Chie Izuno works full time at an office Branch. Though sheās 30, sheās very young at heart and kind of innocent. She tries hard to go into the dating field but finds herself struggling due to her weight and self-esteem issues. She meets up with one of the companyās investors, Jin Harada, a super sucessful and young business man. However Jin has a severe lack of social skills. Chie strives to make a deal with Jin in order to aide her in her goal to lose weight and gain confidence, she tells Jin she can help him with his own flaws. Where will this agreement lead them to, and can two total opposites and flawed individuals overcome their personal demons?
We apologize for the delay, but here is your K-Pop Top 30 as voted by you, our readers. We hope you enjoy how you picked this month’s tracks!
The marriage between Song Hye-Kyo and Song Joong-Ki is officially over.
On July 22, 2019, the now-former Song-Song couple had their divorce finalized at the Seoul Family Courts. Neither of the Songs released a statement regarding the finalization, but Song Hye-Kyoās agency, United Artist Agency (UAA), provided a statement to the press. The statement did release some tidbits regarding what the divorce entailed.
“We inform you that the arbitration procedure was completed with both sides agreeing on a divorce without alimony or division of property,ā the UAA rep said.
Meanwhile, on July 25, 2019, Song Hye-Kyo and her lawyers filed a formal complaint against those spreading malicious rumors about her online.
“On July 25, we filed formal complaints with the Bundang Police Station against numerous suspects for spread of false information, defamation of character and insult,ā UAA said in a statement.
Song Hye-Kyoās legal counsel reiterated that a complaint had been filed.
“We have filed a formal complaint with the Bundang Police Station against numerous suspects after collecting evidence on malicious acts, distribution of false information and malicious slander in relation to Song Hye-Kyo,ā her lawyers said. āOur company is planning to file criminal complaints against the remaining communities, comments and YouTubers as soon as evidence is collected.ā
The lawyers continued, āFalse information and posts, malicious slander and fabrication and distribution of unimaginable stories related to Song Hye-Kyo have been continuing. This has not only surpassed the level of social tolerance but is also causing unbearable distress to Song Hye-Kyo.”
During an interview, Song Hye-Kyo said she would be taking time off for the rest of the year.
“This year, I will take some personal time off. I need to have some time for myselfā¦ I will take it easy. And next year, I will start a new projectāmaybeābut nothing has been fully decided yet. Letās see if the stars align,ā she told the Hong Kong Tatler.
The famed couple met on the set of Descendants of the Sun in 2016. The pair married October 31, 2017. They announced their divorce June 27, 2019.
—-Olivia Murray
It hasnāt even been a full year since their debut, but up-and-coming power rookies, ATEEZ, have signed with the American music agency RCA Records.
On July 24, 2019, the group (full name ATEEnagerZ ) announced their signing with RCA Records. Sony Music Entertainment Korea, KQ Entertainmentāthe groupās managing companyāand RCA Records shared their excitement over the news.
āWeāve been watching the success of ATEEZ build for the last few months and are excited to partner with Sony Korea and KQ Entertainment to help take them to the next level,ā says John Fleckenstein, co-president, RCA Records. āK-pop is undeniable, and ATEEZ is stepping out as a frontrunner in the space.ā
āIt has been our privilege to be part of ATEEZās journey with KQ Entertainment from the very beginning,ā says Joseph Chang, managing director, Sony Music Entertainment Korea. āATEEZās management, KQ Entertainment, led by Sean Kim (CEO), includes visual creative, A&R, in-house producers and more, which enabled ATEEZ to be successfully formed. KQ and ATEEZ have pursued an original sound and style, and with the immense support from their ATINY fanbase across the globe. We are thrilled to continue this journey to international stardom with RCA Records in the US.āā
āWe are so excited about this new journey with RCA Records. We already feel the love from our ATINY fans in the U.S. and canāt wait to continue to showcase our music and powerful, energetic performances to them and are looking forward to gaining new fans along the way,ā ATEEZ told Billboard.
The group, which toured successfully in North America and Europe earlier this year, are more than ready to tap the US market. Each of their concerts this year were sold out, and their music has appeared on several music charts globally. The signing paves the way for ATEEZ to promote more in the US while releasing music to their Western audiences.
RCA Records is home to Justin Timberlake, Alicia Keys, Alan Walker, Backstreet Boys, Britney Spears, Childish Gambino, Christina Aguilera, Dave Matthews Band, Enrique Iglesias, Foo Fighters, H.E.R, P!nk, Jimmy Eat World, Khalid, Usher, Pentatonix, and Shakira among other artists. Hereās to hoping ATEEZ find as much success as the aforementioned have!
—-Olivia Murray
From October 25 to November 3, 2019, you can have your chance to see TEENTOP in one of five US locations!
TEENTOP will return to the US for another tour, this time with their PARTY to. N9ne tour. The five-member group last toured the US in December 2018 with their 2018 TEENTOP Night in the USA tour.
For the 2019 tour, StudioPav and Top Media will bring the group to Dallas, Puerto Rico, Chicago, San Jose, and Los Angeles.
Tickets will go on-sale in August. Will you be happy to see TEENTOP again?
—-Olivia Murray
B.A.Pās leader, Bang Yongguk, will enlist this coming August. He will be the first B.A.P member to enlist. It should be noted that while B.A.P dissolved upon leaving TS Entertainment, the group does not consider themselves disbanded.
Bang will enlist August 1, 2019 as an active duty soldier. His enlistment time and location has not been revealed.
āI think of it as a time during which Iāll be able to take a brief break,ā Bang said of his upcoming enlistment date.
Prior to the military announcement, the rapper also announced the release of his new single, āOrange Drive.ā
āāOrange Driveā is my way of expressing my gratitude to my fans, and itās also a promise about Bang Yonggukās next steps as an artist,ā Bang said.
The single will be released July 31, 2019 at 6pm KST.
—-Olivia Murray
On the third Friday of July 2019, Stock shares of Koreaās entertainment agenciesā (both former and current) owners have dropped approximately 30 percent, as the industry struggles with a long list of scandals, and due to Koreaās current political and economic dispute with Japan.
The combined value of stocks held by seven of the countryās top entertainment agency owners fell a drastic 28.7 percent to 512 billion won ($435.5 million) as of July 19th, which is 41.5 percent less from the start of 2019.
