ITZY’s “Dalla Dalla” Breaks 22-Year-Old Record, Make History

 

JYP Entertainment’s new girl group is already smashing records despite only debuting a month ago!

ITZY, made up of members Yeji, Lia, Ryujin, Yuna, and Chaeryeong, debuted February 12, 2019 with “Dalla Dalla.” Since their debut with their catchy, upbeat track, ITZY has been on fire.

 

 

“Dalla Dalla” has appeared on several countries’ music charts, including peaking at number two on Korea’s Gaon Chart and in the U.S for Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart; it peaked at number three on Korea’s K-Pop Hot 100 Chart. Another track titled “Want It?” from their IT’z Different mini album also peaked at number eight on Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart. Their MV for “Dalla Dalla” has also performed well on YouTube. As of March 14, 2019, the MV has over 78 million views, so they definitely caught K-Pop fans’ attentions!

 

 

Now, ITZY has another honor to add to their young-but-impressive-résumé as they eclipsed first-generation idol group S.E.S’ 22-year-old music-show-win record.

During March 7, 2019’s episode of Mcountdown, ITZY took home their fifth overall win, breaking S.E.S’ four-win streak. Then, days later, ITZY took home their overall eighth music show win, thus earning a pedestal in K-Pop history.

With their wins, ITZY now have the following honors:

• They are the fastest girl group to win a music show first place trophy:This was earned February 12, 2019 on It took them nine days to earn their first-ever win. They beat IZ*ONE by one day (IZ*One earned their first win November 8, 2018 with “La Vie en Rose” ten days after debut). The overall record is six days which is held by WINNER and their debut single “Empty.”
• They have the most overall wins for a debut song with eight total wins: They took home first three times on Inkigayo, twice on Music Core, once on Music Bank, and twice on
• ITZY are triple-crown winners on Inkigayo: They are the second group ever to earn a triple-crown with a debut song and the first girl group to hold the honor. They are also the fastest girl group to achieve a triple-crown on the show. They achieved the feat 26 days after their debut; the previous record was held by 2NE1 at 86 days.

ITZY wrapped up “Dalla Dalla” promotions March 10. With such a powerful debut, it’ll be amazing to see what comes next, especially since they’ve already been dubbed 2019’s “Monster Rookies.”

Congratulations, ITZY!

 

 

— Olivia Murray

 

BTS will soon add another accomplishment to their résumé this coming April.

On April 13, 2019, BTS will be the musical guest on the American edition of Saturday Night Live (SNL). SNL dropped the news via a tweet March 13.

The episode, which will feature Emma Stone as the host, will mark the first time a K-Pop group performs on the show. Incidentally, the performance comes a day after their new album, Map the Soul: Persona, drops, so fans can expect a new song to be performed on the SNL stage.

According to Forbes, landing a chance to perform on the SNL stage is difficult as only up-and-comers and those expected to take their careers to new heights. Forbes also mentioned how the show is part of the reason for Adele’s success after her 2008 performance.

SNL stages range from the stripped-down to artistic and lively, so it’ll be interesting to see what stage they’ll present when they perform!

 

 

— Olivia Murray

And then there were five.

FNC Entertainment released a statement today stating that CNBLUE’s Jonghyun viewed Jung Joon Young’s hidden camera videos. Jonghyun, who is currently serving his mandatory military service, was questioned by police recently.

FNC statement addresses Jonghyun’s role in the controversy.

Back on the evening of March 12, we revealed that our label artist Lee Jonghyun ‘has no relation to the ongoing scandal whatsoever, only that he is acquainted with the individual involved.’

Lee Jonghyun, who is currently serving in the military, took part in police questioning the morning before the above statement occurred, on the afternoon of March 12. At the time, Lee Jonghyun felt that in approximately 20 or so messages containing a 1:1 conversation with him and Jung Joon Young, there was no evidence of illegal hidden camera footage or inappropriate remarks found; as a result, Jonghyun relayed to the company that he was not involved.

The company had no choice but to deliver a statement based on Lee Jonghyun’s memories alone, as it has been 4-5 years since Jonghyun left the Kakao Chat room currently under fire, and we could not confirm the truth behind the conversations in this chat room. We did not intend to hide the truth or cover his mistakes in the least.

After the additional news report by SBS on March 14, we were able to get in contact with Lee Jonghyun. He has admitted that his attitude in viewing the footage shared in the KakaoTalk messages, and in the inappropriate remarks he made degrading women, are actions deserving of condemnation; he is reflecting on his actions deeply.

He feels that if he had a proper perspective of gender rights at the time, he would not have been a bystander in these crimes. He apologizes to all who were disappointed and hurt by Jonghyun’s immoral comments, made without any realization that he was committing a crime.

Jonghyun is currently accepting the public’s harsh criticism of his immoral attitude and mistaken perspective of gender rights, feeling embarrassed and miserable about his character with great regret. As a public figure, Jonghyun will take caution in all of his actions and deeply reflect on his wrongdoings.

 

 

SBS 8 O’Clock News revealed the texts between Jonghyun and Jung Joon Young during their broadcast.

Lee Jonghyun: “Yesterday I did *** with the XX (different people)”.

Jung Joon Young: “Looking good. Next time introduce me to those girls.”

Lee Jonghyun: “Give me that girl quickly. A s**t like X.”

Jung Joon Young: “Who should I give you?”

Lee Jonghyun: “I like girls like ***, but if there isn’t one then any pretty whore is okay.”

Lee Jonghyun: “Don’t you have pretty and nice w****s? Someone that is fun to play with. LOL”

Jonghyun initially denied he was part of the chat and claimed he was just an acquaintance to those involved. Currently, there is no announcement on if Jonghyun will leave CNBlue or the entertainment industry.

 

All parties are considered innocent until proven guilty in the court of law.

 

 

— Olivia Murray

 

On March 14, 2019, former-idol and BIGBANG member Seungri (Lee Seunghyun) underwent 16 hours of questioning by police in connection to the prostitution allegations mounting against him.

“Once again, I bow my head in deep apology to the nation’s citizens as well as to all those around me who suffered and were hurt. Rather than giving any comments now, I will participate in the investigation diligently with truthful answers,” Seungri said prior to entering the police station for questioning.

 

 

Following his questioning, Seungri spoke to the press again, announcing his plans to delay his March 25 enlistment.

“Today, I finished the investigation sincerely and I’m going to apply for a formal postponement to the Military Manpower Administration [MMA]. If you only allow me to do so, I will postpone the date of entry and show you that I am being investigated sincerely until the end,” Seungri said.

 

 

Following his questioning, which began March 14 at 2pm local time and lasted until about 6:30am March 15 local time, reports started to surface that allege Seungri may not be as cooperative as he claims.

[UPDATE]  According to Chosun, the police asked Seungri and Jung Joon Young for their phones while they continue to investigate the KakaoTalk messages. While Jung turned over his phone—which is only two weeks old—Seungri reportedly refuses to turn his over to police. However, the Straits Times reports that Seungri did hand over his phone.

The phones—and any phones the former singers have—are necessary to the investigation as they hold crucial evidence.

According to Dong-A Ilbo, both Jung and Seungri consulted with lawyers about the implications of turning over their phones. Jung did the same three years ago with his prior hidden camera case. Then, his lawyer warned Jung to not turn over his phone, allegedly saying, “This is a big problem because the hidden camera was filmed in secret.  Do not give your cellphone to the police.”

Ilbo also reports that members of the chat were worried about the messages being released. Jung said, “If I erase the videos, would they be able to recover them? It will look strange if I submit a new phone. I told my agency to take care of it.” He later told police he lost his phone at a digital forensics service.

On March 13, 2019, police raided that company in hopes to find evidence relating to the KakaoTalk chats.

On March 15, 2019, Jung apparently refutes the claims that he did not submit the “golden phone.” After his 21-hour questioning, Jung briefly spoke to the press.

 

 

“I feel extremely apologetic. I answered diligently and truthfully. I also submitted the ‘golden phone‘ as is and told them everything truthfully. I am very sorry for causing trouble.”

