Berry Good’s leader, Yoo Taeha, has decided to depart the group following the expiration of her contract with JTG Entertainment. The news comes as a bit of a shock considering how Berry Good recently made a comeback with the Fantastic mini album and new single, “Oh Oh.”
On May 27, 2019, Taeha announced her departure in an Instagram message written in both English and Korean.
Dear fans,
This is leader Taeha from Berry Good and I would like to share some news with you.
First, Berry Good has come back after a long break and I want to sincerely thank you for your patience and support you have given. Secondly, as my contract with JTG Entertainment has come to an end, Taeha will no longer be part of Berry Good.
I want to thank you all for your love throughout these years and it is truly hard for me to say goodbye. From a young age, members Johyun, Seoyul, Sehyung, Gowoon and I have continuously worked hard and encouraged each other through all ups and downs as we’re chasing our dreams. Thus, I would appreciate your continuous love and support in the future and again, thank you to all the fans who have loved Taeha. I truly hope to meet you again in the near future.
Yours truly,
Taeha.
It is unclear if Taeha intends to complete Berry Good’s current promotions.
We wish Taeha the best in her future!
—-Olivia Murray
Trigger Warning: Post discusses content related to suicide. If you or someone you love needs help, see the information at the end of this post.
Former KARA member, Goo Hara, is in the hospital following an alleged suicide attempt according to several media sources.
The news comes after Goo, 28, posted a string of social media posts that caused fans to worry about her well-being on May 25. One of the posts simply said “Goodbye.” Other posts include one that reads,
Acting as if I am not tired, when I am
Acting as if I am not in pain, when I am
After living all those years with suppression,
I look fine on the outside, but it feels as if I am starting to break into pieces inside. -Kim Tokki.
These posts have since been removed from her Instagram account.
Goo’s manager found her unconscious in her Gangnam-district home early Sunday morning. Her manager went to her home after Goo didn’t answer or return phone calls. According to The Jakarta Post, Korean media outlets report that smoke filled Goo’s home and that she was found on the floor.
“Goo Hara has recently been battling depression,” her manager said. “We were aware of that and we’ve been paying attention to her well-being. That’s why when she didn’t answer her phone, I went to check on her immediately. And I found her passed out on the floor.”
Police and an ambulance were dispatched, and while the star is said to have not regained consciousness yet, she is in stable condition.
Goo’s had a rough year in terms of negative headlines. In late 2018 until recently, she has been in the media due to claims that an ex-boyfriend assaulted her and that he shared nude photos of her without her consent. However, he, in-turn, claims she assaulted him. Both were questioned by police, and both parties presented evidence to back each other’s claims. The case was forwarded to the prosecution and has gone to trial. Her ex denies the claims against him. His first trial was May 14, 2019.
In January, her contract with KeyEast also expired.
We hope that Goo Hara receives the help she needs during this time.
If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, there is help.
United States
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Crisis Text Line: A 24/7 nationwide text-messaging hotline. Text 741741 to talk to a trained counselor.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 1-800-273-8255- Available 24 hours every day.
The Trevor Project: Call 1-866-488-7386. Crisis and suicide prevention services available to the LGBTQ+ community.
Trans Lifeline: Call (877) 565-8860. Crisis and suicide prevention services for trans and non-binary individuals.
Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1 for help. Text 838255 for text-based services. This service aids veterans.
Canada
Kids Help Phone: Call 1-800-668-6868. A 24-hour service for youths 20 and under.
The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention: Assistance is available in French and English. However, they are not a crisis center, but they do have links to crisis centers in each Canadian province.
Trans Lifeline: Call (877) 330-6366
Youthspace: This service helps people aged 30 and under. Text them at 778-783-0177. The service is available from 6pm to midnight PST.
For a complete list of suicide and crisis lifelines available in many countries, please visit Wikipedia’s list of resources.
—-Olivia Murray
Do you have hair that looks like a burnt, wild haystack? Does it tangle and knot easily? Do you have split ends and frays? If any of these scenarios apply to you, then Elizavecca’s Cer-100 Collagen Protein hair treatment is a must-try!
My hair easily falls under each of the categories mentioned above. Years of dying and straightening my hair along with using the wrong brush for my hair type has taken its toll, so my hair naturally looks like a desert-dried tumbleweed crossed with scarecrow straw. It’s seriously bad.
I came across the Elizavecca Cer-100 treatment while trying to find a solution to my dry hair issue. I like Elizavecca products (except the oft-talked about Hell-Pore mask), and the product has several positive reviews on Amazon. So, taking that into account, I decided to see if it would help. How’d it do?
Packaging
I always love the packaging of Korean beauty products. Often, the products come in cute boxes, and Cer-100 didn’t disappoint! The goofy cartoon on the box elicits a nice chuckle, and I like how the image carries over to the tube. I felt bad throwing the box in the recycling because it’s so cute!
Ingredients
Note: This product has dimethicone, so it is not paraben, sulfate, or silicone-free.
Water Cetyl Alcohol Stearyl Alcohol Amodimethicone Cetrimonium Chloride Trideceth-12 Behentrimonium Chloride Glycerin Cyclopentasiloxane Dimethicone Silk Amino Acids Ceramide 3 Tocopheryl Acetate Hydrolyzed Collagen Hydrolyzed Keratin Gelatin Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract Hydrolyzed Corn Protein Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein Hydrolyzed Soy Protein Apium Graveolens (Celery) Extract Brassica Oleracea Capitata (Cabbage) Leaf Extract Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit Extract Brassica Rapa (Turnip) Leaf Extract Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract Brassica Oleracea Italica (Broccoli) Extract Butylene Glycol Rehmannia Chinensis Root Extract Cornus Officinalis Fruit Extract Alisma Orientale Tuber Extract Dioscorea Japonica Root Extract Poria Cocos Extract Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract Panthenol Caramel Citric Acid Methylchloroisothiazolinone Methylisothiazolinone perfum
Use
After washing and towel-drying your hair, evenly spread the cream onto your hair. I don’t recommend placing the product within three-to-four inches of your roots (more on this shortly), but I do recommend adding more to the ends. Just like the box states, keep the product on your hair for 5-20 minutes (for the first treatment, I kept it on for 20 minutes. For my second treatment, I kept it on for 15, and from my third treatment on, I’ve kept it on for 10 minutes). Then, rinse the product out using lukewarm water then finish it off with a shot of cold water to enhance the shine. You can shampoo the product out, but it is not necessary.
Results
Y’all… this is the product I’ve been waiting for to tame my tresses.
The pictures speak for themselves when it comes to seeing the difference this product made even following the first treatment! Instead of a damaged mess, my hair is smooth, has revitalized color (my hair went from a blonde-brown to almost red? My hair hasn’t been dyed in a few months), and is more manageable. Even though the first treatment still showed some dryness to my hair, the second treatment showed an improved look that has enhanced shine. My split ends are less noticeable, and it actually looks like my hair has moisture! What?!
After the first application, I was worried my hair was going to look awful. This is why I say avoid using this product on your roots. My hair was super-flat after the first use because I coated my hair from root-to-tip. Please don’t do this. Your hair will be fine when you ignore the roots. Yes, your hair may still look a little flat, but the volume at your roots will cover for this.
I recommend using this once a week to help restore your hair. If you use this product daily or every other day, the ceramide may make hair look greasy, so then you’re opening yourself up to a different issue than dry hair.
For me, I found that my hair appeared better when I washed it the day after using the product. My hair still looked silky soft and shiny, but the volume returned, so I had healthy bounce afterwards as well. So, I do recommend washing your hair a day or two after using the product.
Another thing I was impressed with was how it helped the natural wave I have to my hair. I haven’t seen my waves in almost two years thanks to the damage I sustained, so I was surprised to see it back! I wanted to see if I could improve the waviness of my hair by washing my hair, using the product, then braiding my hair overnight to see if I would have bounce or if my hair would fall back to straight: Nope! The waves from my braids stayed in my hair all day while staying smooth and non-frizzy. Even in the humidity, my hair maintained good form and structure.
Overall
It should be noted that the first use may not garner the immediate results desired. You may still have some dry hair, or, in my case, flat hair. However, each use gets better. If you have issues with your hair, Cer-100 may be worth a shot! Since it’s under $8, it’s definitely an affordable option.
Cer-100 from Elizavecca receives a solid 4.5/5 and is available on Amazon.
*Kcrush writers are not affiliated with the companies or brands mentioned. We are also not compensated for promoting the products listed. We spend our own money on these products by choice, so recommendations and reviews are bias-free! Hooray!
—-Olivia Murray
SATURDAY is a Korean girl group formed by SD Entertainment that made its official debut with “MMook JJi BBa” in July of 2018. The group currently consists of 7 members and their fandom is named SUNDAY.
On December 3rd 2018, the group announced a special Christmas single To Sunday Christmas. This single album consisted of three tracks: All I Want for Christmas Is You (a cover of Mariah Carey), In Your Eyes and Kiss Me. On February 1st 2019, the second single Follow SATURDAY and was released on February 13 with the single WiFi as its title track. SATURDAY went through minor member changes, as new members Juyeon and Minseo were added, after Sunha’s departure in March 29th 2019.
