx

By the way, here are some of the amazing panels and activities I dropped in on. This is just a drop in the bucket. I also spent a lot of time connecting with colleagues and making new friends. I encourage you to check out Dream Con’s website to learn more about this year’s event. You won’t want to miss next year!

• POWER AND CREATIVITY: Building Brand That Moves Culture with Megan Thee Stallion
• Black People Know Things Trivia
• Black in Tech
• Who Wants to be a K-pop Millionaire
• Cosplay Contest
• Xbox Takeover Panel
• Gaming Arena (I played virtual and arcade games)
• Writer’s Block: Novel, Poets, Screenwriters and More Mixer (speaker: Tony Weaver Jr)

CoolHappyTash

 

#DreamCon #HoustonTexas #MeganTheeStallion #panels #kcrush #cosplay #XboxTakeoverpanel #BlackinTech #Anime #Manga #TonyWeaverJr #writersblock #screenwriterspanel #kpopdance #kdrama #speakers #CarlJones #kcrushmagazine #kcrushamerica #RDCWorld #Blerd(nerd)community #nerd #GeorgeRBrownConventionCenter

As K-pop soars across the globe, Vietnam is taking center stage as one of the countries with most K-pop performances. From EXO to BIGBANG, here is a list of K-pop artists who have performed in Vietnam.

Artist	Concert Name	Date(s)	City
BabyMonster	Hello Monsters 1st World Tour	May 2025	Ho Chi Minh City
Daesung (BIGBANG)	D’s WAVE Asia Tour	May 2025	Ho Chi Minh City
2NE1	Welcome Back Asia Tour	Feb 2025	Ho Chi Minh City
Park Bom	Special Fan Concert	Sept 2024	Ho Chi Minh City
Lee Hyori	GENfest Music Festival	Nov 2023	Ho Chi Minh City
EXO (Suho & Xiumin)	Adex K-pop Super Concert	Sept 2023	Hanoi
Ailee	Korean Food Festival	Sept 2023	Hanoi
Epik High	HAY Glamping Music Festival	Sept 2023	Hanoi
Super Junior (D\&E)	DElight Party Fan-Con	Jul 2023	Mexico City, MXHo Chi Minh City
WINNER	Cross Tour	Feb 2020	Ho Chi Minh City
Red Velvet	V Heartbeat Live Show	Apr 2019	Ho Chi Minh City

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#kpopartistswhohaveperformedinVietnam #kcrush #Vietnam #kpop #kpopcondert #EXO #EpikHigh #kpopidol #SuperJunior #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #WINNER #RedVelvet #Ailee #ParkBom #LeeHyori #BIGBANG #BabyMonster #2NE1 #Vietnamperformance #kcrusharticle #topentertainment

PUNCH was once at the forefront of the entertainment industry, making waves with their powerful performances and unique sound. Known for their emotionally charged ballads and dynamic collaborations, PUNCH built a reputation for producing hit after hit. But as the years have passed, fans have been left wondering: Where is PUNCH now?

PUNCH’s Legacy of Hits

PUNCH first gained widespread recognition with OSTs for popular K-dramas such as ‘Goblin’ and ‘Hotel Del Luna’. Her soulful voice became synonymous with unforgettable moments in K-drama history. Songs like “Stay With Me” (with Chanyeol) and “Done For Me” solidified her status as one of Korea’s top vocalists.

PUNCH’s Latest Releases, Collaborations, and OSTs

Despite maintaining a lower profile, PUNCH continues to captivate listeners with new music. Recently, she has released singles that showcase her evolving style, blending R&B, ballad, and indie influences. PUNCH’s latest release is the “I Hope the Painful Memories Weren’t Love” track in February, 2025.

PUNCH has also collaborated with various artists, including rappers and fellow vocalists, further expanding her musical reach. PUNCH’s latest collaboration is “White Christmas” (ft. Lee Boram & Yebin) in 2024. Additionally, PUNCH’s voice remains a staple in K-drama soundtracks, with her latest OST contributions featuring in popular series, continuing to evoke deep emotions among fans. PUNCH’s latest OST is ‘Good Partner’ K-drama’s “Beautiful” OST and ‘Nothing Uncovered’ K-drama’s “Run Far Away” in 2024.

PUNCH’s Musical Evolution

PUNCH’s recent releases reflect a more mature and introspective sound while maintaining the emotional depth that has defined her career. Through collaborations with both rising and established artists, she has continued to stay relevant in the ever-evolving music industry. Her ability to adapt and experiment with different genres has solidified her as a versatile and enduring artist.

PUNCH’s Life Beyond the Spotlight

Beyond music, PUNCH has been engaging with fans through social media, occasionally sharing glimpses of her creative process and personal life. While she has not been as active in mainstream promotions, she remains a respected figure in the industry, with her older tracks still charting on digital platforms.

What’s Next for PUNCH?

While PUNCH has not officially announced any upcoming albums or major projects, fans continue to anticipate her next move. Given her history of surprise releases, it would not be unexpected for her to drop new music when least expected. Industry insiders speculate that she may explore new genres or even international collaborations in the near future.

Final Thoughts

PUNCH may not be in the headlines as frequently as before, but her impact on the K-pop and K-drama OST scene remains undeniable. Whether she’s preparing for a major comeback or quietly shaping the industry behind the scenes, one thing is certain—PUNCH’s music continues to resonate with fans worldwide.

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#PUNCH #wherearetheynow #kcrush #kdramaOST #IHopeThePainfulMemoriesWerentLove #newtrack #kdrama #OST #StayWithMe #DoneForMe #kcrushmagaizne #kcrushamerica #NothingUndercovered #RunFarAway #kpop

For her debut feature film Sumbisori, writer and director Lee Eun-jung uses the unique culture and community of Korea’s famed Haenyeo, to explore the strained relationship between a daughter, Hae-jin (Lee Sun-bin), and her mother Ok-ran (Seo Young-hee), whose disappointments in life affects their expectations of each other.

In Korean, the word ‘sumbisori 숨비소리’ translates to “breath sounds”, but on the island of Jeju – Korea’s largest island in the peninsula, located off its southern coast – sumbisori has a much more specific meaning. Amongst the Haenyeo, it refers to ‘Breath of the Sea’, the calm, steady exhale in the form of a uniquely pitched whistle the female divers make upon surfacing from a deep dive.

This breath serves two distinct purposes: first, the steady exhale is to carefully release the bubbles that build up in the lungs and bloodstream due to the increased external pressure of the ocean’s depths on the body. When diving, it’s imperative that swimmers rise to the surface carefully to avoid a potentially fatal condition known as Decompression Sickness, or ‘the bends’. The second reason for the whistle is for the women to communicate with each other to make sure they’re all ok. Haenyeo always dive in pairs or groups to ensure their safety because they never take their decades of expertise or the unpredictability and potential dangers of the ocean for granted.

This buddy system plays a significant part in Lee’s depiction of the film’s female relationships, because it’s this trust and reliance the Haenyeo exhibit towards each other, and their acceptance of Hae-jin that encourages her to open up about her struggles living in Seoul.

Bearing the unwieldy burden of her mother’s expectations to pass the laborious government exams needed to obtain the coveted position of a civil service worker, Hae-jin stumbles, and eventually loses her way in the bustling metropolitan city. Not only has she failed the test, but she’s been scammed out of her money, and left isolated having lost touch with all her friends back on the island.

So, Hae-jin does what anyone would do when they feel the pressure of failure building and crashing down on them. They escape. She runs to where there aren’t any giant highrises and glass enclosed skyscrapers rising above her, and social expectations to fit in and conform to manufactured ideals forcing its will on her. On Jeju, the air is crisp, the lands lush with farms, open plains, and the ocean vast and limitless. And it’s there in its depths, Ok-ran, Hae-jin’s grandmother Kang-ja (Kim Ja-young), and her aunts, or as they’re affectionately known amongst the Hanyeo, Samchon, meaning Uncle, finds acceptance for being who she is. Mess and failures and all. Lee’s (Toxic, The Uncanny Counter) portrayal of a young woman afraid to disappoint her mother, while already feeling the overwhelming disappointment in herself of her life not turning out to be all she imagined, is relatable.

The insecurity and guilt she feels in almost every interaction with Ok-ran is visible in every hesitant move she makes, which is subtly juxtaposed with the sheer sense of relief and relaxation evident in Lee’s body language when in the water surrounded by Kang-ja and the Haenyeo. Hae-jin’s gradual steps to confidence as she learns to forgive herself demonstrates how closely the actress and director worked to develop their character over the course of the film.

Despite diving for years side-by-side with her own mother, Ok-ran still seems uneasy about the life she’s been living. Though she may be away from the pressures of city life, she still thinks about where Hae-jin needs to be to have a successful life. Or her idea of success anyway. Depicting Ok-ran’s discontent with her own life this way is a very interesting narrative choice that Lee makes because it shows that even though women can in fact be living life on their own terms, they can still feel some semblance of pressure to be the women society tells them to be. Seo (Toxic,Way Back Love)  plays this complexity of female identity with great depth and angst. Not angst in an overwrought fashion, but angst that would be familiar to any woman who feels that there’s something missing in their life, something they’re searching for but can’t quite identify.

To balance out these heavier character elements, is Kang-ja whose exuberance of being able to experience the magic of the ocean is practically contagious, as this is what Hae-jin grasps onto. Though she receives the earth shattering news that her bouts of confusion and forgetfulness are attributed to dementia, Kang-ja is determined not to let the diagnosis and disease steal her joy for life away. The Haenyeo all band together to support Kang-ja in whatever form she needs. They sing their songs of the ocean and camaraderie reminding Ok-ran that she’s not alone, and encourage Hae-jin to take her time rising through her troubles.

Though Sumbisori may be her first feature, Lee shows that that she has a profound understanding of how to use film as a medium to show how many layers they are to the human experience, and how there’s so much more to the Haenyeo as women, divers, and a culture that’s as unique as each breath the take and exhale.

In my interview with Lee Eun-jung, we spoke of her finding inspiration as a writer and solace on Jeju Island, the challenges of filming in open water, and how daughters can be inspiring for their mothers, and discovering her various narrative metaphors in the most unlikely places like names and even an adorable Jindo dog name Haekyung.

Sumbisori premiered in the Korean Competition program of the 2025 Jeonju International Film Festival.

Note: This interview was conducted via email with the use of a language translation program and has been edited for clarity and length.

Your previous film work includes being an assistant director, and script writer. Can you speak a bit about your entrance to the film industry, and forming your own script writing process and narrative style?

Becoming a film director has been a long-time dream of mine. When I was young, I read stories about the people behind the camera in a film magazine, and I vaguely admired their lives. That’s why I chose to major in Theater and Film at university, and right after graduating, I was lucky enough to get a chance to work on a commercial film set.

Working on set was tough, but I think I became addicted to the energy you can only feel there. The process of many people coming together to create one work was moving, and that energy kept me working as an assistant in film productions.

I wouldn’t say I have much experience yet in what you’d call a ‘narrative style.’ But I do try to keep a promise to myself to write regularly and stick to a set schedule. I’ve realized that, like any office worker, you need to faithfully sit at your desk and spend time writing if you want to finish something in the end.

And I tend to get inspiration from everyday life while taking a walk, in the shower, or riding the subway. I jot down sudden ideas in a notepad and later weave them into my scripts.

Sumbisori opens with the camera in the perspective of a Haenyeo ascending to the surface, and as soon as they surface, we see Ok-ran joyfully calling to Kang-ja, who rises across from her, and Kang-ja calls out to Ok-ran in return.

I found this brief interaction, and the others like it in the film, to reveal something very deep about the relationship between the mother and daughter. It shows how they’re always at the forefront of each other’s minds and who they look to every time when they surface from the depths of what troubles them.

The work of a Haenyeo includes looking after the fellow divers you go out to the sea with. As you mentioned, Ok-ran and Kang-ja have been protecting each other their whole lives.

Later, when Kang-ja leaves, and Hae-jin takes her place, it carries that same meaning as well.

Can you describe your feelings when you wrote this opening scene then saw the actresses perform it for the first time?

We filmed in the actual ocean, and the waves of Jeju’s ocean were quite rough at the time. So we went into filming with a lot of anxiety. It was difficult to stand still in the water, and the actors had to act as well, so it was quite difficult. I was thankful, sorry, and respectful to see the actors safely perform their roles.

There’s a very distinct difference in how Hae-jin is introduced into the story and Ok-ran’s reception of her, in comparison to how we previously saw Ok-ran in the sea. Hae-jin looks weary and apprehensive as she walks towards her family home, and upon seeing Hae-jin, Ok-ran is obviously not pleased to see her daughter. Instead of a warm welcome, Ok-ran’s first inclination is to ask “Did you pass?”,referring to Hae-jin having taken a civil service exam.

To the audience this tells us that this mother and daughter pair have a somewhat distant relationship. For any child having their parents greet them this way when they already feel lost and alone would be discouraging, and I saw it as commentary on the personal and cultural expectations parents have of gaining status through education and passing exams.

That’s right. Passing the civil service exam in Seoul and living a stable life wasn’t Hae-jin’s dream — it was Ok-ran’s hope. Like all parents, she just wanted her child to succeed. But often, those hopes end up becoming a burden for the child.

I wanted to portray that kind of relationship in the scene where Ok-ran, seeing Hae-jin after a long time, asks “Did you pass?” Hae-jin had no choice but to return home because she had nowhere else to go, but knowing how her mother would feel about it, she came back filled with inner conflict.

