Terrorist Attacks Leave Over 300 Dead in Sri Lanka

On Easter Sunday, April 21, 2019, a wave of bombings killed over 300 people and injured dozens in what authorities consider an organized act of terror even though a group has yet to come forward claiming responsibility. Eight suicide bombings occurred across Sri Lanka in Kochchikade, Negombo, Colombo, Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia, and Batticaloa. The attacks are considered the country’s worst since the civil war ten years ago.

At around 8:45am local time, the attacks occurred at churches and hotels on the Western part of the country apart from Batticaloa to the East. In three of the cities, the attacks occurred during Easter services at St. Anthony’s Shrine in Colombo, St. Sebastian’s Church Negombo, and the evangelical Zion Church in Batticaloa. The Cinnamon Grand, Shangri-La Hotel, and The Kingsbury in Colombo were also attacked during the simultaneous explosions, while a seventh blast occurred at a hotel in front of the Dehiwala Zoo in Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia. During a police raid, another blast occurred at a private house in Mahawila Gardens, Dematagoda. During the raid, three police officers were killed.

“When crime division officials started questioning the people in the house, two explosions occurred,” police spokesman Ruwan Gunasekara said. “One sub inspector and two constables of police have been killed.”

On Sunday evening, a large pipe bomb was found on a road leading to Colombo’s airport’s main terminal and defused by the Sri Lankan air force.

“It was a homemade bomb, with explosives put into a pipe,” a Sri Lankan police source said.

“It was a crude six-foot pipe bomb that was found by the roadside,” an air force spokesman said. “We have removed it and safely defused it at an air force location.”

As of this writing, police still do not know who carried out the attacks, but 24 people have been arrested in connection to the bombings based on intel received during the investigations. Among those arrested include a driver that allegedly took suspects to the Colombo area to carry out the attacks; the driver’s van was also seized.

“There is also information that these have been suicide bombings carried out,” Manisha Gunasekera, high commissioner of Sri Lanka to the United Kingdom, said.

According to The New York Times, Sri Lankan officials received intel that church attacks may occur. In an advisory sent by the Sri Lankan police, police warned government officials.

“You should instruct all personnel to pay strict heed to this report and be extra vigilant and cautious of the V.I.P.s and locations coming under your purview,” wrote Priyalal Dassanayake, the deputy inspector general.

The report, received ten days prior to the attacks, named a radical Islamist group, National Thowheeth Jama’ath, as the possible suspects to carry out the attacks. However, it is unclear if safeguards were in place. Sri Lanka’s prime minister pointedly said he had not been informed of any intel regarding the potential for attacks.

 

 

Christians and tourists appear to have been the targets of the attacks according to police. Christians make up 7.4 percent of Sri Lanka’s population, making it the minority religious group. According to census data obtained by CNN, 70.2 percent of Sri Lankans identify as Buddhist, 12 percent Hindu, while 9.7 percent identify as Muslim.

“This is an attack against the whole of Sri Lanka because Sri Lanka is (a) multi-ethnic, multi-religious and multi-cultural country, and the whole country comes together in celebration of Easter Sunday,” said Gunasekera.“These are certainly acts of terror.”

“We mourn the loss of innocent lives due to extremist and violent elements who wish to create divides between religious and ethnic groups to realize their agenda,” the Muslim Council of Sri Lanka said in a statement.

In a statement, the Minister of Finance, Mangala Samaraweera, said the attacks are “a diabolical attempt to create racial and religious tensions in this country yet again, thereby pulling the country backwards.”

As the death toll continues to rise, police already confirmed that at least 30 foreigners were victims of the attacks as well. Among the dead, two were Chinese citizens, while others include five British nationals, two victims that had dual citizenship for the United States and the United Kingdom, two Turkish nationals, three individuals from Denmark, and three people from India.

As investigations continue, the Sri Lankan government opted to block social media access in order to prevent the spread of false information. Among the social media blocked included WhatApp, Instagram, Facebook, Viber and SnapChat.

“I call upon all Sri Lankans during this tragic time to remain united and strong. Please avoid propagating unverified reports and speculation. The government is taking immediate steps to contain this situation,” prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said.

In addition to the social block, officials have instilled a country-wide 6pm curfew that is expected to last until Monday.

 

Clarification on curfew: to kick in from 6 p.m. this evening till 6 a.m. Monday, according to president’s office reports @Meerasrini ��https://t.co/fwEEywAuAY

— Devjyot Ghoshal (@DevjyotGhoshal) April 21, 2019

 

Amidst the chaos, Sri Lankans are coming together to help those in need as volunteers rushed to donate blood.

“Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Muslim & others are donating because we are humans with the same blood & same spirit of compassion. Nobody can deny our common humanity,” the Minister of Finance, Samaraweera, said.

The investigation is rapidly developing with information coming out hourly. We send our thoughts to the victims and to Sri Lanka, and we wish for peace for all people so senseless tragedy and hate will stop.

Photo Credits: Getty Images

 

 

 

—-Olivia Murray

 

MustM Entertainment’s seven-member rookie group, MustB, was involved in a car accident April 21, 2019 at around 3:40am KST.

The accident, which claimed the life of the group’s manager, occurred on Seoul’s Olympic-daero  between the Seoulgyo and Yeouigyo bridges heading toward Jamsil. The group was returning to their dorm following a performance in Daegu. The van MustB rode in struck a guard rail.

The group’s manager—identified as a 36-year-old male with the surname Son—was the driver of the vehicle. He sustained serious injuries in the crash and was transferred to Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Four of the MustB members suffered minor injuries, though police have not identified which of the members sustained injuries.

Police are currently investigating the accident by questioning MustB members and examining the vehicle’s black box to help determine the cause of the crash. One theory police have come up with is drowsy driving.

This isn’t the first time a K-Pop group has been involved in a car accident as several groups over the years have been in crashes. However, one of the most tragic instances occurred September 2014 when Ladies’ Code was involved in an accident that claimed the lives of members EunBi and RiSe.

MustB debuted January 30, 2019 with the song “I Want U.” The group consists of members Taegeon (formerly of M.Crown and Challenger), Hawoon (formerly of N.T.B and Challenger as Jeeho), Sangwoo (formerly of Pure Boy, Blast, Underdog, and Hi5), Wooyeon, DoHa (formerly of Underdog and Hi5), Soohyun, and Sihoo.

We wish MustB members a speedy recovery. We send our condolences to the family of manager Son.

 

 

—-Olivia Murray

 

On May 7, 2019, Super Junior’s Kyuhyun will be discharged from his mandatory military service (he served as a public service worker), and it looks like he prepared to get back to work!

 

 

SM Entertainment, in conjunction with Dream Maker Entertainment Limited, announced on April 17 that Kyuhyun will host his “We Meet Again Today!” fan meet May 19 at 6:30pm KST at Peace Hall in Seoul’s Kyunghee University. Tickets for the fan meet go on sale April 22 at 8pm KST for fan club members. For the general public, tickets go on sale April 24 at 8pm KST.

Upon his release from his public service, Kyuhyun may also return to his MC position at MBC’s Radio Star. Kyuhyun has been an MC on the show since October 2011 and held the position until his enlistment in 2017.

“Kyuhyun received an offer to return as the MC of MBC’s ‘Radio Star.’ We are currently discussing [the offer], but nothing has been confirmed,” Label SJ said.

In addition to the possibility of MCing Radio Star, Kyuhyun’s in talks to return to New Journey to the West. A Label SJ representative confirmed the news along with a TvN representative.

“Kyuhyun is currently in talks to appear on the next season of tvN’s New Journey to the West after his discharge,” the Label SJ representative said.

“It’s true that Kyuhyun is currently in talks to appear on New Journey to the West 7,” the TvN representation said.

Kyuhyun was part of the cast in the third and fourth seasons of the show. During the show’s fourth season, Kyuhyun won a chance to ask producing director Na Young Suk for a wish, and he wished to return to the show after his military discharge.

Kyuhyun is also in talks to join another TvN show, Salty Tour, as a member of the fixed cast according to Label SJ.

Label SJ said, “Kyuhyun has received a casting offer for Salty Tour, and he is currently in the midst of discussing [the offer].”

“It’s true that Kyuhyun is currently discussing the possibility of appearing on Salty Tour with a favorable outlook,” TvN representatives said.

Salty Tour has been in the news recently due to their creative editing while removing now-former cast member, Jung Joon Young, out of the show following his KakaoTalk controversy. Kyuhyun’s addition to the show will be a welcome change.

Finally, on April 15, Super Junior confirmed a full-member comeback is in the works.

“Our maknae Kyuhyun is getting discharged next month. We’re planning on making a full-member comeback with a new album,” Eunhyuk said.

However, it is not clear if this includes Sungmin, Kangin, and Heechul, but “full member comeback” suggests they, too, are part of the group’s tentatively scheduled second half comeback. Sungmin received hate from fans following his marriage, and fans have demanded his removal from the group. In addition to serving his military duty, Sungmin has been inactive following the so-called “controversy.” Kangin has been inactive following his second DUI charge and sentencing as well as claims that he allegedly assaulted his girlfriend. Heechul sat out during Super Junior’s recent “One More Time” (featuring Reik) promotions at the end of 2018 due to injuries. However, Heechul will be making his solo debut April 24, 2019.