We at KCrush America, are very pleased to be able to deliver this interview. We sincerely wish the 7 members of the group the very best in their musical careers, and would like to express our gratitude to their staff as well. As always, we hope this will be a great read for you all, and that it encourages you to look more into the group and check out their music.
Please introduce yourselves to our readers…
Sion: Hello, everyone. This is Sion, the charismatic member of SATURDAY.
Haneul: This is the innocent rapper Haneul of SATURDAY.
Chohee: I am Chohee, the cutie leader of SATURDAY.
Juyeon: I’m the charming Juyeon from SATURDAY.
Yuki: I am Yuki, the fluffy member SATURDAY.
Ayeon: This is the cutie pie, Ayeon from SATURDAY…
Minseo: Hi! I’m Minseo the youngest member of SATURDAY!
Please tell us how you came to form as a group.
Sion: I dreamt of being an idol singer since I was a child, so I was given that opportunity when I joined the company and got to debut as a member of this group.
Haneul: I was a trainee for a long period of time, and got connected to a great company I’m currently at, and that’s how I became a member of SATURDAY.
Chohee: Since I was born with an obvious talent at performing, I’ve always wanted to be an idol singer.
Juyeon: When I was young, I actually had a dream that I was standing on a big stage with a spotlight. Since then, I began dreaming of becoming an idol star.
Yuki: I wanted to be in a great girl group, since watching performances on TV since I was young. I was given the chance of becoming one myself, after I passed an audition.
Ayeon: Me and my sister used to watch a lot of videos of idol groups’ performing, so I wanted to be a singer myself. I took an audition for this group and got to make my debut.
Minseo: I loved to dance as a child and dreamt of becoming an idol. I took the opportunity of an audition, was picked, trained then made my debut as a SATURDAY member!
What has changed the most, now that you’ve made a debut as a group?
Sion: Well, first and foremost, it’d be my appearance. I used to think I have a fierce look but I think it’s gotten milder now.
Haneul: My rapping skills! I think I’ve really improved, compared to when I first started as a rapper. I’ve lost a lot of weight too, that enabled me to look more mature and pretty.
Chohee: I used to have a moderately bright personality before, but after getting all the love from the SATURDAY members, I think my personality has become even more sweet!
Juyeon: I think that my mindset has changed. I am grateful for every moment and I write a journal on the things that I’ve done that day and give myself feedback – which is a way of managing my mentality and state. Since being a celebrity is about showcasing oneself, I am always trying to strive to become better myself all the time.
Yuki: I reckon that I’ve become prettier. ^^ I’ve lost quite a bit of weight than before debut, and since being on broadcast, I’ve been figuring out how to look great on camera, which naturally enhanced my appearance, I think.
Ayeon: I think my appearance has changed a lot. Prior to debut, I used to be chubby, so I lost weight since then.
Minseo: What changed the most is, my everyday life. I used to be an ordinary student, with an ordinary life, but now I have to take more care in my school life.
Tell us what kind of songs or albums you enjoy listening to, these days…
Sion: I’ve been listening to Taeyeon’s Secret frequently, which is a song from Taeyeon sunbaenim’s album Rain. It’s also a song that I’ve been listening to a lot since high school, and I went back to listening to it regularly, for the sake of reminiscing.
Haneul: I’ve applied to feature in Show Me the Money, so I am listening to more rap songs these days. The song that I listen to frequently is Scary by Nada and Jeon Soyeon sunbaemin.
It’s something that I used to listen to a lot when it came out, but I went back to listening to it because of the show. Hope you guys support me on Show Me the Money!
Chohee: I listen to Youth (청춘) by Oohyo sunbaenim a lot! The words go something like ‘With small hands I comfort myself, that sometimes makes me tear up’. The lyrics, when Oohyo sunbaenim sings them with her healing vocal tone, are such consolation to me. I listen to the song every single day!
Juyeon: My favorite song these days! That would be Oui Oui (위위) sunbaenim’s Thinkin’ about you. I love the lyrics and the melody! I listen to it every night before going to sleep, writing my diary.
Yuki: Since it’s the spring, I listen to a lot of songs related to the season! I really love BOL4’s Bom a lot!
Ayeon: I listen to IU sunbaenim’s Knees and Paul Kim sunbaenim’s Every day, every moment! Knees is the song I listened to when I was going through hard times, for consolation. It’s like being in your mom’s arms, when you listen to that song. Every day, every moment is so mellow, and I’ve been practicing it as well as listening to it a lot. I sang it for my family during the recent holiday!
Minseo: For me, it’s Hoons sunbaenim’s ICU. I got to meet the band and I heard this song backstage and really loved it. Still enjoying listening to it.
What kind of food or beverages do you like or dislike?
Sion: The stuff that I like best are ice cream, pasta, and chocolate beverages! But I dislike Omasum ~
Haneul: I just love eating so very much, so I don’t have anything I don’t like. The stuff that I like the best are chocolate ice cream, sushi, chicken galbi, pork cutlet, milk tea, bubble tea and grapefruit juice.
Chohee: I love Spicy Cheese Tteokbokki (엽기 떡볶이) the most! I dislike white milk, since I can’t digest it well.
Juyeon: Meat is the fav thing in the world for me. I don’t like tomatoes. Since having a bit of it when I was 9, I never had it ever since.
Yuki: I can’t drink milk tea very well, and really dislike peas. But I like tofu, lol. I don’t drink green tea that well either. I love all kinds of meat like cutlet, chicken and etc…
Ayeon: I love home-cooked meals the most, while I don’t like to eat oysters, fried shrimp that much. My favorite beverage is coke.
Minseo: I love my parents’ cooking, Tteokbokki, bubble tea and meat! The things I don’t like are eggplant, pumpkins, mushrooms, carrots? I don’t really like vegetables.
Tell us about your hobbies or interests.
Sion: My hobbies are YouTubing, reading, and working out!
Haneul: I am into playing Nintendo, these days. It’s a game where you decorate a house and a village in a forest, so it’s really fun to increase the size of the garden and stuff.
Chohee: My interest is Stiletto dance, these days! I’ve fallen in love with it, because it looks so pretty. I’m always interested in dancing!
Juyeon: I love shopping! I’m interested in clothes, accessories, and playing musical instruments.
Yuki: I think I am enjoying journaling before heading off to bed. It helps me to soothe my mind.
Ayeon: Watching TV is a hobby of mine! I’m also interested in the Nintendo that Ju-yeon has, since I don’t have my own.
Minseo: I’m immersed in Tetris game on my MP3 these days! It’s what I used to play as a little kid, and it’s still so fun.
Who do you admire the most in the world?
Sion: Ariana Grande and Mamamoo’s Solar sunbaenim! Ariana has such a great vocal tone and I’ve seen her at one of her shows one time, and she was so cool!
Haneul: My parents, because they’re always very positive in everyday life. Being an idol singer in an entertainment industry can be stressful, but because I take after my parents, I don’t get stressed much. So, I really have a lot of respect for my parents for making me a positive person.
Chohee: JooE and Chungha sunbaenims! And my mother! I love the fact that JooE sunbaenim is always so energetic, despite having a busy and tiring schedule, so I always looked up to her and want to resemble her. Chungha sunbaenim is also my role model! She’s so charismatic on stage and so sexy that I want to take after her as a singer.
Juyeon: My older sister. She has always been there for me since I was born and, there are so many things that I want to take after her.
Yuki: My parents for me! They are the most precious people that I am lucky to have. And at this point, I really respect them for raising me and my two siblings.
Ayeon: My parents and my older sister! My parents are whom I admire the most, because they raised me and my two sisters and even helped our dreams come true. My sisters are both great mentors and friends of mine. I can always rely on them for great advice. I couldn’t have done anything without any of them.
Minseo: I look up to my parents the most. They are so supportive of me, even with my younger sibling to take care of. I admire and love them so much!
What do you do for your leisure and how do you relieve stress?
Sion: I love to play sports the best for leisure. And my way of releasing stress is going for walks and writing on my diary.
Haneul: Playing Nintendo is my favorite thing. The second fav thing is to chat with my friends, which I think really helps to relieve stress.
Chohee: To release stress, I like to dance to choreography that is very difficult. That way, I can forget what was heavy on my mind, in no time!
Juyeon: I get rid of stress by doing my favorite thing, shopping!
Yuki: I love games. Each time, a stage gets cleared, I get a sense of achievement, which releases stress as well. And eating also helps a lot too.
Ayeon: These days, I get in bed straight after a shower, to read books or write on my diary. I like to play with Yuki as well! Ha ha.
Minseo: I like playing Tetris, shopping, and reading in a quiet place to relieve stress.
What is the first thing you do when you get up in the morning?
Sion: The first thing I do is, to weigh myself.
Haneul: I listen to the rap that I’ve recorded.
Chohee: I weigh my weight…
Juyeon: I look at the time first!
Yuki: I wake up the friends that I go to school with!
Ayeon: I weigh myself first, and then I peel fruits that I’ll have for lunch.
Minseo: I wash in the morning then weigh myself!
What is your favorite color and do you have color or shade you dislike?
Sion: I love yellow, and don’t have any colors that I dislike!
Haneul: I like sky blue and pink the most. I don’t think I have any colors that I don’t like.
Chohee: I love pink so much that my room is practically all pink! I like all colors because they each have their own diverse charm.