Former CEO of YG Entertainment Yang Hyun-suk experienced the most decline, with his value of stocks vastly dropping 41.1 percent to 93 billion won from last yearās 158.5 billion won ā resulting in the companyās most serious crisis since the day of its founding. Many investors are blaming Yang and Seungri for the downfall.
Back in June, Yang stepped down as the CEO – due to various allegations of drug use, soliciting prostitution, tax evasion and etc., – but holds a 16.12 percent stake in the agency, making him still the largest shareholder of the company.
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The value of shares owned by SM. Entertainmentās founder Lee Soo-man also dropped 29.4 percent to 162.7 billion won. (Lee owns a 19.04 percent stake.) While JYP Entertainmentās founder Park Jin-youngās holdings fell 29.9 percent to 133.3 billion won from what it used to be worth 193 billion won.
Likewise, stock prices of both SM Entertainment and JYP Entertainment have hit low at 29.7 and 29.9 percent respectively, compared to the beginning of year 2019.
Last year of 2018, Japanese investors accounted for more than 15 percent of the total market share for the three major Korean agencies. Thus, Korean pop artists have been able to hold concerts and release albums in Japan for a great number of years.
For the good of all the supporters involved in fandoms, company or businesswise that may be affected by these recent scandals and fiasco, we wish to see this situation to somehow elevate and improve in the near future.
J. Chung.
Kyoto, Japan: A suspected arson attack has left 34 dead and 34 injured at Kyoto Animation (KyoAni). According to CNN, the attack is Japanās worst mass-killing in over 20 years. In 2001, an arsonist killed 44 people in Tokyo.
Among those dead include 12 men, 20 women, and one person whose identity is unknown. Their ages ranged from their 20s and 30s. Six of the victims were in their 40s, while one was at least 60-years old. Many of the victims just joined the animation team. One victim is a South Korean national who is in critical condition.
Kyoto Animation had at least 160 employees; 74 were present at the time of the incident.
KyoAni president, Hideaki Hatta, said that everything in the building was also lost including artwork and reference materials.
āItās all gone,ā Hatta said. āThe computers are all gone as well.Ā I donāt know the amount of damage. itās massive.ā
On Thursday July 19, 2019, 41-year-old Shinji Aoba went to the studios for ārevengeā according to reports. According to police, Aoba, who was also armed with knives, poured 11 gallons of gasoline around the entrance and first floor of the renowned animation studio. He also doused staff with gasoline before setting the building, staffers, and himself on fire while yelling āYOU DIE!ā According to Sankei News, an employee chased Aoba out of the building; he was apprehended by police by a nearby home.
Aoba sustained burn severe burn wounds to his face, legs, and chest and is currently being treated at the hospital.
Hiroyuki Sakai, deputy chief at the local Fushimi Police Station, said, āHe’s been anesthetized and can’t talk. We’re waiting for word from the doctors on when we can question him.ā
However, police did state Aoba admitted to starting the fire. Police state his motive is that the animation studio stole a novel idea he had.
A witness who saw Aobaās arrest said Aoba āseemed to be discontented, he seemed to get angry, shouting something about how he had been plagiarized.ā
Aoba has not been arrested yet due to be treated at the hospital. However, on July 20, an arrest warrant has been issued.
According to NHK, Aoba had a prior criminal record. In 2012, Aoba spent three years in prison for robbing a convenience store. He was also in treatment for mental health problems. The Associated Press also reports that neighbors in his apartment building had reoccurring issues with Aoba.
Hatta said no one at the studio knew who Aoba was.
“We’ve never heard his name before. I understand he’s 41 years old. We would have recognized him immediately if he had contacted us before,ā Hatta said.
Hatta also revealed that the studio received death threats before, but police cannot find a connection between those threats and Aoba.
During a press conference, Hatta said there are plans to tear down the badly burned studio one and replace it with a public park that will be home to a memorial monument.
āā¦when I consider the staff and the people in this neighborhood, there are people who don’t want to see such a gruesome sight,ā Hatta said of the building.
Globally and locally, fans have shown an outpouring of love, support, and grief over the loss of the victims and studio.
<blockquote class=”twitter-tweet”><p lang=”ja” dir=”ltr”>Kyoto Animation is home to some of the worldās most talented animators and dreamers ā the devastating attack today is a tragedy felt far beyond Japan. KyoAni artists spread joy all over the world and across generations with their masterpieces. åæćććå„ē¦ććē„ććććć¾ćć</p>— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) <a href=”https://twitter.com/tim_cook/status/1151875113903542272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw”>July 18, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async src=”https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js” charset=”utf-8″></script>
āThe criminal who does this seems to have been mentally disturbed, but I canāt forgive him. The young people at Kyoto Animation were beautiful and warm and it is hard to accept they are gone,ā Bing Xie, 25, a Chinese student at Kyoto University, told Reuters.
KyoAni is a small animation studio in Japan, but it has a large following. They are known for Full Metal Panic! The Second Raid, K-ON, and Violet Evergarden among several other productions.
The investigation into the fire is still ongoing.
Photo credit: Reuters/Kim Kyung-Hoon
—-Olivia Murray
by:Ā Free Bird
The California sun beat down on them hard. While RapMon had been used to the harshness of the climate, J-Hope and G-Dragon were both unused to it. As they continued to the nearest hotel it didnāt take long for them to ditch their outer layers. They felt confident that no one would recognize them in this part of town.
All three of them now had simple tees on and felt very content feeling the breeze on their skin. Almost immediately they had grabbed the attention of the L.A. people, in particular the women. It wasnāt often a group of vibrant young handsome men, especially Korean ones, casually walked around these parts.
As they continued walking they had noticed the stench of the streets. Unlike the cleaner and more maintained streets of their home country, downtown L.A. was more of the opposite. There was tobacco and smoke. The sidewalk was cracked and uneven. There was graffiti on stopped trains and they all held onto their pockets as they walked past some shady people. There was less fear however, as they were somewhat enjoying this newfound thrill of the true āstreetsā.
Their gamble that they would remain anonymous had worked. It seems that the light of K-POP had not shined too brightly in these areas. However they still had to be on guard now.