Are you looking forward to Kyuhyun’s return? How excited are you for Super Junior’s full group comeback? Let us know!

 

 

—-Olivia Murray

 

On April 24, 2019, Super Junior’s Heechul will release his solo track “Old Movie,” Label SJ said.

While Heechul has been a member of sub-units, specifically M&D with TRAxX’s Jungmo and Universe Cowards with Buzz’s Min Kyung Hoon, he has yet to release his own solo material. “Old Movie” will be his solo review.

The single, which is said to be a rock ballad, will be a digital single that will be accompanied by an MV starring Heechul and SKY Castle star, Park Yoo-na.

Fellow Super Junior member Donghae composed the track; Heechul wrote the lyrics.

On April 19, the teaser video for the track was released.

 

 

The song drops April 24 at 6pm KST. Heechul will also perform his track during his talk show, HEETalk, on May 4 and 5.

Are you excited about Heechul’s solo debut?

 

 

 

—-Olivia Murray

 

The K-Pop world may have lost another group as HELLOVENUS allegedly agreed to disband following the end of their contracts in May 2019.

HELLOVENUS, which originally consisted of members Alice, Nara, Yoonjo, Lime, Yooara, and Yooyoung, initially formed as a joint-venture between Fantagio and Pledis Entertainment under Tricell Entertainment in 2012. In 2014, Pledis and Fantagio abandoned the joint-venture. HELLOVENUS would still promote under Fantagio, but members Yooara and Yooyoung returned to Pledis and were no longer members of the group. In October 2014, Fantagio added two new members to HELLOVENUS: Seoyoung and Yeoreum.

 

 

The group officially debuted May 9, 2012 with their debut mini album Venus and the song with the same name. On July 4, 2012, they released the digital single “Like a Wave.” Later in the year on December 12, the EP “What Are You Doing Today?” was released, followed by “Would You Stay for Tea?” on May 2, 2013. While their debut album failed to chart, What Are You Doing Today? and Would You Stay for Tea? landed at 92 and six, respectively, on the Gaon Charts.

 

 

HELLOVENUS gained notoriety in 2014 when “Sticky Sticky” was released on October 31. The MV featured the girls—and new members Seoyoung and Yeoreum—showing a sexier side. However, the group’s January 2015 comeback with “Wiggle Wiggle” gained HELLOVENUS some viral success as the video, which many viewed as low-quality, featured the girls semi-twerking. The MV was a controversial turn for HELLOVENUS due to its 19+ rating, but it helped them gain attention, including a spot on the U.S Billboard charts when it peaked eighth on the World Digital Songs chart.

In July 2015, HELLOVENUS released “I’m Ill,” which stands as one of their most popular tracks internationally. It peaked at number seven, one spot below their highest charting mini album, Would You Stay for Tea?

 

 

Since “I’m Ill,” HELLOVENUS released four more tracks including 2017’s “Mysterious” which showed a return to HELLOVENUS’ fun, feminine, and funky sides. However, it failed to chart even though the album, Mystery of Venus, peaked at number 12 on the Gaon Music Charts.

Following a mildly successful career, reports initially indicated the members have opted to disband with each member hoping to pursue acting or solo careers.

However, on April 18, Fantagio stated the disbandment rumors are not true and that the members are currently discussing renewal with the company.

We wish the HELLOVENUS members success in whatever they pursue. Will they break the seven-year curse and remain a group? Stay tuned!

 

—-Olivia Murray

Former Korean TV personality, Amy (real name, Lee Yoon-Ji) potentially opened the doors to another celebrity-related drug and sex scandal due to an Instagram post shared April 16, 2019.

Amy, who is Korean-American and was deported from South Korea in 2015 following her second drug charge, discussed incidents where she and a fellow celebrity, identified as “A” at the time, took propofol and Zolpidem together and that she covered up for him. In the now-deleted post, Amy said:

Today is such an upsetting day, and my heart aches a lot. Even though it’s late, I’ve been reflecting on myself for the past few years, thinking and feeling regretful about my past. I’ve been trying to improve myself every day and remembering the days I received love but also made mistakes.

I used to have a friend whom I really liked. He was like a soulmate to me, a person I was proud of. And then, I made a mistake and ended up going to the police station. When [the police] asked me who I used propofol with, not a single word came out of my mouth. I begged them to only punish me.

Before I was arrested, when words on the street said I was going to be arrested, I suddenly received a phone call. And I heard some unimaginable things that [someone suggested], “Amy might tell the police about me. Let’s meet up with her to film sexual videos and photos [of her] so that she won’t be able to tell on me.”

The person who suggested that was my friend. The person who received the suggestion only told me because they could not go through with it. It was shocking.

As soon as the investigation started, my friend, who was in the military at the time, called me every morning and made excuses like, “Please help me. I’m sorry. It’s nothing like that.” He may have used me since I’m soft-hearted. He would call me everyday at dawn asking me to take the fall and said things like, “My life as a celebrity could end,” or he would die.

Even though he denied about making plans to film videos and photos of sexual activity, there is a recording [of him saying it]. I at least expected him to contact me on the day he was discharged from the military. To know that he returned safely. However, there was no call from him.

So, I called him. When I asked him if he knows how much effort I put in [to protect him], he said something along the lines of, “When did you ever help me?” The person who used to beg me was avoiding me now that the matter has settled. It would have been enough if he said thank you. There’s a small part of me that cannot forgive him.

What’s more upsetting than keeping my loyalty [to him] like a fool and going to the detention center alone is that I got to know the true nature of my most cherished friend. That makes my heart ache the most, and I will not be able to forget his betrayal.

I was with “A” for every propofol [injection]. Same goes for Zolpidem. I’m still asking for forgiveness and being punished for the crime I committed, while you are smiling so brightly on television. You shouldn’t have done that to me!! You pretended like you did not know and ran away from the things you did. And you still instigated someone to do such a thing to me. Am I supposed to forgive you? That makes me sad.

Since the posting, rumors circulated that Wheesung is the celebrity that was using drug alongside Amy. Wheesung’s agency, RealSlow Company said, “We need to confirm with him directly with regard to his name being mentioned in the current situation. We are currently verifying the facts.”

 

 

This is not the first time Wheesung’s name has come up in relation to Amy and her drug scandals. In 2013, he was under investigation for propofol usage while serving in the military. During the investigation, there were allegations that Wheesung used his breaks in the military to seek out clinics that illegally provided propofol and valium between 2011 and 2013. Wheesung denied the allegations and was later cleared of wrong-doing.

“We testified that he did not receive injections of the psychotropic drug illegally,” a representative for Wheesung said in 2013 following the investigation. “Even the doctor who is in trial for administering illegal doses of propofol testified that Wheesung did not use the drug illegally.”

Fast-forward to April 17, 2019, and Wheesung’s name surfaced again due to Amy’s allegations. RealSlow Company denied the claims in a statement.

Hello, this is Wheesung’s agency, RealSlow Company.

We are clearly stating that the suspicions regarding Wheesung that were brought up via social media on [April] 16 are completely false. Wheesung has definitely not done [such actions], and if there is an audio recording as claimed by the other party, he will receive appropriate punishment accordingly.

In addition, Wheesung was already ruled not guilty regarding charges of injecting propofol in 2013 during his military service. He received a highly intensive investigation from the military police at the time, and we once again state that he was cleared of charges as it was proven that the doctor’s diagnosis was given normally for medical treatment purposes. Afterwards, he was also investigated for the use of sleeping pills, and this indictment was suspended, as well.

It is very painful for him to even release a statement to deny that it is true, and it has been a difficult decision to relay this statement. We once again express apologies for causing trouble due to past incidents.

 

 

Amy then took to Instagram again and posted a now-deleted response that simply read “can you handle it?”

Following Amy’s Instagram post and Wheesung being identified as the alleged celebrity friend, the joint concerts he was to hold with K.Will were ultimately canceled due to “an inevitable situation.”  The concerts titled The Bromance Show were to be held May 4 and 5.

Spring Entertainment, the company producing the concert, said, “We sincerely apologize to fans who were happy and excited, and for the inconvenience and disruption of plans due to the sudden concert cancellation.”

However, on April 19, 2019, Wheesung took to Instagram in an attempt to clear his name. In a lengthy post, Wheesung explained the situation and also shared an audio recording with Amy—which was recorded with her consent—that discussed the situation. A third-party, identified as “X,” was also part of the conversation.