Juyeon: I like purple, light purple, light grey and if I had to pick a color that I dislike… maybe brown?
Yuki: I think bright yellow and pink colors that stand out are the prettiest! There aren’t any colors I don’t like.
Ayeon: I like yellow and black. I really don’t have any colors I don’t like.
Minseo: Pink is my favorite – I don’t think there’s a color I don’t like.
Recommend us any books, musical or movie you’ve enjoyed recently.
Sion: I want to recommend a book called, I Decided to Live as Myself – 나는 나로 살기로 했다, which helped me to overcome some of the difficulties that I was going through. I’d also like to recommend The Greatest Showman, even though it’s not a recent movie. I think I still have the imagery of the movie, because it was so fabulous, and it was emotional and entertainment all in one show, so I really enjoyed watching.
Haneul: It’s been a while since I’ve read this but, I’d like to recommend I am a Cat by Natsume Sōseki, which is written from a cat’s perspective and so fun to read.
Chohee: I write answers to the book The Moon’s Consolation! It’s so healing.
Juyeon: I think the book Self-esteem Lesson has really been a great help for me. As it says on the title, it basically makes you feel like you’re given a lesson on esteem.
Yuki: Recently, Haneul lent be a book called The Maze Runner, and I enjoyed reading it enough to start actually like reading, which I’ve previously hated doing.
Ayeon: I like the book The Mail in Post Box 110! It was so fresh, as a love story between grown-ups, and exciting as a romance novel! My favorite movie is Maze Runner, because I really like thrillers and escape stories. Maze Runner is just perfect for my tastes!
Minseo: These days I’m reading the book I Decided to Live as Myself – 나는 나로 살기로 했다. When my head is filled with thoughts, this book helps me to sort things out! I enjoy watching action films a lot, so I want to recommend the Marvel series and Terminator.
Which country or venue would you most likely want to perform?
Sion: I’d love to go to Japan, Europe, the States and everywhere else.
Haneul: We’ll go right wherever you want us.
Chohee: I would love to perform in the U.S.
Juyeon: I want to perform at the most famous places in so many countries! And a world tour? Lol.
Yuki: Each country has a main concert venue, so I want all those seats to be filled with SATURDAY fans!
Ayeon: My biggest wish is to hold our own concert at Gocheok Sky Dome.
Minseo: I always wanted to go to America, if I was to go abroad! I’d be so happy to be able to perform there.
Tell us about your plans and wishes for the future and add something for the fans too.
Sion: These days, I am composing and learning musical instruments. I am doing my utmost to showcase many diverse sides of myself. I really hope that there will be many people who like my singing voice. Thank you for always supporting and loving SATURDAY! We’ll be back with better shows, so please be patient!
Haneul: I’ve been working very hard on my rapping lately, so I wish I could get more recognition and become an all-round entertainer. Even when I am faced with difficulties, I can get through the day, thanks to the SATURDAY members. Thank you so much for all of your undying support. I love you.
Chohee: I plan to become a multi-entertainer who is capable of anything! I will strive to become a cuter, more cheerful and at times, sexy version of myself. I’m always grateful because you exist, my loves!
Juyeon: I will do my best to work on my guitar and piano, and be singer-songwriter for you all! SATURDAY is a group that you’ll think of anticipating like the weekend. We’ll work extra hard and focus like we have done from the start. Thank you ~!
Yuki: It is a dream of mine to see SATURDAY become a successful group!!! Thanks to all our energetic supporters, we will be able to work harder! Stay with us, and I hope both SATURDAY and SUNDAY will have a lot to look forward to in the future! I love you!
Ayeon: I want to show you a more unique concept in the future! We’ll put in all our efforts so that SATURDAY will be remembered as a legendary girl group and rewrite history.
Thank you for all of you who care to support us ~ we will do our best to repay you!
Minseo: I want to show you that I always work hard! My biggest goal is to succeed as a SATURDAY member. Thanks, SUNDAY, for being with us. Let’s do this for a long, long time.
WE LOVE YOU!
— J.Chung.
On May 24, 2019, Pledis Entertainment announced that Pristin have decided to disband two years after their debut and ultimately breaking fans’ hearts. The group, who once had the moniker Pledis Girlz, were once considered one of the next “it” groups. They debuted March 21, 2017 with the single “Wee Woo” and the mini album Hi! Pristin.
For weeks, fans have speculated that the group broke up once each member opened their own personal Instagram accounts.
In a statement, Pledis Entertainment confirmed the disbandment.
Hello. This is Pledis Entertainment.
First, we sincerely thank fans who care for and love PRISTIN.
We are delivering the official statement regarding the disbandment of PRISTIN and the termination of contracts for members.
The company and the members had in-depth discussions for a long time and deliberated before coming to a mutual agreement. It has been decided that with the exclusion of members Kyulkyung, Yehana, Sungyeon; seven members (Nayoung, Roa, Yuha, Eunwoo, Rena, Xiyeon, and Kyla) will have their exclusive contracts terminated as of May 24, 2019.
We would like to first apologize to fans, who have always been supportive, for delivering this unfortunate news.
Because this is a decision that must be made carefully, a lot of time was given in thinking about this matter. At the end of discussions, we decided to respect the wishes of the PRISTIN members and came to the conclusion of disbandment and contract termination.
Members Kyulkyung, Yehana, and Sungyeon expressed their intent to stay with the company. We will actively support Kyulkyung, Yehana, and Sungyeon so that they can have stable individual activities. We will wholeheartedly support them so that they can be more active and have more diverse activities.
As for the PRISTIN members who will be leaving our agency, we would like to express our deep thanks to them and sincerely support them and their new paths even though their official contracts have ended.
Since this is an important and sensitive matter that required a careful decision, we sincerely apologize to fans for delivering this news late and worrying fans through this news. Lastly, we ask that fans show unchanging support for the seven PRISTIN members, Kyulkyung, Yehana, and Sungyeon as they embark on new beginnings.
Thank you.
Following the disbandment news, Kyla, who returned to the United States last year due to health reasons, and Xiyeon wrote letters to their fans thanking them for their support.
Kyla:
Dear HIghs,
I am so devastated that I have to be uploading this post and I know that so many of you have a million questions. For now, I just want to say I am so sorry and also incredibly grateful to all of you who have supported us from the beginning from when we were Pledis Girlz to now.
While Pristin has officially disbanded, I would like to ask you all not to be upset and angry, but rather joyous of the memories that we’ve had together and all of the amazing things we have accomplished.
Moving forward, I hope you all will find it in your hearts to support me as Kyla Massie instead of Pristin Kyla. I had been with Pledis for approximately 9 years now and I am very lucky to have had this amazing experience and to have had such a wonderful second family. Thank you. It has been a rollercoaster ride the past 2 years and I couldn’t be more grateful to all of the people who have supported us over this time. Thank you so much. I love you with all of my heart. 사랑해요 우리 하이분들. ❤
Xiyeon:
Hello, this is Park Siyeon.
Firstly, I’m sorry for writing to you with bad news.
I was able to spend truly happy days thanks to High, who loved me steadfastly throughout my 11 years at Pledis and two years with PRISTIN. Thank you.
Although this is the end of our activities as PRISTIN, I’ll work hard in the future as Park Siyeon to make up for all the love you’ve given me.
I hope that together with me, you will watch over and support the new beginnings of our members, whom I was with for a long time.
I’m so sorry and grateful to everyone who has loved and waited for PRISTIN.
As Pledis Entertainment’s statement said, Kyulkyung, Yehana, and Sungyeon will remain with the company, while Kyla, Xiyeon, Nayoung, Roa, Yuha, Eunwoo, and Rena will depart.
Pristin’s last full comeback was with “We Like” August 23, 2017. In May 2018, the sub-unit Pristin V released “Get It.”
We wish the Pristin girls the best as they head toward new futures.
—-Olivia Murray
Zenith Media announced that their two-year-old girl group, LIPBUBBLE, disbanded.
In a now deleted post, Zenith Media addressed the disbandment on the group’s fan café.
Hello. This is Zenith Media Contents.
We sincerely thank the LIPBUBBLE fans, Cooing, who have shown interest and generous love to LIPBUBBLE until now.
We, Zenith Media Contents, promised to be together with the LIPBUBBLE members for a long time.
However, because the thoughts and time of each of the members are valuable, we gathered the opinions of the members and decided on disbandment, although it seems sudden.
During the process of LIPBUBBLE releasing two albums, the members’ teamwork and trust in each other have strengthened. As their agency, we feel sorry about not being able to be together with them.
However, as their valuable time and futures are on the line, we decided to respect each of their opinions, and we, Zenith Media Contents, will cheer on and support the members’ individual activities along with LIPBUBBLE’s future.
Furthermore, we express our apologies to the fans who have given love until now, and we ask for continuous interest and love towards the LIPBUBBLE members’ activities.
Thank you.
LIPBUBBLE debuted as a seven-member group (HanBi, Ina, EunByeol, HaeA, RyuA, MiRae, and SeoRyn) March 22, 2013 with the digital single “Popcorn.” When they debuted, different fandoms accused the group of plagiarizing clothing and dance concepts from TWICE and Red Velvet, which caused their MV to receive many dislikes. However, plagiarism claims were dismissed as unfounded.