āHey guys check this out!ā J-Hope opened up his phone to his social media was kind of freaking out. People were finding out two members of B.T.S. and Big Bang leader G-Dragon were missing. Their sweat of heat then turned to worry. āWe have to find a place to stay ASAP.ā
They finally turned around the block and entered a family owned hotel joined called Oasis. To the boys it seemed very inviting from the lit bright blue sign, offers of a pool, and most importantly of all, air conditioning.
It was euphoric getting that initial blast of cool air from the inside after spending nearly two hours in the California sun. All three exhaled a single āAhhhā¦ā in unison. After they had acclimated to the temperature of the room they stepped forward to the front desk where a young girl had fallen asleep on the front desk. Her nametag read āKimā.
J-Hope dinged the call bell once to no reply. He then hit it multiple times in succession to finally awaken the receptionist. āOh! Iām so sorry I fell asleep,ā She fixed her hair and clothes. āItās just we usually donāt get customers these days.ā She stood up to look attentive and put on a genuine smile. āHow are you today? Are you looking to stay?ā
RapMon answered with his best English, āYes we are. We want to stay for a night.ā Kim replied āOf course! Weād be happy to have you three tonight.ā She registered them into her computer and handed them their keys. āBefore you go donāt forget we have our house-made lunch and dinner.ā The boys were also then reminded that they have not had a single bite to eat since they landed and were rightfully starving.
āWe will definitely try it after we settle down.ā The three of them proceeded to their room, which was the closest to the reception area. In fact this hotel was quite small. There were only six rooms, none of which were occupied.
They opened their door and were greeted by a cozy little place. āHey! At least the view is nice.ā J-Hope ran to the window showcasing their view of the graffiti wall of the adjacent building. Both G-Dragon and RapMon gave him a death stare.
G-Dragon made a judgment of the room. It was quite well maintained yet undisturbed. He felt a little bad as it seemed that she ran the entire place herself. He collapsed into the bed and was surprised by the soft embrace of the mattress. āI havenāt felt this kind of comfort since I was homeā¦ā He closed his eyes and imagined his mother coming in to tuck him in. Had it not been for J-Hope jumping on the other bed he would have certainly dozed off for hours.
āThis is so bouncy!ā He was jumping like a child. He however wasnāt small like one. RapMon pressed into the mattress synchronized with his jump. āOw sh.t!ā J-Hopeās head smashed into the ceiling and made a small indent. Dry wall and dust fell onto the bed.
āWoopsā¦ā RapMon covered his mouth with regret while J-Hope was rubbing the spot on his head where he hit the ceiling. G-Dragon was fully aware at this point and was rubbing the bridge on his nose.
They all looked up and noticed the profound indent J-Hopeās head made. āWe can pay for that.ā RapMon said. āUh no. Youāll pay for that.ā They chuckled. There was a knocking on the door from Kim. āIs everything okay in there?ā
They all beamed at the door. āWe are okay! Everything is good!ā RapMon assured her. āAre you sure? That sounded kind of bad. I should come in.ā She began to unlock the door with her master key.
āNo no!ā G-Dragon held the door knob shut. RapMon yelled, āWe are naked!ā Kim immediately unhanded herself from the door and ran back. āIām so sorry please take your time!ā She covered her flushed face.
Kim usually kept her manner when attractive men came through. But whenever she came close to them when they were indecent, she would lose her cool. And these boys she could tell were Korean. And little did the boys know, she was quite the K-POP fan.
āPhew, that was a close oneā¦ā G-Dragon turned around to a half-naked J-Hope and RapMon. āWhy are youā¦?ā He looked at them with confusion. They hurriedly pulled their clothes back on. āJust in case, if she actually came in we would actually be naked!ā G-Dragon sighed.
āI donāt know about you guys, but some food sounds real good right now.ā RapMon rubbed his stomach. āI need some ice.ā J-Hopeās head still hurt from the jump. G-Dragon put his arms around the two of them and huddled them in. āCāmon! Letās fuel up and get ready for our night in L.A.!ā
B.A.Pās Kim Himchan appeared in court July 12, 2019 for a hearing regarding indecent acts by compulsion charges against him.
In 2018, Kim was accused of sexually assaulting/harassing* a woman in her twenties while on a vacation with friends. The woman reported the incident to police. At the time, Kim stated the feelings between the two were mutual. Both admit they were drinking.
Kimās legal team denied the allegations against the idol.
āThere were feelings of interest between the two. It wasnāt explicit consent, but there was implied consent, which is why it is not indecent act by compulsion,ā one of Kimās lawyers said. āItās clear that there were feelings of interest between them. We acknowledge the truth of the kissing and the touching of [the womanās] chest, but there was no other physical contact beyond that.ā
A second trial has been set for August 16, 2019. During the second trial, witness statements are expected.
*Different media sources switch between sexual harassment and sexual assault. In 2018, āharassmentā was used, but since then, āassaultā has been the operative term.
—-Olivia Murray
*China is officially called the People’s Republic of China (PRC) with a population of around 1.404 billion.
*China belongs to the continent of Asia, which borders Afghanistan, Bhutan, Burma, India, Kazakhstan, North Korea, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Vietnam.
*One in every five people in the world is Chinese. Chinese is one of the six official languages used by the U.N.
*Chinaās population is four times larger than the US.
*It’s approximated that thirty-four babies are born each minute.
*China has only one time zone. In the past, China had 5 different time zones but in 1949, the Communist Party leaders decided to set one time for the whole country.
*China is the third largest country by area at 3,747,879 square miles.
*The summit of Mt. Everest marks the border between China and Nepal.
*The Great Wall of China is the largest man-made structure in the world ever, boasting its incredible 5,500 miles.
*More people speak Mandarin as their first language than any other language in the world.
*Mandarin, Yue, Wu, Minbei, Minnan, Xiang, Gan and Hakka are some of the languages used in China.
*One of the most common greetings in this territory is āHave you eaten yet?ā
*Every year, China experiences typhoons and suffers from floods, earthquakes, tsunamis, and droughts.
*For the Chinese, red symbolizes happiness and used at Chinese festivals and many other celebrations, such as birthdays and weddings.
*Chinaās Grand Canal is the worldās longest and oldest one.
*China has cultivated tea for over 2000 years and according to a legend, tea was discovered by Emperor Shennong when a leaf fell into the EmperorĀ“s boiling water.Ā
*Half of all pigs on earth live in China
*In 1996, China produced 600,000 tons of mushrooms, becoming the worldās leading producer. The country has 60% of the worldās mushroom varieties.