 

 

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https://youtu.be/PDCsOdzq-Vg 휘성입니다. 4월 17일 밤 에이미씨에게 연락이 왔고, 통화 녹음본 공개는 에이미씨와 합의 하에 진행되었음을 말씀드립니다. 그러나 공개를 결심하기까지 고민이 정말 많았습니다. 에이미씨 역시 피해자일 수도 있다는 생각은 처음부터 지금까지 변함이 없기에, 공개하는 것에 대해 수도 없이 망설였습니다.하지만 저를 둘러싼 의혹 해소 및 사실관계에 대한 팬 여러분들의 객관적 인지를 위해서는 녹취록을 공개하는 것이 불가피하다는 판단을 했습니다. 에이미씨는 저에게 언론 매체를 통해 공식적으로 사과하겠다는 의사를 명확히 밝혔습니다. 하지만 저는 사실관계에 관한 확인 없이, 감정만 앞선 성급한 내용으로 사과문이 만들어져 논란이 될 것을 염려했습니다. 그래서 먼저 에이미씨에게SNS의 허위 사실 게시물을 내려달라고 했고, 본인을 인터뷰했던 기자분께 사실을 전달해달라고 했습니다. 에이미씨는 이를 받아들였으며, 추가적으로 저는 성급한 행동을 자제해달라고 부탁했습니다. 이 녹취록에서 현재 쟁점이 되는 내용과 관계가 없는 부분들은 부득이하게 편집하였습니다. 이미 거의 모든 것을 잃었다고 느껴집니다. 그럼에도 이후 에이미씨의 사과는 당사자의 자유라는 생각입니다. 다만 사과를 한다면, 진심이 담긴 내용이기를 바랄 뿐입니다. 1. 대응이 늦을 수밖에 없었던 이유 에이미씨가 실명을 거론하지 않았고, 심신이 미약해 보이는 정황이 있는 상황에 제가 섣불리 나설 수 없었습니다. 사실에 근거한 입장문은 이미 사건 발생 당일 작성이 끝난 상태였고, 반박 증거 자료 역시 제출 준비가 되어 있었습니다. 2. 법적 대응에 대한 부분 아직까지는 가수 휘성만으로 매출을 기대하고 있는 소규모 법인 기업으로서 치명적인 타격이 아닐 수 없는바, 이미 법적 효력을 발생시킬 수 있는 허위사실 유포 및 인신공격을 한 언론과 악플러들에 대한 고소장이 작성되고 있습니다. 이 부분 만큼은 총력을 기울여 강력처벌로 이어지게 될 것을 미리 말씀드립니다. 3. 합동 콘서트 취소 모든 법적 조치가 끝나 정리가 된 일을 다시 쟁점화한 것은 제가 아니지만, 현재 상황에서 원만한 공연이 이루어지기 어렵다는 모두의 입장을 받아들여 ,케이윌 휘성의 합동콘서트를 취소하기로 합의하였습니다. 현재 이 부분이 가장 아쉽습니다. 이 모든사태가 정리가 되고 나서 훨씬 완성도 높은 브로맨쇼를 개최할 수 있도록 공연기획사측과 협의할 계획입니다. 이찌되었든 제가 끼어있는 상황때문에 피해를 입은 스프링엔터테인먼트와 스타쉽엔터테인먼트 친구 케이윌군에게 깊이 사과의 말씀 올립니다 4. 놓치지 말아야 할 본질 이 사건에 등장하는 주요인물 모두가 피해자일 수도 있습니다. 이 사건이 언론을 통해 불 난 듯이 번졌을 때, 어느 누군가에게는 실질적 피해가 이루어질 수 있습니다. 상황을 이해하기보다는 감정에 치우치는 시선이 아닌, 중립적인 입장에서 온전한 사실만을 바라봐 주시길 간곡히 바랍니다. 현 상황이 조속히 마무리되길 바라며 저를 응원해오셨던 분들께 심려끼쳐드린점 죄송합니다. ***** 현재 앞다투어 저에게 많은 분들이 응원과 함께 악성 허위 댓글 추측공격글 등등을 발췌하여 보내주시고 있습니다 반드시 처벌하겠습니다 이미 너무 많은걸 잃었기에 좌시하지 않겠습니다 당사자가 저지른일은 당사자가 책임을 지어야하겠지요 저는 저의 책임을 지을테니 원색적으로 근거없이 저를 비난하신 분들 언론관계자분들 각오하시길 바랍니다. 아무 준비없이 드리는 말씀이 아님을 인지 하시길

A post shared by 휘성 (@wheesungnym) on Apr 19, 2019 at 3:03am PDT

 

As translated by Soompi, the post reads:

This is Wheesung. I received a phone call from Amy on the night of April 17, and the following recording was made with Amy’s permission.

Nonetheless, I thought a lot about whether I should release it. From the very beginning, and even now, I believe that it is possible that Amy was also a victim in this case. I hesitated for a long time as to whether I should release this recording. However, I judged that it was better to release it so that the fans can learn the truth behind all the suspicions that have been cast over my name.

Amy has clearly stated to me her intention to make an official apology. However, I was uneasy that without any evidence of checking for the truth, an apology made out of emotion would only further the controversy. That is why I asked Amy to first remove the post on Instagram and to tell the truth to the reporters who interviewed her.

Amy has accepted these requests and in addition, I asked her not to take any more rash actions from now on.

Out of necessity, the recording has been edited to remove parts that have nothing to do with the case.

I feel like I’ve already lost everything. Nonetheless, Amy’s apology should be considered as an action of her free will. If she does apologize, I only hope that it is sincere.

(1) The reason I was late to respond to the issue

Amy did not use any specific names, and it was not possible for me to intervene in a situation where there was no strong sense of identification. But our statement about the facts and the proof behind our denial had already been prepared by the time the situation had broken out.

(2) Legal response

As a small business that depends solely on the business of the singer Wheesung, it’s obvious that we would make a tempting target. We are preparing lawsuits against malicious commenters who have initiated personal attacks and spread false information to the point of requiring legal force. We intend to pursue strong punishments in this matter.

(3) Cancellation of concerts

It was not I who chose to bring up this incident again after everything had been settled [six years ago], but I recognized that it would be difficult to hold a concert in this situation and agreed to cancel the joint concert between me and K.Will. I am very regretful about this. After everything has been settled, we plan to consult with the concert agency in order to put on an even better concert.

In any case, I’m deeply sorry to my friend K.Will, Spring Entertainment, and Starship Entertainment for having to get involved in this case.

(4) The essential thing

It is possible for all of the major players in this case to have been victims. When this case was picked up by the media and spread like wildfire, it became possible for anyone to have been victimized. Rather than understand the situation, I ask that we not get carried away by the influence of our emotions but stand neutral in order to seek out the whole truth.

I hope that this situation is quietly resolved. I apologize to all of the people who have supported me until now.

The post also links to a video that contains the phone call between Wheesung and Amy. The third voice in the video is “X,” and the person’s voice is obscured to protect his identity.

 

 

In the phone call, a misunderstanding between X and Amy was revealed, and Amy and Wheesung discuss it. RealSlow Company also provides commentary. Allkpop translated the conversation:

 Amy: “It took me a lot of courage to make this phone call [to Wheesung]”

[Audio in the next part of the conversation is removed]

 

[Agency Text Message in the video – “We’re discussing who of their acquaintances told Amy that Wheesung is the one that suggested blackmail using the sexual photos. Wheesung already knew the identity of acquaintance ‘X’ that told Amy about the blackmail because of the allegations Amy had made in 2013 because it was ‘X’ that was concerned about it at the time].

[Wheesung calls ‘X’ whose voice is distorted to hide his identity]

Wheesung: “I had no reason to say those things to her [Amy], no reason to even want to do it. First it was death threats, then sexual assault…it just keeps changing. Anyways, is it Amy that is saying this or did you tell her that, because she’s saying its you.”

X: “Why would I tell her something like that?”

Wheesung: “Did I say those things? Did I really ever say those things about her??”

X: “There’s no way you would’ve said that stuff. You were really close to Amy. When I said bad stuff about her you got mad and we fought over it.”

[Recording returns to conversation between Amy and Wheesung]

Wheesung: [tells Amy what X said to him in the call. Amy doesn’t respond verbally but you can hear her sigh] “I recorded the conversation with him. What am I supposed to do. How am I going to live now?

[Agency Text Message in the video – “Wheesung has been put under suspicion because of the misunderstanding between Amy and X. If anyone has any recordings about the situation, please release it to the public.”]

Wheesung: [Gets emotional] “What am I going to do??”

Amy: “I feel like trash. After listening to you today I realize I was wrong” [starts crying]

Wheesung: “Even if you say sorry right now, I won’t believe you anymore. They cancelled my concert and terminated all my contracts. How am I going to live? Do you think I can sing now??

Amy: “Forgive me. Even if people swear at me, I promise I’ll take it all back.”

Wheesung: “Why do you only think about yourself? What about me?”

Amy: “I’ve always felt like I’m inferior to you.”

Wheesung: “But why do I have to pay for that with my life. MY livelihood.”

[Then audio fades out and the recording ends there. Another agency statement follows]

[Agency Text Message in the Video – “After the call, Amy removed the post she wrote on Instagram. We made this recording with permission from all parties. It wasn’t pre-arranged or anything and Amy was the first one to call Wheesung on April 17th at 10:00pm KST.

We want to reiterate that it’s not true at all that Wheesung ever threatened anyone with sexual assault. This whole thing happened because Amy heard something from a third party and thought Wheesung actually said it. In the phone call Wheesung told her about the misunderstanding. We plan to take strong legal action to prevent any of these rumors from spreading. Also, Amy is claiming that she has a recording, so we urge her to make it public. We know that Amy is feeling confused about this situation, but we can no longer sit back and let these false rumors spread. We ask her to clear up all the allegations.