In truth, children understand their parents’ hearts better than anyone.

Usually in South Korean films and dramas it’s the sons who are shown as being weighed down with passing the civil service exams and securing a position as a government worker, so I appreciate you showing that women also face these expectations and struggles. Was this part of your motivation in creating the story and Hae-in as a character?

It’s true that many stories in films and dramas focus on men, even though in Korea, a lot of women apply for civil service exams, and their success rate is also quite high.

Separate from that, though, I wanted to tell a story I know best. And I wanted to fill the film with the things I love.

I hoped to capture the concerns of young people living in today’s world — to say that it’s okay even if you don’t live in a big city like Seoul, and it’s okay even if you don’t have a stable, guaranteed job like a civil servant.

I’d like us to talk a bit about the assumptions people have about ‘city life’, like living in a large city like Seoul is better than living in the country, or islands like Jejudo.

Everyone that Hae-jin meets assumes that her life in Seoul must’ve been easier, more prosperous, and fulfilling than what they live in Jejudo, and much of this is because capitalist societies and those where class hierarchies are firmly established, have created a culture where ‘city life’ equates to success. But rarely are the emotional, financial, mental, and even health challenges that arise in relation to the stress of  the struggle to achieve this assumed ideal, acknowledged.

Ok-ran herself lived in Seoul for a time with her husband and Hae-jin, but she too eventually ran back home to Jejudo to heal after her marriage ended, leaving Hae-jin in the city alone. Despite knowing how difficult city life can be, Ok-ran still expecting Hae-jin to make it there without any emotional support seems especially unfair, but I think this shows that perhaps she still had feelings of guilt for leaving her daughter to in a sense makeup for Ok-ran’s own perceived failures of not ‘making it’ in the big city.

That’s right. As the dialogue in the latter part of the film suggests, Ok-ran was pushing her daughter to achieve what she herself couldn’t. Jeju women have long been known for their independence and strong self-reliance. It’s a tendency rooted in the island’s wartime history, and Ok-ran lived that kind of life, so she probably believed Hae-jin could do the same.

When Hae-jin was younger, she likely thought that was the only path to success, which is why she followed her mother’s wishes and lived in Seoul. But after experiencing it firsthand, she realized that life in Seoul didn’t suit her. It was only after returning to Jeju that she truly understood this about herself.

That’s what gave her the courage to try living her life in Jeju. I wanted to reflect on what real ‘success’ means. Isn’t true success about finding something that truly makes you happy, not by other people’s standards, but by your own values? That was the conclusion I reached. We live in a time where money matters, but I don’t think it should be the number one thing.

There’s the scene with Hae-jin and her childhood friend Ga-on where it’s referenced that none of Ga-on’s friends in Seoul made it to her wedding because they, including Hae-jin, were all too busy. And I wondered what good is a city life if working and being there causes you to discard friendships and miss moments that matter to them?

This is my personal experience. I was always busy with filming while working as a film assistant. My friends understood my life to some extent, but I never thought of myself as such a fool in my 20s, forgetting even my best friend’s wedding. But like Ga-on, my friends also understood and supported me. I felt really sorry and grateful to my friends.

In your first answer, you said that your writing process involves being consistent, getting inspiration from everything you see, and writing down whatever comes to your mind . When did you first get the inspiration for Sumbisori , and how did the script develop?

Did you ever stay on Jeju island for a period of time to fully immerse yourself in the Haenyeo culture?

Jeju island is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Korea, and I visited it for the first time when I was 30. Before that, I had traveled to many places like Europe and Southeast Asia, but when I finally went to Jeju, I completely fell in love with it. Since then, I’ve spent a lot of time there.

Whenever I was going through something difficult, I would go and walk along the Olle Trail, and it was during those times that I first encountered the Haenyeo. I think that experience is what first made me think of the act of Sumbisori itself. The sound of Haenyeo breathing. Later, while developing a script about a mother and daughter, I decided to incorporate Haenyeo culture into the story, eventually expanding it into a tale of three generations of women.

Jeju is still my favorite place, and although I can’t visit as often as I used to, I make a point of going there at least once a year to stay for a few days.

Now, I’d like to discuss the film’s themes of memory, feeling lost, losing connections with our present, and finding our way back home, and how the ocean and the act of sumbisori serves as metaphors for these.

The ocean is an overwhelming place and dangerous to be in if we enter it without the proper survival skills and sense of respect for it. Its vastness mirrors the human’s brain’s capacity to create memories, and learn, but with cognitive ailments like dementia and alzheimers, our ability to navigate our memories and do what’s as natural as breathing to us, becomes more difficult as the disease progresses.

To me, the confusion, emotional upheaval and distress caused are mirrored in the panic that can arise when we lose our way in the ocean’s dark depths.

I thought the way you explored all of these complex emotions the characters feel about their own experiences, and Kang-ja’s dementia diagnosis and the disease’s progression, were very poignantly and carefully done.

Please speak about any research you did on cognitive decline, how you figured out ways to weave it into the story using the ocean as a metaphor, and working with actress Kim Ja-young to portray its effects on Kang-ja.

After the dementia diagnosis, I did set up a few scenes to show the progression of the illness, but I tried not to portray it too heavily. I was very conscious of not wanting it to look fake.

My own grandmother has dementia, and through that, I learned that the symptoms don’t appear constantly — they surface unexpectedly in ordinary moments. I felt that even those brief moments could be enough to convey the seriousness of the condition.

At the same time, I wanted the character Kang-ja to remain consistently cheerful. As the leader of the Haenyeo, I hoped she would come across as warmhearted and charismatic. So, I thought her attitude toward dementia should also reflect her character. That’s why actress Kim Ja-young and I talked a lot about how to portray Kang-ja as playful and lovable. Although she would have been aware of her own declining condition, she probably didn’t want to burden her children or her fellow Haenyeo by letting them know. She likely felt that causing them worry would be something to feel sorry for.

Because Kang-ja serves as the emotional anchor for both Ok-ran and Hae-jin, I thought it was very fitting you named her Kang-ja, as it translated to ‘Strong man’. But with the dementia slowly erasing her memories and ability to be in a sense emotionally present in their lives, it showed how fragile she was, too.

I thought the name Kang-ja,  which means “strong man” in Korean, was a perfect fit for her because she serves as the emotional anchor for Ok-ran and Hae-jin . However, as her dementia gradually erases her memories and she becomes emotionally unable to be present in their lives, it also reveals how fragile she really is .

I could tell from your interpretation that you have a deep understanding of the Korean language. Thank you for recognizing the meaning behind the name. In the past, due to the traditional preference for sons, it was common for names to include the character ‘Ja’ (子, meaning ‘son’). But in this community, I gave her the name ‘Kang-ja,’ hoping she would be the strongest person of them all.

I believe the reason Kang-ja is strong is because, even as her body deteriorates from dementia, she holds onto her lifelong devotion and love for the sea with unshaken conviction.

When she says, “I want to die in the sea,” it reminded me of how some terminal patients refuse life-prolonging treatment in a hospital and instead choose to spend their final moments in the home where they’ve lived their entire lives. In the same way, Kang-ja chose the sea. She didn’t want to give up the life she loved so deeply until the very end. That’s why I think she truly lives up to her name — Kang-ja, a strong person.

I grew up on Barbados, an Island in the Caribbean, and the sea has always been my favorite place to be. It’s where I went on Sundays to swim and snorkel, but also where I went to escape what troubled me. Swimming and snorkeling or diving requires complete focus on our bodies and surroundings, there’s no real time to think about things that seem distracting in the moment.

As you swim further from shore and look back, you have a different perspective of how everything, including our problems look on land.

I think this is what makes Haenyeo such amazing women. Their ability to let everything go and focus on what’s right in front of them, and realize that the life they’re living can be as satisfying as they want it to be, and this is what drew Hae-jin to follow in their path. But what I thought was interesting is that it took Ok-ran seeing Hae-jin fully embracing the challenges required to be a Haenyeo, and the camaraderie and lifestyle of the Samchons, for Ok-ran herself to finally realize the life she’s been living for years was good enough.

Can you speak about crafting these particular developments in Hae-jin and Ok-ran’s character arcs, and why it was important for you to depict the daughter as an inspiration for her mother and your experience working with actresses Lee Sun-bin and Seo Young-hee?

First of all, your personal story sounds so beautiful. I felt truly glad because many of my own experiences by the sea are reflected in this film as well. I believe Haenyeo represents the purest form of labor, and in those simple moments of focusing entirely on one thing, there’s something valuable for us living in the modern world to learn.

Even within a family living under the same roof, the way people view the same matter differs depending on their own circumstances and positions. Ok-ran and Hae-jin also see the world of Haenyeo differently. Ok-ran, though a top Haenyeo, was never proud of her job, while Hae-jin, having watched her mother since childhood, thought it was the coolest profession anyone could have. That difference naturally created character conflict and tension, and it was also the driving force behind the story.

I personally found the process where Ok-ran comes to realize things through her losses and through Hae-jin to be beautiful as well. Someone once said, Sumbisori is a story that starts with Hae-jin and ends with Ok-ran, and I can agree with that because of the changes Ok-ran goes through.

Actors Lee Sun-bin and Seo Young-hee had previously played sisters in the film Toxic (2022), so I did worry whether portraying a mother-daughter relationship might feel awkward. But both of them have such broad acting ranges that they overcame the real-life age gap and delivered convincing performances.

Since they already shared a good rapport, communication on set was smooth, and most importantly, as a first-time director, I was so grateful that they believed in me. Thanks to them, every day on set was a joy. I feel honored to have worked with such incredible actors for my debut project, and I hope I get the opportunity to collaborate with them again in the future.

For the technical side, please discuss the preparation process you, the production crew, and the cast went through to film a movie that has a significant amount of sequences in the sea and working with the experiences of the Haenyeo to accurately depict their world and culture.

Since I considered the sea to be another protagonist of the story, the underwater cinematography was one of the most important parts of ‘Sumbisori’. I wanted to vividly capture the sea of Jeju, which is both the home and the livelihood of the Haenyeo, so we shot 100 percent in the actual ocean.

While shooting in real conditions allowed us to maintain authenticity, there were risks like waves and weather, and since the actors themselves had to go into the water, a lot of preparation was required. Some of the crew and I personally took GoPros and went into the sea for underwater location scouting, searching for spots that would work best for us.

All the surface-level shots were performed by the actors themselves, while for some of the underwater scenes, stunt doubles assisted and among them were actual Haenyeo divers. The surface, underwater, and open-sea swimming scenes were all filmed in different spots around Jeju.

For her role as Hae-jin, actress Lee Sun-bin learned how to swim for the first time while preparing for ‘Sumbisori’. Thanks to her incredible mental strength and physical endurance, she mastered head-up swimming within just a month. Aside from Seo Young-hee, who was already comfortable in the water, both Lee Sun-bin and Kim Ja-young received diving training at the Hansupul Haenyeo School in Jeju.

Thanks to the practical help of Hansupul Haenyeo School and many Haenyeo divers, we were able to complete every single shot in Jeju’s real ocean. Every cut we filmed at sea felt so precious and valuable that I tried to use every one of them, and I believe the final film holds those moments beautifully within ‘Sumbisori’.

One of my favorite things about the film and how you showed the deep bond of sisterhood between the Haenyeo, is their singing. You show the Haenyeo have their own unique culture, with songs related to their diving, love and respect of the ocean, the land, and to each other. These scenes are special to me because they’re reminiscent of films centered around men where we’d see them going off to battle, sailing across the seas, or traversing the open plains like in old American westerns..

And in ‘Sumbisori’ we get to see women, mature women have these types of scenes where music is a method of showing camaraderie. Some of the songs have a bright, joyful energy, and some more melancholy, reflecting the emotional state of the characters. Talk to me about filming these scenes, and what they mean to you and the Haenyeo who worked on the film.

The song “Leodosana” appears twice, sung by the Haenyeo together. The first time is when Kang-ja, after being diagnosed with dementia, goes out to the sea for the first time and sits on the shore with the others, preparing to dive as they sing. “Leodosana” is a traditional folk song of the Jeju Haenyeo sung to encourage themselves and each other because their work is so harsh and grueling. With that heart, Kang-ja begins the song, and Haenyeo join in, as if to show they understand and share her feelings. Watching this, Ok-ran’s emotions become complicated.

The second time “Ieodosana” is heard is at the ending, led by the head of the Haenyeo, echoing from afar. This, too, is sung as a gesture of encouragement for one another. After saying goodbye to Kang-ja, the Haenyeo who remain sing for each other, for today, and to gather strength as they head back into the sea.

All the songs were recorded live by the actors themselves. Since real Haenyeo participated in the filming as actors, the scenes were filled with their spirit and energy, making everything feel that much more vivid and alive.

I’m curious about Haekyung (meaning coast guard). When did the idea of adding her to the story happen? I love dogs and when filmmakers add them as significant characters to a film’s story arc, and thought you using her as a sort of metaphor of being able to return home again to new beginnings after feeling emotionally lost, was great.

At first, Haekyung was conceived as an ‘ordinary’ dog you might find in many rural Korean homes. It was meant to add a certain charm that comes from the simple, endearing presence of a dog in the countryside. But during the script development phase, Yoon Seo-young, my co-producer, suggested an idea for using Haekyung in a more dramatic way. As we developed that idea, Haekyung came to symbolize ‘cycles’ and ‘returning.’