*The 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing were the most expensive in the history, which cost an enormous $40 billion to host.
*35 million of Chinese people still live in caves because they donāt have enough funds for a house.
*Chinese New Year celebration lasts for 15 days long. Other major events include the Lantern Festival, Double Seven Festival, and the Winter Solstice. However, they donāt get a day off for Christmas.
*Fingerprinting was used in China as early as 700 A.D ā and used to sign legal documents. Qin Dynasty also used hand and footprints as evidence in crime scenes.
*The worldās first ice-cream is said to have originated from China over 4000 years ago, by mixing milk and rice mixture with the snow.
*The oldest tree in the world is China’s Gingko, which first appeared during some 160 million years ago. The Ginkgo is widely used in traditional medicine and is said to improve memory and the various.
J.Chung.
Tragedy struck a member of the K-Pop world today as Jose Arredondo, the father of K-Pop idol Samuel Kim, was found dead in his home in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico following an apparent home invasion.
Arredondo, who just turned 58-years old July 8, 2019, showed signs of blunt force trauma according to prosecutors. The reports indicate he may have been beaten to death. Arredondoās pastor stated the well-known car dealer was stabbed. Caboās local news outlet, Tribunal de Los Cabos, reports the same details.
Several media outlets consider Arredondoās life to be a classic ārags-to-richesā tale. Arredondo was the fourth child in a family of 11 children. In his youth, he picked crops in Cualcoman, Mexico until he crossed the border into the United States with his sister, Laura, in 1971. He was 11-years old at the time when he and his sister came to America to join their mother in Valencia, California.
āI was frightened to death to come to a country without knowing the language, but I was hungry for a better life,ā Arredondo said of his coming-to-America experience.
Arredondo then built himself from the ground up. Prior to owning car dealerships and a real estate firm, he worked as a car washer. From here, he worked his way up in the business.
According to Automotive Buy Sell Report, Arredondo was a champion for education and ensuring young people obtained their degrees. In an interview, Arredondo admitted he dropped out of school when he was a teen so he could help his family and because his family couldnāt afford to keep him in school. Yearly, he sponsored over 100 scholarships for young people wanting to further their educations.
I have a lot in common with those youngsters that have the ambition to finish school but not the funds,ā Arredondo said.
In addition to sponsoring scholarships, Arredondo gave away cars on Motherās Day, fed the homeless on Thanksgiving, helped families with burial costs, and supported various charities the Central Valley.
“It’s our responsibility as human beings to help these people. When you help someone, you get stronger,” Arredondo said in 2006 for a Bakersfield.com interview.
In Bakersfield, California and the surrounding area, Arredondo was celebrity-like due to his commercials, billboards, and philanthropy.
While Arredondo held a sparkling reputation in his community, there were issues with people surrounding him.
In 2006, a man was shot and killed at Arredondoās Rosedale home. 28-year-old Manuel Morales Abarca visited the home to see a caretaker on Arredondoā property. Abarca and the suspect, Valentine Rosendo Oliva, 35, got into an argument when Oliva allegedly shot Abarca. Arredondo was not home at the time.
In August 2014, an employee of Arredondoās, Daniel Watkins, was shot to death in a triple homicide. Arredondo was interviewed regarding the slaying as he was one of the last people to see Watkins and because he knew and personally hired Watkins at his Family Motors Auto Group dealership.
Heavy.com reports there have been suspicions of Arredondo being involved with organized crime even though those surrounding Arredondo refute those claims.
So far, there is no connection between these incidents and Arredondoās murder.
Arredondo is survived by his wife, Kim Kyung-ju, daughter Mariana, and son Samuel.
Samuel, who professionally goes by Samuel Kim, is a K-Pop singer who debuted as Punch in the duo 1Punch. 1Punch debuted with the ā90s-inspired throwback song āTurn Me Backā in 2015 and dissolved soon after. In 2017, he appeared on Produce 101 Season 2 where he finished 18th. On August 2 of that year, he made his solo debut as Samuel with the EP Sixteen. Samuel has already generated a lot of buzz in his short career so far and has even won three awards: āGlobal Collaboration Awardā (2017ās Seoul Music Awards for āSpotlightā with Silento), āMost Searched KR New Singerā (2017 Yahoo! Asian Buzz Awards), and the āNew Hallyu Performance Awardā (2018 Soribada Best K-Music Awards).
Samuel or his company have yet to comment on Arredondoās passing. However, Samuelās social media platforms have been set to private.
Suspects have not been named in the Arredondo murder investigation as of this writing.
We send our condolences to Samuel Kim and his family.
—-Olivia Murray
Following Kang Ji-Hwanās admittance that he sexually assaulted two female staffers at his Gwangju home following a dinner party and an evening of drinking, Huayi Brothers decided to nullify their contract with the 42-year-old actor. The company announced their decision July 16, 2019 via a statement.
Hello. This is Huayi Brothers Korea.
We signed a contract with Kang Ji Hwan in May 2019 on the basis of trust, but as a result of an unexpected, disgraceful event, that trust has crumbled.
Following, we are unable to continue our exclusive contract [with Kang Ji Hwan] and have decided to terminate our contract with him.
We will strive for improvement and do our best to prevent the same from happening in the future through thorough management of our artists.
Once again, we apologize to everyone for causing concern.
On July 9, 2019, two women fell asleep at Kangās house. One woman woke up to see Kang on top of the other woman. She tried calling police and couldnāt get through. She then texted a friend who sent police to Kangās residence. Kang and the two females were questioned, and Kang was then detained. An arrest warrant was issued days after. Kang admitted to the charges on July 15, 2019.
—-Olivia Murray
On July 9, 2019, actor Kang Ji-Hwan (Joseon Survival, Be Strong, Geum-Soon!, 90 Days, Time to Love), 42, was apprehended at his Gwanju home for āindecent assault.ā According to reports, Kang and two outsourced female staffers went out for drinks following a company dinner. The trio then went to Kangās house where the two women fell asleep. One of the women woke up and noticed her clothes were disheveled; she then alleges she saw Kang on top of the other woman. From there, police state she messaged a friend and asked her to contact the police.