In May 2018, the group released their second single, “Yellow Pink,” which was a stronger effort over “Popcorn.” For the comeback, the group only had four original members (MiRae, SeoRyn, HanBi, and EunByeol) and included new members WINY, Ella, and Lia. Ina, HaeA, RyuA left the group prior to “Yellow Pink’s” release.
Prior to the group’s complete disbandment, members Ella, Lia, and SeoRyn departed LIPBUBBLE in February 2019.
HanBi and EunByeol, two of the group’s more popular members, were active on social media, including YouTube where they recently uploaded cover songs. However, LIPBUBBLE’s YouTube page has been deleted. Recent covers are still available on their Facebook page.
Former members RyuA and Ina have moved on to new groups. RyuA, who now goes by the stage name Sion, is in Saturday, while Ina (now Yujin) is in upcoming girl group All S Girl.
We wish all the LIPBUBBLE girls the best in their futures!
—-Olivia Murray
Leo, Hyuk, Ken, and Hongbin have renewed their contracts with Jellyfish Entertainment!
On May 24, 2019, Jellyfish Entertainment confirmed that the four VIXX members have renewed their contracts and will stay with the company. N, who is currently serving in the military, has not been involved with contract talks due to his service. Meanwhile, Ravi did not renew as he has established his own independent label. However, he will have a partnership with Jellyfish so he can continue VIXX activities.
In a statement, Jellyfish addressed the resignings and Ravi’s plans.
Hello. This is Jellyfish Entertainment.
Four members of VIXX—Leo, Ken, Hongbin, and Hyuk—have renewed their contracts with Jellyfish based on the foundation of the unchanging trust and loyalty that they have maintained with our agency for a long time. We will be unsparing in our support of their group activities as well as their individual activities, and we plan to do our utmost to become a dependable pillar of support for them.
Additionally, after long conversations and careful discussion with the members with whom he has lived together since his debut as well as our agency, Ravi has decided to establish his own one-man label tailored to his musical preferences. As for VIXX’s music activities, he plans to continue his musical partnership with Jellyfish and remain with the VIXX members with whom he has spent the past seven years, and he will continue to be a part of the group’s music activities in the future as well.
This came to pass because Leo, Ken, Hongbin, and Hyuk shared the same love and affection as the fans who have always given their unsparing and unchanging support. We plan to discuss the possibility of contract renewal with N, who is currently serving in the military, following his discharge.
Jellyfish will continue to take care of not only Leo, Ken, Hongbin, and Hyuk, but also Ravi, who will be participating in VIXX’s group activities in addition to maintaining VIXX’s identity as a group in the future. We plan to schedule opportunities for VIXX to meet their fans, both within Korea and abroad, within this year.
We will also broaden the fields of Leo, Ken, Hongbin, and Hyuk’s promotions, and we will be unsparing in our investment and support for not only VIXX’s group activities but also the individual members, using a more organized system and working more closely [with the members] to [highlight] their musical abilities and strengths. We will do everything in our power to support them so that they can grow even more as global stars.
Thank you.
VIXX debuted May 24, 2012 with “Super Hero.” In 2018, they released “Scentist” as their last full-group Korean comeback. On February 1, 2019, the group released “Walking” as a gift for fans. The group just released a video celebrating their seventh anniversary as well.
Meanwhile, watch out for Hongbin as he has a collaboration with Monsta X’s Hyungwon coming out soon, while Leo will be releasing a new single, “MUSE,” in June.
‘#V_LIVE’ 못다한 이야기
곧 만날 여름 프로젝트! 기대해주세요 ?#VIXX #MONSTAX pic.twitter.com/SPh0x5gucI— STARSHIP Ent. (@STARSHIPent) May 20, 2019
L E O
M U S E2019. 06
COMING SOON#LEO #레오 #MUSE
#2019_06 #COMING_SOON pic.twitter.com/4eYoKCGw1b— RealVIXX (@RealVIXX) May 13, 2019
—-Olivia Murray
Kcrush America K-Pop Top 30: April 2019
BIGBANG’s T.O.P will be returning from his mandatory military service one month early.
Since January 26, 2018, he has been serving as a public service worker. Prior to this assignment, T.O.P was a conscripted policeman when he began his service February 2017. He lost his conscripted policeman role when allegations of marijuana use and a subsequent indictment surfaced during his service. T.O.P also spent some time in the hospital following an alleged accidental overdose.
On May 21, 2019, the Yongsan District Office announced that T.O.P (Choi Seung Hyun) will be released from his service in July instead of August 2019.
“Choi Seung Hyun’s discharge date is July 8. Due to the reduction regulation that was applied to public service agents starting from last year, his service period has been shortened by about 27 days,” a spokesperson from the Yongsan District Office said.
T.O.P’s service time has been shortened thanks to Defense Reform 2.0 that was released July 27, 2018. The reform shortens the military service time. For public service workers, the reform has been applied gradually to shorten service terms for those who started their services October 3, 2016.
T.O.P will be the first BIGBANG member to be discharged this year. G-Dragon, Taeyang, and Daesung are expected to be discharged in October and November of this year.
Are you excited to see the return of BIGBANG? Let us know.
—-Olivia Murray
*Taiwan is officially called the Republic of China (ROC).
*During the Ice Age 10,000, Taiwan was connected to China by a land bridge.
*Taiwan became the first democratic republic in Asia.
*The Portuguese “discovered” Taiwan in 1590 and named it “Ilha Formosa – Beautiful Island”. Prior to that, the Chinese referred to the island as “a mudball across the sea, not worthy of China.” -.-
*Taiwan currently has the 21st-largest economy in the world.
*Sun Yat-sen was a doctor, philosopher and Taiwan’s first president. His picture hangs at the parliament, schools, courthouses, and public buildings. It’s interesting to note that Sun was born in Guangdong, died in Beijing, and only visited Taiwan 3 times.
*Taipei City, the capital of Taiwan, means “North Taiwan” in Mandarin.
*China does not recognize Taiwan’s independence; the Taiwan flag cannot be used during sporting events. During the Olympic Games, they compete under the name “Chinese Taipei”.
*Only the Vatican City and the United Nations officially recognize Taiwan, as an independent state.
*It only takes around 8 hours to drive around Taiwan. 90% of Taiwan’s population lives on the west coast’s fertile soil.
*Taiwan is only 3 times as small as New York when it comes to size, but its population is 23 million.
*Taiwan boasts of owning the largest collection of Chinese art in the world.
*Taiwan was tagged as “the Butterfly Kingdom” in the 60s. Taiwan’s biggest exports was butterflies back then, with around 10 million a year exported overseas.
*The Taiwanese consider it rude to say “no.” So, they choose to say something like, “well… maybe” instead.
*Taiwan has some of the worst air pollution in Asia.
*White symbolizes death and is used at funerals in Taiwan. At weddings, red is popular because it symbolizes luck.
*In Taiwan there are 14 recognized aboriginal tribes, which make up 1.8% of the population. They had been living in Taiwan for approximately 8,000 years before the mass immigration by the Chinese began in 17th century.
*Bubble tea was originated from Taiwan in the 1980’s, it has currently spread all over Asia and some western countries.
*Taiwan plans to become a single-use plastic free nation by the year 2030.
*The Taipei 101 tower was the tallest building in the world until 2007. The tower has the fastest lifts in the world.
*Taiwan is famous for its mountains, canyons, beaches and amazing food at night markets.
*Approximately 90 percent of Taiwan’s population suffers from myopia – shortsightedness – they are known to have the worst eyesight than any other nation.
*The Taiwanese are fond of the German automobile Porsche. In 2017, more than 60 percent of Porsche’s sales in Asia were made in Taiwan, a record annual high.
*Every receipt is also a lottery ticket in Taiwan. This was introduced by the government in the 50’s, in order to combat sales tax dodging by corporations and such.
*Taiwan donated over $243 million to Japan after the massive Tohoku earthquake in 2011. This donated sum was more than from any other country in the world.
J.Chung.
On May 17, 2019, Starship Entertainment announced that Boyfriend disbanded after eight years together. The agency posted the announcement and video on their Twitter page. The caption says We sincerely thank them for their passion and heart as proud artists of Starship. We will not forget all the moments we’ve had together.”
[#BOYFRIEND]
스타쉽의 자랑스러운 아티스트로서
보여준 열정과 마음에 진심으로 감사드립니다.함께했던 모든 순간들을 잊지 않겠습니다.
고맙습니다.
FROM STARSHIP ENTERTAINMENT pic.twitter.com/MBuvbjBe9B
— BOYFRIEND (@G_BoyFriend) May 17, 2019
Boyfriend, which consisted of members Kim Donghyun, Shim Hyunseong, Lee Jeongmin, Jo Youngmin, Jo Kwangmin, and No Minwoo, debuted May 26, 2011 with their single “Boyfriend.” Before Tasty and Crayon Pop, they were the first group to have members who are twins.
Since their debut, the group has been nominated for 13 Korean music awards over the years while taking home nine of those awards including several Best Newcomer and rookie awards. During their tenure in the Korean and Japanese markets, they’ve released three studio albums, one compilation album, 30 music videos, six EPs, 24 singles, appeared on four soundtracks, and participated in three collaborations. Their last Korean comeback was in 2018 with “Sunshower.” In March 2019, they made their final Japanese comeback with the album Bouquet and the single “Stay the Way You Are.”