Looking back, I realize that over the years of developing this script, it wasn’t something I completed alone. It came together through the efforts of many people. The director bears the final responsibility, but it’s important to remember that this was never a journey taken alone.

This is my final question. I just have to ask, did the puppies in the film belong to the dog that played Haekyung? They were so cute!

I think dogs are truly harmless, gentle creatures. One of the moments that drew the biggest reactions from the audience at the Jeonju Film Festival was the scene with the newborn puppies.

There are three types of dogs that appear in Sumbisori: the adult dog Haekyung, the newborn puppies, and the slightly older pups. All of them are dogs from Jeju Island. Haekyung, the adult dog, was two years old at the time of filming, was extremely gentle and playful. The village where we shot the film is called Panpo in Jeju, and it was actually the producer who spotted Haekyung living there and cast her. Though she had no formal training as an animal actor, our crew stayed in Jeju throughout the shoot, taking walks with her and bonding with her, which led to such a wonderful performance.

As for the newborn puppies, they weren’t Haekyung’s actual pups. We asked around in Jeju for any dogs that were about to give birth and, after much searching, managed to find them. Because they were so young, we had to be extremely careful during filming and could only shoot for about 20 to 30 minutes.

The slightly older puppies that appear near the grave were cast with the help of a stray dog center in Jeju. Sadly, there are still many abandoned dogs in Jeju, and even now, countless puppies are waiting to meet new owners and homes.

 

Carolyn Hinds
Freelance Film Critic, Journalist, Podcaster & YouTuber
African American Film Critics Association Member, Tomatometer-Approved Critic
Host & Producer Carolyn Talks…, and So Here’s What Happened! Podcast
Bylines at Authory.com/CarolynHinds
Twitter & Instagram: @CarrieCnh12

 

#JOENJUIFF2025 #kcrushinterviewwithLeeEunjung #Sumbisori #filmmakerLeeEunjung #kcrush #filmfestival #JeJu #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #JeJuIslandKorea #koreanculture #Asianfilm #interview #dementia #memory #memoryloss #breathsounds #breathofthesea

 

K-Pop’s 5th generation is here, and it’s bolder, fresher, and more global than ever. As the Hallyu Wave continues to surge beyond Korea., these new idols are setting trends, breaking records, and redefining the K-Pop sound for Gen Z and Gen Alpha. Here are the best 5th-generation K-pop groups you need to stream now.

1. ZEROBASEONE

Born from Boys Planet reality competition, ZEROBASEONE made waves with their “In Bloom” debut single. With stunning visuals and addictive choreography, they’re poised to lead the next global K-pop takeover. ZEROBASEONE’s powerful performances and charismatic members have already garnered a massive global fanbase, making them a force to be reckoned with.

2. RIIZE

SM Entertainment’s rookie powerhouse blends nostalgia with future-forward pop. Hits like “Get A Guitar” show off their unique “emotional pop” identity, earning them fast-growing international fans. RIIZE has carved out its uniqueness through captivating visuals, quickly becoming known for its strong stage presence and ability to convey a wide range of emotions through its music.

3. BABYMONSTER

YG Entertainment’s fierce girl group delivers powerhouse vocals and edgy hip-hop vibes. With songs like “SHEESH,” BABYMOSTER has already drawn comparisons to BLACKPINK and are living up to the high expectations set by their predecessors.

4. ILLIT

HYBE’s latest girl group debuted through R U Next? competition show and brings a refreshing mix of youthful energy and sleek production. ILLIT group is rising fast on both Korean and international charts thanks to their relatable “teen crush” concept and catchy, easy-listening sound that resonates widely.

5. KATSEYE

Created through Dream Academy reality show, this global girl group under HYBE and Geffen Records is K-Pop’s boldest attempt at global crossover success. Pioneering a unique blend of K-pop training with a strong focus on the Western pop market, KATSEYE signals its ambition to transcend traditional K-pop boundaries and establish a distinct global identity.

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#5thGenerationkpopgroups #5thgen #kcrush #HYBE #KATSEYE #GeffenRecords #Westernpopmarket #kpop #kpopidol #Hallyu #global #ILLIT #RUNext #teencrushconcept #DreamAcademy #BABYMONSTER #GenZ #YGEntertainment #RIIZE #SMEntertainment #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #ZEROBASEONE #GenAlpha

Miss Kim is a rising star in the vibrant world of Korean trot music – a genre loved for its nostalgic charm, powerful vocals, and emotional storytelling. With a voice that captures both tradition and modern flair, Miss Kim is quickly becoming a household name among trot fans in Korea and beyond. 

Debut & Breakthrough

Before stepping into the spotlight, she spent years honing her craft in local singing competitions and regional music festivals, where her potential was recognized by industry veterans. Miss Kim participated in the 2023-2024 Miss Trot 3 competition on TV Chosun. During the program, Miss Kim got to collaborate with legendary trot icons and young crossover artists, expanding her appeal across age groups.

Miss Kim officially debuted on March 13, 2025, with her single “될 놈”, which translates to “The One Who Will Make It.” The song delivers an uplifting message of perseverance and success, resonating with many listeners. Her standout performance of “Hong Sil” during Miss Trot 3 showcased her unique vocal tone and emotional depth, setting her apart from other contestants. Judges praised her ability to convey deep emotions, noting her as a significant new talent in the trot genre.

Recent Works

2024 was a big year for Miss Kim, who participated in the Miss Trot Threegether series. Notably, she featured in Music Source of Miss Trot Threegether Best, Pt. 3 and Pt. 10, released in 2024, showcasing her versatility and commitment to the genre. Miss Kim’s March 2025 debut has been one of her latest success ventures so far.

Online Presence

Miss Kim actively engages with her growing fan base through social media platforms. Her official Instagram offers behind-the-scenes glimpses, performance updates, and personal moments. Additionally, her YouTube channel features music videos, live performances, and vlogs, allowing fans to connect with her journey.

Conclusion

Miss Kim embodies the essence of modern trot music—honoring traditional roots while infusing fresh energy. Her genuine storytelling, powerful vocals, and relatable persona have endeared her to a diverse audience. As she continues to evolve, Miss Kim stands poised to redefine the trot genre for new generations.

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#MissKim #Trotsinger #Trot #KoreanTrot #kcrush #storytellingthroughTrot #MissTrotthreegether #HongSil #TheOneWhoWillMakeIt #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #trotgenre #koreanculture #MissTrot3

This is gonna be so cool! We’ve partnered up with Netflix to offer some free dance classes in LA, NY, Chicago, Atlanta and Dallas to celebrate their upcoming film KPOP DEMON HUNTERS! 

Learn some dance moves inspired from the film taught by top choreographers across the country. The class will feature music and choreo from the soundtrack including the song “TAKEDOWN”, the film’s anthemic original song performed by JEONGYEON, JIHYO AND CHAEYOUNG of TWICE.  Watch: TWICE’s rendition of “TAKEDOWN,”

Reserve your spot in the class now at kpopclubnight.com 

KPOP CLUB NIGHT UPCOMING DATES MAY 2025 —>
New shows coming up in Vancouver, New York, Philly, let’s go!

May 23- New Orleans  – Republic (18+) – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://www.eventbee.com/v/kpop-club-night-in-nola-may-23-at-republic/event?eid=253026843

May 24 – Miami – Mad Live (18+) – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://www.eventbee.com/v/kpop-club-night-in-miami-may-24-at-mad-live/event?eid=243627343

May 30 – Orlando – Celine (18+) DJ Angie
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kpop-club-night-w-dj-chen-fri-053025-tickets-1325674631509

May 31 Mississauga – The Rec Room (19+) – DJ Yuka
Tickets: https://www.eventbee.com/v/kpop-club-night-in-mississauaga-may-31-at-the-rec-room-sq1/event?eid=272026374

May 31 Jacksonville FL – Decca Live (18+)  – DJ Angie
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kpop-club-night-at-decca-live-sat-may-312025-tickets-1321622080219

June 6 – Detroit – The Loving Touch Ferndale (18+) – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://www.eventbee.com/v/kpop-club-night-in-detroit-june-14-at-the-loving-touch/event?eid=213927242

June 7 – Oakland (21+) – Oakland Continental Club – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://posh.vip/e/kpop-club-night?t=kpopnight

June 13 – Kansas City – The Truman (18+) – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://www.eventbee.com/v/kpop-club-night-in-kansas-city-june-13-at-the-truman/event?eid=223427143

June 13 – Montreal – Ausgang Plaza (18+) – DJ Yuka
Tickets: https://lepointdevente.com/billets/xd0250613001

June 14 – Charlotte – The Underground (18+) – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://www.livenation.com/event/G5eVZbtpOdKr-/kpop-club-night-18

June 21 Washington DC (18+) The Howard – DJ Chen
Tickets on sale May 1 at 10am from https://www.unionstagepresents.com/the-howard/

June 27 – Denver – Temple (21+) – DJ Chen
Tickets:https://www.tixr.com/groups/templedenver/events/kpop-club-night-in-the-loft-139640

June 28 – Raleigh NC – The Ritz (18+) – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://www.livenation.com/event/G5eVZbtGoPFtN/kpop-club-night-18

June 28 – Toronto – The Rec Room (19+) – DJ Yuka
Tickets: https://www.eventbee.com/v/kpop-club-night-in-toronto-june-28-at-the-rec-room-roundhouse/event?eid=284324705

July 3 – Vancouver – Celebrities (19+) – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://www.ticketweb.ca/event/kpop-club-night-celebrities-nightclub-tickets/14473813 – DJ Chen

July 4 – Seattle – Ora (21+) – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://tickets.oraseattle.com/e/kpop-club-night-ft-dj-chen-at-ora-4/tickets

July 5 – Honolulu – HB Social (18+) – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://wl.seetickets.us/event/kpop-night-with-chen-at-hb-social-club/651423

July 5 – Winnipeg – The Rec Room (18+)
Tickets: https://www.eventbee.com/v/kpop-club-night-in-winnipeg-july-5-at-the-rec-room/event?eid=293623461

July 12 – Los Angeles – Catch One (18+)
Tickets: https://www.eventbee.com/v/kpop-club-night-in-your-area-los-angeles/event?eid=224423502
July 19 – Salt Lake City – Soundwell (18+)
Tickets: https://www.tixr.com/groups/soundwell2/events/kpop-club-night-ft-dj-chen-at-soundwell-139030

July 25 – Philadelphia – Fringe Bar (21+) – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/87348489/kpop-club-night-philadelphia-fringe-bar

July 25 – Edmonton   – The Rec Room (18+)
Tickets:  https://www.eventbee.com/v/kpop-club-night-in-edmonton-july-25-at-the-rec-room/event?eid=263823663

July 26 – Boston – Royale Boston (18+)
Tickets: https://www.eventbee.com/v/kpop-club-night-in-boston-july-26-at-royale/event?eid=253222864

July 26 –  Calgary (18+)  – The Rec Room – DJ Yuka
Tickets: https://www.eventbee.com/v/kpop-club-night-in-calgary-july-26-at-the-rec-room/event?eid=213523561

Aug 2 – Myrtle Beach – TBA (18+) – DJ Chen – Tickets on sale soon

Aug 8 –  Atlanta (18+)  – The Masquerade – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/0E00628ED2CD3976

Aug 9 – New York (18+) – Irving Plaza – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://concerts.livenation.com/kpop-club-night-18-new-york-new-york-08-09-2025/event/000062A3CBF195AB

Aug 22 – Houston – NOTO (18+) – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://www.eventbee.com/v/kpop-club-night-in-houston-aug-22-at-noto-htx/event?eid=213321365 Discount code HOT (until June 1)

Aug 31 – Pittsburgh – Enclave (21+) – DJ Chen
Tickets on sale soon

Sept 13 – Nashville – Vinyl Lounge (18+) – DJ Chen
Tickets: https://www.eventbee.com/v/kpop-club-night-in-nashville-sept-13-at-the-vinyl-lounge/event?eid=223322462  Discount code HOT (until June 1)

Sept 20 –  London (19+)  – The Rec Room – DJ Yuka
Tickets: https://www.eventbee.com/v/kpop-club-night-in-london-sept-20-at-the-rec-room-masonville/event?eid=253223864 Discount code HOT (until June 1) 

Nov 29 –  Columbus (18+)  – Skully’s – DJ Chen
Tickets on sale June 1st. 

See you on the dance-floor!
______________________________________________________________________

For complete, accurate and up-to-date schedules check http://kpopclubnight.com 

FOLLOW AND TAG
Make sure to follow and tag us in your posts and stories!
Kpop Club Night http://instagram.com/kpopclubnight 
Make requests a week before the show at http://tiktok.com/@kpopclubnight
Live streams are back? Kinda? Check http://twitch.tv/kpopclubnight

 

#kpopclubnight #colaborationwithNetflix #Netflix #dance #KPopDemonHunters #TWICE #TakeDown #kcrush #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #learndancemoves #kpopfunnightout #choreography #kpop

Based on the 2016 award-winning novel “Winter in Sokcho” by Elisa Shua Dusapin, filmmaker Koya Kamura’s adaption and debut feature film, is a quiet introspection on what identity, beauty, and self-confidence looks like in modern day South Korea.