Again, 6 years ago Wheesung was cleared of propofol use after a detailed investigation. All the allegations of blackmail and sexual assault are all false. We reiterate again that we made this recording after Amy called Wheesung first.

Wheesung is in shock because of these false allegations and is being sued for breach of contract. His livelihood is now in question because of someone’s unconfirmed SNS post. Who’s going to take responsibility for all the damage that has been caused?? We hope in the future that people refrain from witch hunts based on groundless rumors so that no one else is hurt.

RealSlow Company also stated that Wheesung may be sued for contract breaches.

This story is a developing one that has severe implications for the parties involved. Wheesung’s side is currently waiting for Amy’s alleged recordings and an apology.

 

All parties are innocent until proven guilty.

 

 

—-Olivia Murray

A recent photo of the actor from his Instagram account @yeojin9oo.

 

From child actor to leading man

Making his debut on the silver screen with ‘Sad Movie’ in 2005 when he was only eight years old, Yeo Jin Goo has definitely racked up a lot of screen time over the years, carving his initial interest to appear on television into a fulfilling career.

Backed by supportive parents who cultivated his passion by providing acting lessons, the talented youngster quickly moved on towards more notable roles, mostly playing younger versions of the lead actors in popular dramas, the most notable of which were, ‘Iljimae’, ‘Tazza’, ‘Moon Embracing the Sun’ and ‘Missing You’, for which he won multiple best child actor and young actor awards.

As he matured both physically and in his acting, he began to transition into lead roles, portraying the titular character in the 2013 action thriller movie ‘Hwayi: A Monster Boy’, for which he won several Best New Actor awards.

More lead roles and significant supporting roles followed in the ensuing years making him into one of the choice leading men in South Korea today at the young age of 21.

 

The actor as young boy (left) and how he looks today (right).

 

Growing up in the limelight

Graduating from an all boys high school in 2016, Yeo Jin Goo is currently pursuing his tertiary studies at Chung-Ang University, majoring in Theater.

In a past interview, the young actor mentioned his love for acting and how he has never envied his friends’ relatively  more ‘normal’ lives due to the many enjoyable experiences he’s been privileged to have through acting and through interactions with his seniors in the acting industry.

Though as any young man would, he does however, lament his lack of romantic relationships – mentioning dating as something he’d like to begin experiencing now that he’s in his twenties.

A still of the actor from his breakout role in  ‘Hwayi: A Monster Boy’’.

 

Career highlights

As an actor, Yeo Jin Goo has garnered many awards and accolades over his years in the industry, but some remain more memorable, such as becoming the youngest male actor to receive the Best New Actor award in the history of the Blue Dragon Film Awards, at the age of sixteen.

Other anecdotes that speak towards his talent are less tangible than awards but are no less impressive such as receiving the acknowledgement and approval of his senior actors. His appearance in the 2015 Korean War film, ‘The Long Way Home’ was said to be at the insistence of veteran actor Sol Kyung-gu, who strongly recommended Yeo for the role, only signing the movie contract once Yeo had been casted.

 

Recent works

In 2018, the actor starred in the science-fiction romance drama ‘Reunited Worlds’ and filmed the yet to be released romantic comedy drama ‘Absolute Boyfriend’, a dramatization of the highly popular Japanese manga of the same name which is slated to air this May.

We also recently saw him in a dual role as a Joseon King and his doppelganger in ‘The Crowned Clown’ which just completed its run on tvN last March.

 

A still of Yeo Jin Goo in his role as the titular character in ‘The Crowned Clown’.

 

Upcoming projects

Other than ‘Absolute Boyfriend’ this coming May, fans of the actor can look forward to another of his upcoming works this year as he is confirmed to already have another project lined up.

He is set to star in the new fantasy mystery drama ‘Hotel Del Luna’ with superstar singer and actress IU which is scheduled to air late this year. Another project from the Hong sisters who are well-known for their creative and compelling previous works such as the dramas ‘Master’s Sun’ and ‘While You Were Sleeping’, this upcoming drama is sure to excite fans and attract new viewers alike to get to know more facets of this versatile actor.

 

 

 

—-Fie Fed

 

BTS’ “Boy with Luv” is on fire!

The track, which features Halsey, comes from their newest album, Map the Soul: Persona and was released April 12, 2019. As of this writing, “Boy with Luv” currently has over 135 million views on YouTube and is still trending on YouTube’s trend list (as of April 15, 2019, it is ranked 45).

As it continues to rack up YouTube views, “Boy with Luv” and Map the Soul: Persona have been breaking records across several music charts.

Map the Soul: Persona became BTS’ third album to rank number one on the Billboard 200 chart. Previously, Love Yourself: Tear and Love Yourself: Answer held Billboard top honors. The Billboard 200 chart counts traditional album sales, track-equivalent albums, and streaming-equivalent albums. Ten downloaded songs or 1500 song streams equal one album purchase.

Over on Spotify, “Boy with Luv” came at number three on their Global Top 200 Chart. Their third-place-ranking tops their previous fourth place ranking when they debuted on the track. With their previous fourth and now their newly crowd third place rank, BTS holds the record as the highest charting Korean group on Spotify. Additionally, each song from Map the Soul: Persona stayed on Spotify’s Global Top 200 Chart’s top 50 for two consecutive days, making them the first Korean group to hold that honor. When the chart numbers were released April 13, “Mikrokosmos,” “Make It Right,” “Home,” “Dionysus,” “Jamais Vu,” and “Intro: Persona” ranked 22, 26, 28, 36, and 50, respectively.

Meanwhile, on Korea’s iChart, BTS are the first group in 2019 to land a Perfect All-Kill (PAK) with “Boy with Luv.” This is BTS’ second PAK since 2018’s “Fake Love.” According to Soompi, “a perfect all-kill (PAK) is when the song is in first place on the major real-time and daily charts (Melon, Genie, Bugs, Mnet, Naver, and Soribada), as well as first place on Flo’s real-time charts and on Instiz’s iChart’s real-time and weekly charts.”

On YouTube, “Boy with Luv” smashed the record for most views in a 24-hour period. The previous record, held by BLACKPINK’s “Kill This Love,” was 56.7 million viewers. In a tweet, YouTube confirmed the record was broken on April 13, but they didn’t have an official count. On April 15, YouTube announced the BTS broke the record by scoring 74.6 million unique views in the MV’s first 24 hours!

 

Yes, we’re still running the numbers, but we can confirm that #BoyWithLuv (ft. @Halsey) is now *officially* the most-viewed 24 hour debut in @YouTube history!! Congratulations @bts_bighit � Enjoy @nbcsnl tonight! pic.twitter.com/xC8vHs27Nu

— YouTube Music (@youtubemusic) April 14, 2019

 

“Boy with Luv” also became the fastest video by a Korean artist to surpass 100 million views. Previously, BLACKPINK’s “Kill This Love” held the record by reaching 100 million views in two days, 14 hours, and 15 minutes. “Boy with Luv” broke the record in one day, 13 hours, and 38 minutes.

Additionally, “DNA,” one of the tracks that was considered a global hit, became the first MV by a male Korean group to reach 700 million views. The track, which was released September 17, 2017, reached 700 million views in one year, six months, 27 days, and a little over nine hours. BTS joins fellow Korean artists BLACKPINK (“Ddu-du Ddu-Du”) and PSY (“Gangnam Style,” which is also the most viewed K-Pop MV of all time with, now, over 3.3 billion views) in the 700 million view club.

Finally, BTS will also appear at the Billboard Music Awards May 1. They are nominated for Top Group/Duo and Top Social Artist. Congratulations to BTS on their accomplishments, and good luck at the Billboard Music Awards!

 

 

 

—-Olivia Murray

 

SHINee’s Minho enlisted into the Marines April 15, 2019. Prior to his enlistment at the Marine Corps training center in Pohang, North Gyeongsang Province, Minho shared a letter with SHAWOLs along with an image showing off his military haircut.

#빛나는샤이니 #SHINee #샤이니 @shinee#민호 #MINHO #CHOIMINHO 건강하고 안전하게 ?? pic.twitter.com/JJ12SxMXse

— SHINee (@SHINee) April 14, 2019

#빛나는샤이니 #SHINee #샤이니 @shinee#민호 #MINHO #CHOIMINHO 건강하고 안전하게 ?? pic.twitter.com/B0V3v9vkkN

— SHINee (@SHINee) April 14, 2019

 

Minho wrote:

Hello, everyone~ it’s SHINee’s Minho!!

It seems like it’s been a while since I’ve written my feelings down. Everyone knows, right? I will be enlisting in the military on April 15. I’ll be momentarily separated from everyone for a short [time] if it’s short, and long [time] if it’s long while.

After debuting on May 25, 2008, time has passed by quite quickly, and I’m so happy and pleased to have spent it with everyone. These were moments I won’t be able to forget.

The many things I’ve been able to feel and all the things I’ve been able to grow into is thanks to your interest and support. When I took some time to look back, I honestly couldn’t imagine that I, who was lacking in many ways for a long time, would receive the strong support and love that is SHINee World. It was a warm consolation and huge relief for me, who only thought of running and working hard, and moving forward. Thank you once again.