Following the Twitter announcement, Starship Entertainment released an official statement addressing the group’s disbandment:
We sincerely thank the fans who have loved and support Boyfriend for approximately 8 years.
We had serious discussions with the members of Boyfriend about future activities, and after much deliberation, we have come to the agreement to official end group activities on May 16, 2019 with the conclusion of their contract.
We wish to sincerely thank the fans who have given their love to Boyfriend over 8 years, and we hope people will continue to show their warm interest and support in their new beginnings.
The now-former Boyfriend members took to their Instagram accounts to post thank you messages to their fans.
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
Jeongmin said:
Hello, this is Boyfriend’s Jeongmin.” It’s been eight years since I first introduced myself like this to you all.
Starting from the day I introduced myself to you all for the first time, we’ve made many memories. These days, although I stay up all night with worries I don’t understand, the temperature and memories of all the days that I spent laughing and crying become clearer.
First of all, I want to thank all of the Starship Entertainment staff members for helping me and all of us get here, and for taking care of us all this time.
I think time passes by so quickly. Sometimes, I’d be afraid because it’d go by way too fast. As those times pass by, I think we’ll be busily living our individual lives. Thank you. I’ll never forget the love you gave us, to the point where I can’t express my gratitude through these words.
The moment when I became sure that these eight years of the six boys, Donghyun, Hyunseong, Jeongmin, Youngmin, Kwangmin, and Minwoo, leaving to catch the rainbow have not been in vain is that moment after we met Best Friend. I will live with those precious and grateful moments and memories kept safely in my heart for the rest of my life. I pray that the rainbows in the boys’ futures unfold. I hope you guys will support us too.
I promise you. Just as a goodbye is not an eternal parting, we’ll definitely meet at the end of those times as time passes by. We’ll greet you with good music.
To my youth Best Friend, who I love the most and am most grateful to.
Donghyun wrote:
It’s already been a long time since May 26, 2011. The excitement I felt when I first debuted is as vivid as yesterday, but I didn’t think it’d end. When I think of standing at the end of the journey that I hoped would not end, I can’t believe it.
I’ve lived every day of my 20s as the leader of Boyfriend, and I feel so grateful about the fact that I was able to receive so much love from the fans. Actually, I feel really sorry for always keeping [fans] tiredly waiting. Although a part of my heart felt heavy about the things that I regret and couldn’t do, the fact that I was able to promote without any big accidents during our activities and arrive here without being exhausted is all thanks to your support. Thank you so much.
We will go their separate ways, but I will always be Donghyun, the leader of Boyfriend. From now on, no matter how I stand in front of you all, I will try my best so that the memories I’ve made as Boyfriend do not fade. Although it’s true that I’m very sad and I feel bad, I’ll show a good image of myself for the members and fans who support us.
Thank you and I’m sorry to our Best Friend who loved, supported, and was there for Boyfriend. The six of our hearts will always be in Boyfriend, and I believe that all of us will do well and be happy, so I won’t think that this is the end.
Finally, thank you to our Starship family who helped us create good memories and took care of us so that we can promote.
Youngmin stated:
Best Friend…
I wasn’t sure what to say first, or how to bring it up, but I’m incredibly sorry to deliver this sad news. 2011 was an unforgettable year in which I was able to be reborn. May 26. I still vividly remember that day. Those cheers and eyes of everyone who came to see the six of us, even though you didn’t know who we were and we didn’t have anything, are still in my memories. I was really nervous then. To the point where I wondered if someone could be that nervous… It was from that moment on that our memories began. Looking back, I think there were only happy moments. Playing, watching movies, and meeting you all at music broadcast shows everyday. Our first music show win, first concert, Japanese debut, European tour, South American tour, U.S. tour, and performances in numerous countries like Thailand, China, Myanmar, Malaysia, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Australia. Our reality programs that could show our individual personalities, fan meetings. I’d like to say thank you to Best Friend who helped make these unchangeable, precious memories with all my heart.
Although Boyfriend has come to an end like this, please support the happiness of us six members. I won’t tell you not to be so sad, because all of us will be hurt and having a hard time. However, let’s meet later with a smile and look back on our happy memories. Thank you so much for making these memories from my high school days and early 20s that will bring tears of happiness to my eyes if I even think about them.
And I’m sorry.
Hyunseong said:
Hello Best Friend, are you doing well? It’s been so long since I wrote and letter and greeted you like this. I first want to thank you all for supporting, caring, and loving us for the past eight years. On May 26, 2011, we met for the first time on a day when everything was strange and awkward, and eight years have already passed. I think time passes by so quickly, and I hate it. When I think about it, there were a lot of hard and tiring times, but when Best Friend were cheering for me on stage, I became the happiest person. Because of that, I was able to enjoy performing and worked hard.
Now may be the saddest farewell, but it’s not the end. With this goodbye, another beginning begins. Honestly, it’s sad and regrettable, but why don’t we laugh and think about our past memories together? Many moments come to mind while writing this letter. In those memories, I just feel grateful and sorry to you all.
The Boyfriend of today has come to an end for a while, but the six of us will work hard in our respective positions and dream of meeting again. I don’t know how I’ll greet you from now on, but I’ll continue to work hard on music while waiting for that day. Thank you so much, Best Friend, and I love you guys. From now on, the six of us will show many good things with a different look. Let’s meet again sometime.
Kwangmin’s message said:
Hello, Best Friend. This is Kwangmin. It’s already been eight years since we were able to laugh, cry, and become each other’s strengths. Thank you so much loving Boyfriend and being Boyfriend’s everything during these eight years. When I look back, I think we made so many great memories. Whenever I was happy, sad, or tired, Best Friend was always beside me. Best Friend was my everything and my confidence. We decided to go our own ways. Thanks to Best Friend’s love, every day was like a dream and I was happy.
Whenever I feel tired and the future seems difficult, I’ll move forward after looking back at the memories and times we’ve shared. Thank you for creating so many unforgettable memories. Please support and love the six of the Boyfriend members’ individual paths. The six of us will show an improved image in the future. Thank you, and I love you so much.
Finally, Minwoo said:
Hello our Best Friend!
Everyone’s doing well, right~? Hm, it seems like it’s been a while since I’ve written a letter, and I’m not sure what to say, but I have a lot to say to Best Friend.
During these long eight years, without missing even one moment, all of those times were enjoyable and remain as happy memories. Of course, it’d be a lie to say that I’m not sad or don’t feel regret, but I think I was able to endure everything and make it this far due to the support of our members and Best Friends during the times that were both happy and sad. Thank you once again.
Although everyone will be walking their own paths, as if leaving their old homes, we decided to support each other and work hard for the day that we can meet once again. Regardless of what we do and where we are, we will always have the mindset of being Boyfriend. We won’t forget Best Friend, and we’ll be tough and do well. So please don’t worry too much. I’d like if you could look forward to and support our futures. We promised! We’ll be together and stand here forever.
It’s because of that promise that we chose to this path, and we’ll work even harder. I’ll never forget our memories and happiness, and I’ll store them in my heart and show you cooler sides of myself more frequently. Please support the members from now on as well. Because it’s definitely not a permanent goodbye!
Thank you to our members who helped create overflowing happiness and memories, Best Friend, and Starship Entertainment. I’m poor at expressing myself, so I don’t know if all of my emotions were delivered, but it’d be great if even a little bit was delivered.
Please be sure not to catch a cold. Thank you more than anything. I love you.
While it’s a sad day for Best Friend, we hope everyone wishes Boyfriend the best of luck in their new endeavors!
—-Olivia Murray
If you’re a fan of Monsta X and the Emmy-nominated Cartoon Network show We Bare Bears, you’re in luck!
On May 27, 2019, Monsta X will appear on the “Panda’s Birthday” episode of We Bare Bears. This will mark the first time since the show debuted in 2015 that a K-Pop group has appeared in an episode even though K-Pop has been referenced periodically throughout the show’s four-season run.
The appearance will also mark the first time a K-Pop group has been animated for an American cartoon.
In the upcoming “Panda’s Birthday” episode, Ice Bear and Grizz will try to arrange a meeting with Panda and his favorite group, Monsta X.
“We are absolutely thrilled and honored to be in an episode of We Bare Bears. It’s one of the most beloved animated series in the world! We put in a lot of effort into this collaboration and hope our fans, as well as We Bare Bear fans, can truly enjoy it,” I.M told Billboard.
While the episode debuts May 27 at 7:30pm EST, in other countries, the episode will appear later this year.
Meanwhile, Monsta X will launch their We Are Here tour July 25 in Grand Prairie, TX.
—-Olivia Murray
On May 16, 2019, NH-EMG, U-KISS’ label, announced that Eli and Kiseop have decided to not renew their contracts.
“The exclusive contracts of U-KISS members Eli and Kiseop with NH-EMG have expired, and the exclusive contracts with the Japanese agency Avex have also expired,” the company said. “Eli and Kiseop, who have been promoting as U-KISS members for a long time, discussed with the agency for a long time and decided not to renew their contracts.”