Through the eyes of Soo-ha (Bella Kim), a mid-twenties young South Korean woman searching for some semblance of the familiar in the unfamiliar French graphic novelist Yan Kerrand (Roschdy Zem), who’s looking for his own font of inspiration in an unfamiliar city, Koya (Homesick, Kidnapping John Malkovich) and co-writer Stéphane Ly-Cuong weave a story about two people, a city, and maybe a country looking for answers in learning to accept themselves, faults and all.

In spring, summer, and fall, Sokcho, a small coastal city located in North Western South Korea, is vibrant with a bustling fishing industry and curious tourists visiting to partake of the city’s seafood delicacies for which it’s famous, and to get as close as politically allowed to the infamous DMZ. That invisible border line along the 38th parallel splitting the Korean peninsula into North and South in 1948. Guests stay at the many pensions and guesthouses for respite, and for Soo-ha who works at The Blue House (not so subtly named after the presidential residence in Seoul), cooking and tending to the needs of guests offers her a way to meet new people while maintaining distance.

But that all changes the day Yan Kerrand arrives to find lodging in this cold and quiet town. Shy upon first meeting him, Soo-ha, encouraged by her kindly boss Mr. Park (Ryu Tae-ho) to speak to their new arrival in French, a language which she spent years studying as a university student but had little opportunity to use in a casual setting. Both Soo-ha and Kerrand are curious about each other, mutually attracted by their individual reserved natures and penchant for quietly observing the world as it moves and shifts around them. However, seeing the chance to learn about Sokcho and Korea from the perspective of a local, Kerrand takes the chance to have Soo-ha be his personal tour guide.

In the days following his arrival, she takes him on a tour to the Goseong DMZ Museum – where curiously the receptionist speaks Soo-ha in English rather than Korean, and welcomes Kerrand in French. Here, they walk around the exhibits listening to audio history of the decades of conflict that wracked the peninsula until armistice was declared in 1948. It’s with this scene that I realised how intimate sharing earphones can be. Intimate not in a sexual way, but intimate in the way huddling closely to a trusted confidant and sharing one’s innermost thoughts without fear of judgement, is. On open lookouts dotting the landscape, they look at the jagged mountain tops relaying folktales and stories about dragons, women’s bodies, and flying fish spreading their wings across the surface of the sea.

Through each interaction, Kerrand and Soo-ha gradually open up like the earliest spring blooms, revealing more of what makes them intriguing to each other. He learns that Soo-ha’s interest in learning French stemmed from her longing for a father she’s never met. A Frenchman fisherman, her mother (Park Mi-hyeon) knew for only a brief while before he left to return to the seas. This absence of a man who remains a mystery to her, has created a sense of discontent and uncertainty within Soo-ha about who she is as a woman, a daughter, and even a Korean.

With careful observation, it becomes quite obvious that Soo-ha’s shy nature and insecurities are as visible as the bright white surgical bandages obscuring the identity of a mysterious female guest whose presence feels like an eerie symbol of a culture obsessed with looks and fixing perceived flaws. This unnamed and unknown woman, is often seen sitting quietly sipping tea and eating food prepared by Soo-ha, is as sad a figure as she is intriguing. Could she be a celebrity, a university student, a young mother, or even a tourist from overseas partaking in the specialities of the plastic surgery capital of the world?

Whoever she may have been, she serves as a reminder of how women are influenced to change their identities, the features that make them unique, into someone almost indistinguishable from oh so many others all for the sake of being pleasing to the eye of strangers. A cultural belief and norm demonstrated in Soo-ha’s boyfriend Jun-ho (Gong Do-yu), casually suggesting that if she moves with him to Seoul, she’d be better suited to and accepted in the bustling metropolitan city if she altered her face. Not once is the tremendous pain, long recovery period, and real danger plastic surgery entails ever mentioned or considered.

As Soo-ha tries to figure out who she is and who she wants to be, Kerrand himself reveals his enigmatic nature. He licks paint brushes, tastes ink, and chews on bits of paper to test their quality because it’s only if they meet his standards can they be of use to him as tools for illustrating the thoughts and images flowing through his mind. Through Kerran’s art one of the most beautiful elements of Winter in Sokcho takes shape. The lines of the human body.

As the characters speak of the imperfections they see in Soo-ha and their own bodies, the audience is shown that these so-called faults are what makes the human body to be brilliantly beautiful. They take shape with animated black and white swoops and glides across the canvas of the screen. And begs the question why is seeing the soft curves and folds of a woman’s body beautiful when painted on a canvas or sculpted in cold marble, but seen as ugly and undesirable in the true nakedness of flesh.

Though winter can feel like the longest season of them all, with its frigid air that creates a thin veil of emotional obscurity and uncertainty, it’s the one that allows us to appreciate the vivid colors of spring blooms, the rolling waves of unfrozen ocean waves and fresh air as signs of new beginnings. For Kerrand the closing of winter in Sokcho signals a new chapter in his next book, and for Soo-ha a change in attitude and her relationships.

Winter in Sokcho had its world premiere at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival, and screened in the world cinema program of the 2025 Jeonju International Film Festival.

In my interview with Koya we spoke of the themes of characters searching for answers about their lives in his films – 2019’s award-winning short Homesick, Winter in Sokcho, and his current project Evaporated, working out the complicated chemistry and dynamics of their characters with Bella and Roschdy, and the importance of the mystery woman to the film’s narrative.

 

Carolyn Hinds
Freelance Film Critic, Journalist, Podcaster & YouTuber
African American Film Critics Association Member, Tomatometer-Approved Critic
Host & Producer Carolyn Talks…, and So Here’s What Happened! Podcast
Bylines at Authory.com/CarolynHinds
Twitter & Instagram: @CarrieCnh12

 

#DirectorKoyaKamura #KoyaKamura #WinterinSockho #southkorea #kcrush #JeonjuIFF #TIFF #Sokcho #kcrushmagazine #kcruchamerica #featuredfilm #kcrushinterview #kcrushfilminterview #bookauthorElisaShuaDusapin #FrenchKorean #culture #2019awardwinningshortHomesick #currentprojectEvaporated #filmfestival #JapaneseFrench #labeling #identity #belonging #BellaKim #GongDoyu #RyuTaeho #plasticsurgery #appearance #GoseongDMZMuseum #RoschdyZem #StéphaneLyCuong

First Chinese Idol Group to Perform at American Music Festival and Attend Prestigious Gold Gala Celebrating Asian Excellence

(Photo Credit: A2O Entertainment)

Los Angeles, CA – May 12, 2025 – Breakout girl group, A2O MAY, continues to make history standing out  with an eventful weekend of high-profile events with many firsts for a Chinese idol group. First, the rookie all-stars made their live on stage debut at their first American Music Festival, iHeartRadio’s Wango Tango on May 10. The formidable act, always pushing the limits, stunned with a live performance of their hit singles to critical acclaim for their stage persona, dance moves and live vocals. The quintet shared the stage with some of music’s biggest names such as Gwen Stefani, Doja Cat, Meghan Trainor, and more.

After the Wango Tango festivities, the group were invited by Gold House to attend their star-studded definitive annual award ceremony for 100 Asian Pacific leaders who most impacted culture and society. Jon M. Chu, Megan Thee Stallion, H.E.R., Daniel Dae Kim, and Priyanka Chopra Jonas are among the stars honored at the fourth annual Gold House Gala. The event brought together Asian Pacific American stars, industry leaders, athletes, and influencers to celebrate their excellence. Other recognizable luminaries were Soo-Man Lee, Girls’ Generation members HYOYEON, TIFFANY, SUNNY and, SUPER JUNIOR’s Siwon.

Simultaneously, their pre-debut single, “Under My Skin,” secured a place on the U.S. Mediabase Top 40 Radio Chart for two consecutive weeks. This achievement further cements A2O MAY’s position as the first Chinese idol girl group to enter and now sustain a presence in the U.S. Top 40, signaling a powerful breakthrough moment for the group on the international stage. The Mediabase Top 40 chart, based on actual airplay data from over 180 major radio stations across the United States and Canada, serves as a key indicator of mainstream popularity. Following their historic entry at No. 39 last week, A2O MAY’s continued presence underscores not just an initial splash but a growing resonance with North American audiences, a rare and significant accomplishment for a newly debuted girl group.

While “Under My Skin” continues to climb internationally, A2O MAY has kept their momentum strong with the release of their fierce officially debuted single, “BOSS,” which amassed over 60 million views across YouTube and Weibo showcasing their escalating global fanbase and versatility as artists. The group also made their first U.S. television broadcast debut on KTLA Morning News in Los Angeles performing the chart-topping radio song to a live audience of millions to promote their Wango Tango performance. Alongside their success abroad, “BOSS” also ignited strong momentum domestically, placing No. 1 on one of China’s top streaming platforms, QQ Music.

Formed under A2O Entertainment and guided by acclaimed producer Soo-Man Lee, A2O MAY represents a new generation of performers fluent in both Chinese and English, united by their multicultural background and shared artistic vision. Members CHENYU (16), SHIJIE (17), QUCHANG (17), MICHE (19), and KAT (19) hail from Shanghai, Jiangsu, and Hawaii, bringing a unique global perspective to their music. Their debut introduced a new genre, Zalpha Pop—a futuristic sound blending emotional storytelling with cutting-edge production, designed for the digitally native Gen Z and Gen Alpha.

The recent pivotal moments mark a significant breakthrough not only for the group, but for the broader Chinese music industry, as the group becomes a symbol of what is possible when diverse voices are given a global stage. A2O MAY stands at the forefront of the Zalpha Pop revolution with millions of streams and radio play under their belt – they’re not just a girl group – they’re a movement.

(Photo Credit: A2O Entertainment)

ABOUT A20 MAY

A2O MAY is the first official girl group launched under the A2O Channel by A2O Entertainment, making their debut on December 20, 2024. The group is composed of five talented members — CHENYU (16), SHIJIE (17), QUCHANG (17), MICHE (19), and KAT (19) — who were selected from A2O Rookies’ HTG division. Hailing from Shanghai, Jiangsu, and Hawaii, A2O MAY is a multicultural, bilingual group fluent in Chinese and English, representing a new generation of global idols. Each member brings a unique artistic identity shaped by passions such as fashion styling, piano, visual art, songwriting, and performance. A2O MAY is the first group to embody Zalpha Pop, a genre and cultural movement created by renowned producer Soo-man Lee, aimed at blending futuristic sounds with Gen Z emotional authenticity and storytelling. Their debut single, “Under My Skin,” captures this vision with a rhythmic, synth-driven sound and introspective tone, offering a powerful glimpse into the future of youth-driven global music. As pioneers of A2O’s artist ecosystem, A2O MAY continues to connect with fans worldwide through digital-first content, dynamic visuals, and an open, evolving narrative of growth, self-expression, and creativity.

Follow A20 MAY

INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | SPOTIFY | APPLE MUSIC | TikTok

#A2Omay #Chinesegirlgroup #A2OEntertainment #kcrush #Chenyu #Shijie #Quchang #Miche #Kat #kpop #UnderMySkin #IHeartRadiosWangoTango #SooManLee #invitedbyGoldHouse #GenZ #4thAnnualGoldenHouseGala #kcrushamerica #kcushmagazine #ZalphaPop #JonMChu #awardceremonyfor100AsianPacificLeaders #charttoping #Shanghai #jiangsu #Hawaii

For her second feature length film Mistress Dispeller, documentarian Elizabeth Lo follows a wife, her husband, his mistress, and the dispeller, the woman hired to cast out the mistress like a spell created to break the fragile bonds of marriage.

Mistress Dispeller which screened in the World Cinema program of the 2025 Jeonju International Film Festival, is truly a unique film because how many non-fictional films are there where the camera is allowed to see and record the most intimate, painful, and bewildering aspects of a marriage and “the other woman”?

In China, there’s a new service industry flourishing where women are hired by a spouse suspicious of their partner being guilty of infidelity to find out the truth of the matter, and if cheating is happening, root out the matrimonial usurper. It may sound like what a Mistress Dispeller does is the work of a private investigator, and in many ways it is. But what Wang Zenxi, aka Teacher Wang, does goes beyond surreptitiously following the cheater and taking photos to report back in clandestine meetings.

Teacher Wang does her best to understand the emotional needs and motivations of the parties involved, in this case Mrs. Li, her husband Mr. Li, and his younger mistress – but not as young as you’re thinking – FeiFei, in order to find a way to humanely break up the relationship between FeiFei and Mr. Li, without causing too much harm. Because you see, what Teacher Wang really is, is a conflict resolution expert, and watching the way she operates is fascinating and completely engrossing.

In watching Elizabeth’s previous multi award-winning short films Hotel 22, and Mother’s Day, and her debut feature Stray, it’s quite obvious that Elizabeth Lo has a knack for seeing the people and animals around her with deep curiosity and respect that seems intrinsic to her love of film.

Her film style is to select her main character, a stray dog on the streets of Istanbul named Zeytin for instance, literally take her camera down to their level, and follow every step they make for days, weeks, and even months at a time. This provides Elizabeth and the audience a viewpoint of the world they’ve thought about, but for never more than a few fleeting moments. It gives a glimpse into a whole new world that exists not in a parallel universe, but right there in our realm, next to us. Fully visible and audible.

When Mrs. Li first meets with Teacher Wang, and Mr’s Li’s own brother-in-law who himself was once the mister removed from a marriage by Teacher Wang (yes, I know…talk about drama!), she talks about her anger and frustration from being betrayed by a man she dedicated decades of her life to to build a home and family with him. She also speaks fondly at how much care he takes to prepare her mother’s favourite meal.