Regarding the phone calls, K-Netizens accused the victims of making up the allegations. Netizens wondered why one of the alleged victims reached out to a friend instead of calling the police directly. The womenās lawyer addressed the allegations on July 14.
“The reason why the victims weren’t able to reach police was because there was no cell service at the house,” the lawyer told Channel A. “Victim ‘A’s phone call records revealed that she tried to make a total of 13 calls to police and Kang Ji-hwan’s agency officials and acquaintances to no avail. She was able to send the SMS message to the acquaintance because of an available WI-FI connection.”
Gwangwon Police confirmed they received a repeated call and admit a connection could not be made.
On July 9, Kang was questioned by police and placed in holding. On July 10, police questioned the actor again, and he appointed a lawyer. On July 12, a warrant was issued for his arrest related to charges of suspicions of quasi-rape according to the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment, etc.
On July 15, Kang admitted to the charges in a statement released via his legal representation.
This is Kang Ji Hwanās law firm HwaHyun. We are conveying Kang Ji Hwanās official statement.
This is Kang Ji Hwan. I admit to all charges and I bow my head and sincerely apologize to the victims that I have hurt greatly with my irreparable wrongdoing. I want to also apologize to everyone that I have concerned because of this. I will accept punishment for my crimes and make atonement.
I apologize profusely.
Signed, Kang Ji Hwan.
Meanwhile, Huayi Brothers Korea announced Kang has been replaced on Joseon Survival. Seo Ji-Suk has been named as the replacement via a statement.
Hello. This is Huayi Brothers Korea, the production company for TV Chosunās āJoseon Survival.ā
This is our statement on the casting and broadcasting schedule of āJoseon Survival.ā
We announce that actor Seo Ji-Suk was confirmed to join [the drama] in the role of the main character Han Jung-Rok.
After finalizing the casting, āJoseon Survivalā will begin filming as soon as possible, and we will resume airing episode 11 starting next Saturday (July 27).
Once again, we ask everyone who awaited āJoseon Survivalā for their understanding, and we will do our best to meet the viewersā needs by creating a well-made drama until the end.
The victims in the case are expected to be questioned again in the coming days.
—-Olivia Murray
Forbes recently released their āCelebrity 100ā list that details the worldās highest paid entertainers. This yearās list calculated pre-tax earnings between June 2018-June 2019 and counts income before fees for managers, lawyers, and agents. According to Soompi, Forbesā figures are ābased on numbers from Nielsen Music, Pollstar, IMDB, NPD BookScan, and ComScore, in addition to interviews with industry experts and some of the stars themselves.ā
BTS cracked the top 50 at 43 (tied with Bradley Cooper) with their earnings set at $57 million.
This is the first time BTS made the list. According to Forbes, BTSā earning stemmed from their Love Yourself and Speak Yourself tours along with the Burn the Stage and Love Yourself in Seoul films. Forbes also lists the BTS World app and the Love Yourself album trilogy (Her, Tear, and Answer) as part of the groupās accomplishments for making the list.
Congratulations to BTS for yet another accomplishment on their growing list of accolades!
—-Olivia Murray
Fresh off the heels of Super Juniorās groundbreaking tour stop in Saudi Arabia, Big Hit Entertainment announced that BTS will perform in the kingdom this coming October!
BTS will bring the Speak Yourself stadium tour to Saudi Arabia, making them the first K-Pop act to hold a stadium tour in the country. Behind Super Junior, they are only the second K-Pop act to perform a solo concert there.
Super Junior performed a solo concert July 12, 2019. However, it should be noted that Stray Kids performed at the Jeddah Season Festival Saturday July 13, 2019, but the performance was not a standalone tour.
Saudi A.R.M.Y started asking for BTS to tour Saudi Arabia following Super Juniorās concert. According to fans on Twitter and Allkpop, Saudi A.R.M.Y organized to ask @Turki_alalshikh (one of the people responsible for bringing entertainment acts to the country) for a BTS tour. While itās not clear if this mobilized attempt to bring the group to the country is the reason for BTS to perform there, it should be noted that Saudi A.R.M.Yās dedication did not go unnoticed!
The Love Yourself: Speak Yourself tour will stop at King Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia October 11, 2019.
—-Olivia Murray
Earlier in July 2019, Dubai Stars announced that BTS will have a star on the Dubai Walk of Fame.
BTS were selected to have a star following a Dubai Stars project fan vote. Starting in March, fans had an opportunity to vote for the group using the Twitter hashtag #BTSDubaiStar. On July 1, the Dubai Stars Twitter page announced BTSā selection.
āA Dubai Star is now dedicated to the popular South Korean boy band from Seoulā@bts_bighit,ā the tweet reads. āWill you be cheering for them at our launch event this October?ā
A Dubai Star is now dedicated to the popular South Korean boy band from Seoulā@bts_bighit. Will you be cheering for them at our launch event this October? pic.twitter.com/DMVfPHfbKM
ā The Dubai Stars (@TheDubaiStars) July 1, 2019
According to Timeout Dubai, the Walk of Fame project will pay tribute to “eminent personalities who have positively influenced the world through their work” across various fields including music, film, art, sports and literature.ā
So far, BTS is the only Korean act identified as having a star.
The Dubai Walk of Fame, located at Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, will eventually hold 10,000 stars when the projectās complete. Currently, 400 stars, including BTSā star along with soccer star Lionel Messi, Saudi Arabian singer Abdul Majeed Abdullah, and actor Shah Rukh Khan, will be unveiled this October.
—-Olivia Murray
Super Junior made history July 12, 2019 when they became the first K-Pop act to perform in Saudi Arabia.
Super Junior ‘s welcoming video display from Arab ELF.
SJ are shinning in the sky of Jeddah ?āØ pic.twitter.com/OHXaLJZLT6#SuperJuniorInKSA#SS7SinJEDDAHCr. DonghaeArab, ArabSiwonest_pr
ā ? moon (@eejwithyou) July 11, 2019
The groupāsans Kangin (who announced his departure earlier in the week) and Sungminābrought their Super Show 7S to the Middle Eastern country and performed in front of an estimated 15 thousand fans. The group performed in Jeddah at King Abdullah Sports City.
When the tour stop was announced, high demand for tickets caused ticketing websites to crash; the show sold out within hours of the tickets being posted.
