K-Pop rookie girl group Busters, the group behind the catchy tracks “Grapes” and “Pinky Promise,” will introduce two new members ahead of their Paeonia comeback!
The new members, Takara and Jeon Min-Ji, hail from Japan and South Korea, respectively. Takara was recruited for the group in 2019 via an audition. Min-Ji was a child actress and a dancer.
Takara and Min-Ji will be filling up a spot left vacant by Cha Minjung. Another member, Kim Min-Ji also departed the group and was replaced by Yeseo; both girls, Cha and Kim, left the group in 2019.
Kim Min-Ji’s departure from the group was tumultuous. According to Marbling Entertainment, Busters’ agency, Kim’s family was allegedly not happy with the group’s promotions and how roles were distributed in the team. According to the company, Kim’s family asked for her removal from the group.
“We have worked hard to accomplish our artists’ individual activities, and we have provided roles and tasks that suit each of the members’ personalities. Minji partook in a Fashion Week event, and we were busy with trying to get her a minor role in a television show, but it appears that these have not pleased their demands,” the company said at the time.
Meanwhile, Cha Minjung announced her departure from the group via a goodbye video posted on the group’s YouTube page.
“I broke up with Busters today,” Minjung said. “I was happy all the time, thank you. I will never forget the time I had with you.”
We hope Busters’ next comeback will be successful! Welcome to the team, Takara and Min-Ji!
—-Olivia Murray
When the Weather Is Fine (Korean Drama) 2020 Review
Hangul: 날씨가 좋으면 찾아가겠어요
Director: Han Ji-Seung
Writer: Lee Do-Woo (novel), Han Ga-Ram
Network: JTBC
Release Date: February 24, 2020 —
Runtime: Mon & Tue 21:30
Genre: Romance
Language: Korean
Country: South Korea
Plus Size Asian Fashion Trends in 2020
Asian fashion is becoming more popular each day! With lots of Japanese, Korean and Chinese designs seen in streetstyle all over the world it’s no wonder that they are influencing global fashion trends. Another really interesting aspect of Asian fashion that’s making waves is plus size Asian fashion. More brands are catering to the plus size market with fun Asian styles.
Here are 5 main plus size Asian fashion trends that are taking over 2020. For lovers of Korean, Japanese and Chinese fashion, these trends will be beyond adorable. It’s no surprise that Asian plus size trends are so cute and fun. China has the highest number of plus size women in the world! These trends are mostly very easy to follow with a few tips here and there.
Oversized clothing
Asian fashion plays around with loose and playful fits all the time and this particular trend is absolutely fabulous for plus size women. Most of the time this trend works best with outerwear from sweaters, to blazers to outer shirts. Oversized blazers are a very popular part of Korean fashion especially. The trick here is to pair the oversized item of clothing with fitted clothes. A nice fitted t-shirt with fitted jeans and a big blazer or outer shirt will nail this look right on the head. Don’t be afraid to be playful and have fun with it.
Asian fashion is everything but boring! So many western fashion rules don’t permit plus size women to wear oversized clothes but Asian fashion breaks these rules in the most chic of ways. A lot of Asian fashion borders on breaking fashion stereotypes and rules so it’s time to unlearn some rules and ideas.
Mix and match
Asian plus size fashion is embracing mixing clothing styles like it’s no ones business and the interesting thing is that it actually looks fabulous! The mix and match trend has been really popular in street fashion last year and this year and is a trend that doesn’t seem to want to go away!
This trend is a lot more tricky than most. Think of various clothes that are unusual but still fun together. Asians have a way of making denim shorts, patterned tights, and a crop top look cool. This trend may not be for everyone but if you can pull it off the compliments are sure to abound. Learning how to follow this trend from popular Korean pop stars is a clever way to do it. Japanese singers also have this trend on lock down this year.
Plum and peach colors
Black and white may have been the trendiest colors for Asian fashion some years ago but not in 2020. This year we are seeing more girly and flirty plum and peach tones. These colors are absolutely amazing and soft with the right amount of a feminine touch. From hair color to clothing these colors are becoming very popular.
One way to keep this trend fresh is to match it with other clothing of complementary colors. It is true that most Asian fashion trends are bold and obvious statement makers but it’s always important to add elements of your own personality when you follow these trends. Plum or peach colors of your favorite items of clothing will work just perfectly. To play it safe wear plum or peach in monochrome. You certainly can’t go wrong with this.
Athleisure
This trend is one of the most comfortable of all plus size Asian fashion trends. This trend is mostly about wearing sporty clothes in everyday life. This trend is functional, comfortable and fun all together. From cozy sweaters to tracksuits to sweatpants this trend has even made it in global fashion trends with a lot of designer brands featuring it in their collections.