It’s countless moments like this where Mrs. Li, FeiFei, Mr. Li, and Teacher Wang herself all show unguarded vulnerability of their wants, fears, and hopes they have while caught up in a relationship where each person is aware of the other but feels more alone than ever. The editing by Charlotte Munch Bengtsen beautifully weaves these snippets of life together to give each person as full an identity as possible with a film where the camera feels invisible but really isn’t. No one feels as though they’re incidental to the story. Particularly FeiFei who turns out to be more than we the audience, Mrs. Li, Teacher Wang, and even Elizabeth ever expected her to be. Thinking about it, Teacher Wang and the film does a lot to dispel whatever myths and preconceptions anyone going into the film about the mistress of this story.

It takes a special skill and emotional maturity and empathy to be allowed to film a couple whose marriage could be either in the process of being permanently broken or healed. And if it does heal, evidence of the cracks formed through stress and distance will be painstakingly repaired and camouflaged with carefully placed compromises like lines of gold in Kintsugi mended china.

In my interview with Elizabeth for the film’s screening for Jeonju IFF, we spoke about her inclination to telling such intimate stories of human nature, knowing how to respect her subject’s space while leaving almost none at all between them and the camera, and how she, producer Maggie Li and their team went about making Mistress Dispeller to document the complexities of a marriage.

Mistress Dispeller premiered at the Venice Film Festival where it won two awards, and has won and been nominated for over a dozen more at multiple international film festivals.

 

Carolyn Hinds

Freelance Film Critic, Journalist, Podcaster & YouTuberAfrican American Film Critics Association Member, Tomatometer-Approved CriticHost & Producer Carolyn Talks…, and So Here’s What Happened! PodcastBylines at Authory.com/CarolynHinds

Twitter & Instagram: @CarrieCnh12

 

#MistressDispeller #VeniceFilmFestival #ElizabethLo #JeonjuIFF #kcrush #China #documentarian #shortfilm #Hotel22 #MothersDay #Stray #kcrushmagazine #kcrushamerica #DirectorElizabethLo #filmfestival #2025

How far would a husband and father run to escape the grief howling at his howls like a dog begging to be noticed and acknowledged? How much can his children go before the exhaustion of refusing to face this monster nipping at their heels drags them down?

For his debut dramatic feature Mongrels, Korean Canadian writer, director, and actor Jerome Yoo takes the Kim family; father Sonny (Kim Jae-hyun), his teenage son Hajoon (Nam Da-nu), and eight-year-old Hana (Jin Sein) from Seoul, South Korea to the open plains and dense forests of the Canadian prairies on an emotionally fraught journey where the grief from the loss of their mother and wife follows them like a spectre of the night.

In this new country, Sonny takes on the job of doing what he does best, hunt. In the town where he and his children are trying to settle down, a pack of wild dogs, mongrels, are seen as nuisances to the farmers and local townspeople, and seeking to curb the movements of these dogs, local businessman Scott Larson (Morgan Derera) hires Sonny to track and hunt the dogs down to be culled.

It’s in the forests observing the behaviour of the animals of both the four legged and bipedal variety that Sonny seems more confident. Here, is where the skills he honed in the mountains and forests of his homeland provide him the ability to show these white Canadian men with their strange glee at stalking defenseless formerly domesticated dogs, is how Sonny shows them he’s just as important and a contributing member of their society as they are.

As Sonny finds his footing on the moss and leaf covered forest floor, Hajoon tries to do the same amongst the teen community. His easy going nature and openness makes forming friendships, particularly with Scott’s son Nedd (Jedd Sharp) one less thing for him to worry about. And for Hana, Laura (Candyce Weir), Nedd’s mother, becomes a willing mother figure – at times uncomfortably so – she can go to when her and brother don’t have time for Hana.

Outside of their home all three members of the family do the best they can to portray a functioning family unit. They take part in outdoor family luncheons with the Larsons. Attend church services where everyone nods along in accordance with the preacher’s words, and enjoy the angst and excitement that comes when approaching the cusp of young adulthood.

But if you look at the nuances of the portrayal of the lead cast, we see how Yoo’s structure of the story and direction of the actors reveals that this family is more broken than anyone on the outside can see. Holding their own equally in their scenes together Kim and Nam give their characters depths and layers to them that are as distinct as the film’s visual and auditory identities crafted by cinematographer Jaryl Lim, and composers Hao-Ting ‘Jude’ Shih and Yu Tae-young.

Within this new and unfamiliar home Kim’s Sonny is domineering, consumed with wild swings of emotions from anger, dismissal, and despondency as he sits alone at night talking on the phone to a wife who’s no longer there, telling her stories of loving moments and their adjustment to a new home.

Sonny’s aggression seems to be directed solely at Hajoon who’s reaching an age where asserting his independence away from his father, and daring to question why Sonny does what he does and how his behaviour may have resulted in his parent’s relationship changing before his mother’s death. relationship changed before her death. It’s in these moments that Yoo’s direction changes the tone and context of the film. Even it’s very meaning. For who is the real mongrel? The wild dogs roaming the forests at night, or Sonny, a man whose words of “Strong mind. Strong heart. Strong fists.” seem more like a threat and contradictory than encouragement to do right.

While her brother and father are caught up in their tumultuous emotional whirlwind of male hormones and struggle for dominance, Hana seeks refuge by catching planes from the sky to make wishes upon. With her childlike naivete and strong imagination, she believes that if she manages to get one hundred planes her most heartfelt desire would become reality as told to her by her mother. Interspersed the idyllic scenes of Hana and Hajoon playing in creek beds, and being warmed by the sun in golden grass fields are glimpses of a very lonely little girl. Despite Mongrels being her first ever acting performance, Jin is completely believable and endearing as Hana. Her ability to translate Hana’s longling to be noticed and have her family whole once again is very impressive for these are emotions that aren’t the easiest to portray, especially in a film with as heavy tones and scenes as Mongrels does.

Set in 1991 at a defining period in South Korean history when the country is finding its footing on the world stage having become a new democracy just four years prior, and undergoing rapid industrial redevelopment and technological advancement, Yoo makes the interesting narrative choice to make an immigrant story not about economic hardship or political unrest, but one about what it means to run from the place where the person central to your family unity has died, and being in that place becomes too much too bear.

But Mongrels isn’t just about the loss of a human loved one. It’s about the loss of an idea, the concept of what constitutes a whole family unit in a society where being a father, mother, son, and daughter is seen as the ideal. It’s about what can be done when you’re not prepared nor equipped to handle the unit breaking down and falling apart. It’s about the loss of your motherland and asks how do you process the grief of losing what’s such an intrinsic part of your identity?

Throughout the film, the sound of growling dogs gnashing their teeth can be heard. Their low rumbles are resonant and haunting and only heard by Sonny. These howls and whimpers aren’t the animals Sonny hunts, but the memories and reality he’s too afraid to face. But once he does, he can calm them, because it’s only through embracing grief that we can begin the healing process. It never goes away. But it can be tamed.

In my interview with Yoo and producer Nach Dudsdeemaytha for Mongrel’s screening at the 2025 Jeonju International Film Festival in South Korea, we discussed Yoo’s methods of characterising grief in the Kim family, and Dudsdeemathya’s learning curve producing a feature length film in the Canadian film industry.

Mongrels was produced by Musubi Arts, and had its North American premiere at the 2024 Vancouver International Film Festival, where Yoo won the award for best Emerging Canadian Director. The film also won the FIPRESCI prize at the 2024 Tallinn Black Nights Film 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 Authory.com/CarolynHinds

Twitter & Instagram: @CarrieCnh12

 

#JeonjuIFF2025 #MONGRELS #directorJeromeYoo #ProducerNachDudsdeemaytha #kcrush #AsianFilm #MusubiArts #bestEmergingCanadiandirector #FIPRESCI #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #TallinnBlackNightsFilmFestival2024 #immagration #movefromKoreatoCanada #1991Koreanculture

🎤 In this exclusive interview with KCrush America Magazine, we sit down with Microdot, the Korean-New Zealand rapper, for an honest and inspiring conversation about life, legacy, and his highly anticipated ‘WITHER’ EP.

Following his raw and reflective ‘Cloud’ EP, Microdot opens up about the meaning behind ‘WITHER’, the emotional weight of his creative process, and how he continues to evolve as both an artist and individual. From lyrical vulnerability to cultural identity, this interview explores the man behind the music.

We also dive into lighter moments—from his funniest studio experiences to the one chore he’d ditch forever. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his music, this is Microdot like you’ve never seen him before.

👉 Watch, Like, and Subscribe for more in-depth artist interviews and K-hip-hop content!
🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss a drop.

📌 Interview Highlights:
• Meaning behind the ‘WITHER’ EP
• Contrast between ‘Cloud’ and ‘WITHER’
• Mental health, growth, and overcoming hardship
• Dual identity as a Korean-New Zealander
• Fun, personal questions and future goals
• Messages for fans and legacy talk

— Karen Mwenda

#Microdot #WITHEREP #CloudEP #KoreanHipHop #KHipHop #KoreanRapper #AsianHipHop #HipHopInterview #KCrushMagazine #RapperInterview #MusicComeback #DualIdentity #CreativeProcess #GlobalHipHop #ShowMeTheMoney #SMTM #NewZealandRapper #EmotionalRap #LyricalRap #MusicDocumentary #ArtistJourney #HipHopCulture #BehindTheMusic #KMusic2025 #KoreanMusicScene #RapStorytelling #MusicLegacy #koreanartists

Insooni (Kim In-soon) is one of South Korea’s most respected vocalists, often hailed as a “living legend” in the Korean music industry. Known for her deep, soulful voice and unmatched stage presence, Insooni has spent decades inspiring audiences across generations. Her journey in K-pop isn’t just a story of success – it’s a story of perseverance, evolution, and artistic rebirth.

Debut & Soloist Career

Insooni, born Kim In-soon in 1957, is a renowned South Korean singer celebrated for her powerful R&B and gospel vocals. Insooni was born to a South Korean mother and Black American father. She began her music career in 1978 with the girl group Hee Sisters. In 1980, she launched her solo career with the album Destiny (인연), and gained widespread acclaim with the 1983 hit “Every Night (밤이면 밤마다),” which remains a beloved classic in Korea. In 2006, Insooni released her autobiography Star of Hope, sharing her journey as a mixed-race child in Korea who overcame discrimination to become one of the nation’s most respected vocalists.

Hiatus & Comeback

Although Insooni remained respected in the Korean music scene, her mainstream visibility decreased during the 2000s. She focused more on concerts, mentorship, and occasional media appearances. But in late 2023, Insooni made headlines again when she joined Golden Girls, a vocal group formed by JYP Entertainment. Alongside fellow legends Lee Eun-mi, Park Mi-kyung, and Shin Hyo-bum, Insooni reminded audiences that age is no barrier to talent.

Recent Activities

Insooni continues to perform and inspire in 2025. In February, she made a notable appearance at the 32nd Hanteo Music Awards, where she performed “Goose’s Dream” with rising stars Oh Ji Yul and Kim Jae Joong. The performance reignited her fame, making her an iconic anthem of hope and resilience and establishing her as a vocal powerhouse in an industry still in its formative years. She also performed “Happy,” showcasing her vocal longevity and influence. In 2023, Insooni was appointed to Korea’s Multicultural Youth Families Support Council to help expand education and career services for mixed-race and multicultural students.

What’s Next for Insooni?

While official comeback dates haven’t been announced, Insooni is expected to continue performing and collaborating with younger artists. Her social media hints at upcoming projects and concerts, and her presence on YouTube and Instagram remains active, drawing in both loyal fans and new generations discovering her for the first time.

Online Presence

Insooni stays in touch with her loyal and growing fans through her social media platforms including Instagram and YouTube.

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#Insooni #kpopstimelessdiva #kcrush #KimInsoon #KoreasMulticulturalYouthFamiliesSupportCouncil #RnB #Korea #Koreancelebrity #koreanblacksinger #koreanculture #kfashion #koreain1970and1980s #kcrushmagazine #kcrushamerica #HeeSisters #Destiny #EveryNightbyInsooni #StarOfHopebookwrittenbyInsooni #JYPGoldenGirls #LeeEunmi #ParkMikyung #ShinHyobum #32ndHanteoMusicAwards #HappysungbyInsooni #GoosesDream #OhJiYul #KimJaeJoong #kcrusharticles

As of April 2025, BTS is steadily progressing toward a full reunion. Jin completed his mandatory military service on June 12, 2024, and J-Hope followed on October 17, 2024. RM, the group’s leader, and V are scheduled to be discharged on June 10, 2025 – a few days from now. ​

The remaining members – Jimin, Jungkook, and Suga – are also expected to complete their service by June 2025. Jungkook and Jimin are anticipated to be discharged on June 11, while Suga, serving in the public sector due to a shoulder injury, is scheduled for discharge on June 21, 2025. ​

In a recent interview on Apple Music 1’s The Zane Lowe Show, J-Hope expressed optimism about the group’s future, stating that BTS will “quickly get together” and explore their next steps. ​

Each member has pursued solo projects during their hiatus, showcasing their artistry. Jin has been active with new music and variety shows, while J-Hope released multiple singles and a docuseries. RM issued two solo albums while V dropped his album ‘Layover’. Jimin and Jungkook also released solo albums, ‘Face’ and ‘Golden’, respectively. ​

With contract renewals secured, fans can anticipate a full group comeback in 2025. While a specific date hasn’t been announced, the group’s 12th debut anniversary in June 2025 presents a symbolic opportunity for their reunion. ​

Stay tuned for updates on BTS’s return as they prepare to embark on the next chapter of their journey.