The “golden phone” allegedly has more than 200,000 messages in relation to the sexually explicit content.

Along with the sex chats and Burning Sun controversy, claims of police collusion and corruption also surfaced, although the former Korea Police Commissioner General denies the claims. Min Gap Ryong, the current Korea Police Commissioner General, says he is looking into the claim.

“I will check thoroughly to find out if there was an incident that the police was involved in at the time,” Min said. “There is a specific individual who made this comment, but it is difficult to reveal details as the investigation is on-going. “If crimes are discovered in the process, they will be convicted thoroughly regardless of rank.”

When Jung was asked by the press who the police chief was in the chats, he responded, “I will reveal that through the investigation.”

 

More Texts Released

Meanwhile, Korean media continue to release more texts that further link Seungri to the sex video and prostitution scandal. Additionally, now Seungri faces potential charges of gambling overseas.

In relation to the prostitution scandal, Seungri and a CEO identified as “A”  exchanged texts in August 2014 that allegedly discuss what types of women should be brought along on an Indonesian trip.

 

Seungri: Girl number 1 isn’t very talkative but she kind of likes money. Also, she’s a girl that isn’t very charming while drinking. But her visuals are really good.

Seungri: Girl number 3… her visuals are good and so is her personality. When drinking, she is fun and nice… but the problem with her is that when she gets drunk, she is a wreck.

CEO A: What about girl 4?

CEO A: What about girls 2, 4, and 5?

CEO A: So, let’s eliminate Girl 1 from the selection. Out of Girls 2, 4, and 5, let’s see one more.

CEO A: We need more girls like number 3

Seungri: Number 5 is also good!

Seungri: Mr. CEO, what style of girl do you like?

CEO A: Well.. Southeast Asian men like girls with white skin. Girls with white skin are innocent and pure, but also on the other side, sexy girls. A pure, innocent style like XX, XXX, or XXX, or girls who are very fancy/showy and seem like girl group members. How about that style? Height around 160 cm… and slim.

….

CEO A: Did you tell them about heading to Indonesia?

Seungri: Yes CEO.

CEO A: It should be for 2 or 3 nights. Who knows, it should be about 10 million won? less?

Seungri: Got it!! That’s 10 million won per person, right CEO?

 

Following these texts, Seungri and “A” also discussed money Seungri won in Las Vegas. This incident also took place in 2014.

Seungri: “I won 200 million won! You’ll hit it big too, CEO A!”

CEO A: “Okay. I just need to win enough to cover my travelling expenses. When are you leaving L.A.? Shanghai? Japan?”

Seungri: “Which hotel are you staying at? I’m going back to Korea tonight at 11 P.M. and then I’m going to straight to Japan.”

Seungri: (Photo of money)

CEO A: “Amazing. I’m at ARIA. How are you going to bring the money?”

Seungri: “Oh, I come here often, so I left it with the ‘save bank’. I decided to only use the money I win in Vegas. If you get bored, hop over to Cosmopolitan. I’ll introduce you to my host. They have great service, and they provide a lot of gambling benefits and discounts there.”

CEO A: “Oh, I see. Okay. Who should I ask for once I get there?”

 

 

For gambling, South Korea follows Territorial Principle. This means that South Korean citizens who gamble abroad can be punished for doing so even if other countries do not consider the act illegal. In February 2019, S.E.S’ Shoo received probation for gambling abroad in Macau.

 

Aori Ramen Cuts Ties

On March 14, 2019, Aori Ramen, a restaurant franchise launched by Seungri, announced they will be cutting ties with the fallen star and Yuri Holdings.

Hello, this is Aori Ramen’s company, Aori FNB.

To all the customers and store-owners who kept their faith in Aori Ramen throughout the recent series of events, we would first like to apologize for causing you concern.

Our head office has been reorganizing after Lee Seung Hyun (Seungri) stepped down from his CEO position due to his upcoming military enlistment. To ensure the stable business of our franchise stores, we hired a new management specialist and on March 7 we held a planning meeting with the store-owners and offered them compensation. Depending on the situation, we intend to offer further compensation to the store-owners later on.

In order to protect the brand of our franchise stores and Aori Ramen, we have decided to cut all ties with Seungri and Yuri Holdings and make a fresh start. We are currently in discussions to transfer management rights to a new partner who is knowledgeable about the food and beverage industry and can provide good leadership to our franchise stores.

The 43 Aori Ramen franchise stores are not all owned by our former CEO’s acquaintances and family. In order to minimize damages to the other stores, we have decided to close the stores that do have a connection to him.

Because of the extreme news, stores that have worked hard and have no connection to the news are suffering damages. Aori Ramen’s head office will do our best to make sure to minimize damages to those hardworking, innocent franchise store-owners.

We ask once again for the understanding of all the customers who have loved Aori Ramen and we will continue to work to improve our taste and quality.

The announcement isn’t surprising given the controversy. In recent weeks, business at Aori Ramen plummeted.

Seungri stepped down as CEO earlier this year in preparation for his impending enlistment. Some of the Aori shops were operated by Seungri’s family and acquaintances. Those stores are now closed.

 

The situation surrounding Burning Sun and the KakaoTalks is fluid and changing daily (sometimes hourly). Stay tuned for more updates.

All parties are innocent until proven guilty in the court of law.

 

— Olivia Murray

 

 

The celebrity body count stemming from the Burning Sun and KakaoTalk controversies is now four.

Earlier in the day on March 14, 2019, FNC Entertainment announced that F.T Island’s Jonghun has departed the group and will retire from the entertainment industry. The news stems from allegations the Jonghun participated in the KakaoTalk chats. He is under fire for allegedly asking police insiders to cover-up a DUI in February 2016. Initially, Jonghun admitted that he was caught drinking and driving, but he denied asking police to cover-up for him.

Upon the initial denial of the police bribery and admittance of the drunk-driving charge, FNC Entertainment said,

After speaking with him personally, we confirmed Jonghun was caught driving drunk by police in Itaewon, Seoul in February of 2016. He paid a fine of 2.5 million Won (approximately $2,200) and got his license suspended for 100 days. At the time, Jonghun felt he was not a well-known member of his group, and in fear, he tried to let it go under the radar by not speaking to the agency. He says he’s very regretful and reflecting on making a bad judgment call. We found after checking with him personally, however, he did not make requests through the media or police as reported today in terms of ties with the police.

Jonghun will actively cooperate in police investigations to confirm whether or not these ties with police existed. If true, he’ll take all related legal responsibility. Jonghun feels a deep sense of guilt regarding his past wrongdoings, and he’s also deeply reflecting on causing disappointment to the people around him and causing harm to his group. Furthermore, he’ll completely halt all individual activities and activities as a member of F.T. Island.

However, following SBS 8 O’ Clock News’ release of the alleged texts between Jonghun and other chat members, FNC backtracked on their initial statement and apologized for sharing “inaccurate information.” In a statement announcing Jonghun’s departure from F.T Island and the entertainment industry, FNC Entertainment said the following:

Jonghun, who is receiving criticism due to his connection to a recent series of controversies, will be leaving F.T. Island. Our agency would like to make it clear there was no intention to hide or cover up the truth about these matters. Based on our mutual trust with each other, we spoke with him on what he remembers regarding the past incidents before releasing previous statements. We express our deep apologies for causing confusion by releasing inaccurate statements through this process.

There are additional suspicions regarding illegal acts although he says he does not remember them, so he will diligently receive a police investigation sometime this week. Jonghun has decided to leave the team permanently and retire from the entertainment industry.

The agency realizes the severity of the situation and feels responsibility for these matters, and we will fully cooperate with the police investigation process so that the truth can be clearly identified.

Jonghun expresses his apologies to those who were harmed due to his inappropriate and embarrassing words and actions in the past. He’s also deeply reflecting on the disappointment he’s given to many fans and members of his team. The agency expresses our deep apologies for being inattentive in terms of managing and teaching proper character to our artists and for causing trouble to so many people because of this unfortunate matter.