Plus size trends that stay away from discomfort is definitely something cool. Fashion doesn’t have to be painful after all. To keep this trend fresh it’s a good idea to play with fun colors and patterns. This trend is pretty global now so finding beautiful Athleisure pieces to wear should not be a problem at all!
Accessories
Asians love their accessories! The accessories trend for plus size Asian fashion is definitely here to stay. With lots of colorful bags and shoes it’s easy to get that cool Asian fashion look. Jewelry is certainly not left out and with this trend more is more! Layering jewelry is a cool statement to make with this trend.
Colorful costume jewelry is a big hit especially neon colors. One very good thing about Asian fashion trends is that they don’t require lots of money to follow. Inexpensive costume jewelry can complete an outfit with very little effort.
So these are 2020’s hottest plus size Asian fashion trends. With a very wide variety there is certainly a trend or two that will appeal to everyone. Remember to keep the styling fun and playful and most importantly don’t forget to add elements of your own personality.
Reference:
https://generationt.asia/leaders/is-china-finally-embracing-plus-size-fashion
—-Julieta Ajaab
The spring season is just around the corner. Some people do preparations for spring such as general cleaning or shopping. If shopping is your thing and you want to get some items that are perfect for spring, you should check out what the Philippines has to offer.
The Philippines is known to be a country with warm weather. That is why it is known for its paradise-like beaches and other things that are perfect for both spring and summer. If colorful sundresses, hats, and cool outfits are what you are looking for, you will never go wrong with shopping in this beautiful country.
In addition to beautiful beaches, hospitable people, and warm weather, the Philippines is also home to a lot of huge shopping malls. This simply means that you will never run out of shopping spots to visit. The top 10 largest malls in the Philippines include SM City North EDSA, SM Megamall, SM Seaside City Cebu, SM Mall of Asia, Festival Super Mall, SM City Fairview, SM City Cebu, Greenbelt, Glorietta, and Ayala Center Cebu.
Aside from shopping malls, there are also popular spots where you can find unique pieces of clothing, accessories, antiques, bamboo products, abaca baskets, brass ware, coffee beans, embroidered pieces, jewelry, mats, pearls, woodcarving products, and many more!
Here are some of the amazing shopping spots that you should not forget to visit on your upcoming shopping spree in the Philippines:
Greenhills Shopping Center (Manila) – this shopping center is perfect for those who are looking to buy affordable clothes, furniture, video games, and even gadgets. Prices of items sold here are much lower than mall prices.
Divisoria Market (Source)
Divisoria Market (Manila) – this market is very popular among locals. It basically has anything that you need (or want!). Sellers offer wholesale prices but you can still haggle to get amazing deals!
168 Shopping Mall (Manila) – this shopping mall is located in Chinatown. Visit this place if you are looking for bargain finds and amazing food trip experience.
Carbon Market (Source)
Carbon Market (Cebu) – this huge market has been operating for over 100 years. People go there to get fresh food products, clothing, souvenirs, house decor, and even religious items at super affordable prices. There are restaurants and food stalls in this place so you may try out local dishes while shopping. Another exciting thing to do here is to ride a horse carriage while touring around!
D’Mall (Boracay) – this shopping center is a must-visit spot if Boracay is in your itinerary. It is the main dining and shopping center in the area so you will surely find something you like. The water sports activities around this mall are perfect for everyone – even kids!
D’ Talipapa Market (Boracay) – this spot is perfect for seafood lovers! Here, you might find a lot of fresh seafood that you have not tasted before!
Even if you don’t have a huge budget allocated for shopping, you can still purchase a lot of unique items in the Philippines. The shopping spots listed above offer a lot of amazing and high-quality items that don’t cost much. If you use your haggling skills well, there is a huge possibility that you’ll get a lot of awesome deals!
—-Rey Blogg
- What’s the Korean word for Korean pop? (Hint: Starts with a “G”)
- Which Korean artist/band sold the most albums? (This record was broken in 2019)
- Where was Mnet Asian Music Awards held in 2019?
- Name the stadium in Seoul that holds the most seats.
- How do you say “the youngest” in Korean? (Starts with a “M”)
- Who is the founder of Big Hit Entertainment?
- Who is the founder of SM Entertainment?
- Name the oldest member of BTS.
- How many albums has Super Junior released?
- When did BIGBANG hit their debut?
- Name the 5-member group in YG that has existed since the 90s.
- Which K-pop group has yellow as their unofficial color?
- How many members are there in EXO currently?
- Name all the four members in BLACKPINK.