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#BTS #BTScomeback #BTS12Anniversary #BTSJuneReturn #kcrush #RM #jHOPE #JIN #V #Jungkook #Jimin #Suga #AppleMusic1sTheZaneLoweShow #TheZaneLoweShow #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #comeback #junecomebackpossibility

First Chinese Idol Girl Group to Enter American Top 40 Radio Chart

Listen to “BOSS” Here

Watch “BOSS” Music Video Here

Breakout girl group, A2O MAY, has made history as the first Chinese idol girl group to chart in the U.S. Top 40 Radio with their debut single, “Under My Skin.” The record marks a groundbreaking milestone for the group and for Chinese representation in global pop, signaling a powerful shift in the international music landscape. Now, with this new momentum, the group is ready to level up with the release of their bold new single, “BOSS,” out today, which promises to amplify their fearless energy and global appeal.

The bass-heavy, hip-hop, electronic dance-inspired anthem channels unapologetic confidence with next-generation, girl-boss energy. With deeper vocals, punchy verses, powerful dance breaks, and a hook built to empower, the song showcases a different side of A2O MAY. It’s a fearless follow-up to their chart-topping debut, positioning the group as genre-shifting icons in the making.

In just a matter of weeks, “Under My Skin” climbed the Mediabase U.S. Radio Weekly Chart and now officially broke into the Top 40, an unprecedented feat for a rookie group. The group has already garnered a significant online presence for their exceptional dancing and vocal abilities, amassing 10.7 million views on China’s Weibo and 13 million views on YouTube. Their charting success reinforces their status as rising artists of international relevance and highlights the growing influence of Asian talent in Western mainstream media.

Formed under A2O Entertainment and guided by acclaimed producer Soo-man Lee, A2O MAY represents a new generation of performers fluent in both Chinese and English, united by their multicultural background and shared artistic vision. Members CHENYU (16), SHIJIE (17), QUCHANG (17), MICHE (19), and KAT (19) hail from Shanghai, Jiangsu, and Hawaii, bringing a unique global perspective to their music. Their debut as part of the A2O Channel introduced a new genre, Zalpha Pop—a futuristic sound blending emotional storytelling with cutting-edge production, designed for the digitally native Gen Z and Gen Alpha.

This moment marks a significant breakthrough not only for A2O MAY but for the broader Chinese music industry, as the group becomes a symbol of what is possible when diverse voices are given a global stage. Their success on U.S. Top 40 Radio opens the door for other Asian acts, redefining boundaries and expanding opportunities for future generations of idol groups.

As they prepare for their first official U.S. performance at the 102.7 KIIS FM Wango Tango festival in California, A2O MAY stands at the forefront of the Zalpha Pop revolution. With millions of streams and radio play under their belt, they’re not just a girl group – they’re a movement. And this is only the beginning.

Official Artist Introduction

More than a name, A2O MAY signals the beginning of a cultural shift. Inspired by the season of full bloom and sharing its sound with the Chinese character 美 (Mei), meaning “beauty,” the name reflects not only outer elegance but inner strength — the quiet power behind every transformation. More than artists, they are a bridge — connecting culture to culture, generation to generation, heart to heart. Step into the world of A2O MAY. The future begins in full bloom.

ABOUT A20 MAY

A2O MAY is the first official girl group launched under the A2O Channel by A2O Entertainment, making their debut on December 20, 2024. The group is composed of five talented members — CHENYU (16), SHIJIE (17), QUCHANG (17), MICHE (19), and KAT (19) — who were selected from A2O Rookies’ HTG division. Hailing from Shanghai, Jiangsu, and Hawaii, A2O MAY is a multicultural, bilingual group fluent in Chinese and English, representing a new generation of global idols. Each member brings a unique artistic identity shaped by passions such as fashion styling, piano, visual art, songwriting, and performance. A2O MAY is the first group to embody Zalpha Pop, a genre and cultural movement created by renowned producer Soo-man Lee, aimed at blending futuristic sounds with Gen Z emotional authenticity and storytelling. Their debut single, “Under My Skin,” captures this vision with a rhythmic, synth-driven sound and introspective tone, offering a powerful glimpse into the future of youth-driven global music. As pioneers of A2O’s artist ecosystem, A2O MAY continues to connect with fans worldwide through digital-first content, dynamic visuals, and an open, evolving narrative of growth, self-expression, and creativity.

Follow A20 MAY

INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | SPOTIFY | APPLE MUSIC | TikTok

 

#A2OMAY #Chinesegirlgroup #CHENYU #SHIJIE #QUCHANG #MICHE #KAT #ZalphaPop #SooManLee #kcrush #A2OEntertainment #HTGdivision #Shanghai #Jiangsu #Hawaii #kcrushmagazine #kcrushamerica #UnerMySkindebutsingel #youthdrivenglobalmusic #digitalfirstcontent #newgroup #AmericanTop40Radio #1027KIISFMWangoTangofestival #WangoTangoFestivalCaliforniaappearance #Mediabase U.S. Radio Weekly Chart #1326517YouTubeViewsIn10hours #ChineseIdolGirlGroup

Since their debut, YOUNG POSSE has been making waves in the K-pop scene with their dynamic rap style and fresh energy. Fresh off their Texas tour and with the release of their emotional new track “Cold”, the group is proving their versatility. In this exclusive interview, they discuss their journey, musical influences, international tours, collaborations, and what’s next for their growing global fanbase.

Who is YOUNG POSSE and how did you end up in the hip-hop and R&B genre?

[SUNHYE] We are a five-member group that loves hip-hop, music, and the stage.

We all love music and dancing so much that we started learning and enjoying various genres. When we got together, we realized that hip-hop was the genre with the most synergy, and I think we ventured into the genre because we enjoyed it so much.

[YEONJUNG] We are a bold and young group that loves to challenge and is not afraid of anything! We put our stories in our songs to show who we are! Since our trainee life, we have been challenging and learning various genres, and so we naturally started hip-hop and R&B.

[JIANA] YOUNG POSSE is a team of five young members, and since we’ve been practicing together, we naturally tried hip-hop and R&B, the music genres we’ve always loved.

[DOEUN] We are a Korean group that debuted in October 2023. I always liked hip-hop and R&B genres, and when I joined the company, I started listening and practicing more, so it was natural for me to start.

[JIEUN] YOUNG POSSE means young, a young group, and it also means anything is possible in Latin. I think I naturally started doing hip-hop and R&B after I joined the company!

You recently finished the Texas tour. How was the experience and what are some of the most memorable moments?

[SUNHYE] After our first tour, I longed for the emotions that one can only experience during a tour, and so I was very excited to do it. Every moment is unforgettable, but whenever our foreign fans shout out to us in Korean, it leaves behind a vivid memory.

[YEONJUNG] It was my first time in Texas, and I fell in love with the beautiful scenery and the laid-back atmosphere. And most of all, I was so happy to meet the Texas Teleposse. I love seeing fans wearing similar clothes to what we wear during tours, and it’s something I will always remember.

[JIANA] It was such a precious experience. We had so much fun on stage and enjoyed moments in Texas. The most memorable moment was when we got to tour with Zior Park and seeing him on stage was exciting and made me feel like my stress was gone.

[DOEUN] I still find the fact that we did a tour very exciting, so every moment is memorable. It was amazing to see so many people come to our concerts, and it made me feel so happy to see so many people singing along to our songs and enjoying our performances.

[JIEUN] We received so much energy from our fans during this tour. All of our concerts were memorable, but I especially remember our third concert the most. It was in Austin, and I think I felt like I was able to share more with the fans.

Having debuted not long ago, how does it feel to already be touring internationally?

[SUNHYE] I never imagined it. I only dreamed about it, and I still can’t believe it could happen this early. I’m so grateful that you(fans) came to see us perform, and I think that makes us work harder.

[YEONJUNG] I’m so happy that this opportunity came so soon, and I’m glad that we were able to showcase our performances to so many people! We’re still not as good, but we want to gain experience and develop ourselves so that we can show more people our amazing side!

[JIANA] I’m so honored that you(fans) showered us with so much love, and we’re always grateful. We want to repay you with more, just as much as you have loved us.

[DOEUN] When we first went on an overseas tour, I thought, “Can we go on a tour this soon?”. But we had so many experiences while on tour, and it really inspired us to work harder.

[JIEUN] I’m so grateful that our overseas fans showered us with so much love, and I’m glad that touring gave us more opportunities to grow!

Your latest track, “COLD” showcases YOUNG POSSE’s softer, more emotional side. What was the inspiration behind this track?

[SUNHYE] I think it’s a story about love that has turned cold. I’m not sure exactly what type of love it was written about, but I sang it while thinking about my family or my dog to empathize with it.

[YEONJUNG] We try to challenge ourselves with something new every day, and experiencing this cold winter inspired us to try a new vibe with “COLD”.

[JIANA] When we first received this song, we were excited because it was a new song vibe that we hadn’t shown before, and we thought it would show a different side of YOUNG POSSE.

[DOEUN] The title song “COLD” is a calm song, unlike our other songs. It was an honor working with 10CM.

[JIEUN] I think this album shows a new side of YOUNG POSSE and the meaning that we will challenge ourselves with many different things in the future!

Most K-pop groups have one or two rappers. Given that all YOUNG POSSE members rap, how do you maintain harmony while still showcasing each member’s unique rap identity?

[SUNHYE] I think our strength is that we have different voices and personalities. But in order to make it stand out more, we practiced a lot of songs by artists with strong characters and made our spectrums more distinct. Also, when singing as a group, we delegate high and low tones to avoid overshadowing each other.

[YEONJUNG] I think it’s important to get to know and understand each other better and fill in the gaps!

[JIANA] When rap-making or having conversations, we tend to emphasize and talk about each member’s rap styles and identity, which I think makes it easier to capture each person’s feelings.

[DOEUN] We all have different rap styles, but it’s really interesting how our raps work together in a song. We tend to practice in sync so that we can be harmonious while keeping our individuality alive.

[JIEUN] When working on a song, we usually study each other’s tones and feelings a lot so that we can bring out our different charms!

You’ve collaborated with several artists, including 10CM. How are these experiences compared to working alone?

[SUNHYE] It’s such an honor to be able to work with seniors that I’ve always looked up to, and I think it motivates me even more. I feel more responsible, and I find myself listening to the songs more once they are released.

[YEONJUNG] It was such an honor to be able to work with seniors whom I have admired for the longest. I think it was an experience that I could learn a lot from, because I think the combination of voices other than our members made the song feel different and richer.

[JIANA] It was a very valuable experience because I think we were able to show the vibe and emotions that we couldn’t show by just our voices, all thanks to 10CM’s voice.

[DOEUN] When we collaborate with artists, unlike when it’s just our voices, the newly added voices give YOUNG POSSE’s song a new vibe, and it feels fresh. We’ve always collaborated with great artists, so we get a lot of inspiration whenever we work together.

[JIEUN] When doing collaborations, we put effort into learning a lot about the artist’s strengths.

You’ve done some traveling so far. Who is the best and worst at packing for trips? Who brings everything, and who forgets crucial things?

[SUNHYE] I think I’m the worst at packing because I get anxious and end up packing too much, and it takes me a long time. But I don’t forget things! Yeonjung and Doeun sometimes forget their universal SIM cards when they go abroad. Haha!

[YEONJUNG] I think all of our members are good at packing. Personally, I take notes of things I need to pack and stay up packing the night before!

[JIANA] I’m a very good packer. I used to stress a lot about what to pack, but these days I just grab what I need quickly.

[DOEUN] I think I’m the best packer because I’m good at packing only what I need and not what I don’t need. I think the member who packs the most is Sunhye because her suitcase is the biggest and heaviest.

[JIEUN] I think it’s both of them. I’m very meticulous about packing everything, but I also lose things easily.

Your 2^nd ‘XXL’ EP paid homage to Seo Taiji and Boys’ ‘Come Back Home’. What inspired you to incorporate this tribute, and how did you approach blending classic influences with your modern style?

[SUNHYE] We value the fundamentals very much, and we wanted to show that side of ourselves as a hip-hop group. It’s nice to be able to love, respect, and learn from them, and also give a shout-out.

[YEONJUNG] During our trainee period, our CEO often showed us videos of Seo Taiji and Boys. After our debut, we decided to pay homage to their “COME BACK HOME” track.  We looked up a lot of videos from that era and did a lot of research to showcase our youthful energy without compromising Seo Taiji and Boys’ (our seniors) style.

[JIANA] Since our trainee era, we’ve always watched, listened to, and admired our seniors’ performances. We combined Young Poss hip-hop with their “COME BACK HOME” sound and paid homage to their dances.

[DOEUN] Seo Taiji and Boys band has been our favorite since we were trainees, so it was an honor to pay homage with ‘XXL’. We’re grateful that ‘XXL’ has received a lot of praise for combining Seo Taiji and Boys’ song with modern styles.

[JIEUN] We’ve watched a lot of Seo Taiji and Boys videos since we were trainees. It was an honor to promote Seo Taiji and Boys with an homage concept in our previous ‘XXL’ and we thought we should do better.

You also contribute to songwriting. How has this process evolved since your debut and how does it work?