Jonghun will now halt celebrity life and live while reflecting on himself. The agency also cannot avoid responsibility regarding Jonghun’s words and actions that cannot be forgiven by society, so we will guide him until the end towards living as a member of society with an upright perception.

The label promises once again to be more thorough and strict in our management and education of all artists. We apologize.

The texts also allegedly show that police corruption does exist surrounding Burning Sun and celebrity goings on as reported since the beginning of the incidents back in January. Since the texts were unveiled, F.T Island fans petitioned for Jonghun’s immediate removal from the group.

Also allegedly involved in this instance is actress Park Hanbyul’s husband. According to reports, he may have bribed police to help cover-up Jonghun’s DUI. His name has also been floated around as being involved in the Burning Sun scandal. SBS 8’Clock News revealed the purported texts during their broadcast.

 

 

The texts read:

Jonghun: Idol group member gets caught drunk driving… (original headline)

Thankfully, I lived due to XXhyung’s grace.

Mr. Kim: Jonghun had a good experience

He wore handcuffs

He even ran away from police

What a thrill

Jung Joon Young: Jonghun could’ve been on the first page of the newspaper

Mr. Heo: Could’ve been a featured story

Mr. Park: He could’ve gotten famous

Jonghun: Why would I make headlines.

Do you know how quietly I handled it.

Mr. Kim: Quietly?

Do you know how much CEO Yoo had to intervene?

Seungri: Don’t even think about getting your next DUI covered up. XXhyung used his own money to cover for you, and you do this

 

 

On March 14, SBS 8 O’Clock News also unveiled alleged texts between Jonghun and Jung Joon Young. In the chats, Jonghun admits to sleeping with multiple women and asking for different women. Messages include statements like “send me a woman quick” and “Do you have any [expletive] that are young, pretty, and nice? Ones who are good to play with hahaha.”

Following the news of Jonghun’s departure, fellow F.T Island member Hongki posted a picture of his dog and captioned it “Given up.” A fan asked Hongki to “not give up” on Jonghun, to which Hongki replied “given up.”

The situation surrounding Burning Sun and the KakaoTalks is fluid and changing daily (sometimes hourly). Stay tuned for more updates.

All parties are innocent until proven guilty in the court of law.

 

— Olivia Murray

 

After initially denying the allegations that he was part of the infamous KakaoTalk chats, Highlight’s Junhyung now admits he viewed some of the sexually explicit videos shared on the chat. On March 14, 2019, he announced that he has left the group formerly-known-as-Beast.

In an Instagram post, Junhyung announced his leave while admitting his role in viewing the videos. His message reads:

Hello, this is Yong Junhyung.

Primarily, I sincerely apologize to the members and all fans who must have had a difficult time because of me for the past few days.

When I received the call from my agency to confirm the validity [of the news] right after the SBS 8 O’Clock News aired on [March] 11, I did not understand the point of the issue clearly and only said that I was not in the chatroom. As a result, the agency took my side and said in the official statement that the reports are false, but this was information relayed inaccurately by me. The reason I said [the chat] was from 2016 while talking with the agency to release an official statement is that I no longer have the chat records with Jung Joon Young in my KakaoTalk, so I was not able to check the date accurately. I also apologize for causing further confusion due to this.

In the KakaoTalk messages with Jung Joon Young from late 2015 reported by the news, we drank the night before and went home, and I asked him how he is doing the next day. Jung Joon Young told me that he got caught after sending illegal video footage to someone, and I responded, “You got caught by her?” I did not receive a video at the time, but I did receive a video at a different instance. In addition, I participated in inappropriate conversations regarding it. All of these actions were very immoral, and I was foolish. I treated it as not a big deal without thinking that it is a crime and illegal act, and it is also my fault for not firmly restraining [Jung Joon Young].

I participated in a witness interview regarding this matter. I said everything that I know without any lies, and I cooperated with the investigation. While receiving the witness interview, I saw exactly what conversations I had in the past, and I was embarrassed and could not help but feel horrified.

I never participated in the illegal acts of taking hidden camera footage or circulating it. In addition, I have maintained a relationship of only greeting each other occasionally with Jung Joon Young since late 2016. However, although I knew of what was happening during that time, I thought of it as not a big deal and acted at ease. I was a silent bystander about this severe issue where several more victims may have arisen due to my actions.

I am very sorry to have not been able to repay the overwhelming love and as I betrayed the trust of the members and fans who have trusted me due to this issue. I realize the severity of this matter, and I do not want any further harm to be done to my fans and members who must have been disappointed because of me, so I will leave the group Highlight as of March 14, 2019. I will live while reflecting on myself again and again. I once again apologize sincerely.”

 

 

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안녕하세요 용준형입니다. 먼저, 요 며칠 저로 인해 힘든 시간을 보냈을 멤버들과 모든 팬들께 진심으로 사과드립니다. 저는 11일 SBS 8시 뉴스가 나온 직후 회사의 사실여부 확인 전화를 받았을 때 논점을 잘 이해하지 못하고 제가 단톡방에 없었다는 내용만 전달하였습니다. 그래서 회사 입장에서는 저의 편을 들어 공식 입장에서 보도 내용이 맞지 않다고 얘기를 하였으나, 제가 잘못 전달한 내용이었습니다. 공식입장을 내기 위해 회사와 얘기를 하던 중 그 일이 2016년이라고 말씀드렸던 건, 정준영과의 대화 내용이 제 카톡에 남아있지 않았기 때문에 그때 당시 날짜 확인을 제대로 할 수가 없었습니다. 이 또한 많은 이들의 혼란을 가중시킨 점, 사과드립니다. 2015년 말 당시 카톡 내용 관련해서 뉴스에서 보도된 저와 정준영과의 대화 내용은, 그 전날 같이 술을 마시고 집에 들어간 후, 그 다음날 안부를 물어보다가 정준영이 그런 일(불법 동영상 촬영물을 다른 사람에게 보내다 걸렸다는) 이 있었다며 얘기를 했고, 거기에 제가 “그 여자애한테 걸렸다고?” 라고 답변을 한 것이었습니다. 그 때 동영상을 받은 적은 없지만, 다른 동영상을 받은 적 있습니다. 뿐만 아니라 거기에 대한 부적절한 대화도 하였습니다. 이 모든 행동들이 너무나 부도덕한 행동들이었고, 제가 어리석었습니다. 이것이 범죄이고 범법 행위이라고 생각하지 못하고 안일하게만 생각했고, 그것을 단호하게 제지하지 못한 점 또한 제 잘못입니다. 어제 저는 이 사안과 관련하여 참고인 조사를 받으러 다녀왔습니다. 제가 알고 있는 모든 것에 대해서 거짓 없이 이야기하고, 수사에 협조하였습니다. 참고인 조사를 받으면서 과거에 제가 어떤 대화들을 했는지 정확하게 보게 되었고, 부끄럽고 참담함을 금할 수 없었습니다. 단 한번도 몰카를 찍는다거나 그것을 유포한다거나 하는 등의 범법행위는 하지 않았습니다. 또한, 2016년 말부터는 정준영과 서로의 안부를 간간히 물어보는 정도의 관계만 유지했습니다. 그러나 저는 그동안 그런 사실을 알았으면서도 너무나도 쉽고 안일하게 생각하였고 행동하였으며, 여태껏 그런 저의 행동으로 인해 다른 수많은 피해자들이 생길 수도 있는 이 심각한 문제에 대해 묵인한 방관자였습니다. 이제껏 보내주신 과분한 사랑에 보답하지 못하고 이런 일로 저를 믿고 있는 멤버들과 팬분들의 신뢰를 저버리게 되어 정말 죄송합니다. 저는 이 사안의 심각성을 깨닫고, 또 저로 인해 실망하셨을 팬분들과 멤버들에게 더 이상 피해가 가는 것을 원치 않아, 2019년 3월 14일자로 그룹 하이라이트에서 탈퇴를 하겠습니다. 반성하고, 또 반성하며 살겠습니다. 다시 한번 진심으로 사과드립니다.