“Of the U-KISS members who have time remaining in their contracts, Soohyun and Hoon enlisted in the Army and Marine Corps, respectively, and are fulfilling their military duties, while the youngest Jun will continue promoting with solo activities and as an actor through musicals and dramas,” the company continued.
“We express sincere gratitude to the many fans who have given love and support to U-KISS for a long time, and we are sincerely cheering on Eli and Kiseop for their days ahead.”
Following the announcement, Eli and Kiseop reached out to fans via social media.
Eli, who was an original member, left behind a simple message that states, “Thank you for supporting U-KISS’s Eli until now. I’ll show you a good appearance in the future. Thank you all for your support the past 11 years.”
View this post on Instagram
Kiseop, who joined the group in 2009 and is currently serving his mandatory military duties as a public service worker due to a herniated disk issue, provided a longer message:
Hello, Kiss Me, it’s Kiseop. I write this with an apologetic heart to fans who first found out through articles. Many things happened in 10 years, including joyful, sad, and happy things, right? Thank you for being with me during all of these moments. While receiving a lot of love until now, I realized, ‘I too, can laugh like this,’ and learned about happiness thanks to all of you. Thank you once again for loving and supporting me for a long time. I came to the decision to go on a new challenge after thinking and discussing with the agency for a long time. Instead of saying that this is the end, I’ll endlessly work hard for better days ahead. The agency employees, members, and Kiss Me… I thank you and I love you.
He also left messages in Japanese and English.
Currently, U-KISS is now a trio consisting of Jun, Hoon, and Soohyun. Hoon and Soohyun are currently serving in the military (Hoon is a Marine while Soohyun is in the army). Jun will carry out his solo promotions.
U-KISS debuted in 2008 with “Not Young.” Their last Korean single was in 2017 with “Ready for U.”
We wish Kiseop and Eli the best in their respective futures!
—-Olivia Murray
BG Entertainment’s male idol group, 14U, officially disbanded May 10, 2019 following reports that one group member was subject to favoritism. XSports News also reports that this member allegedly had sexual relations with a female official at the company which led to the member’s favoritism.
In April 2019, 13, of the group’s 14 members terminated their contracts with BG Entertainment citing the unnamed member’s favoritism as the reason.
“The members who left are apologetic to fans for the hurt this causes, so they have not been able to speak up. However, they’ll be sharing updates on social media while on vacation,” an unnamed source close to the group said.
In May, it was leaked that this unnamed member—who is in his late 20s—was having an inappropriate-relations with a female agency official who is in her 30s. When others in the company allegedly found out about the relationship, the duo stated they were in love. Families of the other members later requested contract terminations.
BG Entertainment addressed the contract terminations in an official statement.
Hello. This is BGent. First of all, we sincerely thank the fans who have cherished and loved 14U until now.
After long discussion between the agency and the 14U members, it was decided that the group will disband and go their separate ways.
Although they cannot continue with the name 14U, the members have a close relationship with each other and the agency, but the mutual agreement was made to respect each member’s dream and future.
We express our gratitude to the 14U members who have worked hard together in unity towards their dreams. We will support and cheer on the paths that the members want to go down, and we will do our best to help them.
Along with our apologetic feelings towards the many fans who have given unchanging love and support, we ask for warm interest and support for the members who are awaiting new beginnings. Thank you.
Sports Today also reported that the unnamed member also had relations with a Japanese fan while the group promoted in the country.
“The member, who has been having an inappropriate relationship with the head director, also had a relationship with a local fan in Japan… Other members found out he not only had a relationship with the head director but also a fan, and judged they can no longer maintain the team, ultimately leading to disbandment,” the Sports Today report said.
Despite the reports, BF Entertainment’s CEO denied the rumors.
“I was on a business trip to Japan, so I just came across the news and it’s just shocking,” the CEO stated. “It’s not true at all.”
While addressing the contract termination, the CEO said, “It was decided after considering each members’ opinions. I’ve clearly terminated [the contracts] without demanding penalty fees from the members… I told them they worked hard, and I even calculated their last payments and tried to deliver good vibes.”
Prior to the contract terminations, 14U were set to perform at KCON Japan but dropped out last minute due to “artist circumstances.”
While the group debuted in 2017, they were still considered rookies with only three singles released. On October 26, 2018, the group released the dynamic “나침반 (N.E.W.S)” which peaked third on the Gaon Music Charts. The release came thanks to a Makestar fundraiser.
—-Olivia Murray
BTS Warm Up Cold, Rainy Chicago: A Non-ARMY Experience
|
SETLIST |
| 1. “Dionysus” |
| 2. “Not Today” |
| 3. “Outro: Wings” |
| 4. Trivia: “Just Dance” (J-Hope Solo) |
| 5. “Euphoria” (Jungkook Solo) |
| 6. “Best of Me” |
| 7. “Serendipity” (Jimin Solo) |
| 8. “Trivia: Love” (RM Solo) |
| 9. “Boy with Luv” |
| 10. “Dope” |
| 11. “Baepsae” |
| 12. “Fire” |
| 13. “Idol” |
| 14. “Singularity” (V Solo) |
| 15. “Fake Love” |
| 16. “Trivia: Seesaw” (Suga Solo) |
| 17. “Epiphany” (Jin Solo) |
| 18. “The Truth Untold” |
| 19. “Outro: Tear” |
| 20. “Mic Drop” |
|
ENCORE |
| 21. “Anpanman” |
| 22. “So What” |
| 23. “Make It Right” |
| 24. “Mikrokosmos” |
On May 12, 2019, BTS performed their second show at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois.
Soldier Field, home of the Chicago Bears football team, was a packed house despite the cold, raw, rainy weather (the temperature was in the upper 30s Fahrenheit when the show started at 7:30pm CST). Even with the rain—which fell heavy at times—spirits were high as BTS electrified the crowd.
Prior to the start of the concert, BTS video played on the big screens as crew wiped the rain off the stage. The concert was a few minutes late to begin, but once BTS appeared on the stage, the rain became overpowered by tears of joy and elation from emphatic ARMY fandom.
The show opened with “Dionysus” as the group appeared on-stage bookended by two large black panther statues the enhanced the feel of the power BTS was about to bring onto the stage. From the word “go,” it was clear BTS weren’t out here to play.
While there were times where some of the members sounded flat (J-Hope did at times), it was clear BTS performed live with minimal backtrack to help them out. Even in the rain, they danced with strength and showed off their prowess with ease even though the stage did appear slippery (the crew did have to clean it a few times). Their powerful tracks—especially “Not Today,” “Dope,” “Fire,” and “Mic Drop,” really showed BTS’ professionalism and adaptability as they maneuvered between the raindrops as the three-hour concert continued.
BTS provided a strong variety to their 24-song setlist. Listening to the crowd sing along in imperfect Korean showed how far BTS has come in a few short years thanks to their powerful songs that range from rallying cries to music about love, loss, and the struggles of youth.
The solo tracks shined brightly, especially. Jimin’s “Serendipity” and corresponding choreography wowed the fans, while V’s “Singularity” dripped with soul and sensuality. From the solo-standpoint, V’s was a favorite because it stood out and added a pause to an evening that took fans’ breaths away. The show had the right mix of bangers and soul, which accentuated the event. Following the concert, a nice little fireworks display sent the boys off with style.
For me, it was nice to experience a concert objectively; like other fans, I attend shows for groups I like (which comes with a certain level of bias), but FOMO caught up with me for BTS’ Chicago appearance, so I had to see what they were all about outside the CDs and music show appearances, which, frankly, did nothing for me as a K-Pop fan.
An experience is the best way to describe the “Love Yourself: Speak Yourself” tour. Fans from different age groups were in-attendance, and from reading post-concert notes on Twitter, even non-fans were in-attendance. Like me, those fans were even impressed with the experience.
As someone who is admittedly not a BTS fan, the concert was a great experience. The fandom, which often gets a bad rep from other K-Pop fandoms, was a welcoming group that passed out ponchos and helped others stay dry while supporting BTS with chants and cheers that even rivaled Korean fans’ supportive praise. It was nice that it wasn’t a relentless stream of screeching—an issue with other K-Pop concerts attended—but a respectful atmosphere that praised the songs more than faces and lyrics more than abs. The fan-experience was definitely one of the best experiences since the SHINee fanmeet in 2016.
Furthermore, as a non-ARMY, I will admit that I don’t know a lot of BTS’ songs beyond their main releases. However, after the show, I feel I may give the group more of a chance. For example, “Boy with Luv” became a bop after hearing it performed live. Before seeing it in concert, it was a track I loathed because it felt too commercial and basic (feelings I also had regarding “Idol”), but a track that has a different feel when experienced.
One of the songs that stood out and struck me right was “The Truth Untold.” I felt that song in my soul because of the yearning in the lyrics. I started sobbing and had to look up the lyrics during the intermission prior to the encore. The lines in the song connected to my current relationship situation (“I am afraid/I am shattered/I’m so afraid/That you will leave me again in the end/Once again I put on a mask and go to see you,” … “But I still want you…”), so I knew I felt that song for a reason. It hurt how much I felt it…
That one moment sums up my whole experience for the night: I felt things for BTS I didn’t previously feel. They are true artists out there on the stage, and their hard work and dedication to their fans was clearly visible with each number performed. On this rainy Chicago night, BTS earned my admiration and put forth a stellar, unforgettable performance.