The fact that there was someone beside me was a source of great happiness for me, and I think I’m going to miss SHINee World a lot, for helping me, who was always strongly looking ahead, look back and become soft and flexible, instead of always being so stiff. I’m sorry that I wasn’t able to approach you all more often and express myself more. I’m really sorry.^^ But you know that I’m grateful and I love you, right??? I’ll remember the support that everyone gave me and return safely.

I’ll work hard in the military so I can come back to give everyone positive and good energy without disappointing anyone. Thank you and thank you again. And I love you!!

You guys are always my hope~

2019.4.14 SHINee’s Minho

PS. Everyone, you know that I’m Choi Minho, right? Don’t worry!! Victory!!!

Minho arrived at the training center with his parents and fellow SHINee member, Taemin. Onew enlisted December 10, 2018, while Key enlisted March 4, 2019.

SHAWOL wish Minho and his fellow members good health during their enlistments.

 

—-Olivia Murray

 

Brave Girls is a Korean girl group formed by the inventive rapper, songwriter and producer Brave Brother, the founder and CEO of Brave Entertainment. The group made their debut with the album The Difference in April of 2011.

In July of the same year, Brave Girls released Easily from their mini album Back to da Future, and later promoted a remix version.

The group went on a hiatus from early 2014 until 2016, and returned with seven members – the two founding members Hye-ran and Yoo-jin, joined by Eun-ji, Ha-yun, Min-young, Yu-jeong and Yu-na – while Eun-young, Seo-a and Ye-jin left the group in pursuit of other ventures.

Since Ha-yun is unable to join due to indefinite medical reasons, four members consisting of Min-young, Yu-jeong, Eun-ji and Yu-na make the current line-up of the group.

We were lucky to interview the Brave Girls, and took the time out to learn more about their personality, personal struggles, taste in fashion and what they like or dislike when it comes to food and much more. A massive thank you goes out to the girls and their staff for making this Kcrush interview happen. We wish the girls all the very best in their future endeavors!

 

Thank you for offering your precious time for this interview. Please introduce yourselves to our readers.

Min-young: Hello, this is Min-young and I am the main vocalist of Brave Girls.

Yu-jeong: Hello! This is Yu-jeong, the talkative one of Brave Girls.

Eun-ji: Hello, everyone. This is Eun-ji of Brave Girls!

Yu-na: Hi, this is Yu-na of Brave Girls.

 

What has changed for you the most since debut, and what were your dreams while growing up?

Min-young: Well, I used to like spending time at home alone, but since I met the other members in the group, I found myself enjoying spending quality time with them. My dream as a child, was a singer because I thought a singer dancing on a grand stage with bright lights was the coolest thing. However, I was still very young, so my dreams kept changing from dolphin trainer, action movie actor, fashion designer to ballerina and so on.

Yu-jeong: I don’t think anything has changed for me that much, since our debut. But at times, I do encounter people, especially the ones who served in the military, who recognize me when I am out and about in public. I was at a restaurant one time, and a staff there said that he was a fan who had recently got discharged, and served me a lot of food on the house. I think my dream as a child was a singer, but once I became one, I did go through a phase of feeling kind of empty inside, to be honest.

Eun-ji: I don’t think much has changed drastically for me but I think I’ve become more at ease. And being a flight attendant was my dream when I was growing up. 

Yu-na: I feel that my personality has changed. I’ve become more cautious and sensitive in some ways. I had multiple dreams while growing up, I wanted to become a singer, artist, veterinarian and etc.

 

 

What is the first thing that you do when you wake up in the morning?

Min-young: I kiss my cream-colored toy poodle, named Yam-yam.

Yu-jeong: I have a dog named “Laren – 라렌” that stays in the dormitory with me. So, I habitually check on my pet to see if it’s sick or anything. My Laren’s the best!

Eun-ji: I check my phone. ^_^

Yu-na: I weigh myself.

 

Recommend us any songs/albums that you frequently listen to. Which Brave Girls’ work are you the most attached to?

Min-young: I enjoy listening to albums by Tinashe and Kehlani, not only because they have trendy music but both artists are really great dancers. Since they are always full of energy and they look cool even to us females.

The song that I listen to the most these days is, Expectations by Lauren, a member of the girl group Fifth Harmony. My favorite Brave Girls’ album is definitely Rollin because although I am the most attached to it, there is so much about the record that I feel could’ve been done differently. There are many other great tracks on that album too. The third track Whatever from our third mini-album High Heels is also a personal favorite of mine.

Yu-jeong: Nowadays, I’m into songs by Jannabi rather than upbeat music. I generally tend to pay more attention to lyrics than the music, and Jannabi makes music that I appreciate and can relate to, as I grow older. The Brave Girls’ song that I am the most attached to would definitely be Rollin!!

Eun-ji: The song that I’ve been listening to most frequently is the Spring album by Park Bom sunbaenim. The single Spring has a great melody and I love the lyrics too.

The Brave Girls’ song that I am the most attached to is Rollin. I loved it the first moment I listened to it. Even after two years, it still feels refreshing and I don’t ever get tired of it.

I wish more people would know about the song!

Yu-na: These days, the song that I listen to most is Distance by Emily King. And the Brave Girls’ song that I am most attached to is Rollin.

 

 

Who do you respect the most currently?

Min-young: My mom. 

Yu-jeong: My parents. And Brave Brother, our CEO. Since I believe that my parents enabled me to have my dreams, while our CEO helped me to fulfill them. In the past, I used to think that people written about in text books were admirable, but now, I’ve realized that everyone is. Except for myself that is.

Eun-ji: My parents, for sure! It’s always been my parents for me. They always advise me, tell me about their life experiences and give me so much encouragement. 

Yu-na: My mother…

 

Please describe your ideal type of person.

Min-young: I have a lot of emotional ups and downs, so I think I’d like my ideal person to be of calm personality who can help me to keep me grounded.

Yu-jeong: Somebody that I can’t help loving.

Eun-ji: Someone courteous, honest and positive at all times.

Yun-a: A person who is humble and polite towards the people who are employed to do service work.

 

 

Name a food or beverage that you really like or dislike.

Min-young: Sushi is my favorite food, but I am not that keen on consuming shellfish or freshwater fish. What I hate the most are famine foods, and I prefer fruit juice over coffee.

My favorite is ginger ale and lemonade.

Yu-jeong: I really hate cucumbers and Korean melons. I like to eat giblets and sushi.

Eun-ji: I like western food the best, and like strawberry smoothies for beverages. I don’t like to eat Seonjiguk, Naejangtang, Fish roe soup, sea cucumber, Sea pineapple and etc.

Yu-na: I love Korean food, and dislike any food that has mushy textures, like puddings, dried persimmon, sushi…

 

How would you describe your dress code on a daily basis? Tell us which colors you like or dislike.

Min-young: When I’m out and about to and from the studio, I like to dress comfortably. But when I go out, I either dress in very simple outfits or something really glam, depending on my mood. I also enjoy adorning and love wearing hats. I am into accessories, bags, shoes and other features that complete a look. The color that I love the most is white, because it’s bright and so pretty.

Yu-jeong: I just like casual clothes, because I tend to get tired all day when I’m dressed in uncomfortable ensembles. I don’t like yellow and illuminous colors

Eun-ji: I like to wear feminine jackets and pants. Purple is the color that I love the most. Although I don’t have a color that I dislike, if I had to choose one, it’d be light green.

Yu-na: I dig wide or straight pants in dark blue, blue denim and light blue. I love black and white, and dislike illuminous colors.

 

Please recommend us any books, musicals or movies that you’ve enjoyed recently.

Min-young: I was searching for motivational books in order to boost my self-esteem, and found a good read called “There is no present that means Nothing – 아무것도 아닌 지금은 없다.” I also enjoyed watching a movie called Us with the members.

Yu-jeong: My all-time favorite movie is You are the Apple of My Eye. Whenever I watch it, I think to myself that I really didn’t know how to handle things when I was younger. It’s a kind of movie that makes me realize a lot of things, when I watch it over and over again. This movie also got me interested in learning Chinese.

Eun-ji: The most recent movies that I’ve watched are Believer and The outlaws, which I’ve watched respectively three times. I also watched Intimate Strangers and Extreme Job and laughed my way through the shows. For musicals, I’d recommend Jekyll & Hyde or Wicked.

Yu-na: I recommend you to watch My Blueberry Nights.

 

 

Where do you think is the best region in Korea for tourism?

Min-young: The best places for foreign tourists to visit in Korea is definitely Seoul or Jeju Island. However, if you’re like me and prefer mountainous areas valleys more than the seaside, Yangpyeong County would be great to visit too.

Eun-ji: Busan!!! I think it’s good for a visit the city due to its many places to visit and dine at. The public transport has become so convenient that it takes around 2 hours to get there from Seoul on a train.

Yu-jeong: Mangwon-dong in Seoul! It might not be considered as travelling or touring, but you’ll feel refreshed after walking down Mangwon market.

Yu-na: Jeju Island for me too.