A post shared by HIGHLIGHT (@bigbadboii) on Mar 13, 2019 at 7:01pm PDT

 

Also on March 14, Around US Entertainment released a statement:

Some time at the end of 2015, Yong Junhyung met Jung Joon Young at a drinking gathering. The next day, while contacting each other 1:1 via Kakao Talk, he was informed that Jung Joon Young filmed illegal, hidden camera footage. Afterward, Junhyung admitted that he viewed this hidden camera footage, and he and Jung Joon Young went on to exchange inappropriate remarks about the footage.

We learned of the facts stated (above) through Yong Junhyung’s witness questioning. After realizing the severity of this situation, Junhyung took part in his questioning diligently, and he is now in a deep state of reflection for his past inappropriate actions, as well as for the disappointment that he undoubtedly caused many due to his immorality.

He is also aware that this incident is not one that can be forgiven, and he feels greatly apologetic toward fans of Highlight for breaking their trust and repaying their love with disappointment. In order to take responsibility for his actions and prevent further damage to the group’s image, Junhyung will leave Highlight as of March 14, 2019.

Even when Junhyung became involved in an unfavorable scandal, we were unable to obtain the clear facts right away and released a hasty statement, causing confusion; for this, we apologize. We will take caution so that such incidents do not occur again. We apologize one more time to fans who cherish Highlight.

SBS News 8 released some of the text messages earlier in the week where one of the celebrities involved was a “singer Yong.” Junhyung and Around Us Entertainment both denied he was “singer Yong.” Initially, the company released the following statement denying the allegation:

We are writing because of the news reveal of singer Jung Joon Young’s KakaoTalk chatroom which SBS’s News 8 made a report on March 11 about. We understand that people are saying that ‘singer Yong’ that is shown in the contents of the conversations from the group chatroom is Junhyung. Yong Junhyung has no connection to the filming or sharing of illegal videos and has never been in a chatroom where Jung Joon Young’s illegal camera videos were shared.

Additionally, we have confirmed he has never been in a chatroom with him at all. We directly confirmed the conversation shown on the news was a one-on-one conversation between the two when Jung Joon Young was having a hard time due to personal matters. Regarding the simulated group chatroom screenshot that was shared in the news, we plan to verify with SBS News for authenticity. It is true that Jung Joon Young is his friend, however, being caught up in the matter simply for being friends has made everyone who knows Junhyung feel wronged. We will take strict legal action in case of damage to our artists’ reputation if the spread of false information continues to be spread. We hope that fans, will be able to relax and we ask for your continued interest and support for the five members of HIGHLIGHT.”

 

On March 12, Junhyung wrote a denial message on Instagram.

 

 

Hello, this is Yong Jun Hyung.

Although I’m also taken aback, I decided to personally write this message for the many people who may be worried or even angry. I was very surprised when today’s news claimed I took part in or was somehow connected to the recent scandals. The fact that I was even mentioned in these scandals made me reflect back on myself. The reported story that was put together while excluding contexts is not true at all, and I wasn’t even aware that these events were happening before the reports came out today.

I’m sure people may think I’m making a mistake saying I didn’t really know. I will make sure to be more careful in everything I do from now.

From Yong Jun Hyung

With his admission, the celebrities involved in these chats is now up to four: Junhyung, Jung Joon Young, Seungri, and FTIsland’s Jonghun. More may be revealed in the coming days. Additionally, further indications of police corruption have also been revealed, so the case is constantly developing and changes daily.

Meanwhile, Junhyung still plans to enlist in the coming months. He is also cooperating with the police.

All parties are considered innocent until proven guilty in the court of law.

 

— Olivia Murray

 

 

The remaining Highlight (formerly BEAST) members are scheduled to enlist within the next few months.

Back in January, Gikwang announced that he will be enlisting for his mandatory service April 18, 2019 when he will report to the Korea Army Training Center in Nonsan. He will complete five weeks of basic training before reporting to the Gyeonggi Nambu Provincial Police Agency where he will serve as a member of the conscripted police. Fellow member Yoseob is already serving as a conscripted police officer.

Around Us Entertainment stated, “[Gikwang] is planning on entering privately without any special events on the day of enlistment.”

For Junhyung and Dongwoon, their exact enlistment dates have not been revealed other than they are expected to also enlist in April.

“Yong Junhyung will be enlisting in April. The exact date will be revealed later on,” Around Us Entertainment said on March 11.

On March 12, it was announced the Dongwoon passed the final round of the public lottery for the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency’s 364th Conscripted Policemen Examination.

“Son Dongwoon has passed the Conscripted Policemen Examination. His enlistment date has not been determined,” the company said. 

Prior to enlistment, Junhyung completed his final solo concert called Goodbye 20s in February. Seven thousand fans attended the show.

Dongwoon is currently preparing his solo album prior to enlisting. Fans can gain updates about his solo album through his radio show, Casper Radio.

In August 2018, Doojoon became the first Highlight member to enlist. Yoseob enlisted in January of this year. Since each of the members enlisted within a few months of each other, waiting for a full-group comeback won’t be drawn out over years.

We wish Highlight the best as they serve their military terms.

— Olivia Murray

 

Following Seungri’s retirement announcement, YG Entertainment announced March 13, 2019 that his exclusive contract with the company has been terminated.

In a statement, YG Entertainment addressed the situation.

Hello, this is YG Entertainment.

We would like to bow our heads in apology for causing severe worry for many due to the numerous controversies and allegations, which began with the violence case at a club where Seungri participated as an advisor.

Shortly after announcing Seungri’s retirement from the entertainment industry back on March 12, YG Entertainment has accepted Seungri’s request to terminate his exclusive contract.

As an artist management company, we admit our failure to manage our artist with stricter care; we are currently reflecting on our actions.

Finally, YG recognizes a need for a mass revision of the company’s internal constitution, and we promise to work together with all employees of the company to make this happen.

Meanwhile, YG Entertainment’s stocks fell 14 percent March 11, 2019 following the news that Seungri was named a suspect for allegations he supplied prostitutes to potential investors. Seungri is cooperating with police and will be questioned further  March 14, 2019. Seungri is also expected to enlist in the military March 25, 2019.

All parties are considered innocent until proven guilty in the court of law.

 

— Olivia Murray

 

Following reports regarding Jung Joon Young’s alleged involvement in the KakaoTalk chats and sharing sex videos, on March 12, 2019, Jung shared his official apology and announced he will depart the entertainment industry.

In his letter, Jung admitted to his crimes. He writes,

I write to you in shame and guilt.

I, Jung Joon Young, once again realized the seriousness of this situation after returning to Korea on March 12. Although it’s already late, I apologize through this letter to all the people who showed an interest in me and gave me a second chance.

Regarding what is being said in relation to me, I admit to all my crimes. I filmed women without their consent and shared it in a social media chatroom, and while I did so I didn’t feel a great sense of guilt.

As a public figure, it was an unethical act worthy of criticism, and such a thoughtless action.

More than anything, I kneel and apologize to the women who appear in the videos who have learned of this hideous truth as the incident has come to light, and to the many people who must be angry at the situation over which they cannot contain their disappointment and astonishment.

I am withdrawing from all the programs that I was appearing on, and I will suspend all activities in the entertainment industry. I will now set down all my activities as a public figure that are not self-reflection, and I will reflect for the rest of my life on my immoral and illegal actions related to the crimes.

More than anyone else, I apologize to the women who have experienced great suffering due to my actions, to the many people who must feel anger even more so than disappointment, and to the many people who made me into a public figure and cherished me.

I will sincerely take part without any falsehoods in the investigations that will begin on the morning of March 14, and I will accept punishment for my actions.

I once again deeply apologize. I am sorry.

This is the second apology Jung has released in relation to releasing sexually explicit videos. In 2016, he was accused and later acquitted of filming and sharing sex videos with his then-girlfriend.

Jung will be questioned by the police March 14, 2019. Seungri is also expected to be questioned the same day.

All parties are considered innocent until proven guilty.

— Olivia Murray

Related: “Lawyers Discuss Potential Punishments for Jung Joon Young If Found Guilty Of Sharing Hidden Camera Footage”, “TIMELINE: From Burning Sun Controversy to Seungri’s Retirement”

 

Note: Articles written about this topic are not accusing anyone of guilt. The stories just relay information. All parties are innocent until proven guilty.