—-Olivia Murray
Asian women are known to be more open about hair changes than women from the rest of the world. This may come as a surprise to many, but the Asian beauty and fashion department has become very influential and dominated by a large population. Asian women, defined by their extraordinary and unique skin and beauty routines are also pioneers in setting hair trends. Willing to experiment and try new things, some of the most popular Asian hair trends involve color.
Most of the Asian women are born with exceptional dark silky hair which is naturally beautiful. However, as they love to try new things, the different cuts and colors are not strange to them. Contrary to fashion trends where the Asian ones come following the world ones, the situation with the hair trends it’s quite different. It is safe to say that the hair trends are started just by the Asian women and then take over the rest of the world.
To see what we are talking about, take a look at the most popular Asian Hairstyles for 2019:
Purple short bob
Starting with color, Asian women are especially fond of pink and purple hair colors. This particular purple shade has cool undertones and it is toned with blue. It might suggest an ombre technique if the ends are bleached and blonde, but in every case, the color is unique and beautiful. The short bob cut and the straight hair make for a magnetizing hairstyle that suits the Asian face mark wonderfully. The purple color is great for the fair skin tone and it freshens it up.
Choppy cut with blunt bangs
There is nothing new or distinctive in this hairstyle other than the fact it is somehow common and for that matter popular too. Asian women who have long face shape and long hair opt for this hairstyle because it tones down the intensity of the face shape. The choppy layers on the long hair make the style more interesting, and the soft waves are just great for accenting the layering. For a greater effect, highlights or some other coloring technique will be a small change that will completely upgrade the look.
Silver blond long locks
The silver blonde shade is one of the most wanted hair colors among Asian women. The beauty of this specific hair color is in the mixture of ashy blonde and silver hues. The silver tone presents an icy and cold look that combined with the ashy blonde results in crisp and catchy hair color. The high shine and the lack of yellow undertone are a winning combination that Asian women adore. This hair color is mostly seen on long hair, where the locks make the color even more accented.
Pink A-line Bob
Just like purple, pink is an extremely popular color for Asian women. The warm undertones match the skin tone making it look fresher and accenting the eyes. The pink shade can come as a bleached option in ombre technique, or in a color combination with purple. A popular hairstyle that is seen the most with this hair color is the A-line bob. The asymmetry of the cut, side part, and loose waves create a nice balance that leaves enough space for both the cut and the color to stand out.
Smokey grey ombre
As the current hair trends are limited to either bob length or long hair, the popularity of the ombre technique is more present on the long hair. Similar to the silver blonde trend, this great hairstyle comes in a more matte version. The smokey grey ombre presents a gradual and balanced transition of a darker grey base into a light blonde one. There is no shine here as the colors are all matte and ashy. The smokey ombre suggests adding some blond highlights just from the roots. The change of color is better seen on wavy or curly hair.
Rainbow hair
As mentioned above, experimenting with strong hair colors is no trouble at all for the Asian women, so the rainbow hair trend is somehow expected. Mixing and coloring the hair with almost all of the shades of the rainbow is an edgy and daring look that not many can pull off. The look starts from darker colors at the top, moving to the lighter ones to the lower parts. The shoulder length and longer hair are perfect for this style because it leaves enough space for showing off the colors and making the transitions. All the colors are balanced and the final look is rather interesting.
Pulling off marvelous hair looks and hair color combinations have made Asian women the top hair trendsetters in the world. 2019 is definitely a world of color so the coloring of hair is totally in.
—-Maja Krdzic
Mabanua is a multi-talented producer, singer and musician who has made his mark in the Japanese music industry and beyond. As a multi-instrumentalist, he has collaborated with the biggest artists in the J-pop music scene, as well as the Japanese underground during the last decade or so. He’s also well-known and acclaimed for creating music for various films, TV, and anime. His production catalogue boasts of over 100 songs, and has played at some of the main music festivals in Japan.
You can find more about his past works here: http://mabanua.com/works/playlist/
Mabanua is also the drummer of the Japanese band Ovall, which is a spiritual jazz/hip-hop band based in Tokyo. We were very lucky to get connected to origami PRODUCTIONS to make this interview happen, and we’d like to express a massive thanks to Mabanua and his team since we are fully aware how busy they all are.
We want to stress the fact that Mabanua is the first Japanese artist that we’ve interviewed at KCrush America, and we certainly hope he won’t be the last. We wholeheartedly wish that all our readers will enjoy reading the interview, as we delve deeper into Mabanua as an artist to find out why he is such an inspiration to so many artists today.
1. *Thank you very much for taking the time out for a KCrush interview. Could you briefly introduce yourself to our readers please?
My name is Mabanua. I am a musician and producer. I am mainly a drummer but I play the guitar, keyboards and also sing. I release solo albums and produce for other artists, and I also make music for movies and Japanese animations. And I’m a member of Ovall, a band based in Tokyo.
2. *When and how did you realize you wanted to create music?
When I was a kid, I used to play the piano a little, but I started to playing the guitar seriously when I was 14 years old. Then, I decided to become a musician when I was 18.
3. *What is your favorite genre of music to listen to during your free time?
I love all genre of music. I particularly enjoy listening to black music.
4. *Who is your role model?
Drummer Steve Jordan and Songwriter Hans Florian Zimmer. They are both great producers too.
5. *If you had to choose one American artist to collaborate work with, who would it be?
6. *Do you watch a lot of Anime? Do you have a favorite Anime you would recommend?
Yes, I like to watch Anime. I recommend The Tale of Princess, which was directed by Isao Takahata, and “Megalo Box – which the music is composed by Me!
7. *Did you watch Megalo Box before writing the soundtrack? What inspired you to come up with the beats for the Anime?
I had to make the music before I could actually watch the Anime, so I read the scenario many times and got to see the still images. And I often referred to movies like Blade runner and Drive which gave me inspiration this time.
8. What do you like to do when you have free time? Tell us about your hobbies, interests and so on…
I like to go on walks and watch movies. I enjoy the storylines of movies, and I can enjoy the music and images at the same time. I like to go on walks, since I need to get some exercise for a change.
9. Which artists do you enjoy listening to and what would be your favorite song from your playlist?
I like Unknown Mortal Orchestra and Nick Hakim. For song, A Real Hero by College & Electric Youth – the song was in the film Drive, directed by Nicolas Winding.
10. What is your favorite food, beverage or dessert?
I like meat. Nothing but meat!
11. Have you enjoyed any books, musicals or films that you’ve seen recently which you’d like to recommend?
The movie Black Mirror on Netflix.
12. Which country would you like to visit outside of Japan?
I want to visit UK again. I have been there for home stay before.
13. Do you have any inspirational words for musicians, who want to produce their own music?
Ask yourself why you want to become a musician. If you can’t find the reason why, then that’s correct! Because, if you become addicted to making music, you have no time to find the reason why. That is the evidence that you have the right passion for music.
14. Let us know what your goals and wishes are for the future. And will you please add something nice to your fans?
My goal is to keep on making music until I die. I can accept death if I die during a gig, ha ha.
Please listen to my latest album Blurred – I am happy if my music can help someone. That is why I try to make music and I hope you enjoy listening too. Thanks.
— J.Chung.
Korean beauty and fashion market are taking over the world. Apart from the US and European scene, Korean fashion is currently the trendiest one. The difference in culture brings different fashion orientation and styles that have become very popular over the last years. Every new season in the Korean fashion trends is extremely unique, introducing styles and trends that are unexpected and new to the other fashion markets. Korean designers are creating pieces that are edgy, with new tailoring and interesting color choices.
The new Spring/Summer 2019 season brings new and fabulous trends in Korean fashion. The charm of Korean fashion can be seen in the subtle and creative modification of the current seasonal fashion trends on a world level, but in a dosed way by incorporating new fashion marks. The new Summer season is no exception to this. There are lots of Summer Korean trends that are driven by the world’s fashion trends. The Korean fashion bloggers and influencers are already diving into the new Summer fashion trends and presenting fabulous outfits.
Here are the biggest fashion trends in Korea for this Summer season:
Sneakers with ankle socks
When the so-called “ugly sneakers” appeared on the fashion scene like the one and only footwear, the fashion crowd was left wondering whether the trendiness of these sneakers would last. Not only that the trend of ugly sneakers lasted, but it is also still strong and it has an addition – ankle socks. This combo of high ankle socks and sneakers were first spotted by Korean fashion influencers and bloggers. The comfortability of the sneakers is well-known and now they come as fashionable footwear that is appropriate for all styles. Despite the regular sporty style, these Korean fashion trends promote the combo as a part of any outfit, even in the more elegant ones. During the Seoul Fashion Week, this combination was spotted on chic shorts and vest outfits and neon midi skirts and training pants.
Oversized blazers
Blazers are usually considered as tailored garments, that can be worn with almost all different bottoms. This Summer, the fashion trends in Korea present the blazer in a new, more loose fit. The blazers are moving away from the conventional look and fit and look more like jackets, oversized and baggy. Korean fashionistas are sporting this fashion garment in versatile outfit combinations. As an inspiration, the oversized blazer was seen paired with the popular biker shorts, chinos, and even with flowy skirts too.