[SUNHYE] We’re still not that good at it, but it’s helpful when we share ideas and write lyrics together. I think the verse length that one can write alone increases as they listen to a lot of songs and gain experience.

[YEONJUNG] When we write a song, sometimes we decide on a topic among ourselves, and sometimes a member decides first. However, we’ve been doing it little by little since we were trainees, so now we’re trying to come up with better songs. The CEO and our teacher also help us a lot. Thank you!

[JIANA] We write lyrics based on our daily life experiences, and throw around topics that come to mind amongst ourselves to decide on a theme. We also write our own lyrics and put them together.

[DOEUN] I’ve had a lot of lyric-writing opportunities since I was a trainee, and after having tried many times, I’ve gotten better at it. These days, I’m practicing and working hard so that my lyrics can be adopted more often.

[JIEUN] I’m still not good enough, but the more I do it, the more fun I have and the more ambitious I get.

If YOUNG POSSE had to rap a verse while eating the spiciest food ever, who would win?

[SUNHYE] I think Jiana and Jieun will do the best, and I think I’ll do the worst. I can’t eat a lot of spicy food.

[YEONJUNG] I think it’s Sunhye!! I’m the worst at eating spicy food. So I want her to eat quickly and show her storm rap skills.

[JIANA] I think Sunhye can’t eat spicy food, so I think she’ll rap faster than her usual fast rap.

[DOEUN] I think Sunhye will be the first to start, because she’s really good at making limes.

[JIEUN] I’ll pick Sunhye because even though she doesn’t eat spicy food, she’s good at rapping!

What can fans look forward to next from YOUNG POSSE?

[SUNHYE] We’ve been doing a lot of overseas concerts. I’m thankful that we get such good memories and energy every time we go, and we want to see you in more diverse places. This Hong Kong fan concert is close to my birthday, so I think it’s a birthday gift and I’m looking forward to it.
[YEONJUNG] It’s our first time having a fan concert in Hong Kong! The fans are also looking forward to it, so we’re working even harder! I think we’ll be able to visit overseas fans often after the Hong Kong fan concert!
[JIANA] We’re having a fan concert on April 13th! I’m looking forward to it, and I’m nervous because it’s my first time meeting the fans in Hong Kong. And when I was young, I had a lot of fun memories in Hong Kong, so I’m very happy to go back!
[DOEUN] We’re having a fan concert in Hong Kong soon. I’m very nervous because it’s my first time meeting Teleposse from Hong Kong.
[JIEUN] We’re going to have a fan concert where we can meet our fans in Hong Kong soon, so I hope many of you come!

Do you have a message for your fans?

[SUNHYE] Thank you for always being with us, and you are the reason for YOUNG POSSE’s existence!! Let’s meet soon. I miss you. I love you.
[YEONJUNG] Thank you so much, and I love you so much. We’re always on Teleposse’s side, and we want to tell you that we love you so much!
[JIANA] I always love you, and thank you. Hope we stay together for the longest time. I love you. 💓
[DOEUN] Teleposse! See you more often!! I love you.
[JIEUN] Thank you so much always, and be careful not to catch a cold!! Thank you for always being supportive. I love you!!

 

YOUNG POSSE와 인터뷰

YOUNG POSSE는 데뷔 이후 역동적인 랩 스타일과 신선한 에너지로 케이팝 분야에서 큰 반향을 일으키고 있습니다. 텍사스 투어를 막 마치고 감성적인 새 트랙 ‘Cold’를 발표하며 다재다능함을 입증하고 있는 그룹입니다. 이 독점 인터뷰에서는 그들의 여정, 음악적 영향력, 해외 투어, 콜라보레이션, 그리고 점점 늘어나는 글로벌 팬층을 위한 다음 계획에 대해 이야기합니다.

YOUNG POSSE는 누구이며 어떻게 힙합과 RnB 장르를 시작하게 되었나요?

[SUNHYE] 저희 영파씨는 힙합과 음악, 무대를 사랑하는  5인조 그룹입니다.

다들 음악과 춤을 너무 좋아해서 여러 장르를 배우고 즐기다가 5명이 모였을 때 가장 시너지를 내는 장르가 힙합이라는 걸 깨달았고 또 너무 즐거웠기 때문에 시작하게 되었다고 생각합니다.

[YEONJUNG] 저희는 도전하는 것을 좋아하고 두려워하지 않는 당돌하고 YOUNG한 집단이에요! 곡 안에 저희의 이야기를 담아내어 저희가 누구인지 보여드리고 있습니다! 연습생때부터 여러 장르를 도전 하고 배우다보니 자연스럽게 힙합과 RnB도 시작하게 되었습니다.

[JIANA] 영파씨는 젊은 5명의 멤버들이 함께 뭉쳐 만들어진 팀이고, 같이 연습하며 지내다 보니 자연스레 저희가 항상 좋아하던 음악 장르인 힙합과 알앤비를 시도해오게 되었습니다.

[DOEUN] 저희는 2023년 10월에 데뷔한 한국의 그룹입니다. 평소에 힙합과 알앤비 장르를 좋아했고, 회사에 들어와서 더 많이 듣고 연습하다 보니 자연스럽게 시작하게 되었습니다.

[JIEUN] 영파씨는 젊은, 어린 집단이라는 뜻으로 라틴어로는 뭐든 가능하다는 뜻도 가지고 있습니다. 회사에 들어와서부터 자연스럽게 힙합과 알앤비를 시작했던 것 같아요!

최근 텍사스 투어를 마쳤습니다. 경험은 어땠나요? 그리고 가장 기억에 남는 순간은 무엇인가요?

[SUNHYE] 첫 번째 투어를 마치고 투어에서만 느낄 수 있는 감정이 많이 그리웠어요. 그래서 굉장히 들떠서 할 수 있었어요. 모든 순간이 잊혀지지 않지만 외국 팬분들께서 가끔 한국말로 소리쳐주실 때마다 강렬한 기억으로 남습니다.

[YEONJUNG] 처음으로 텍사스에 가봤는데, 풍경도 예쁘고 여유로운 모습에 반했습니다. 그리고 무엇보다 텍사스 텔레파시들을 만날 수 있어서 너무 너무 행복했어요. 저는 투어를 갈 때마다 저희가 입었던 옷들을 비슷하게 입고 와주시는 팬분들을 보면 너무 좋아서 계속 기억에 남습니다!

[JIANA] 너무 소중한 경험이었습니다. 무대도 너무 재밌었고 텍사스 안에서의 순간도 너무 즐거웠거든요. 기억에 남는 순간은 저희가 지올팍 선배님과 함께 투어를 하게 되어서 지올팍 선배님의 무대를 보게 되었을 때 무대가 너무 신나서 스트레스가 풀리는 기분이 가장 기억에 남아요

[DOEUN] 저는 아직 투어를 한다는 자체가 많이 신기하고 그래서 모든 순간이 다 기억에 남습니다. 우리의 공연을 보러 온 사람들이 생각보다 정말 많아서 신기했고 많은 분들이 저희의 노래를 따라 부르고 공연을 즐겨주시는 그 모습이 너무 즐거워 보여서 무대를 하면서도 행복하다는 생각을 했습니다.

[JIEUN] 이번 투어를 다녀오면서 팬 분들께 에너지를 정말 많이 받았습니다. 모든 공연이 기억에 남았지만 특히 세번째 공연때가 가장 기억에 많이 남습니다. 오스틴에서 했던 공연인데 유난히 팬분들과 더 호흡을 나누며 공연을 한다고 느꼈던 것 같아요.

데뷔한 지 얼마되지 않았는데 벌써 해외 투어를 하고 있는 기분이 어떤가요?

[SUNHYE] 상상도 못했어요. 꿈만 꾸던 일인데 이렇게 일찍 이뤄질 수 있다는 게 아직 믿기지 않고, 그래서 공연을 보러 와주셨다는 게 너무 감사해서 더 열심히 하게 되는 것 같아요.

[YEONJUNG] 정말 빨리 이런 기회가 와서 너무 행복하고 저희의 무대를 많은 분들께 보여 드릴 수 있어서 기쁩니다! 아직 너무 부족하지만 더 많이 경험하고 발전해서 더 많은 분들께 저희의 멋진 모습 보여 드리고 싶습니다!

[JIANA] 이렇게 많이 사랑해 주셔서 너무너무 영광이고 항상 감사합니다. 사랑해 주시는 만큼 더 많이 보답해드리고 싶어요.

[DOEUN] 처음 해외 투어를 갈 때는 벌써 투어를 가도 되나? 라는 생각이 들었는데 투어를 하면서 정말 많은 것들을 경험했고 자극도 정말 많이 받아서 더 열심히 하게 되었습니다.

[JIEUN] 해외에 계신 팬분들 께서도 저희를 많이 사랑해 주셔서 너무 감사하고, 투어를 하면서 더 많이 성장 할 수 있는 계기가 많아져서 좋습니다!

최근 트랙인 “Cold”는 YOUNG POSSE의 더 부드럽고 감성적인 면모를 보여줍니다. 이 트랙의 영감은 무엇이었나요?

[SUNHYE] 차갑게 돌아서버린 사랑에 대한 이야기인 것 같아요. 정확히 어떤 형태의 사랑으로 쓰여진 곡인지는 알 수 없지만 저는 공감하기 위해서 가족이나 반려견에 대한 생각을 하면서 불렀습니다.

[YEONJUNG] 저희는 매일 새로운 것에 도전 하려고 하는데, 이번에 추운 겨울을 겪으면서 COLD라는 새로운 느낌으로 도전 해보게 되었습니다.

[JIANA] 처음 이 곡을 받았을 때 저희가 한번도 보여드리지 않았던 새로운 느낌의 곡이라 저희 영파씨의 색다른 모습을 보여줄 수 있을 것 같아서 기대가 되었습니다.

[DOEUN] 이번 타이틀곡 Cold에서는 기존의 저희의 곡들과는 달리 차분한 느낌의 노래였는데요. 10cm 선배님과 함께 하게 되어 정말 영광이었습니다.

[JIEUN] 이번 앨범을 통해서 저희 영파씨의 새로운 모습과 앞으로 더 다양한 것을 많이 도전 하겠다는 의미가 담겼다고 생각합니다!

대부분 케이팝 그룹에는 래퍼가 한두 명씩 있습니다. 근데 모든 YOUNG POSSE멤버가 래퍼입니다. 각 멤버의 고유한 랩 정체성을 보여주면서 하모니를 유지하려면 어떻게 해요?

[SUNHYE] 저희의 장점이 각자 다른 목소리와 개성을 갖고 있는 것이라고 생각해요. 하지만 그걸 더 돋보이게 하기 위해서 각자 어울리면서도 캐릭터가 강한 아티스트분들의 곡들을 많이 연습해 보면서 각자 색깔을 더 뚜렷하게 만들었습니다. 또 단체 떼창을 할 땐 하이톤과 로우톤 담당이 있어서 어느 한 쪽에 쏠리지 않게 만들려고 노력합니다.

[YEONJUNG] 서로에 대해서 더 잘 알고 이해하면서 부족한 점들을 채워 주는 게 중요하다고 생각합니다!

[JIANA] 랩메이킹을 하거나 다같이 이야기를 할 때 각자 자신만의 랩스타일과 정체성에 대해 고민하고 이야기해보면서 각자의 느낌을 잡는 편인 것 같아요.

[DOEUN] 저희 멤버들의 랩 스타일은 모두 다르지만 정말 신기하게도 저희의 랩이 한 곡에 섞였을 때 조합이 잘 어울립니다. 저희의 개성을 살리면서도 하모니가 유지되도록 맞춰가며 연습하는 편입니다.

[JIEUN] 평소에 곡 작업을 할 때도 서로의 톤이나 느낌을 많이 연구 하면서 각자 다른 매력이 느껴질 수 있도록 하는 편입니다!

10CM을 포함한 여러 아티스트와 협업했습니다. 혼자 작업하는 것과 비교했을 때 이 경험은 어떻습니까?

[SUNHYE] 늘 존경하는 선배님들과 함께 해볼 수 있다는 게 너무 영광이고, 동기부여가 더 크게 되는 것 같아요. 책임감도 더 생기고 곡이 나왔을 때도 더 많이 듣게 됩니다.

[YEONJUNG] 예전부터 존경하는 선배님들과 함께 할 수 있어서 너무 영광이었고 저희 멤버들의 목소리가 아닌 다른 목소리가 합쳐지면서 다른 느낌을 낼 수 있고 곡이 더 풍부해 지는 것 같아서 많은 것을 배워 갈 수 있는 경험이었던 것 같아요.

[JIANA] 저희들끼리 했을 때 낼 수 없던 분위기와 감성을 선배님의 목소리로 인해 더 풍성해지고 감성적인 면을 더 보여줄 수 있었던 것 같아 너무 값진 경험이었습니다.

[DOEUN] 아티스트분들과 협업할 때는 저희의 목소리만 있을 때와 달리 새로운 목소리가 함께 들어가니까 새로운 느낌의 영파씨 노래가 나와 신선하다고 느낍니다.

항상 멋진 아티스트분들과 협업을 해와서 함께 작업을 할 때마다 많은 자극을 받습니다.

[JIEUN] 그 아티스트 분의 장점을 많이 배우려고 노력하게 됩니다.

지금까지 여행을 몇까지 했습니다. 여행 짐을 가장 잘 싸는 사람과 가장 못 싸는 사람은 누구인가요? 누가 모든 것을 챙기고 누가 중요한 것을 잊어버리나요?