Social media and Middle Eastern media point to the show being a huge success. With light sticks aglow, Saudi E.L.F showed their support in huge ways by showing off signs and singing along to Super Juniorās discography. In turn, Super Junior made attempts to communicate with fans via translators and sharing a few Arabic phrases they learned in order to show a deeper connection to their Saudi fans.
You still can hear them from miles away lol #SuperJuniorInKSA @SJofficial pic.twitter.com/oLjAIgHB0p
ā ŲÆŁŁŁŁŲŖ ? Don’faith (@sujuI0I) July 12, 2019
Super Juniorās sub-units, Super Junior K.R.Y and Super Junior D&E, also performed at the Jeddah Season Festival Saturday July 13, 2019. Another K-Pop act, Stray Kids, also performed at the festival.
āWe are the first South Korean band to perform here in Saudi Arabia and I am so proud to be performing here,ā Siwon said.
Congratulations to Saudi E.L.F for being able to see your favorite group!
—-Olivia Murray
On July 6, 2019, BIGBANGās T.O.P was discharged from his mandatory military service.
When T.O.P enlisted as a conscripted police officer February 9, 2017, he was set to be discharged November 8, 2018. However, the actor/rapper was wrapped up in a marijuana controversy and indictment in 2018 that added time to his service. Additionally, he spent time in the hospital when he overdosed on a prescribed medication. However, due to changes to Koreaās enlistment rules, T.O.P was eligible for early dismissal, much to Netizensā chagrin.
The VIP fandom even made efforts to thwart the media upon T.O.Pās service release. T.O.P fansites along with YG Entertainment staff coordinated to help T.O.P meet fans at a secret meeting location. Some VIPs waited outside Yongsan Administrative Office in Seoul where the media, too, waited for the idol to emerge. The media even set up a spot with a microphone so T.O.P could address the media, but it sat lonely as T.O.P met fans at another location.
this pic is iconic & hilarious for many reasons:
-the press DEADASS put a mark for TOP who never showed up
-the pathetic looking mic
-VIPs standing there acting as if they’re waiting for TOP to fool the media -VIPs waiting to see the look on the press’s faces#LongTimeNoSeeTOP pic.twitter.com/hq65vpGIVwā Di ? (@YG_Drag) July 6, 2019
At the secret location, T.O.P greeted fans by shaking hands and chatting with them. On Instagram, he thanked his fans in a message written in English.
“Even though I am not proud of myself, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to all the fans who made time and efforts to share this moment with me,” the K-pop star wrote. “I will make sure to reflect on my self and repay the hurts and disappointments I caused to you. Again, thank you. Until I see you again.. love, T.O.P,ā the post reads.
Everything wasnāt all wonderful, however, as K-Netizens found fault with the whole ordeal. Netizens criticized his designer suit, where his car parked, and complained about his existence. However, these complaints didnāt quash the enthusiasm of excited VIPs.
Since T.O.Pās message to fans, he has not posted on social yet. Hopefully he finds a suitable piece of furniture to photograph to signal his true return to post-military life.
—-Olivia Murray
NOIR is a Korean 9-member boy band formed by Luk Factory, and group made their official debut on April 9, 2018 with album Twenty’s Noir. Weāre very pleased to have attained an interview from the 9-member-group and would like to take this chance to thank the boys and their management for making this happen. We wish them all the best with their careers and hope their fans enjoy reading.
*Thank you for your precious time. Please introduce yourselves to our readers please.
Seunghoon: Hi ~ This is Shin Seunghoon, the leader of NOIR ^^. Iām the rapper, composer and lyricist of the team. I took part in creating all the rap making for all the songs in our most recent album. ā”
Yeonkuk: Hello!!! This is Kim Yeonkuk and the vocalist of NOIR.
Junyong: Hello, Iām Lee Junyong, the main vocalist of NOIR.
Yunsung: Hello! Iām Nam Yunsung ~ Iām the talker and the blooming visual in the team!
Siheon: Hello! This is NOIR. Ever so sweet honey Siheon!
Hoyeon: Hi, Iām the tough charmer Hoyeon.
Siha: Hello, Iām NOIRās husky voice Siha!
Minhyuk: Hi, Iām Kim Minhyuk – the prankster of NOIR.
Daewon: Hello, this is Kim Daewon, the maknae of NOIR!!
*How did you all debut as a group? Has it always been your dream to become a singer?
Seunghoon: I wanted to be a doctor since I was very young. I thought having a profession where you provide cure for people would be so cool. When I got into high school, I got into a dance group and performed on stage and got immersed in singing and dancing after that, which has paved a way to where I am now. I want to provide healing to people through music.
Yeonkuk: I wanted to be a doctor while growing up and when I got into high school, I suddenly wanted to try singing and changed my dream from then onwards. I got into this group because my friend, Yunsung kept nagging me to go to the auditions at my current company with him. So, I got through the audition and was made a member of NOIR.
Junyong: I was recommended by a music teacher to take an audition at our current company, and got to join the NOIR as the last member! My dream as a child was to become a singer. Itās because I felt comforted each time I sang, lol.
Yunsung: My childhood dream was to be an actor. But as I learned to sing and dance, I found it all so fun and energizing ā thatās how I began to want to be an idol singer.
Siheon: I wanted to be a scientist when I was younger since I loved creating and learning about new things. I was a trainee in Seoul, and was going through a lot of hardships and wasnāt sure if I would make it. I was given a great opportunity to audition for a spot and was able to join the group.
Hoyeon: I dreamt of becoming a soccer player when I was younger, then later a scientist. But after watching a certain music program, I started dreaming of being a singer.Ā Ā
Siha: I just wanted to sing when I was growing up. It wasnāt anything specific like an idol singer, singer songwriter, musician or anything like that ā I just wanted to become someone who sings.
Minhyuk: I initially wanted to be a back-up dancer, but after performing on stage ~ I knew I wanted to be at the center, so thatās how I came to debut.Ā
Daewon: I wanted to be a singer since I was younger and I wanted to fulfill that dream. After countless auditions, I finally found my current company.
*Which NOIR song do you like the most and please add the reason too.
Seunghoon: Thereās a track called Burning, which I participated in composing the music and the lyrics to. The song is dedicated to our fans, in thought that weād even go through fire for Lumiere, even though that sounds cheesy. I enjoy listening to the song immensely.