Biker shorts
The world’s popularity of biker shorts has come as a Summer fashion trend in Korea. Without any major changes, the biker shorts come in different lengths and colors. The popular ‘80s fashion garment has made a comeback thanks to the reality star Kim Kardashian and Kanye West’s Yeezy collection. From the first moment, the biker short was spotted on Kim K, before the end of last year, the fashion world was hit with an instant overturn. Many fashion brands have promoted this retro piece as part of their collections. The Korean fashion scene waited a bit and presented the biker shorts as one of the top Summer trends for 2019.
All beige
Beige is a neutral, clean and universal color that is easily paired with other colors. Although beige and neutral tones have always been fashionable and never out of style, this Summer season Korean fashion leaves a special accent on the beige tones. Connecting this shade with the beauty of Korean women and their impeccable skin tone, along with the popularity of this color is seen as a trend that is worn head-to-toe. Going all beige is a safe and modern choice, and it can be done with the pairing of different clothing pieces. As the Korean fashionistas are known by their unique outfit choices, the beige trend was seen on dresses, shorts, and t-shirts and matching footwear.
Hair accessories
The biggest accessories trend on a world level was the comeback of the hair clips. All the wonderful and shiny hairpins and clips that were worn by the little girls are today’s top trend. They come in all shapes, colors, and embellishments and the bigger they are, the trendier the look is. What was especially popular among the Korean fashionistas were the pearly hair clips. These accessories are worn to the side, one next to the other. The popularity of the trend also allows pairing different styles, for example, statement logo hair clip, with pearly one and shiny metal one. The hair is usually parted to the side and all the hair clips are placed on the same side.
With the upcoming Summer season, the Korean fashion market is expected to introduce even more new styles and fashion suggestions that might later present as a fall trend. Whichever the case, the impact of Korean fashion is noticeable and the Korean IT-girls and fashion bloggers are becoming more and more popular both on social media and in fashion waters.
Which are your favorites for this Summer?
—-Maja Krdzic
Korea doesn’t receive as much attention as other Asian countries like Japan or even China when it comes to real estate investment.
With promising demographics and a GDP per capita that will surpass Japan’s in a couple of years, Korea has an interesting future ahead.
// Hyosung Corporation is one of the biggest industrial conglomerates in South Korea. It owns multiple subsidiaries working in IT, trade, chemical industry, industrial machinery, and real estate.
The company was founded in 1966 with a current annual revenue of around USD 17 billion. They have 25000+ employees, which is impressive.
Mr. Hyeon Jun Cho and Gyu Yeong Kim are the co-presidents.
“When a new change for the future aims at a better tomorrow everyone dreams and hopes for, the change can have true value. A change with value breathes inspiration into numerous industries and technologies, and a creative company that leads the change presents a better tomorrow faster than anyone. This is what Hyosung considers the most valuable kind of “Creativity.””
// ShinYoung Greensys Co Ltd. is a leading real estate development company based in Seoul. It was founded in 1984 as ShinYoung, but later changed name to ShinYoung Greensys Co. Ltd.
The chairman of the company is Mr. Choon Bo Jeong and they’ve won several awards for their projects in the past years.
Shinyoung Greensys Co Ltd operates domestic engineering and construction businesses. The Company specializes in public architectural projects. Dong Sung’s projects include construction of commercial and residential buildings, especially apartment complexes.
// Dongbu Corporation was established in 1969 and it is one of the oldest and most well recognized property developers in Korea.
It’s part of one of the country’s biggest conglomerates, the Dongbu Group.
The company has several subsidiaries working in real estate, manufacturing, shipping, insurance, chemical industry, and in finance. Some include: DB, DB Savings Bank, DB Capitale, and DB Hitek.
Mr. Jung-Gil Lee is currently the chairman of the company with 1000+ employees there.
Dongbu Corporation views itself as a ‘Total Construction Service Provider’ unmatched by competitors. To achieve this view, we are committed to further expanding our specialized business capabilities to create higher added-values through innovative project delivery methods. Dongbu Corporation, while securing and enhancing future growth potential that allows quantum advances in each of the corporation’s business markets, works with clients to provide quality services based on the latest technology.
// Korea Housing Corporation was founded in 1962 and was a government owned real estate developer. In the same year, the company developed the first ever apartment complex in Korea, called Mapo.
The company has 9 divisions, 1 research institute, and 47 departments. They own several subsidiaries and apartment brands that include A Thousand Trees, Jugong Green Vile, Tranchae, and Hummonsia.
The CEO of LH is Sang Woo Park. In 2009, it became the first real estate developer to complete construction of two million houses.
It aims to eliminate overlapping functions, such as the establishment of housing development projects carried out by the Korea Housing Corporation and Korea Land Corporation, and to contribute to the development of the national economy by providing new funds.
// Kangwon Land is a casino and resort developer in Korea. It was founded in 1998 as a casino and resort company, but now owns multiple subsidiaries that include High1 Entertainment Inc., High1 Sangdong Theme Park Inc., and High1 Chooco Park Inc.
The company has it’s headquarters in Jeongseon-gun, Gangwon province.
The federal and provincial government has shares in the company and the current CEO is Hahm Sung-hee.
It operates two hotels with 674 rooms, two condominiums with 403 rooms, an 18-hole golf course, a ski resort with 18 slopes, and a casino with 132 table games and 960 slot machines on 2,800 acres of land. The effort to diversify sales continues today, as Kangwon Land is constructing a new convention hotel and 2 more condominiums. A new water park is scheduled to open in 2015 to complete the family-oriented year round comprehensive resort.
Kangwon Land offers a scholarship to students in abandoned mine areas and also spends 2 billion won each year to treat pneumoconiosis patients and support their livelihood.
// Founded in 1957, Hines is one of the oldest and most well-known real estate development and investment companies in the world. It’s based in Houston, Texas (the US) but operates in 24 countries and in 201 cities.
Although it’s an American company, their fame and success in Korea is something to be noticed.
The South Korean office was established in 2013 in Seoul and Yong C. Lim is the managing director and has been working with Hines since early 2009.
Lately it has acquired the Allianz Campus Berlin on behalf of a Korean real estate fund managed by Vestas Investment Management in a share deal forward funding transaction. Hines acted as investment manager for Vestas Investment Management and is taking on the long-term asset management of the property.
The property was sold by CORPUS SIREO Real Estate. CORPUS SIREO Real Estate and FOM Real Estate will retain responsibility for completing the construction of the building.
Hines has 128 developments currently underway around the world, and historically, has developed, redeveloped or acquired 1,348 properties, totaling over 444 million square feet. The firm’s current property and asset management portfolio includes 512 properties, representing over 223 million square feet. With extensive experience in investments across the risk spectrum and all property types, and a pioneering commitment to sustainability, Hines is one of the largest and most respected real estate organizations in the world.
—-Ped Ruh
On Monday May 13, 2019, FNC Entertainment announced Mina will depart AOA and the company after her contract comes to an end. The company confirmed Mina’s departure while confirming that Jimin, Yuna, Hyejeong, Seolhyun, and Chanmi renewed their contracts in a statement.
Hello.
This is FNC Entertainment.
We recently renewed our contract with five AOA members Jimin, Yuna, Hyejeong, Seolhyun and Chanmi.
The five AOA members agreed to maintain their team and renew their contract with a unified support for their fans.
We have been working with AOA based on mutual trust, and we will provide full support for the five people who have renewed their contracts.
After seven years together and deep discussion with the members and the company, Mina decided to take a different path to make her new dream come true.
We decided to terminate the contract and leave the team because we respected Mina’s choice.
Please support and encourage Mina’s decision after a long time of thought.
Mina is the third member to depart AOA since the group’s debut in 2012. Youkyoung was the first to depart the group following the end of her contract October 15, 2016. Youkyoung only appeared during the group’s band promotions, so AOA was known as a group that had seven members plus one. However, for band promotions following the end of her contract, she has said she would appear as a guest member.
In June 2017, while many Knetizens thought her departure was due to her allegedly dating gaming company CEO Lee Suk Jin, ChoA departed the group and FNC Entertainment due to “depression and insomnia.”
The remaining AOA members will carry on as a five-piece as Mina departs to pursue her new career goals.
—-Olivia Murray
2PM’s Taecyeon will be discharged from his 20-month military service May 16, 2019.
Taecyeon, who enlisted September 2017, served his mandatory service as an active-duty soldier in 9th Armed Forces Division in Gyeonggi Province. Taecyeon gave up his United States citizenship and received surgery for a herniated disk so he could serve in the Korean army.
During his tenure, he was awarded for his exemplary service and promoted to sergeant this past February.
“I’m very honored and grateful to receive this award on behalf of the many people who serve in the military. I’ve learned so much during my time here. I’ll continue to work hard until my discharge, and I’ll do my best to be better,” Taecyeon said upon receiving the award.
Upon his discharge, Taecyeon plans to meet with fans and the press.
Taecyeon, who is no longer with JYP Entertainment and now signed with 51K, expressed desire to go into acting following his discharge. However, he still wants to promote with 2PM and his 51K contract will allow him to do so if 2PM promotes again.
Are you excited to see Taecyeon again? We know we are!
—-Olivia Murray