Singer, actor, and variety show regular, Jung Joon Young (Drug Restaurant, 2 Days & 1 Night, Four-Wheeled Restaurant) has been identified as one of the participants in the KakaoTalk chats surrounding the Burning Sun controversy. He also admitted to illegally filming and sharing sex videos.

On March 11, 2019, the media reported that the chatroom texts allegedly between BIGBANG’s Seungri (who was named a suspect March 10), different celebrities, and Burning Sun staff were leaked to the media by a phone repairman who was in possession of a celebrity’s phone that needed fixed.

“Following analysis of the KakaoTalk conversations, it was confirmed that chat room actually existed and the conversation were not fabricated or manipulated,” police said.

Later in the day, it was revealed that the alleged celebrity is Jung.

According to SBS, some of the chats are allegedly graphic in nature. Some purported one-on-one chats also contained graphic content about several girl group members.

Jung’s label, MAKEUS Entertainment, released a statement following the allegations.

Hello, this is MAKEUS Entertainment.

We currently feel immense regret at the severity of the ongoing reports involving singer Jung Joon Young, who is a part of our new sub-label, Label M.

We are currently in contact with Jung Joon Young, who is overseas for schedules; however, we are still facing difficulties in confirming the validity of the accusations. We apologize for this. Nonetheless, we assure that Jung Joon Young plans on immediately halting all of his schedules in order to return to Korea, so that he may begin his diligent participation in the ongoing police investigations.

Once again, we apologize for causing worry through such disconcerting news.

These are not the first allegations against Jung for recording and sharing sex videos. In 2016, Jung admitted to filming himself having sex with his then-girlfriend. His now-ex reported Jung for sexual harassment in August of that year, but the woman involved eventually dropped the charges and Jung was cleared in September. At the time, Jung stated the film showing he and his then-girlfriend engaging in intercourse was consensual. He later apologized for the incident, an apology that is now being called “fake.”

 

 

Jung, who was overseas at the time for promotions, reportedly returned to Korea and is expected to cooperate with the investigation. His questioning is expected to take place March 14, 2019. He was booked on charges of violating the Act on Special Cases concerning the Punishment of Sexual Violence Crimes. Police allege that Jung has at least ten women filmed over a period of ten months since 2015.

“We booked Jung Joon Young and others in relation to allegations of spreading illegally taken videos this afternoon. We cannot reveal the identities of the other suspects,” the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency said.

Jung has since been fired from his TV appearances. On March 12, 2019, MAKEUS Entertainment released a statement saying his contract has been terminated.

All parties are innocent until proven guilty. This is a swiftly developing story.

 

— Olivia Murray

 

Note: Articles written about this topic are not accusing anyone of guilt. The stories just relay information. All parties are innocent until proven guilty.

In an unexpected turn of events, Seungri announced on March 11, 2019 that he is retiring from the entertainment industry.

In an Instagram post, Seungri wrote the following message to his fans:

This is Seungri.

At this point, I think it would be best if I retire from the entertainment industry. I decided on retiring from the entertainment industry as the issues that I caused a societal disturbance which are too major. Regarding the issues that are being investigated, I will be investigated diligently and reveal all the suspicions.

Receiving criticism and hate from the public for the past month and a half and with the situation of all the investigative agencies in the country currently investigating me, I am even being cornered as a traitor of the nation. I personally cannot tolerate causing harm to everyone around me in order to save myself.

I sincerely thank all of the fans in and outside of Korea who have given me lots of love for the past 10 years, and I think this is where I stop even if it’s at least [to protect] the honor of YG and BIGBANG.

Again, I am sorry and apologize once again.

I have been thankful to everyone until now.

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

승리입니다 제가 이시점에서 연예계를 은퇴를하는것이 좋을거같습니다. 사회적 물의를 일으킨 사안이 너무나 커 연예계 은퇴를 결심했습니다 수사중인 사안에 있어서는 성실하게 조사를 받아 쌓인 모든 의혹을 밝히도록 하겠습니다. 지난 한달반동안 국민들로부터 질타받고 미움받고 지금 국내 모든 수사기관들이 저를 조사하고 있는 상황에서 국민역적 으로까지 몰리는 상황인데 저 하나 살자고 주변 모두에게 피해주는일은 도저히 제스스로가 용납이 안됩니다 지난 10여 년간 많은 사랑을 베풀어준 국내외 많은 팬분들께 모든 진심을 다해 감사드리며 와이지와 빅뱅 명예를 위해서라도 저는 여기까지인거같습니다 다시한번 죄송하고 또 죄송합니다 그동안 모든분들께 감사했습니다

A post shared by @ seungriseyo on Mar 11, 2019 at 1:39am PDT

 

YTN reports that a YG Entertainment insider said, “Seungri’s retirement announcement was not a decision made after consulting with YG, but a decision made on his own. He was even more distressed because these incidents happened right before his enlistment.”

“To be honest, no exact details have been revealed about Seungri during the past month and a half of police investigations. Seungri felt especially more guilty about causing harm to those around him,” the insider concluded.

A source from YG told Xportsnews, “Currently, there is no additional statement to be made from the company related to this. There has also been nothing decided yet regarding anything such as a termination of his exclusive contract.”

Meanwhile, Koreaboo states that YG Entertainment songwriter, YGM, stated Seungri was kicked out and that he did not leave the company under his own volition.

In a now deleted post, YGM allegedly posted, “fooling around by telling people that he voluntarily left when he was actually kicked out. Real.”

The statement is neither confirmed nor denied as YG himself has not commented on Seungri’s retirement announcement.

Seungri was recently named a suspect in connection to the Burning Sun scandal. He was booked and questioned by police based on charges he violated South Korea’s Acts on Pimping and Prostitution and its Punishments.

Meanwhile, he is expected to enlist March 25, 2019.

 

All parties are innocent until proven guilty. This is a swiftly developing story.

 

— Olivia Murray

Note: Articles written about this topic are not accusing anyone of guilt. The stories just relay information. All parties are innocent until proven guilty.

On March 10, 2019, police officially named BIGBANG’s Seungri a suspect in the Burning Sun controversy. Upon the announcement, it was also revealed that he is banned from leaving the country due to the ongoing investigation.

“We booked Seungri and changed his status to that of a suspect in order to issue a search and seizure warrant and clear him of the suspicions,” a police spokesman said at a press conference.

According to Soompi and SBS Australia, Seungri was booked and questioned by police based on charges he violated South Korea’s Acts on Pimping and Prostitution and its Punishments. Upon booking, he was questioned regarding his purported involvement in lining up high-end escorts for foreign investors of nightclubs with which he was associated.

Police also stated “three to four” other people were also booked in connection to the case as it relates to the KakaoTalk messages.

Additionally, on March 10, 2019, police also investigated Club Arena in Gangnam searching for evidence in the case. According to SBS Australia, police found information regarding the pimping allegations in the search, but there is no confirmation as to who was involved.

On March 11, 2019, Kyanghyang Shimun reported that the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency banned Seungri from leaving South Korea due to the ongoing investigation.

 

KakaoTalk Texts Confirmed Legitimate

Meanwhile, police confirmed the much-contested text messages allegedly sent via KakaoTalk are legitimate. YG Entertainment, Yuri Holdings, and Seungri denied their legitimacy earlier in the investigation.

“Following analysis of the KakaoTalk conversations, it was confirmed that chat room actually existed and the conversation were not fabricated or manipulated,” police said.

Additionally, Soompi reports that the alleged hidden chat room and the alleged secret camera videos that were circulated on the chats were found when one of the celebrities mentioned in the group chats was having his phone repaired. The repairmen allegedly leaked the messages and videos to the media.

 

Seungri to Enlist March 25

Even though the investigation is still ongoing, Seungri is still slated to enlist and begin his military service March 25, 2019. It has not been announced if his enlistment will be delayed in any capacity, but given how fast this story develops, there is a chance his enlistment may be delayed.