 

In the future, where would you like to perform in the world?

Min-young: We’d love to do a performance anywhere overseas, if possible. We would really love to meet our international fans.

Yu-jeong: Japan. Or Hong Kong, which is where I used to live.

Eun-ji: Would love to do a lot of shows in Korea, and just about anywhere else in the world.

Yu-na: First, I’d love to perform at the Jamsil Olympic Stadium. And at Japan’s Tokyo Dome since it’s close from here and then, move on to perform in other countries.

 

(From left to right: Min-young, Yu-jeong, Eun-ji and Yu-na.)

 

Please wrap this interview by stating something about your future hopes and plans ahead. Add something nice to the fans as well.

Min-young: First, our goal is to showcase new music with unique and diverse concepts to our audience. We also want to meet our fans more often. So far, we haven’t gotten the chance to meet fans abroad, so I hope we get to have that opportunity in the near future.

Yu-jeong: In the past, I only thought about Brave Girls doing well and perform to more people. But now, I just wish that we don’t lose our hopes or dreams along the way. That way, we can give back the hopes and dreams to our fans, Fearless. I really don’t wish to disappoint them, when they’ve waited for us all this time. We really appreciate you and thank you.

Eun-ji: We want to make good music for you guys, and also appear on a lot of broadcasts! We have been on a hiatus for a long while, so we really appreciate our fan base, Fearless for your loyal support. We love you ever so much and thank you!!

Yu-na: I think one of our ultimate goals and hopes is to return with a great album. We are so thankful (and also feel apologetic) towards our fans, Fearless, for still being there for us. Together, we can make a better future for us all!

 

 

 — J.Chung.

Kcrush America K-Pop Top 30: March 2019

 

ONCES have double the chances to be excited as TWICE announced their new album, Fancy You, will be released April 22, 2019. Additionally, the title track, “Fancy,” will be coming out soon. Based on the teasers, the album and single may have a throwback vibe to it.

Fancy You will be the girl group’s seventh EP since they debuted in 2015.  The EP will have six songs. In addition to the lead single “Fancy,”  other tracks include “Girls Like Us,” “Hot,” “Strawberry,” “Stuck in My Head,” and “Turn it Up.” Albums are available for pre-order on WithDrama, Ktown4U, Kpoptown, and Choice Music LA.

On Twitter, JYP Entertainment (JYPE) began sharing individual and album teaser photos. On YouTube and Naver, vlogs have been posted leading up to the release.

On April 22, TWICE will also hold their album showcase at YES24 Live Hall. Information about the Melon event including ticketing information can be found on Melon’s website. Additionally, the girls will host a V-Live on CHANNEL +,  but viewers will need to pay using fanship coins to view the event.

In addition to the album announcement, TWICE and JYPE also announced TWICE’s world tour. Cities and dates have been announced, but venues have not. The tour kicks off May 25 and 26 in Seoul before heading to the following locations/cities:

• June 15: Bangkok, Thailand
• June 29: Manila, Philippines
• July 13: Singapore
• July 17: Los Angeles, CA
• July 19: Mexico City, Mexico
• July 21: Newark, NJ
• July 23, Chicago, IL
• August 17: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Spring and summer look to be an exciting time for ONCE and TWICE! Will you be seeing TWICE in concert once the venues are announced?

 

—-Olivia Murray

Kang Ji Hwan in a still from 2018 reality show ‘Real Men 300’.

 

His story

Jo Tae-gyu, or better known under his stage name Kang Ji-hwan, is a 42 year old South Korean actor who first debuted as a musical actor before branching out into television dramas and movies, becoming a household name not only in his native country but also throughout Asia making him one of the Korean Hallyu (Korean wave) stars.

After securing small roles in television in the early years, he won the lead role in the 2005 drama ‘Be Strong, Geum-soon!’, which opened the door to his silver screen debut in the independent film ‘Host and Guest’.

More films and dramas followed through the years, comprising a myriad of roles such as office workers plotting revenge on their exes (‘Fireworks’), a terminally ill man in love with his cousin (‘90 Days, Time To Love’) and the cult hit ‘Hong Gil-dong’ in 2008, portraying the titular folk hero.

 

A photo of Kang Ji Hwan with co-star Kim Ha-Neul from their movie ‘My Girlfriend is an Agent’.

 

The 2008 low-budget movie ‘Rough Cut’ earned him a ‘Best New Actor’ award while the action/rom-com movie ‘My Girlfriend Is an Agent’ became the fourth highest grossing Korean film of 2009. His role in drama ‘Lie to Me’ in 2011, further cemented his image as a romantic lead not only in Korea but across Asia.

 

Bumps on the road to success

A consummate professional who first decided to be an actor while he was in the army, Kang Ji Hwan has had his fair share of ups and down in the industry.

Plagued with contract disputes and lawsuits with his former and subsequent talent agencies between 2010 to 2012, the actor was advised to suspend his entertainment activities for a period, even foregoing the starring role in the drama ‘Faith’ which subsequently went to actor Lee Min Ho.

In 2014, Kang was embroiled in a photo scandal while on a photo shoot in the Philippines, involving an edited photo of him in bed with a woman. Luckily, the matter was quickly clarified by the actor and the woman in question. The woman was the wife of his local guide in the country who was a big fan of the actor and had uploaded the photo in good fun and had since posted an apology for the unintended offense.

 

Career highlights

Kang Ji Hwan with co-star Yoon Eun Hye in the infamous Coca Cola kiss scene from 2011 drama ‘Lie to Me’.

 

Over the years, the actor has collected many awards and nominations such as multiple Best New Actor, Most Popular Actor and Best Couple awards. However, despite numerous nominations, he has yet to receive the best actor award, making it one of his sought-after goals for the future.

Another award that his many fans have unofficially given him is the Best Kiss award due to the iconic Coca Cola kiss scene from the popular drama ‘Lie to Me’. It remains as one of the most memorable scenes by the actor according to loyal fans.

 

Recent works

Kang Ji Hwan appearing handsome even au naturel in a still from ‘Real Men 300’.

 

In 2018, Kang Ji Hwan participated in the military reality show ‘Real Men 300’ where he endured grueling training with other celebrities to become elite members of the military. Fans were treated to the star’s natural look and physical prowess as he went through the vigorous training.

In the same year, he starred in two dramas – ‘Children of a Lesser God’, in the role of genius detective and ‘Feel Good to Die’ playing a nasty boss to a female subordinate who is forced to re-live the day he dies until she helps him find redemption.

 

Kang Ji Hwan with co-star Baek Jin Hee in a still from ‘Feel Good to Die’.

 

Upcoming projects

It’s early days yet in 2019, but there’s already news that the actor will soon star in a new drama tentatively titled ‘Joseon Survival’. Expected to air in June, the time-travel yarn chronicles the actor’s adventures as he goes back in time accompanied by his younger sibling and first love.

 

 

—-Fie Fed

 

EXO-Ls will soon have to start the process of waiting for their favorite idols to return from the military as EXO’s Xiumin has announced his plans to enlist in May.

SM Entertainment and Xiumin both confirm that he will be enlisting as an active duty soldier May 7, 2019. The idol also wishes to enlist quietly, so there are no planned goodbye events or a fan sendoff. Details about when and where he will enlist are private.

In a letter, Xiumin acknowledged his upcoming enlistment.

Hello, EXO-L. This is Xiumin!

Flowers have been blooming well these days. Have you gone out to see them?

Flowers are appearing, the weather is getting warmer, and yesterday was EXO’s 7th anniversary since debut!

I feel gratitude for everyone and everything because I feel EXO was born at a very nice time.

Congratulations again to our members.

To be honest, I’m writing today because there’s important news I want to share with all of you first. Military duty! I’m going to the military on May 7!

‘I will return in good health.’ I plan on arranging a time for us soon, so that I can say this to you directly. We have an EXO-CBX concert soon, and we’ll return after wrapping it up successfully. Please wait just a bit.

Let’s all work hard getting through today too!

EXO debuted seven years ago this year, so fans knew enlistment days would be coming. While the news is sad for EXO-L, there are still chances to see him as he performs with EXO-CBX for the final times before enlistment. The trio will be in Saitama, Japan April 16 and 17, 2019 and in Kobe, Japan April 27-29, 2019 for their Magical Circus- Special Edition concerts.

 

 

—-Olivia Murray

 

Big Hit Entertainment, which is home to BTS, announced that their rookie group, TXT (TOMORROW x TOGETHER), will be holding their debut showcase tour in the United States.

Powerhouse Live will be hosting the event.

TXT debuted March 4, 2019 with the song “Crown” and their EP The Dream Chapter: Star. Plans for TXT’s debut were in-place starting in 2017, while confirmation of their debut was announced in November 2018. On January 10, 2019, the group was announced, and member introductions began soon after.

The group, which is now over a month old, already has an impressive résumé as they are the fastest K-Pop group to appear on Billboard charts, and they hold the highest-charting debut album by any male K-pop group with The Dream Chapter peaked at 140 on the Billboard 200 Chart. They also debuted at number one on Billboard’s Emerging Artists, World Albums, and World Digital Song Sales charts. Domestically, they peaked at number one on the Gaon Charts. Elsewhere in the world, TXT’s debut album peaked at number three on Japan’s Oricon Music Chart. In addition to “Crown,” their songs “Blue Orangeade,” “Cat & Dog,” and “Our Summer” also charted on the Billboard chart.