Yeonkuk: I am the most attached Travel from our first album because I personally feel my part of the song sounds pretty sexy.
Junyong: I think itād have to be Gangster from our debut album. That is because I can never forget the day when we received the song and the decision for us to debut was announced. I recall everything that happened since then, so thatās why Iām so attached to the song.
Yunsung: Be Taken! The lyrics are what we want to convey to our fans, Lumiere.
Siheon: Become a Star!! It was the song I got to record while I was still a trainee, and now itās become a precious memory for me.Ā
Hoyeon: I think Iām the most attached to Airplane Mode. I liked how both the performance and song had a very defined concept.
Siha: Become a Star from our first album. Somehow, the song is so heart-wrenching and the story is what we want to express to Lumiere.
Minhyuk: Itās Be Taken for me, since itās such an upbeat song.
Daewon: Iām the most attached to Become a Star from our first album. When I listen to it, I get consolation whenever I feel down and tired out.
*Name one artist/musician whom you admire the most.
Seunghoon: BTS Sunbaenims, who are currently doing incredibly right now. I look up their videos and read articles about them often, and they seem to be achieving of what one can only dream of. Theyāre such a cool act, and Iām learning so much from just watching them.
Yeonkuk: I respect Taemin sunbaemin the most. On stage, heās so dreamy, sexy and his diverse facial expression, dancing skills, vocal ability and stage presence is all admirable.
Junyong: For me, I admire singer and musician Sia the most. Sheās such a powerful vocalist, has her own way of sound and expressing her feeling through her music, which always makes my heart flutter! Lol.
Yunsung: Out of all the bands, I respect BTS sunbaenims the most. And, Iām a fan of Taemin sunbaenim personally.
Siheon: Park Hyoshin sunbaenim is the singer whom I respect the most! I grew up listening to him. I get a lot of thoughts and feelings through his music.
Hoyeon: BTS and Taemin sunbaenims.
Siha: I really have a lot of respect for Beak Yerin and Moon Myung-jin sunbaenims.
Minhyuk: BTS sunbaenims, because of their performance stage presence and superb dance skills.
Daewon: BTS sunbaenim for me.Ā
*Recommend us a song/album that youāve been listening to a lot lately.
Seunghoon: I frequently listen to Undelivered Truth by BTS, these days. I think I tend to listen to it when Iām down.
Yeonkuk: BTS ā Boy With Luv, Taemin ā Thirsty and 10cm ā However are some of the music I listen to a lot nowadays.
Junyong: I used to listen to Siaās Alive every day of the week. I really recommend it.
Yunsung: Dan & Shay- Tequila!
Siheon: Iām listening to a lot of Park Hyoshin sunbaenimās Goodbye!!
Hoyeon: BTS ā Boy with Luv (ģģź²ė¤ģ ģķ ģ), The Chainsmokers, Bebe Rexha – Call You Mine, and Taylor Swift – ME! (feat. Brendon Urie of Panic! At The Disco).
Siha: These days, Iām really into Park Hyoshin sunbaenimās Goodbye! I love the heart-wrenching feeling of the song, so I recommend you guys to check it out.
Minhyuk: Ovanās Happiness.
Daewon: I recommend you to listen to Young Forever by BTS.
*How would you describe your personality and character?
Seunghoon: Can I define myself in one word? Lol. I can sometime turn out to be a little weird in many ways.
Yeonkuk: Sunshine.
Junyong: Iād say, Iām a prankster who has a positive and bright personality.
Yunsung: Attentive, feminine but valiantā¦?
Siheon: A shiny pebble.
Hoyeon: I have a lot of mood swings but I am a really fun character. Honestly!
Siha: Just nice.
Minhyuk: Innocent and cheerful?
Daewon: Passionate!!
*What is the first thing that you do when you wake up in the morning?
Seunghoon: I drink a ton of water. ^^
Yeonkuk: I brush my teeth first.
Junyong: I eat a snack because Iād be hungry. That way, I can wake up quickly.
Yunsung: I talk to Sihyeon, who sleeps on the bunk bed above me and ask him āWhatās the time?ā
Siheon: I lie still for a about 5 minutes and stare at the ceiling.
Hoyeon: I zone out.
Siha: I turn the alarm off.
Minhyuk: I drink a cup of water.
Daewon: I grab a towel and head to the bathroom.
*Recommend us any movies, musicals or books youāve enjoyed in the past.
Seunghoon: I love the film Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, which Iāve watched countless many times, but I feel that itās such a great classic each time I watch it.
When I need to gain inspirations on writing love songs, I would watch the film occasionally.
Yeonkuk: Avengers, I think.
Junyong: I want to recommend the movie Me Before Youā¦
Yunsung: The Avengers: Endgame is the best movie of the year!!
Siheon: I really loved Punch (2011) the movie!!! I can still recall the movie from when I first watched it, so vividly because I felt so entertained and refreshed.Ā Ā
Hoyeon: Avengers: Endgame is the movie of my life.
Siha: I very much enjoyed watching Stranger Things on Netflix.
Minhyuk: Avengers: Endgame.
Daewon: All the Avengers movies.
*What is your special charm, in your opinion?
Seunghoon: Iām laidback? Tsundereā¦ ^^
Yeonkuk: I think my charm isā¦ the bright and positive vibe that I emit.
Junyong: A smiley face with pure skin! And perhaps, my abs? LOL.
Yunsung: Shiny and pretty eyes?!?
Siheon: My not-so-great Seoul accent is my charm, I think.
Hoyeon: Iām multi-talented and easy-going.
Siha: Innocence?
Minhyuk: I smile with my eyes.
Daewon: I am cute charismatic, dreamlike and I have chubby cheeks.
*What kind of person is your ideal?
Seunghoon: Someone who matches my humor and lovable, ha ha.
Yeonkuk: My ideal is someone kind and warm like a mom.
Junyong: I like someone who has the same taste for food as myself. Iām pretty particular so an average person would probably find it hard to adjust to me. Lol.
Yunsung: Someone who is capable of looking after me like a mom and the ability to make my heart flutter!!
Siheon: My ideal would be someone who is a really great listener, and someone that I can respect (and vice-versa).
Hoyeon: Someone who gets along really well with me.