- What’s the name of Itzy’s management/agency?
- What does NTC stand for?
- Which town in Korea is BTS’ Jimin from?
- What does AKMU an abbreviation of?
- Which girl group was Suzy a part of?
- Name all the members of TWICE.
- Which state in America was Jay Park born in?
- What is the name of iKON’s fandom?
- Who is the oldest member of EXO?
- Which member of Red Velvet recently got discharged from hospital?
- How many members are there in WINNER?
- How many members are there in Momoland?
- Which member of BIGBANG left and retired due to numerous scandals?
- Name 5 K-pop bands that have 5 members.
- Name the biggest selling Korean female singer songwriter of all time.
- Which year did GOT7 debut?
- Which year did Girls’ Generation debut?
- Which year did TVXQ debut?
- How many members are there in Seventeen?
- Which year did Wonder Girls disband?
- Which year did 2Ne1 disband?
- Name all the members in SuperM.
- Name all the members in EXO-K.
- Name the oldest surviving boyband.
- Name 3 sets of K-pop duos.
- Who is the oldest member in Stray Kids?
- Which year was JYP Entertainment founded?
- Which year was Big Hit Entertainment founded?
- Which member of BLACKPINK is not an English speaker?
- Name the most viewed K-pop music video of all time.
- Name some of the K-pop acts that made it to the billboard chart.
Answers
- Ga-yo
- BTS
- Nagoya, Japan
- Seoul Olympic Stadium
- Maknae
- Bang Si-hyuk
- Lee Soo-man
- Jin
- 9
- 2006
- Sechs Kies
- Shinhwa
- 12
- Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa
- JYP Entertainment
- Neo Culture Technology
- Busan
- Akdong Musician
- Miss A
- Nayeon, Jeongyeon, Momo, Sana, Jihyo, Mina, Dahyun, Chaeyoung and Tzuyu.
- Washington
- iKONIC
- Xiumin
- Wendy
- 4
- 7
- Seungri
- –
- IU
- 2014
- 2007
- 2003
- 13
- 2017
- 2016
- 7
- Suho, Baekhyun, Chanyeol, D.O, Kai, and Sehun
- Shinhwa
- –
- Woojin
- 1997
- 2005
- Jisoo
- Psy – Gangnam Style
- BoA, Wonder Girls, Psy, G-Dragon, Girls’ Generation, MonstaX, BLACKPINK, EXO, BTS and etc…
—-J.Chung
When the Weather Is Nice (Korean Drama) 2020 Review
On March 11, 2020, the remaining BIGBANG members, T.O.P, G-Dragon, Taeyang, and Daesung, renewed their contracts with YG Entertainment for the third time.
“Going beyond musical influence, BIGBANG has changed the course of Korean pop culture. YG will continue to support BIGBANG so that they can continue to make K-pop history as a representative group of our label,” a YG Entertainment representative said.
BIGBANG plan on making a comeback this year. Initially, their comeback was rumored to be before Coachella, a concert event where the quartet is slated to perform. However, Coachella has been postponed until October due to the spread of Covid-19 (Coronavirus).
T.O.P, G-Dragon, Daesung, and Taeyang have all wrapped up their military service. The group has made news over the past few years due to various issues and accusations. Hopefully 2020 will bring a fresh start to the senior group that debuted in 2006.
—-Olivia Murray
On March 10, 2020, Takada Kenta’s mother passed away following a long illness. Star Road Entertainment confirmed the news.
“Takada Kenta’s mother passed on the 9th after a long illness. “We hope she rests in peace, and we ask that you give Takada Kenta warm words of comfort,” the agency said.
Kenta, who appeared on Produce 101 Season 2 and is a current member of the duo JBJ95, has flown to Japan to be with his family.
A private funeral will be held for Kenta’s mother.
We send our condolences to his family.
Photo cr. Soompi
—-Olivia Murray
Earlier this year, reports indicted YG Entertainment would be debuting their new girl group in 2020. The company has since confirmed the rumors by stating the currently unnamed girl group will debut in the second half of the year!
“It is true that we are planning to debut a new girl group. The exact details will be revealed through an official press release later on,” a YG representative said. “We are currently focusing on new album preparations for BLACKPINK and WINNER.”
This will be YG’s first girl group debut since BLACKPINK debuted in 2016. While there is excitement surrounding the new group, some YG-fans are upset that a new group is debuting when BLACKPINK has yet to be properly promoted despite the group’s massive popularity. As it stands, BLACKPINK’s promised comeback has already been pushed back.
While the new girl group is unnamed, fans suspect they may be called Baby Monster or Bae Mon as YG trademarked both names in January 2019.