Seungri has been cooperative with police during the investigation.

 

All parties are innocent until proven guilty. This is a swiftly developing story.

 

— Olivia Murray

Stills of Melody Day from their ‘When it rains’ MV.

 

Bringing dramas to life

Originally formed in 2012 as a three-member all-female Kpop group, Melody Day made their official debut in February 2014 with members Yeoeun, Chahee, and Yein. A fourth member, Yoomin joined the group a little later in October 2014.

Their debut single album ‘Another Parting’ peaked at only no. 30 on the Korean Gaon music chart but managed to win the best music video award at the Melon Music Awards in 2014.

Although the group lacked chart success, they were recognized for their vocal prowess featuring ubiquitously either individually or as a group in original soundtracks (OSTs) for over twenty six Kdramas over the years, such as the popular ‘Master’s Sun’ (2013), ‘You Are My Destiny’ (2014) and more recent offerings such as 2018’s ‘Temperature of Love’ and ‘My ID is Gangnam Beauty’.

 

Surviving in the Kpop music industry

Armed with talent and determination, the group made valiant attempts at growing their fanbase and popularity, participating in collaborations with popular Kpop artists such as Vixx’s Ravi, CNBlue’s Lee Jong-hyun and Wheesung, amongst others.

One member, Yeoeun, participated in the popular anonymous singing competition show  ‘Masked Singer’ and became the ninth winner. In addition, three of the members – Yeoeun, Yoomin, and Chahee – joined the idol rebooting reality competition show ‘The Unit’ but unfortunately failed to enter the winning group line-up.

Yein, also helped to raise awareness of the group with her individual schedules which included a permanent role on a variety show and becoming a DJ for Kookbang FM’s popular radio program ‘Candy Star’.

Their fourth and final digital single as Melody Day – ‘Restless’ – was released in June 2018. Despite their efforts, Melody Day still fell short of mainstream fame as a group, which could be the reason why the members decided not to renew their contracts with their agency, Cre.ker Entertainment, upon the expiry of their contracts in December 2018 – spelling an end to their activities as a group.

 

Finding their footing in 2019

 

 A recent photo of Yeoeun shared on her Instagram account @yeosilver.

 

Yeoeun has previously stated through a handwritten message on her Instagram account that she wished to show supporters of Melody Day a better version of herself and looked forward to bringing good news in 2019.

Since then, she has shared her activities which included participation in the OST for the opening song of ‘Aerover’ an MBC TV comic and the OST for Kdrama ‘A Pledge to God’.

 

Photo of Chahee on her travels at The Getty Villa, LA, California shared on her Instagram account @hichaheebye.

 

Chahee, known as the choreographer of the group has charmed fans before with her candid statements in tv appearances so it’s no surprise they’re eagerly awaiting news on her next project. However, there’s been no news as yet and her Instagram account @hichaheebye has been set to private so be sure to follow her to get the latest updates.

Her most recent photos show her travelling in and around LA, California, including a trip to the beautiful Getty Villa.

 

A recent photo of Yoomin shared on her Instagram account @na_yoo_min.

 

Yoomin, previously became known for being related to famous South Korean actor Jang Dong Gun who is her father’s cousin. Since then, she has worked hard to make her mark as a singer through her work with Melody Day and through exposure in shows like ‘The Unit’ but has not made any announcements on upcoming projects just yet.

Meanwhile, fans can check out her Instagram account @na_yoo_min for the latest updates in 2019.

 

A promo photo of Yein from Melody Day’s last single ‘Restless’ in 2018.

 

Yein, originally auditioned as an actress before joining Melody Day and it is known that her parents are voice actors. She has also taken part in reality dating show ‘My Daughter’s Men’ and participated as a DJ for a radio program in addition to her lead vocalist role in Melody Day.

Currently under the radar with even her Instagram account becoming inactive, it’s not known what she’ll be focusing on in future as fans await her next comeback.

 

 

—-Fie Fed

 

Stills of the girls from their recent Instagram live broadcast in January 2019. From left: Yujin (Mail), Minju, Jane, Euna and Suji.

 

A brief starburst

The Ark was a five-member all female South Korean Kpop group formed under Music K Entertainment. The members comprising Minju, Yuna, Yujin, Halla, and Jane debuted in April 2015, releasing only one digital single album titled ‘Somebody 4 Life’ before disbanding in 2016.

The short lived hip hop group promoted the single and music video for ‘The Light’ from their album prior to disbandment which struck a chord with audiences due to the moving storyline and similarities with the Sewol Ferry disaster which had greatly affected the South Korean public at the time.

 

Keeping their dreams alive

The group’s brief time in the limelight was surprisingly impactful, garnering a moderate but loyal following judging from viewer comments and the over 4.8 million views of their sole mv ‘The Light’ on YouTube.

With the small taste of fame and support from fans, the girls were determined to continue their work in the entertainment industry with some members taking part in new programs and projects to raise their profile or debut in new groups since the disbandment.

Yuna was one of the most prolific members, participating in reality competition shows such as ‘Unpretty Rapstar’ and ‘The Unit’, even earning herself the nickname ‘audition addict’ in the process.

Suji was also on ‘The Unit’ and successfully debuted as one of the members of the winning lineup from the show which has since ended.

 

Gearing up for 2019

The girls met up recently last January and shared their current plans for 2019 in a live Instagram broadcast which is available on YouTube.

 

A recent photo of Yujin shared on her Instagram account @mail_yj.

 

Yujin has changed her name to Mail and is now a solo artist working on releasing a new album. No set date yet for the release but you can check out her official Instagram account @mail_yj and YouTube channel where she regularly uploads videos of her covers.

 

A promo photo of Minju (left) and Euna (right) shared on their official Instagram account @official.khan.ig.

 

Minju and Yuna (now known as Euna), have formed a duo called ‘Khan’ and released their first single ‘I’m Your Girl’ in May 2018. They also have an official Instagram account @official.khan.ig and YouTube channel with over two million views for their ‘I’m Your Girl’ mv.

They recently appeared on ‘Vocal Play’, the first South Korean acapella music show where participants display their vocal prowess by singing without instrumental accompaniment.

 

A recent photo of Jane shared on her Instagram account @j.a.n.e.c.h.u.n.

 

Jane is currently studying in university and enjoying life as a hardworking scholarship student. She shared during the live Instagram broadcast that she is relishing the life of an ordinary student but looks forward to being back in the entertainment industry once her studies are over.

 

A recent photo of Suji shared on her Instagram account @1998_suji_ya.

 

Halla, now known as Suji, has finished her stint with The Unit and is now focusing on breaking into the acting world. She’s currently preparing herself through training and lessons and hopes to debut as an actress soon. In response to a fan question during the live Instagram session, she mentioned that her dream role is to star in a historical drama.

 

 

—-Fie Fed

Following Hoya and Yoseob (Highlight, formerly known as Beast) military enlistments, three more K-idols enlisted March 4, 2019.

VIXX’s N, 2AM’s Jeong Jinwoon, and SHINee’s Key all checked in for their required service.

N (Cha Hak Yeon) reported to the Nonsan Army Training Center to begin basic military training. While masked, N smiled and waved at ST☆RLIGHTs (VIXX’s fandom) as he prepared to say goodbye. N’s family came with him to send him off.

 

 

N made his enlistment announcement on his fan cafe early in January by stating, “Although you may be surprised or startled by the sudden news, I think it will be a great source of strength to me if you quietly cheer me on, just as you have done up until now.”

Prior to leaving, VIXX’s groupmates sent supportive messages to him on social media.

“Hak Yeon, you did well, you worked hard, thank you,” Hyuk wrote on Twitter.

In a Twitter post, Leo said, “All sorts of things happened to us. Thanks to you, I can feel the weight of the precious moments we spent together more strongly. I miss you a little today.”

Through a string of tweets, Ravi added, “You’re someone I’m grateful for because you gather energy for VIXX, never cower from standing in the front of our team and fight for us in the shadows. We fought with each other like crazy and now our bond is too deep… [I have] love and hatred for Cha Hak Yeon (laughs). I miss you today (tears). I was relieved to see that you were energetic, but I’m also worried. See you again soon. I love you.”

