Even if you aren’t particularly well versed in Korean Show Biz, there are lots of Korean Americans whose names and faces you would recognize. There are comedic veterans like Margaret Cho, Ken Jeong with his versatile appearances. And actors like Nicole Bilderback, Justin Chon and John Cho with active careers.
But way back in the day in the 1970s to 80s, it was harder to find a Korean face on television. One of the few that made it was Johnny Yune, who passed away on 8th March this year.
Best known to the American audience for his “big break” on the talk show run by none other than Johnny Carson, the King of Late Night Television, Johnny Yune was born in Eumseong, North Chungcheong Province in 1936.
Yune graduated from Sungdong High School before being granted a Navy scholarship at Ohio Wesleyan University in Delaware, Ohio where he studied vocal music.
His Korean first name was Jong-seung, and was Anglicized to ‘John’ from its phonetic similarity when he became a US citizen in 1978.
Yune made his film debut in 1979’s Meteor under the stage name of Jon Yune, rose to stardom appearing on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson 34 times from the late 70s to 80s – one of the most frequent number of appearances by a stand-up comedian. Yune stated that because actor Charlton Heston did not arrive on time, he was given over twenty minutes on the show to make a good impression.
He played the lead in the 1980s films They Call Me Bruce?, They Still Call Me Bruce, Nothing in Common, and Gidget’s Summer Reunion,
Yune later hosted KBS2’s The Johnny Yune Show, the first American-style talk show on Korean television, from 1989-1990. With the show’s success, similar talk shows became common in the Korean small-screen scene. The show was a great hit, but only after a year, Yune decided to leave KBS due to limited freedom of the media.
Yune married a Korean-American named Julia Yune in 1999 and later divorced in 2010.
Yune recovered his Korean citizenship; becoming a dual citizen in 2013. The following year, he was appointed auditor of the Korea Tourism Organization, though he was mired in controversy as to his qualification. He served the role for two years. Before the end of his term, he collapsed from a brain hemorrhage in 2016 and returned to the US for treatment.
Yune spent his later years at a care center in Los Angeles. He suffered from Alzheimer’s disease. He was admitted to Alhambra Hospital Medical Center near Los Angeles on Wednesday, but was unable to recover.
In honor of the deceased’s wishes, Yune’s body will be donated to science and research at the University of California-Irvine Medical Center.
–J. Chung.
A few months after allegations surfaced that former Monsta X member Wonho committed theft and smoked marijuana, the investigation into the K-Pop concluded with the police finding him not guilty of the charges. Starship Entertainment released a statement confirming the news.
Hello, this is Starship Entertainment.
Back on March 10, the illegal drug crime division of the Seoul Central District Police office concluded all illegal drug investigations involving former MONSTA X member Wonho, acquitting him.
Back in late October of last year, Wonho was accused of having abused the illegal drug marijuana, and the Seoul Central District Police promptly launched an investigation regarding these accusations. Wonho participated actively and diligently throughout the investigations which followed including the necessary substance examinations. In the past 5 months, the police were unable to discover any evidence to find Wonho guilty, and as a result the investigation came to a conclusion as of March 10.
Outside of the above facts, Wonho and Starship as an agency would like to once again apologize to the fans for causing great concerns. We also relay our sincerest thanks to fans both in Korea and abroad, who sent their support while patiently waiting for the investigation results.
During the investigation period, we advised that Wonho keep his public appearances to a minimum and aided Wonho so that he would not be wrongfully accused by pairing him with a legal representative, also waiting for the final police results throughout this time. Now, we promise to support Wonho to the fullest so that he can continue to walk the path he would like to go. Thank you.
Following the news, Wonho spoke to Dispatch.
“I still can’t forget our fans. I am full of regret,” Wonho said. “Just feeling like I should have done better for them? I just wanted to say I’m sorry, which is why I did this interview.”
“I did not smoke marijuana,” he added. “The investigation is underway. When my innocence is proven, please tell my story. I want to apologize, and I want to clear misunderstandings. I want to ask for forgiveness.”
During the interview, Wonho discussed his impoverished upbringing and the issues he faced in his youth and falling into the wrong crowd.
“I don’t want to blame them,” Wonho said. “Because it was my choice. It may sound like an excuse, but I was immature. It was my fault. I was in the wrong. I’m sorry.”
He also discussed meeting Jung Dae-Eun and mentioned how she helped him realize his dreams.
“We became close friends quickly. We worked as fitting models together. She helped me a lot, and she supported me a lot in my dreams to become a singer.”
Wonho admitted that he had failings growing up, but smoking marijuana was not one of them.
“I was at fault, but there were also misunderstandings,” Wonho said regarding the allegations against him. “Of course, I realize we can’t turn back time. Not everyone who grows up in an environment like mine ends up on the wrong path. When I was on probation, I did a lot of self-reflection.”
Now that’s he’s clear of the charges, it’s unclear what Wonho’s plans are currently. Starship’s vague statement doesn’t make it clear if Wonho will re-sign with the agency or return to Monsta X.
Photo cr. SBS Australia
—-Olivia Murray
Former SECRET member Sunhwa found a new agency!
Sunhwa signed an exclusive contract with KeyEast Entertainment. Under the agency, she plans to promote as an actress.
“Since transitioning from singer to actor in 2013, Sunhwa has been working in a sincere manner to establish herself in acting,” a KeyEast Entertainment representative said. “We’ll actively support Sunhwa, so she can expand her colorful charms and wide spectrum of acting.”
Sunhwa joins Joo Ji-Hoon, Jung Ryeo-Won, Kim Dong-Wook, and Son Dam-Bi at the agency. We look forward to seeing her in the future!
Photo cr. Soompi
—-Olivia Murray
Former BEAST member and current Cube Entertainment solo artist Jang Hyunseung has been discharged from the military.
The singer, who enlisted July 24, 2018, departed the military on March 13, 2020. He greeted fans on Instagram with a picture and a thank you message.
Neither Hyunseung nor Cube Entertainment have released any comeback plans yet. Perhaps news will be around the corner soon!
Photo cr. Yahoo News
—-Olivia Murray
On March 16, 2020, Cube Entertainment confirmed that BtoB’s Yook Sungjae plans to enlist this year after he announced his enlistment plans on the March 15 episode of Master of the House.
“As Yook Sungjae mentioned in Master in the House, after finishing filming the new JTBC drama Ssang Gap Pocha, he is currently preparing to join the military within the year,’ Cube Entertainment said. “However, no specific schedule has been made regarding his enlistment, and Yook Sungjae will have personal time for the time being.”
On his final episode of Master of the House, Sungjae said, “There is my national defense duty to consider. I thought it would be good to spend some time by myself before I enlist in the military.”
When Sungjae enlists, he will be the fourth BtoB member to do so. Eunkwang enlisted in August 2018, while Changsub did so in January 2019 and Minhyuk in February 2019.
Photo cr. The Jakarta Post
—-Olivia Murray
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