Concepts for the group are widely speculated as well with some fans expecting them to continue with YG’s signature sound or to follow in the footsteps of 2NE1, BLACKPINK, or even recall the Swi.T vibe. Swi.T was YG’s first girl group that debuted—and disbanded—in 2002. YG founder Yang Hyun-suk married Swi.T’s Lee Eun-Ju in 2010 after they dated for years. They share two children.
Another speculative concept is that the new girl group may carry an SNSD-vibe as Yang Hyun-suk has wanted to create a group with a similar styling to Girls’ Generation in the past. We’ll have to wait and see what the second half of the year brings!
—-Olivia Murray
On March 9, 2020, Taeyeon’s father passed away following a heart attack. SM Entertainment confirmed the news to eDaily and through a statement.
Hello. This is SM Entertainment.
Taeyeon’s father has unfortunately passed away on March 9.
May he rest in peace. Please send Taeyeon warm words of consolation.
We inform you that the release of Taeyeon’s new single “Happy” and its music video that was scheduled for today will be postponed.
We ask fans who were waiting for the new release for their understanding, and we will provide an announcement later regarding the plans for the song’s release.
“The funeral will be quiet with the family,” SM Entertainment to eDaily.
Taeyeon, who’s 31st birthday is also March 9, is currently with her family.
The Girls’ Generation leader was also expected to release a single, “Happy,” today, but it has been postponed in light of her father’s passing.
We send our condolences to Taeyeon and her family.
Photo cr. Soompi
—-Olivia Murray
Former BIGBANG member, Seungri, enlisted as an active-duty soldier March 9, 2020.
Seungri, who is under investigation for habitual overseas gambling, illegal monetary transfers, and solicitation of prostitution, reported to the ROK army’s 6th division new recruit training center in Gangwon-do’s Cheorwon-gun. He will serve in the army for 18 months.
While serving in the military, Seungri will also be subject to a military trial due to the aforementioned charges that were brought down January 30 of this year.
“We will work closely with prosecution to ensure a fair and just trial and will also take into consideration factors such as the position of the citizen’s jury throughout the procedures,” the Military Manpower Administration stated.
Seungri avoided press questions as he stood at the photo wall prior to entering the recruitment center.
Seungri is scheduled to end his service September 26, 2021.
Photo cr. XportsNews
—-Olivia Murray
On March 9, 2020, J.Y. Park and his wife welcomed a new baby into the world! Their new child is the couple’s second daughter. J.Y. Park made the announcement on his personal Instagram.
Knowing there’re so many people struggling these days because of the disease, it’s so hard to write anything on SNS but I thought I had to let you know this news. I was just given a beautiful little girl. Two years in a row, and now I became a father of two girls. Will do my best to raise them to be good influences in this complicated world. My heart is heavy to receive this blessing when so many people are struggling. I wish we can all come together to overcome this crisis.
Congratulations to J.Y. Park and his family!
Photo cr. MoonROK
—-Olivia Murray
Hyukoh’s guitarist, Lim Hyun-Jae, shared exciting news on the March 7, 2020 episode of MBC’s Hangout with Yoo!
On the show, Lim stated that he and his longtime love will be getting married this coming May!
“They have been together for a long time,” leader Oh-Hyuk said of Lim and his soon-to-be-wife. “She is his first girlfriend.”
Lim said, “We have been friends since middle school, and we started dating each other in our twenties.”
Congratulations to the soon-to-be-newlyweds!
Photo Cr. Twitter
—-Olivia Murray
As Coronavirus (Covid-19) continues to spread globally, more K-Pop acts and events have been canceled or postponed in order to protect artists and fans from catching the virus.
After initially denying the cancellation, KBS confirmed that Music Bank World Tour in Dubai has been canceled. Music Bank in Dubai was supposed to take place March 21, 2020 and was supposed to feature Baekhyun, JUS2, Monsta X, TWICE, and Seventeen. Ticket refund information has yet to be released.
The K-Pop Super Concert in Dubai had Laboum, Super Junior, Jun, NCT-127, and RGP scheduled to perform. It has not been announced yet if the concert is postponed. Tickets and event information are still available on the Coca-Cola Arena website.
tvN’s travel variety series, Cheap Tour, also announced that taping would be temporarily halted due to the Coronavirus outbreak.
“Starting March 23, Cheap Tour will take a break for broadcasts while observing the developments of the Coronavirus,” tvN told the media. “Due to the COVID19 situation, we will be halting filming temporarily. Currently, we have previously filmed episodes scheduled to air until March 16.”
Cube Entertainment also announced that (G)I-dle will also postpone their I-Land: Who Am I world tour as well as their comeback that was scheduled for March. Cube shared the postponement notice February 28.