Siha: Someone who fits well with my personality!
Minhyuk: Someone who never changes and stays the same.
Daewon: My ideal is a lady who has her attention only on me!!
*NOIR can refer to the color āblackā in French, which color or colors do you like the most?
Seunghoon: I particularly like black, white and red. I like other colors too, but I donāt think I like navy or greyish tones that much.
Yeonkuk: I like black, purple and ivory. I donāt think I have any colors I donāt like.
Junyong: My favorite color is red, because it seems to symbolize love and passion so well.
Yunsung: When we first came out, I was into black and white a lot, but we wear a lot of luminous or bright colors often nowadays.
Siheon: Black and white for me, there arenāt any colors that I dislike much.
Hoyeon: I actually like black the best!
Siha: I love black too!
Minhyuk: I donāt have any dislikes, when it comes to colors. I like pastel-toned colors.
Daewon: I love black, white and red the best!! There arenāt any colors I donāt like either.
*Do you have a way of releasing or relieving stress? Please share.
Seunghoon: When I get stressed out, I play shooting games or just take a long nap.
Yeonkuk: I like to shop, play games, watch movies or watch an animation.
Junyong: I play sports, since Iām a sports addict lol.
Yunsung: I eat at night to relieve stress!!!
Siheon: I play games or draw.
Hoyeon: I play a lot of games. These days, I like to compose or edit videos.
Siha: I like to release stress by eating.
Minhyuk: I either cook or eat.
Daewon: I take some time alone, for myself. I watch a movie by myself or go for walks or something.
*What are you good at? Tell us about your interests, specialties and hobbies too.
Seunghoon: I rap, compose, write lyrics ā Iād call these my specialties. For hobbies, I like games, customize outfits and shopping.
Yeonkuk: I am a great swimmer and my interests are shopping, movies and games.
Junyong: My clear, high tone vocals, maybe? That includes the volume too, lolā¦ I can also speak Japanese! My hobbyās watching soccer matches!
Yunsung: I read comic books or animation!!! Iām really into comic books and love watching movies!
Siheon: My specialty is art!! Iām pretty good at drawing lol.
Hoyeon: My specialty is creating choreography, composing, editing videosā¦ My hobbies are gaming and making things.Ā
Ā Siha: I collect electronic devices!
Minhyuk: I cook, play games, play basketball and watch films.
Daewon: My specialty is dancing and singing. And I love to watch movies, monitoring our stage performances and shopping.
*What do you think youāll be doing in 10 yearsā time?
Seunghoon: In 10 years, I should weād be better entertainers and be going around all over the globe on a world tour to see Lumiere.
Yeonkuk: We want to grow and expand as a band, and want to repay all the love that we received back to the fans.
Junyong: I would be volunteering to teach students who want to learn music. Iād be discovering talents and teach them the things Iāve learned myself.
Yunsung: I think Iād want to be remembered as a very successful musician.
Siheon: I should expect Iād be better off overall as a real grown-up and still be doing music.
Hoyeon: 10 years from now, I would like to have become a great artist and producerā¦!
Siha: I think we would still be active as Noir membersā¦ with Lumiere by our side!
Minhyuk: I think we would be having a great time touring the world and meeting our fans.
Daewon: I expect NOIR to enhance develop as a better group, and would be flying around the world to meet our fans.
*Let us know about your dreams and goals for the future. Please leave a comment for the fans too.
Seunghoon: Weāre going to become a team that makes great music and performances that will always excite and inspire youā¦ I hope youāll please stick around with us for a long time. Love you, Lumiereā¦ ā”ā”
Yeonkuk: We plan to do our best to work on our third, fourth and many more albums to come in the future. Weāre always working hard to showcase better music and performances to you all. ^^ Lumiere, I love you!!! Weāll do our utmost to meet you soon. Send us a lot of good vibes and love pleaseā¦
Junyong: Weāll be releasing our third album soonā¦. We want to reach the charts before 2019 is over and attend award shows. And, weād love to perform at Wembley! It took so long to produce this album, so weāre so grateful for everyone who waited for our return. Weāll be back with better performances for you. Wherever you are, weāll work hard so youād be proud to be Lumiere! Love you!! Thank you and see you all soon!
Yunsung: Our goal for the future is definitely to embark on a world tour. Thatās one of the things we want to achieve with Lumiere. I believe we can make it happen! Hope to see you all soon. Lumiere, I love you!
Siheon: We want to work harder and keep producing great records, so even Lumiere will find it hard to browse somewhere else. We love you, Lumiereā¦!! Weāll be back with great performances!! ā”
Hoyeon: First, weād love to release more albums and meet up frequently with our fans via concerts, broadcasts, fan meetingsā¦
Siha: We ask you to listen to our new single Doom Doom and thank you for always supporting us, Lumiere. Love you.Ā
Minhyuk: Weāll be back with great performances in the future. Please wait up for us. Lumiere, weāre always grateful for your love and support.
Daewon: We plan to showcase more diverse side of us and will do our best to progress!! NOIR exists because we have Lumiere. Weāll keep fulfilling our promises to you, one by one and will become what youāll be proud of!! Keep your eyes on us!! We love you all. ā”
— J. Chung.
Ā
Hiromu Kitagawa was born and raised in Los Angeles, and served in the U.S military during the Korean War. Kitagawa later worked at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo, where he was inspired to promote boy bands after seeing the movie West Side Story.
In 1962, Kitagawa formed the talent agency Johnny & Associates. Since then, his agency gave birth to such successful all-male acts as Shonentai, Hikaru Genji, KinKi Kids, Tokio and many more. Kitagawaās Guinness World Records include the most No. 1 singles produced by an individual.
On June 18, Kitagawa was rushed to the hospital after suffering a stroke caused by a ruptured cerebral aneurysm. He was then pronounced dead on July 10, 2019.
Kitagawa had his share of ups-and-downs during his long career in the music business, and the entire Japanese entertainment industry mourned for him.
“My life changed so much since I met Johnny-san. Please rest well,” said Satoshi Ono, the leader of Arashi, one of the most successful idol groups created by Kitagawa’s talent agency and Johnny & Associates Inc.
Another member, Jun Matsumoto left a statement, “I wanted to watch more shows created by Johnny-san and talk more with him.”
J. Chung.