N promised his fans and groupmates that he would return safely.

 

2AM’s Jinwoon also enlisted at the Nonsan Army Training Center.

 

 

Jinwoon cheerfully greeted fans prior to entering the training center. Fans can with cards and gifts to wish him well.

In an Instagram post, Jinwoon said, “I’ve never been gone for so long before, and I wasn’t sure what to do, so I first took down all of the lights. After seeing my desk that’s covered so it doesn’t get piled with dust, it feels weird [Laughs]. I’ll return quickly and make a lot of great songs.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

이렇게 오랫동안 자리를 비운적이 없는데 어떻게 해야하나 하다 모든 전기를 다 내리고 먼지 안 쌓이게 덮어버린 내 책상 보니까 기분 이상하다ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ금방 다녀와서 좋은 노래 많이 만들께요?

A post shared by Jeong jinwoon (@jinwoon52) on Mar 3, 2019 at 11:30am PST

Jinwoon is the last 2AM member to enlist. Currently serving are Seulong and Jo Kwon, while Changmin served prior to his debut.

 

On February 24, 2019, Jinwoon held a solo concert with his band to say goodbye to his fans.

SHINee’s Key (Kim Kibum) smiled as he said goodbye to fans prior to entering the Nonsan Army Training Center. He is the second SHINee member to enlist following Onew’s enlistment in December 2018.

“In order to fulfill my military duty, I am enlisting today and will be discharged around October of next year. I will be strong and healthy, so don’t worry too much,” Key told fans.

Prior to leaving, Key wrote a letter he posted to Instagram. It reads,

To. All my little freaks.

Hello, this is SHINee’s Key. Everyone’s doing well, right?

I debuted in 2008 and busily made it this far.

The precious memories I’ve shared with everyone have become the driving force for me to run towards the same place without getting distracted.

I’m always thankful, and I feel sorry that I couldn’t entirely express my feelings of gratitude.

I haven’t had long breaks before, but I’ve been called to enlist on March 4, so I won’t be able to greet you all for the time being.

Although many of you might feel hurt and disappointed, I know you’ve waited for this long before while waiting for album releases, so without many worries, I’ll bravely return in good health.

Please stay healthy and happy. I hope you’ll spend your time filled with love.

I’m always grateful, and I love you.

P.S. I’m leaving!!!!!♡

FROM. KEY

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by SHINee KEY (@bumkeyk) on Mar 3, 2019 at 12:45am PST

Key released an MV for “I Wanna Be” which features Soyeon of G(I)-dle. He also told fans that in April, he will be featured in shows that were prerecorded prior to his enlistment.

Jinwoon, Key, and N will complete training then will complete their service in the military band. We wish all three the best.

 

— Olivia Murray

 

Jo Su-gyeong (born 22, November of 1962) – known worldwide as Jo Sumi – is a Korean Coloratura soprano, a Grammy-winner, animal activist and philanthropist.

Jo was born and spent most of her childhood in Changwon, South Korea. Her mother was formerly an amateur singer and pianist who had been unable to pursue her career due to the state of South Korea in the ‘50s. Because Jo was exceptionally bright and showed evident signs of musical talent, her parents saved up to buy her a piano and she was made to practice every day under strict guidance by her mother. Jo began playing the piano at age 4, even before she learned to read – received vocal lessons at age 6, and was not permitted to play outside like the average children her age. Under her mother’s orders, she was made to play 8 hours on the piano per day without any rest. Jo has said during one of her interviews: “When I was born my destiny was already made because my mother clearly wanted me to be an opera singer, so there was no choice.”

In 1976, Jo was admitted into Sunhwa Arts School in Seoul on a full scholarship, and acquired dual diplomas when she graduated. She also received the highest score in the history of Seoul National University entrance exam for her audition. While still a student, Jo made her professional recital debut, appeared in several concerts with the KBS, and as Susanna in The Marriage of Figaro with Korea National Opera.

In past interviews, Jo reflected on her Korean college life and said that she played hard for attention by dressing loud and acting the diva on school campus. She spent the majority of her time clubbing; lost interest in studying and rarely attended lectures. She was later forced to drop out of school, due to poor grades.

After being fervently persuaded by her parents and professor, Jo made up her mind to leave Korea to study abroad but the lack of money was the issue. She was nearly made to cancel her flight but was able to miraculously attain the sum that she needed, at the last minute.

Jo was admitted to Accademia di Santa Cecilia in Italy, which is one of the world’s most oldest music institutions, and was trained by world-renowned teachers including, the late operatic tenor Carlo Bergonzi. Jo had to work extra work and took classes to learn Italian. This only allowed her to get 3 to 4 hours of sleep a day, and since she didn’t have enough money for food either, she collapsed due to malnutrition and had to be hospitalized. Another hardship she had to face was the housing issue – Jo had to practice her vocals for hours in the night and neighbors often complained – which made her relocate several times a year (with her piano), which wasn’t easy without a vehicle.

 

 

Her hard work eventually paid off because she soon acquired the recognition she longed for and deserved. After graduating in 1985, Jo won several of the most competitive international competitions, and was awarded first prize in the Carlo Alberto Cappelli International Competition in Verona, which was held exclusively for first-prize winners of major competitions.

Here are some of the highlights of her music career.

In 1988, Jo made her La Scala debut, and in the same year, she debuted with the Bavarian State Opera and sang Barbarina in Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro at the Salzburg Festival. She made her European operatic debut as Gilda in Verdi‘s Rigoletto at the Teatro Comunale Giuseppe Verdi in Trieste, Italy. Conductor Herbert von Karajan, took notice of Jo’s performance, and cast her as Oscar in Un ballo in maschera opposite the legendary Spanish opera singer Plácido Domingo for the 1989 Salzburg Festival.

Maestro Herbert von Karajan, who is one of the greatest conductors of the last century, made a statement that Jo had “a voice from above” which tagged her like a nickname from then onwards. However, his fatal heart disease prevented Jo from performing under his baton but she did get to sing under his direction at the studio recording for Deutsche Grammophon.

In 1989, Jo made her debut with the Vienna State Opera and returned to the Salzburg Festival to sing in Verdi’s Un ballo in maschera. That same year, she made her debut with the Metropolitan Opera. In 1990, Jo made her debut with the Chicago Lyric Opera as the Queen of the Night in The Magic Flute. The following year, she returned to the Metropolitan Opera to perform and made her Royal Opera, Covent Garden, debut and returned to Covent Garden the following year as Adina in L’elisir d’amore and Elvira in I puritani.

In 1993, Jo won a Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording in 1993 and the Best Soprano of the Year at the La Siola d’Oro International Opera Prize in Forli, Italy in the same year.

She appeared in the title role of Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor with the Metropolitan Opera and sang the role of the Queen of the Night at the Salzburg Festival and Covent Garden. In 1994, she made her debut with Los Angeles Opera as Sophie in Strauss‘ Der Rosenkavalier, and performed as Countess Adèle in Le comte Ory at the Aix-en-Provence Festival in 1995.

During the next decade or so, Jo performed in major cities around the world, with numerous symphony orchestras, including the Cincinnati Pops, the Orchestra of St. Luke’s, the Vienna Philharmonic, the London Philharmonic Orchestra, the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra.

In 2006, just before she performed Ave Maria at Chatelet, Paris, Jo learned that her father had just passed away, so she was about to cancel her performance to attend the funeral in Korea. But her mother advised her to keep her promise to the audience, and that it would be more honorable to hold the concert in her father’s memory. Her performance from that concert, was dedicated to her father and released on DVD, Sumi Jo in Paris – For my Father.

In 2007, she performed Violetta in La traviata for the first time with the Toulon Opera and performed at the Opera Comique and Opéra Royal de Wallonie, from 2008 until 2009.

In 2008, Jo was honored as the winner of the Puccini International Prize from the Puccini Festival Foundation in Italy, on the 150th anniversary of composer Giacommo Puccini’s birth.