Hello.
This is CUBE Entertainment.
Our company made a decision to temporarily postpone (G)I-DLE’s first world tour, 2020 (G)I-DLE WORLD TOUR ‘I-LAND: WHO AM I’ as well as the release of their new album project, which were scheduled for mid-March.
After a thorough internal discussion, we unfortunately made the decision due to unforeseen circumstances around the globe.
Accordingly, detailed information regarding ticket refunds will be announced later through each promoter as well as the ticket site.
To the fans who may have been looking forward to (G)I-DLE’s first world tour and the new album, we ask for your kind understanding.
We hope to update you soon.
Thank you.
In Los Angeles, the Korea Times Music Festival, which was scheduled for April, has also been postponed.
The April 25 event, which is in its 18th year, “has provisionally been postponed due to the increasing uncertainty threat of coronavirus.”
The show, which would have been held at the Hollywood Bowl, had Momoland, No Brain, and Ha Sungwoon slated to perform. Other acts were expected to be identified in the coming weeks, which may still be the case when a new date will be announced.
“Concert goers can opt for a refund or keep the existing tickets,” festival organizers said. They added that tickets “will remain valid and transferable to the rescheduled concert date.”
Also in California, the Overpass Music Festival in Oak Canyon Park has been moved from March to September 26, 2020. The festival’s acts include Malaysia’s Yuna, Phum Viphurit from Thailand, DPR Live and iKON’s Mino.
JYP Entertainment announced that Stray Kids’ Osaka, Japan and Singapore concerts that were to be held March 21 and 22 and April 18, respectively, have been canceled (Osaka) or postponed.
KCON Japan 2020, slated for April 3-5, 2020 at Makuhari Messe International Exhibition Hall in Chiba, Japan has also been postponed according to Mnet.
Due to the spread of new coronavirus infections, KCON 2020 JAPAN, which was scheduled to be held from April 3 to 5, has been postponed.
We decided to postpone as a result of giving top priority to the safety of customers, artists and staff coming to KCON. We apologize for the inconvenience to everyone who supported KCON and waited for us. The transfer schedule is currently being adjusted and will be announced on the official website and SNS as soon as it is determined.
The refund method and period for tickets already purchased will be announced on the official site and official SNS at a later date as soon as they are determined. If you have purchased a K-DRAMA FANMEETING ticket, please keep it in a safe place, as your current ticket will be required for refund processing.
We will do our best to keep KCON in a safe situation for you. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused to everyone who looked forward to the event.
Dreamcatcher, TWICE, OnlyOneOf, Day6, Nature, Everglow, JO1, Pentagon, The Boyz, Verivery, DKB, and IMFACT were expected to perform, while ASTRO, Oh My Firl, SF9, fromis_9, OneUs, TXT, and AB6IX were expected to hold fan meets and showcases during the event.
Finally, the previously postponed The Fact Music Awards, which was supposed to be held February 29, 2020, will be held online. Originally, organizers expected to postpone the event until the second half of the year but opted to announce the winners March 16 at 10am KST. Organizers will upload videos of the artists receiving their awards.
As Coronavirus continues to spread, artist scheduling and performances and show tapings will continue to be postponed and canceled as the situation remains fluid.
Photo cr. Allkpop, Reddit, Koreaboo
—-Olivia Murray
Days after the announcement that Roy Kim is innocent in connection to the Jung Joon-Young chatroom controversy, the charges against Eddy Kim have been dropped in connection to the same chatroom.
On April 4, 2019, Eddy Kim’s name surfaced as one of those involved in the now-infamous KakaoTalk chats.
On March 6, 2020, the Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office suspended Kim’s indictment after finding the singer only distributed one lewd photo in a hobby-related chatroom for fishing which was outside the controversial chat. The image was one found online and not taken by Kim.
Mystic Story, Kim’s label, confirmed the suspension in a statement.
We would like to notify you of the results of Eddy Kim’s investigation.
In late March of last year, Eddy Kim was investigated by the police on charges of spreading pornographic material, and his case was then forwarded to the prosecution and he has now received a suspension of indictment.
Eddy Kim did not personally film illegal material or spread such content, but he was investigated for taking a screenshot online and sharing the image. In the process of the investigation, it was confirmed that the group chatroom that Eddy Kim was a part of was not the group chatroom that became an issue for sharing illegally filmed material, but a separate group chatroom based around a shared hobby.
Regardless, Eddy Kim is regretting the error of his ways and reflecting on his actions. We sincerely apologize to all those who are disappointed by his actions.