[SUNHYE] 저는 제가 짐을 가장 못 싸는 것 같아요. 불안해서 너무 많은 짐을 챙기게 되어서 오래 걸리거든요. 하지만 그래서 물건을 잘 놓고 오진 않아요! 연정이나 도은이가 가끔 유심을 놓고 해외에 갈 때는 있어요.ㅋㅋ

[YEONJUNG] 제 생각에는 저희 멤버들이 다 짐을 잘 싸는 것 같아요. 개인적으로 저는 메모장에 챙겨 가야 할 것들을 메모 하고 그 전날 밤을 새면서 짐을 싸는 편입니다!

[JIANA] 저는 짐을 굉장히 잘 싸는 편이에요. 예전엔 정말 고민을 많이 하며 쌌지만 이제는 빠르게 필요한 것만 잘 챙겨갑니다.

[DOEUN] 저는 제가 가장 짐을 잘 싼다고 생각합니다. 필요하지 않은 물건은 챙기지 않고 필요한 물건만 챙기는 것을 잘 하는 것 같아요. 가장 짐을 많이 가져가는 멤버는 선혜언니인 것 같아요. 선혜언니 캐리어를 보면 가장 크고 무겁거든요.

[JIEUN] 둘 다 저인 것 같아요. 제가 물건을 꼼꼼하게 다 잘 챙기는데 또 잘 잃어버리기도 해요ㅎ

두 번째 ‘XXL’ EP는 Seo Taji & Boys의 “Come Back Home”에 경의를 표했습니다. 이 헌정을 왜 했고 클래식 영향과 현대 스타일을 어떻게 조화시켰나요?

[SUNHYE] 저희는 근본에 대해 아주 중요하게 생각하는데요. 힙합그룹으로서 그 면모를 보여주고 싶었어요. 근본적인 것부터 사랑하고 존경하고 배우면서 샤라웃할 수 있다는 게 좋았습니다.

[YEONJUNG] 연습생때부터 대표님께서 서태지와 아이들 선배님의 영상을 많이 보여주셨었어요. 데뷔 후에 COME BACK HOME이라는 곡을 오마주 하게 되어 그 시절의 영상을 많이 찾아보았고, 선배님의 스타일을 해치지 않으면서 저희의 YOUNG한 에너지를 보여드리기 위해 멤버 다같이 연구를 많이 했습니다.

[JIANA] 연습생 때부터 항상 선배님들의 무대를 많이 보고 들으며 존경해왔습니다.  저희 영파씨만의 힙합에 선배님의 컴백홈 사운드를 합치고 춤까지 오마주해 완성시키게 되었습니다.

[DOEUN] 저희가 연습생 때부터 정말 좋아하던 선배님인데 XXL로 컴백홈을 오마주를 하게 되어 정말 영광이었습니다. XXL로 선배님의 곡과 현대 스타일을 잘 조합시킨것 같다는 평가를 많이 받아 감사한 마음입니다.

[JIEUN] 저희가 연습생 때부터 서태지와 아이들 선배님의 영상도 많이 찾아 봤었는데 저번 XXL 앨범에서 서태지와 아이들 선배님을 오마주한 컨셉으로 활동 하게 되어서 영광이였고 더 잘 해야겠다고 생각했습니다.

YOUNG POSSE멤버들이 작곡에도 기여합니다. 데뷔 이후 이 과정은 어떻게 발전해 왔으며 어떻게 작동하나요?

[SUNHYE] 아직 서툴지만 늘 아이디어를 함께 나누고 가사를 쓰면서 도움을 많이 받았었는데, 다들 노래도 많이 듣고 경험도 생기면서 점점 혼자 써낼 수 있는 벌스의 길이가 늘어나는 것 같아요.

[YEONJUNG] 곡을 쓸 때 저희들끼리 주제를 정할 때도 있고 먼저 주제를 정해주실 때도 있는데 연습생 때부터 조금씩 해오다 보니까 지금은 더 좋은 곡이 나올 수 있도록 노력하고 있습니다. 그리고 대표님과 선생님께서 많이 도와주십니다. 항상 감사합니다!

[JIANA] 일상속에서 겪었던 일들을 떠올리며 가사를 쓰고 저희들끼리 떠오르는 주제를 많이 던져보며 정해보기도하고 각자 가사를 써와서 합치는 편입니다.

[DOEUN] 연습생 때부터 가사를 써 볼 기회가 많이 있었습니다. 여러 번 시도해 보다 보니 점점 많이 쓰게 되었고, 요즘은 제 가사가 많이 채택될 수 있게 연습하며 노력하고 있습니다.

[JIEUN] 아직 많이 부족하지만 하면 할 수록 점점 재미있고 더 욕심이 생깁니다.

멤버들이 가장 매운 음식을 먹으면서 한 소절을 랩해야 한다면 누가 이길까요??

[SUNHYE] 지아나와 지은이가 가장 잘 해낼 것 같고 제가 가장 못 할 것 같습니다. 저는 매운 걸 많이 못 먹습니다.

[YEONJUNG] 선혜라고 생각합니다!! 매운 음식을 가장 못 먹어서 빠르게 먹고 선혜의 폭풍 랩실력을 보여줬으면 좋겠어요.

[JIANA] 제 생각엔 선혜언니가 매운 걸 잘 못 먹어서 평소의 빠른 랩보다 더 빠르게 랩을 해주지 않을까 생각합니다.

[DOEUN] 선혜언니가 가장 먼저 시작할 것 같아요. 언니가 라임을 정말 잘 만들거든요.

[JIEUN] 선혜언니요! 선혜언니가 매운 음식을 잘 먹진 않지만 랩을 잘하기 때문에 선혜언니를 고르겠습니다!

팬들이 기대할 만한 다가오는 이벤트나 콜라보레이션이 있나요?

[SUNHYE] 요즘 저희가 해외 공연에 많이 서고 있는데요. 갈 때마다 너무 좋은 추억과 에너지를 받고 오는 것 같아서 감사하고 더 다양한 곳에서 찾아뵙고 싶어요. 이번 홍콩 팬콘서트는 제 생일과 가까워서 생일선물이라고 생각하고 기대하고 있습니다.

[YEONJUNG] 저희가 이번에 처음으로 홍콩에서 팬 콘서트를 하게 되었어요!! 팬분들께서도 기대 중이라고 하셔서 더 열심히 준비하고 있습니다!! 아마 홍콩 팬콘서트 이후에도 자주 해외 팬분들을 찾아갈 수 있지 않을까 생각합니다!!

[JIANA] 저희는 4월 13일에 팬콘서트를 하게 되었습니다 !! 홍콩 팬분들을 처음 만나러 가는거라 기대되기도 하고 떨립니다 ㅎㅎ 그리고 제가 어릴 때 홍콩에 즐거운 추억들이 많은데 다시 가게 되어서 너무 기쁩니다!

[DOEUN] 저희가 곧 홍콩에서 팬 콘서트를 하거든요. 홍콩의 텔레파씨들을 만나는 건 처음이라 많이 긴장되네요.

[JIEUN] 저희가 곧 홍콩에서 팬분들을 만날 수 있는  팬콘서트를 진행 하는데 많이 와 주셨으면 좋겠습니다!

팬들에게 전하고 싶은 메시지가 있나요?

[SUNHYE] 늘 함께해줘서 고맙고 여러분이 영파씨의 존재의 이유입니다!! 얼른 만나요 보고싶습니다 사랑합니다.

[YEONJUNG] 늘 기다려주시고 응원해주시는 우리 텔레파씨!! 너무너무 고맙고 사랑해요. 언제나 저희는 텔레파씨 편이고 늘 진짜 너무 사랑한다고 말해주고 싶어요!

[JIANA] 항상 너무 사랑하고 고마워요 저희 오래오래 보아요 사랑해요 💓

[DOEUN] 텔레파씨! 앞으로 더 자주 만나요!! 사랑해요.

[JIEUN] 항상 너무너무 고맙고 요즘에도 감기도 조심해요!! 항상 힘이 되어 줘서 고마워요. 사랑해!!

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#YoungPosse #KCrushInterview #KPop2025 #KPopRookies #Sunhye #Yeonjung #Doeun #Jieun #Sora #GirlGroup #KoreanMusic #KPopGirls #BehindTheScenes #YoungPosseInterview #KPopFandom #NewKPopGroup

photo credit:

© Eiichiro Oda / Shueisha, Fuji Television, Toei Animation

Japanese four-piece band muque have landed their first ever anime theme song: ‘The 1’ will be the ending theme for the Egghead Arc of the legendary anime series ‘ONE PIECE’. Trackmaker takachi based the sound for this epic song on drum’n’bass. ‘The 1’ blends an emotional chord progression over a fast-paced beat, while the intricate arrangement used more audio tracks than any other muque song to date. Meanwhile, bassist Lenon and guitarist Kenichi add to the song’s dynamic feel, intertwining with vocalist Asakura’s expansive voice and melodies, resulting in a new sound that only muque could create.

This grand song features lyrics themed on the importance of facing one’s own strength. The song’s inspirational message reminds us it can be easier to find the power within us by channeling past life experiences and embracing the support of our friends.

About muque

Video：https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DhUWbErUqlg

Pre-add / Pre-save：https://ffm.to/muque_the1

muque are a four-piece band based in Fukuoka, Japan, featuring members Asakura (guitar and vocals), Lenon (bass), takachi (programming and drums) and Kenichi (guitar). They formed in May 2022.

Their music is mainly produced by drummer takachi, who also creates and arranges the tracks, and Asakura, who handles the topline melodies and lyrics.

The group’s appeal comes from takachi’s modern-sounding tracks, influenced by global music from not only the US and UK but also Asian beats, and Asakura’s deep lyrics and melodies that exude a typically Japanese vibe. The music and Asakura’s emotional vocal delivery combine to create a unique world that is all their own.

The band’s name muque is a blend of the French word “musique” and the Japanese word “muku”, which means “purity”. The name reflects the band’s desire to make the music they want to make, regardless of what anyone else thinks.

Further information

WEBSITE: https://muque.jp/

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553965737358

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/muque.official

X (TWITTER): https://x.com/muque_official

YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@muque

TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@muque_official

 

#ONEPIECE #Muque #MuqueOnePieceSong #kcrush #newmusic #anime #animation #Japan #muku #purity #takachismodernsoundingtracks #globalmusic #Asianbeats #Asakura #1 #endingthemetoEggheadArc #EggheadArc #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #EiichiroOda #Shueisha #FujiTelevision #ToeiAnimation

Spotify supports emerging artists around the world through its ‘RADAR program’

Spotify’s bespoke RADAR campaign for MEOVV will help the group break new ground—introducing their music to listeners worldwide and celebrating their unique charms to deepen connections with fans.

Spotify, the world’s most popular audio streaming subscription service, has announced that rookie K-Pop group MEOVV has been selected as the latest RADAR KOREA artist.

Launched in 2020, Spotify RADAR is a global music program created to support emerging artists in reaching new audiences worldwide and deepening connections with their fans. Over the years, RADAR has spotlighted over 900 rising talents across the globe, including now international sensations such as The Kid LAROI, Lauv, Tyla, and Lil Baby.

RADAR artists have thrived, tracking an average of a 40% increase in monthly listeners and a 30% growth in streams within six months following their respective entry into the program.

Now, as the newest RADAR Korea artist, Spotify will support MEOVV with a bespoke campaign intentionally built to broadcast the group and its music to a global audience. In addition to driving music discovery with Spotify’s best-in-class editorial support, listeners can also look forward to a series of content drops that will bring them up close and personal with MEOVV. Updates on their RADAR campaign will be posted on @SpotifyKR on Instagram.

MEOVV, formed under THEBLACKLABEL by renowned producer TEDDY, made their highly anticipated debut in September 2024 and quickly proved their star power. In less than a year, they amassed over 2 million monthly Spotify listeners, and their debut track MEOW even earned a spot on the South Korean Music Global Impact List, which recognizes tracks from South Korean artists with the biggest global impact on Spotify outside of South Korea.

“At Spotify, we are committed to championing Korean artists at every stage of their journey,” said Jungjoo Park, Spotify’s Head of Music, Korea. “With MEOVV’s dynamic debut, we see them as a group to watch and are thrilled to welcome them into RADAR’s esteemed lineup of rising artists. We look forward to sharing their music and unique charms with listeners worldwide and supporting them as they break new ground through RADAR.”

“Spotify’s belief in us through RADAR means a lot – especially since we’re still at the very beginning of our journey. We are excited to share our music with more listeners across the globe and hope that, through this opportunity, even more people will get to know MEOVV and what we represent as artists.” said MEOVV.

About Spotify Technology S.A.

Spotify transformed music listening forever when it launched in 2008. Discover, manage and share over 100 million tracks and 6 million podcasts titles, for free, or upgrade to Spotify Premium to access exclusive features for music including improved sound quality and an on-demand, offline, and ad-free music listening experience. Today, Spotify is the world’s most popular audio streaming subscription service with 675m users, including 263m subscribers in over 180 markets.

 

#Spotify #MEOVV #TheBlackLabel #kcrush #MEOVVnamedlatestRadarKoreaArtist #kpop #kidol #KoreaRadar #kcrushmagazine #kcrushamerica #kcrushnews #MEOVVTheBlackLabel #JungiooPark #SpotifyHeadofMusicKorea #MEOVVSouthKoreanMusicGlobalImpactList