Armed with their accolades, TXT will now embark on their six-city, Star in the U.S debut showcase tour. The tour will offer Big Hit Entertainment fans a chance another one of their groups. Unfortunately, some of the dates in some of the cities come right after BTS’ shows (BTS will be in Chicago May 11, while TXT will be in Chicago May 12, for example), which may cause some issues for fans. If you have a chance to see them, check them out at the following cities!

May 9, 2019	New York, NY	Playstation Theater	8pm Local Time
May 12, 2019	Chicago, IL	The Vic Theatre	8pm Local Time
May 14, 2019	Orlando, FL	The Plaza Live	8pm Local Time
May 17, 2019	Atlanta, GA	Center Stage Theater	8pm Local Time
May 19, 2019	Dallas, TX	The Bomb Factory	8pm Local Time
May 24, 2019	Los Angeles, CA	The Novo	8pm Local Time

 

Tickets go on-sale April 19, 2019 at 4pm local time for all venues. Watch our Facebook page for ticket information!

 

— Olivia Murray

 

The 17^th Korea Times Music Festival is fast-approaching, and this year’s festival has a fantastic lineup in-store for fans!

The Korea Times Music Festival is one of the United States’ most-successful Korean festivals as The Korea Times and its broadcast partners in South Korea bring several artists over the reflect many different generations. In addition to some of today’s hot and up-and-coming K-Pop groups, singers familiar to more mature generations also come over for this yearly family-friendly event.

This year’s festival will be held Saturday April 27, 2019 at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, California. The festival begins at 6pm local time.

If you’re lucky to attend this year’s event, you’ll be treated to the following performers:

• Taemin (SHINee)
• Super Junior
• Lovelyz
• Eun Ji (APINK)
• Kim Beom-su
• Choi Jin-hee
• Kim Yeong-cheol
• Tae Jin-ah
• DJ DOC
• Yuk Joong-wan
• Ha Sung-woon

 

 

Tickets are available on the Korean Times Music Festival website. Tickets range in price from $30-$300. More information can also be found on the festival’s Facebook page. Check out the promos for the event on the festival’s official YouTube page or the playlist below!

 

— Olivia Murray

 

Another K-Pop group will be touring North America!

VAV (Very Awesome Voice) will embark on their North American tour starting April 25, 2019 until May 5, 2019. This will be the group’s second North American tour since 2018.

The A-TEAM Entertainment group recently made a comeback with their fourth mini album Thrilla Killa and lead single of the same name. So far, Thrilla Killa has been VAV’s most successful album to date, peaking at number 20 on the Gaon Music Chart.

 

 

This year’s tour includes a meet and greet and a performance. Be sure to check VAV out at the following locations! Tickets range in price from $69 for general admission to $199 for VVIP.

 

April 25, 2019	Toronto, CA	Bluma Appel	Tickets
April 27, 2019	Jersey City, NJ	White Eagle Hall	Tickets
April 28, 2019	San Juan, PR	Teatro Ambassador	Tickets
April 30, 2019	Chicago, IL	Park West	Tickets
May 1, 2019	Dallas, TX	South Side Music Hall	Tickets
May 3, 2019	San Francisco, CA	The Chapel	Tickets
May 5, 2019	Los Angeles, CA	Avalon Hollywood	Tickets

 

VAV debuted October 31, 2015 with “Under the Moonlight.” Since then, the seven-member group that consists of St. Van, Baron, ACE, Ayno, Jacob, Lou, and Ziu have released a total of 12 singles.

Will you be seeing VAV when they roll into town?

 

——Olivia Murray

 

On April 4, 2019, BLACKPINK made their much-anticipated comeback with “Kill This Love.” The single also includes three new B-sides: “Hope Not,” “Don’t Know What to Do,” and “Kick It.”

While “Kill This Love” has racked up several honors including over 50 million YouTube views in under 24 hours (a new record and a first for any music group) and several number ones on global music charts, the track isn’t one BLINKS or K-POP fans earned or deserved.

BLACKPINK are about to embark on their In Your Area tour. With this, they’ve already laid down the groundwork for a potentially successful dabbling in the Western market thanks to their appearances on Good Morning America and The Late Show as well as an invitation to Coachella. BLACKPINK have the potential to be global giants on the music scene, but “Kill This Love” fails to show any growth and potential.

On the Kill This Love single album, the three B-sides are far better than the lead single, so it leads to the question of why “Kill This Love” was the selected track.

The answer is easy: It’s a money-maker.

“Kill This Love” has everything that undoubtedly make it successful: Repetition, a relatable theme, lyrics that aren’t too complex, and a lot of bass. Essentially, it’s a song that’s a club banger and one that will hype a crowd during a live performance. For their upcoming concerts and Coachella appearance, this track will perform well, especially during the simplistic chorus that allows for people to yell. Beyond this, however, “Kill This Love” is weak and is, perhaps, the weakest track in BLACKPINK’s discography.

The single is noisy, vapid, and poorly-conceived. To anyone who isn’t lying to themselves about the quality of the track, it’s easy to tell the composition and arrangement is rushed and unrefined. The vocals are screechy and unappealing as well, making the song hard to listen to more than once. While the chorus attempts to be a rallying cry, it fails due to poorly-used notions similar to prior BLACKPINK anthem tracks like “Ddu-du Ddu-du” and “Boombayah.”

How the vocals managed to be okayed is one of the most questionable K-Pop moments of the year so far. Rosé, Jennie, and Jisoo sound unfortunately bad, and one could only hope that the screeching was added post-recording because their poor vocal cords cannot feel good after performing this track. The scratchiness and pitchiness are, perhaps, supposed to be “edgy” and “cool” to fit in the with the bad-girl persona “Kill This Love” attempts to have, but it comes across as tone-deaf, second-rate, and not much better than the high school female band pretending to make it big someday. Why YG Entertainment and its arrangers, composers, and vocal coaches insist on trying to wreck these girls’ vocals is beyond me, and someone needs to stop this from happening before these girls have to sit out due to vocal cord damage.

The arrangement of this song is a disaster. It’s one-note, flat, and attempts to feed off “Ddu-du Ddu-du.” In fact, shades of “Ddu-du Ddu-Du” can be heard in the chorus. The drumline, which adds some depth to the song but not a lot, could have been a nice touch if it didn’t stay in the same note-range throughout the song. Unfortunately, yet simultaneously gratefully, it drowns out the vocals at some points.

The lyrics also lack depth. “Kill This Love” could have been a lot more than it is, especially since it is a song that could have been a rallying cry for getting out of a bad relationship and finding inner strength. But the cringy English moments and short, sharp verses lack cohesion, so there is an issue with connecting with an audience. Of course, who needs solid lyrics when the noise is enough to sell the track?

After the 1:30 mark to about 2:37, the song does have some strong moments. There is some cohesion here even though the English lyrics could have been stronger, but there are signs that indicate the song could have—and should have—been better than what it is. But, having a good third of a song doesn’t bode well when two-thirds of it is questionable at best.

 

 

The song’s saving grace is the MV. The MV screams typical YG-level production with the glitzy sets, poppy colors, and Hip-Hop fashion. With the latter, there are the questionable moments involving Lisa’s hair which already have some fans calling stylists out for “cultural appropriation.” However, the set makes the MV enjoyable to watch even though the video itself is not much different from what we’ve seen from BLACKPINK already. We’ve seen the shiny objects, the high-end outfits, and the quirky solo shots, so while it is a glamorous MV, it really doesn’t stand out in BLACKPINK MV catalog. It does, however, provide a level of fierceness to a song that tried to be so as well.

For those who think this is a BLACKPINK bash-fest, it’s not. BLACKPINK are victims to a company’s inability to allow them to grow and show off what they could be. As is it typically goes in a market that is trying to milk current global attention, BLACKPINK’s skills and talents are squandered due to the need to make the almighty dollar (or in YG’s case, the almighty won). BLACKPINK is not the problem here: The company that markets them is. Throw in how shallow club-beats and hollow lyrics sell these days, they are at the mercy of the market and fans that purchase a good time instead of a timeless, meaningful track.

The whole comeback feels rushed and not planned well even though BLACKPINK and YG have been hinting at this release for months. However, given the current issues surrounding YG with allegations of document shredding to hide evidence, falling stocks, controversies with its groups (and now former-members), along with many other issues that have cropped up recently, there is a feeling that BLACKPINK was thrown to the wolves to save YG Entertainment even though this likely isn’t the case. Timing is everything as the cliché goes.

BLACKPINK and their fans deserved better than “Kill This Love” because, while the song is performing well, it is, essentially, a forgettable, throwaway song that lacks depth. For a girl group that is opening doors for the next generation of K-Pop and helping to spread K-Pop further into the West, “Kill This Love” doesn’t show the best that BLACKPINK—and K-Pop—have to offer.