From now on, Eddy Kim will work hard to act prudently with a strong sense of responsibility. Once again, we apologize for causing concern.
The suspension ultimately means that the case against Kim has been dropped as the investigation will not continue.
Prosecutors in the case and Mystic Story stated Kim has shown deep remorse for his actions, and this remorse also played a role in the case being dropped.
Photo cr. High Yellow
—-Olivia Murray
On March 3, 2020, LU4US (formerly LU:KUS, L.A.U) rapper Haewon announced he will leave the group and idol life.
In a video posted on YouTube, Haewon describes his decision and opening a new chapter in his life.
“I have learned a lot about life that has changed me. I am already 30 years old now. I used to think my twenties would be eternal. I want to open a new chapter of my life now. Even though what I have chosen is a pity, but I will not regret,” Haewon said.
Haewon also wrote in the video description, “Hello, I’m HaeWon from LUKUS. You’re a real layman now. Yeah, I don’t know anybody. But I’ve been an idol for 11 years. 11 years ago, when I was 19 years old, the “Three Musketeers” (I’m sure you’ve all heard the song at least once.) I made my debut with a group called X-5 and made another debut as X-5. And now the LUKUS. a total of three times. Of course, there’s always been a problem. It’s already been 11 years since I’ve lived here and there. I am already 30 years old. Life begins at 30, but now I’m going to be more responsible. I dedicate this video to everyone I’ve been grateful for. Thank you for watching my video until the end and leaving your comments. I’m always grateful to my subscribers.”
It’s unclear what the future will bring Haewon, but we wish him the best.
Photo cr. MissKpop
—-Olivia Murray
Back in October 2019, rookie group AB6IX announced they would embark on a US tour. However, the group’s company, Brand New Music, announced on AB6IX’s fan café that the tour is now postponed due to the spread of Coronavirus (Covid-19).
This is BRANDNEW MUSIC.
Due to the recent increase of the COVID-19 cases, ‘AB6IX 1ST WORLD TOUR <6IXENSE> IN THE U.S.’ that was scheduled for April 15th (Wed) in Newark, 18th (Sat) in Atlanta, 21st (Tue) in Chicago, 23rd (Thu) in Minneapolis, 25th (Sat) in Dallas, 28th (Tue) in San Francisco, and 30th (Thu) in Los Angeles has provisionally been postponed.
We made the decision after due consideration with the health and safety of the artists and fans at top priority, and we apologize for any inconveniences caused to those who have been looking forward to the concerts. Announcements regarding the ticket refunds will be posted on the official ticket reservation site, so please check the details through emails, which will be sent to the people who bought tickets.
We will make sure to provide you with prompt updates on potential changes to the tour schedule. Once again, we would like to offer our deepest apology and ask for your kind understanding.
Thank you.
While the tour is cancelled for now, new dates may be announced if the Coronavirus spread slows or halts. Hopefully fans will understand the postponement is for everyone’s safety.
Photo cr. Soompi
—-Olivia Murray
According to Sports World, on February 27, 2020, Gyeonggi Provincial Police Department released confirmation that ex-iKON leader tested negative for drugs.
“B.I has tested negative in his illegal drug use evaluation,” a Gyeonggi police representative said. “The Gyeonggi police carried out meticulous evaluations by sending B.I’s hair follicles to the National Forensics Department, and the results concluded that no illegal drug substances were found.”
“B.I’s illegal drug use and dealing case has now come to a wraps, and police will be forwarding the case over to prosecution soon,” the representative added.
In June 2019, drug allegations from 2016 surfaced involving B.I which later led to his departure from iKON and YG Entertainment. At the time, texts between B.I (Kim Han-Bin) and “A” (later to revealed to be former trainee Han Seo-Hee) surfaced that showed the two discussing marijuana and the possible purchase of LSD. In a statement, B.I admitted that he thought about purchasing the aforementioned drugs before ultimately deciding against it. In September 2019, B.I was questioned in the case.
The case has been forwarded to the prosecution. No further information has been obtained regarding the status of the prosecution’s case and investigation.
Photo cr. Kpopmap
—-Olivia Murray
Controversial swimmer, Sun Yang, who participated in the 2012 London Olympic games and the 2016 Rio Games, has been banned from the sport for eight years. The ban will likely end the 28-year-old’s career.
On February 28, 2020 the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) found that Sun refused to cooperate with authorities when they came to collect blood and urine samples for drug testing back in September 2018. The sample was destroyed with a hammer by one of Sun’s security guards after Sun’s mother instructed him to do so.
Initially, despite Sun’s mother and guard’s controversial actions, FINA (International Swimming Federation), gave Sun a warning. During the initial trial for this case, Sun stated he refused to give samples because the representatives from the World Anti-Doping Agency lacked appropriate credentials to let him know they were there to collect blood and urine samples from him.
The judge for the trial—which was marred with translation issues from the start—agreed with Sun’s testimony.
Following the warning, Sun was allowed to continue swimming, and he went on to win world championship medals in 200-meter and 400-meter freestyle events in 2019.
For the latest trial, CAS overturned the initial ruling by stating, “The athlete failed to establish that he had a compelling justification to destroy his sample collection containers and forego the doping control when, in his opinion, the collection protocol was not in compliance.”
The three judges agreed to enact the ban in a unanimous verdict.
The courts ruled Sun can keep his 2019 world titles as he tested negative for doping prior to the world championships.
Following the ruling, Sun stated he plans to appeal.
“I firmly believe in my innocence. I was shocked, angry and could not understand after receiving the ruling,” Sun said on Weibo.
The China Swimming Association added that Sun is “further pursuing his legal rights through litigation.”
Sun, who is the first Chinese swimmer to ever medal at the Olympics, is no stranger to controversy. In 2014, he was banned for three months after testing positive for trimetazidine, a classified stimulant at the time. Sun stated he’s been taking the drug since 2008 to treat a heart condition. While he could have filed a medical exception, he elected not to do so.
Across the sport of swimming, several athletes consider Sun to be a “drug-cheat” starting at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. During the 2019 world champions, South African and Australian swimming Chad le Clos and Mack Horton refused to stand next to Sun on the podium.
Following the February 28 verdict banning Sun, Horton received death threats on social media.
“I think, regardless of the outcome, it was always going to be a statement to the world, and my stance has always been about clean sport, never about nations or individuals,” Horton said February 29 on Seven Network television.
“…like many other clean swimmers, I have raced against Sun Yang and ‘lost’. Drug cheats have no place in sport and we need the governing bodies to reconsider the damage he has done to our great sport – and to the results / careers of many other clean swimmers,” le Clos said on Twitter.
Like many other clean swimmers, I have raced against Sun Yang and “lost”. Drug cheats have no place in sport and we need the governing bodies to reconsider the damage he has done to our great sport – and to the results / careers of many other clean swimmers #time4change
— Chad Le Clos (@chadleclos) February 28, 2020
Sun is one of China’s most popular athletes currently. He can now begin the appeals process. However, the ban currently means he cannot defend his Olympic titles at the 2020 Tokyo Games.
—-Olivia Murray
Earlier this week, it was revealed that singer-songwriter Roy Kim has been declared innocent in connection to the Jung Joon-Young molka chatroom after the courts found he did not share pornographic materials.
On February 24, 2020, Channel A’s Rumor Has It mentioned that Kim, Jung, and Choi Jung-Hoon were in a fishing chatroom together, but that he was not involved in the infamous chatroom.
“Many people don’t know that Roy Kim, Jung Joon-Young, and Choi Jong-Hoon were part of a fishing group chat,” journalist Kim Ji-Hyun said. “Fishing as in catching actual fish. In that room, there was a dissemination of pornographic images of an entertainer at the time. That’s why Roy Kim captured a picture from a blog to clarify and say ‘that’s not that person in the picture’ and this fact became twisted to him saying that he was releasing pornographic images. He didn’t upload the image to release pornographic images but to say that the picture was edited.”
“He didn’t receive any sentence but just the fact that he was investigated is continually degrading his image,” Kim Ji-Hyun said. “So, he can’t promote as of now and I wanted people to know this unknown story.”
Via a statement, Kim’s agency, Stone Music, also confirmed the court’s innocent ruling and further reiterated that he was not part of the incriminating chatroom.
Hello, this is Stone Music Entertainment.
Last April, our label artist Roy Kim was investigated by the police on charges of spreading pornographic material, and a final decision of a suspension of indictment has been made on his case. We wish to sincerely apologize to those who have been disappointed by the bad news, and to the fans who have waited for a long time.
Roy Kim fully complied with the police investigation, and during the process, it was confirmed that in 2016, Roy Kim took a screenshot of a blog image with his phone and shared it in a KakaoTalk chatroom.
Roy Kim is deeply regretting and reflecting on his ignorance of not knowing that, regardless of intention, this was an act of spreading pornographic material.
However, we would like to emphasize that the KakaoTalk chatroom that Roy Kim was a part of was a different chatroom from the one that has become an issue.
Roy Kim will do his best to be a model citizen with a humble attitude. Once again, we apologize.
Thank you.
On his fan café, Kim also published an apology letter following the news he was cleared of wrongdoing.
Hello, this is Roy Kim.