 

——Olivia Murray

 

Rothy is an up-and-coming South Korean singer and musician, who is currently just 19 years of age. Not only is Rothy known for her angelic voice and obvious musical talent, she initially garnered much attention from the media for being the protégé of Korea’s legendary singer-songwriter Shin SeungHun.

Rothy’s debut single Stars, which is a dreamy ballad infused with hip-hop, was released in November of 2017; fully showcasing her vocal ability and raw talent in music. She went on to feature in various soundtracks for Korean drama series, including What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim?, The Beauty Inside and Jugglers.

We would like to express “a big thank you” to Rothy for this interview, and wish her all the best in everything she does in her career. And as always, we hope our readers would enjoy the interview enough to check out more about the featured artist.

 

Thank you so much for taking time out for a KCrush Interview. Please introduce yourselves to our readers.

Hello, everyone ~ My name is Rothy. I am a singer and musician. ^^

 

Have you always wanted to be a singer/musician? What did you dream of becoming when you were younger?

Before I joined the company, it was a dream of mine to become an idol singer. But since meeting our CEO, I began to fulfill my dreams as a musician as well.

 

What do you think has changed the most for you, since debut?

Since I’ve been a trainee for 4 years, I developed a deeper sense of responsibility. I’m ever so grateful each time I hear so many people say that they’ve been touched through my songs and voice.

 

What is the first thing you do when you get up in the morning?

These days, I get up quite early and watch videos on Youtube or an American drama series while having a cup of coffee, which kind of helps me to relax.

 

Tell us what kind of songs, original soundtracks or albums you enjoy listening to these days?

I tend to get sentimental during certain seasons, so I listen to a lot of ballads in the winter. Since it’s the spring currently, I listen to a lot of fresh and upbeat music that goes well with this time of the year. I want to recommend Morning Glory by Kehlani for you to listen to.

 

Who would be your role model and why?

Like many others artists, my role model is IU sunbaenim! I would love to become a top artist like her, but I also want to become a solo female artist who can proudly follow in her footsteps.

 

What kind of food or beverages do you like or dislike?

I absolutely love Korean blood sausage soup and chicken feet. I really don’t have any food that I don’t eat but if I had to name one food in particular, it’d be cucumbers.

 

Do you have a particular color or shade you like or dislike? How would you describe your everyday fashion?

I like all types of blue and even though I do not dislike purple, the color doesn’t suit me very well, in my opinion. I usually like to wear simple black and white baggy clothing a lot, and I have great interest in hats.

 

Tell us more about your hobbies, interests and what you like to do during your free time. 

I don’t really have a set hobby right now, so I am still working on discovering one for myself. I like window shopping for clothes and watching American drama series.

 

 

What do you do for leisure and how do you relieve stress?

Like I’ve mentioned, I get up early even when I’m tired and start watching Youtube or some kind of American dramas series. I think that is my way of relieving and releasing stress.

 

Recommend us any books, musicals or movies you’ve enjoyed recently.

I enjoy reading books that can enhance one’s self esteem, so I want to recommend “I decided to live as myself – 나는 나로 살기로 했다” to you. I’ve read the book many times, but it has the ability to encourage and inspire the reader whenever they needed to be comforted.

 

Who do you wish to do a collaboration with in the future?

I’d really love to do work with so many artists, but like I’ve stated so many times before, that I would really love to work with Sam Kim sunbaenim, if given the chance.

 

Which country or venue would most likely to perform at?

It would be an honor for me to visit any countries in the world to perform – But I’d really love to visit the States especially. 

 

Tell us about your plans and wishes for the future and add something for the fans too.

I do have a goal to become a successful in what I do, but my primary goal is to work earnestly to let my voice known to many people, so they could receive some kind of healing through my songs. Although, all this might indicate success in a way. And to all the fans out there, please keep me in your thoughts since I’ve just begun!!

I hope you all get to do what you hope for in life. Let’s keep this up! ^^

 

— J.Chung.

As NCT-127 prepare to advance into the American market, SM Entertainment announced that the group as signed with Capitol Music Group (CMG) for their North American promotions. The signing also includes a deal with CMG’s sub-label Caroline, which will handle the group’s global distribution.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with Kim Young-Min (Group CEO of SM Group) and Nikki Semin Han (CEO of SM Entertainment) to further the phenomenon of NCT-127 around the world,” CMG chairman and CEO Steve Barnett said through a press release. “The band’s potential for global success is virtually unlimited, and SM Entertainment is a powerhouse that we hope to be in business with for many years to come.”

“While the K-pop explosion is one of the most exciting developments in pop music, we have long set our sights on NCT-127 in particular,” Caroline president Jacqueline Saturn and executive vice president Matt Sawin said. “The members are extremely talented and incredibly hard working, and SM Entertainment is a powerhouse that brings incredible resources, experience and know-how to the table. Everyone at Caroline is beyond excited about this partnership.”

Kim said, “CMG and Caroline have been early believers in the global potential and influence of the group. We are very excited about the new partnership between SM and CMG/Caroline that is sure to generate more diverse and intensive marketing and look forward to the journey ahead to bring NCT-127 to the world starting from the U.S. with their support.”

NCT-127 will begin their North American tour April 24, 2019. During the tour, which is called Neo City: The Origin, NCT-127 will perform at the following venues:

• April 24, 2019: Prudential Center in Newark, NJ
• April 26, 2019: Coca-Cola Roxy in Atlanta, GA
• April 28, 2019: Watsco Center in Miami, FL
• May 1,2019: The Theater at Grand Prairie in Dallas, TX
• May 3, 2019: Comerica Theater in Phoenix, AZ
• May 5, 2019: Smart Financial Center in Houston, TX
• May 7, 2019: Rosemont Theater in Chicago, IL
• May 9, 2019: City National Civic in San Jose, CA
• May 12, 2019: Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, CA
• May 17, 2019: Coca-Cola Coliseum in Toronto, ON
• May 19, 2019: Pacific Coliseum in Vancouver, BC

On April 17, 2019, they will release their first Japanese album, Awaken. On March 18, the group released the single “Wakey-Wakey” from the album. Check it out below!

 

——Olivia Murray

 

Katie Kim, who also goes by KATIE, recently joined American recording label AWAL. AXIS Entertainment, Kim’s Korean label, confirmed the signing on April 5, 2019.

AWAL helps independent artists distribute music globally according to their website. Musicians submit their work through AWAL’s online application platform; the company then decides if the artist’s work is worthwhile by checking it against their criteria list, then they sign an artist to be part of the team.

Currently, AWAL’s roster includes Little Simz, Madison Beer, deasmau5, The Naked and Famous, Aly & AJ, and Greyson Chance.

Kim, who is Korean-born but hails from New Jersey, was crowned the winner of K-Pop Star 4, which aired November 23, 2014-April 19, 2015. Upon winning the competition, Kim signed with YG Entertainment. With YG Entertainment, she performed live with Jinusean during their “Tell Me One More Time” promotions on Inkigayo.

After spending some time in the YG Entertainment basement, Kim joined AXIS Entertainment, a company that former YG creative director SINXITY created, in May 2018. YG said that Kim’s move was to allow to pursue the music she wished to create. In a statement released in May 2018, YG said,

Many people are curious about ‘K-pop Star 4’ winner Katie Kim’s debut.

We consulted with Katie Kim several times after she entered the agency, and we learned that the music she wants to pursue is similar to the music that is prevalent stateside. As she immigrated to New Jersey, USA when she was 10 years old and grew up there until she was 21, Katie Kim is more accustomed to American culture and music than Korean culture.

YG Entertainment decided to create the best environment possible that would allow Katie Kim to optimally produce the music she wants to. Over the past several years, Katie Kim has traveled to the US many times in order to participate in songwriting camps with foreign music producers and has finished recording many tracks. We have also finished producing several music videos that were filmed in the US as well, in order for her to make a successful debut.

However, today, I must share the unfortunate news that Katie Kim recently moved to a different, newly established agency.

To reiterate, Katie Kim’s debut album was prepared at YG Entertainment, but she will be making her debut under a different agency.

The reason she has moved to another agency ahead of her debut is the YG executive who had been in charge of all preparations for Katie Kim’s album from the very beginning decided to go independent early this year. This caused much confusion regarding the timeline of her debut as this executive was also wholly responsible for her future activities.

I met and consulted with both Katie Kim and said executive separately about what would be the best plan of action for her moving forward, and the final decision was left up to Katie Kim.

Katie Kim ultimately decided to move to the brand-new agency established by the respective executive. YG Entertainment will continue to maintain a relationship with her as we will be in charge of distribution of Katie Kim’s music. We will be rooting for Katie Kim’s successful debut and provide support.

I believe that the new agency will soon release a more detailed announcement regarding Katie Kim’s debut album. I ask that you cheer her on and show her support.

YG Entertainment still helped with distribution of her debut album, LOG, which was released October 2018.

In June 2018, Kim  made her official Korean debut with “Remember.” In August, she also released “ECHO.” Both appear on her LOG debut album. Unfortunately, both singles and the album failed to land on the Korean charts.

Kim is currently working on new material to be released sometime this year. With her signing with AWAL, it is expected that she will also tap into the US market as well.

 

 

——Olivia Murray