To everyone who has waited until today’s news was shared, I’m not sure if it’s even alright for me to dare to write to you now.
However, I’m writing because I want to express to you how sincerely sorry and grateful I feel.
I recently received the results of the investigation. I intended to tell all of you first, and I’m so sorry that it was revealed first through the news.
First, at the time in 2016, I found a blog post through a portal site search that explained that the photo that was the subject of rumors was an edited photo. I took a screenshot with my phone and sent that image, along with a message saying that the rumor isn’t true, to a group chat I was in with acquaintances who I shared a hobby with. I realized through this incident that it’s wrong to share such photos, regardless of the intention or the content [of the message], and I am deeply reflecting on that.
I’m sincerely sorry that I have greatly hurt people I love because of my ignorant and rash action. I’ve been worried about what I should say to you and how I should say it, and I’ve spent very fearful days seeing and hearing the talk that kept growing and growing. During that time, I humbly reflected upon myself, and I realized once again how precious and generous all the things you gave me and the love I’ve received is, as a person who is endlessly lacking.
To all of you who have supported and loved me without change during this long time, I am so sorry that I cannot even express it in words, and I am sincerely grateful. I will walk each step with a feeling of heavy responsibility and a cautious mindset so that I can be sure not to disappoint you, who have believed in and waited for me until the end, and so that I can return as the Roy Kim that you supported, loved, and watched over. Thank you. From, Roy Kim.
In 2019, Kim’s alleged involvement in the molka KakaoTalk scandal impacted not only his musical career but his final semester at Georgetown University as well. He missed the final month of school and was unable to attend his graduation. Close to 5,000 Georgetown University students signed a change.org petition asking the university to suspend him (even though there was not proof or evidence showing his involvement in the infamous chatroom) and to expel him if he was found guilty.
Kim, whose given name is Kim Sang-Woo, did receive his diploma.
Kim’s Korean music career started in 2012 when he appeared on Superstar K4. In 2013, he rose in popularity thanks to the songs “Bom Bom Bom” and “Love Love Love.” His last single, “The Hardest Part,” was released in 2018.
Currently, there is no timetable for Kim’s potential return to the Korean music scene… if he would be allowed to return at all if the Netizen Court of Public Opinion has a say.
—-Olivia Murray
On February 28, 2020, the K-Pop/Rock quartet, The Rose, filed for contract nullification against their company, J&Star Company. Each of the members—Woosung, Dojoon, Hajoon, and Jaehyung—confirmed the news by posting the article containing the news on their Instagram pages.
View this post on Instagram
In their nullification request, The Rose claim that J&Star Company did not provide the members with proper revenue calculation procedures since the quartet signed their contracts. The group states they were promised monthly revenue reports, but they’ve yet to see these reports. They also claim to have not been paid over the last three years.
In addition to the financial issues identified in their claim, The Rose state they were subject to rigorous schedules and not being included in the decision to go on a 17-city United States tour for 2020. The members claim the tour was decided upon without their consent.
“We hope to terminate our contracts with the agency as soon as possible. We apologize to our fans,” the group said via the media
J&Star Company refutes the band’s claims. The company states they will file a countersuit against The Rose to request compensation and criminal liability.
“The Rose unilaterally notified [the company of] the termination of their contract, and they claimed that they will stop [attending] performances and broadcasts arranged by the company,” a J&Star Company representative told Star News. “The terms [of the contract] and content discussed in the certification of contents have no legal force. The Rose must dutifully take on their current ongoing schedule.”
In a statement, J&Star said, “”The Rose’s claims that we ‘violated terms in the exclusive contract’ are entirely false.”
In regards to scheduling, the statement said, “We have always informed The Rose of all of their promotional schedules such as overseas tours, broadcast activities, etc., well ahead of time, also coming to agreements with the members regarding each activity, not to mention preparation schedules such as practices, makeup, and such.”
When addressing The Rose’s missing payment claims, the company added, “We also provided The Rose with a document detailing all of the expenses and revenues from the band’s full promotions since they signed the exclusive contract, and received confirmation that they saw the document.”
The Rose announced they will cease activities while pursuing their legal action. J&Star also responded to the group’s decision to do so.
“Currently, The Rose has refused to converse with the company, and after unilaterally notifying [the company] of contract termination, they have unilaterally notified that they refuse to participate in the scheduled broadcasts and performances, which they have promised to hold with the fans,” J&Star said in their statement.
The Rose debuted August 3, 2017 with “I’m Sorry.” Since debut, the group earned a solid fanbase, especially internationally where they’ve held several successful concerts. Stay tuned for updates regarding their lawsuit.
—-Olivia Murray