Jo performed crossover stages since her first Broadway Songs concert at Carnegie Hall accompanied by The Orchestra of St. Luke’s in 2001, and her first crossover album “Only Love” was released worldwide, placing her on the list of best-selling recordings.

In 2011, she celebrated her 25th anniversary of International Opera Debut, as she travelled all over the world. By this time, Jo was performing all over the world, for longer than 300 days of the year. In 2013, Jo performed for Korea’s new presidential inauguration ceremony, followed by Korea tour concerts, Russia piano recital, Shanghai recital, China Philharmonic Invitation concerts and performed at the Vatican. In 2018, Jo performed “Here As One”, for the opening ceremony of the Winter Paralympic Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea, with CCM Singer Sohyang. On March 1, 2019, Jo released a single called “I am a Korean” to celebrate the 100th anniversary of March 1st National Independence Movement.

Jo currently holds over 50 recordings to her credit – complete operas, oratorio, operetta, and Broadway standards – and 10 albums for Erato Records.

 

Random Facts about Jo Sumi

 

 

*Jo is an advocate for animal rights and is a pescatarian.

*During her first Korean concert in 1988, the late Korean fashion designer Andre Kim watched Jo perform in a low budget dress that she had made herself (because she couldn’t afford a custom-made designer ensemble), and offered to provide the stage outfits for her. Kim made over 200 specially-made stage outfits for Jo until his death in 2010. Jo grieved for him and held a concert in his memory.

*Jo was behind singing vocals for the character Veda Pierce of the HBO mini-series Mildred Pierce.

*Jo can speak and communicate in most European languages, including Italian, French English and Russian.

*Jo is single, and has never been married. She was engaged at one point during the 90s, but the relationship didn’t work out.

*Jo is a highly knowledgeable soccer fan. She supports A.C. Milan and wants to try soccer commentating.

*Jo is a second cousin to Korean actor Yoo Gun: she is Yoo’s father’s cousin, which makes her the actor’s aunt in Korean terms.

*Boyband Highlight member, Yang Yo-seob performed a duet with Jo at “Jo Sumi’s Park Concert – La Fantasia.”

*Super Junior’s member Ryeowook joined her on stage at “Jo Sumi’s Park Concert – One Night in Paris” to perform I Love Paris.

 

We were unable to mention Jo Sumi’s entire list of performances and accomplishments for obvious reasons (the article would be enormously long), but nevertheless, we wish our readers got to know of her hard work and achievements throughout her career.

 

 

— J.Chung.

 

For the month of March, we interviewed “The Korean Vegan” who is a recipe creator, food blogger, writer, photographer and attorney. Joanne is a Korean-American who was born and raised in Illinois, Chicago and was very much influenced by her family when it comes to the love for food.

Since going vegan in 2016, she set out to prove that she could still have the foods that she’s been enjoying all her life, while maintaining a solid vegan diet and lifestyle.

I’ve personally wanted to interview the Korean Vegan for a while, because I was very intrigued and inspired by her blogs and distinguished vegan recipes which were accompanied by beautifully shot photographs. “A massive thank you” goes out to Joanne for this great interview and wish her the best in all her ventures!

 

*Thank you for taking the time out for a KCrush interview. Would you kindly introduce yourself to our readers?

Thank you so much for having me! I’m thrilled to be featured by KCrush! My name is Joanne Molinaro and I am the founder and creator of The Korean Veganä.

The Korean Vegan is a food and lifestyle blog that shares both veganized Korean recipes and stories about my family.

 

*Please tell us how the “Korean Vegan” journey started for you…

I started The Korean Vegan in 2016, which is when I adopted a plant-based diet. At that time, I had a lot of misgivings about trying a vegan diet, because I wasn’t sure it was possible to be both vegan and Korean. I grew up eating lots of fish, pork, and galbi, so the notion of giving all of that up felt a little bit like giving up my Korean identity.

My husband encouraged me to start a channel on YouTube in which I shared my cooking. He dubbed it “The Korean Vegan,” and the name was so clever, I started a YouTube channel that very day! Since then, I’ve expanded The Korean Vegan into a full-blown blog with several different social media platforms.

 

*Where do you like to get inspiration/ideas from when creating recipes?

First and foremost, my family. I love cooking for my family, so if there’s a particular dish they enjoy, I will try and veganize it. For example, my father loves jjajangmyun and therefore, it was one of the first things that I veganized. I also love watching Maangchi and other classical Korean cooks—their recipes bring me right back to my childhood and I want to veganize everything they make!

 

 

*Can you share with us your favorite vegan cuisine/recipe?

Well, it’s probably a toss-up between my vegan jjajangmyun or my vegan tteokbokki! I eat pretty healthy during the week, but during the weekends, I allow myself a little flexibility and I usually end up making one of those two dishes and park myself in front of a K-drama for a few hours!

 

*What do you think are the most prominent benefits of being a vegan?

That is a really good question. I’d have to say that the most impactful benefit to going vegan is the mitigation of the damage we do to our planet. It takes an astonishing 2,500 gallons of water to produce just 1 lb of beef. Cutting one’s consumption of meat could therefore have an enormous impact upon the environment.

Beyond the global impact, though, is the personal one. Most human beings are compassionate and love animals. In my own personal experience, not having to feel guilty anymore about eating them has been the most liberating benefit of going vegan.

 

*You’ve stated that you’ve had eating disorders in the past. Could you share some advice to anyone who is going through such struggles?

The hardest thing for someone with an eating disorder to understand is that our worth is not defined by our size. We can tell ourselves this millions of times, but we will never really believe it until we start viewing ourselves with compassion.

One piece of advice that has worked well for me is to view myself and my body as my dongseng. How would I treat my little sister? Would I tell her, “You’re fat, you need to lose weight, you need to eat less, you’re ugly”? Of course not! We need to show the same level of compassion to ourselves as we do to those we cherish.

 

*You frequently mention your family members in your blogs ~ who influenced you (the most) when it comes to food/cooking?

That’s a tough one, but I’d probably have to go with my grandmothers. Both of them. They both did the vast majority of the cooking when we were growing up.

When I think about Korean food and Korean cooking, my mind immediately reverts back to memories of my cheen-hahlmuhnee (paternal grandmother) snipping the tails off a batch of kongnamul or my weh-hahlmuhnee (maternal grandmother) setting a tray of dotori muk. They will both be featured prominently in my upcoming book.

 

*What do you like to do in your free time and how do you release stress?

Watch K-dramas until I can’t keep my eyes open anymore.

 

*Do you ever listen to Korean music or pay attention to the Korean media?

Sometimes, I will go on a Korean drama binge and afterwards, look up what’s going on with some of the K-pop stars. I’ve been obsessed with Hyun Bin, for example, since I watched  My Lovely Sam Soon, and still keep tabs on him every once in a while. As to Korean music, I honestly only listen to the OSTs of my favorite K-dramas (I literally listen to the OST for Kim Sam Soon on repeat sometimes…).

 

*Do you like to travel? Which country or continent do you most wish to visit or revisit?

I’m a relatively moderate traveler. I used to travel a lot for work, but less so now. Because we don’t have children, my husband and I like to hop around frequently to NYC, Florida, and California. We also like to travel to run marathons. In 2018, we went to Cincinnati, Boston, and Indianapolis to run marathons.

We also love Europe. We were married in Rome, Italy, and we often go there (his family is from Rome). We like to visit other European countries when we are in Europe, though we really do love Italy best. We will be vising Korea together this May, and it will be my very first time in over two decades. I’m extremely excited and also a little nervous!

 

*Tell us a bit about your upcoming book and other ventures.

My book will be a mix of Korean vegan recipes and stories about my family – very similar to my blog and Instagram. It will center upon my family’s immigration from North Korea to South Korea and then from South Korea to the United States. I never in my wildest dreams thought I’d one day be writing a cookbook, but it appears there’s a need for a book of Korean vegan recipes and, well, people seem to enjoy my stories!

 

*Please tell us about your wishes, plans and goals for 2019.

My goals for 2019 are (a) to write a book that I am very proud of, (b) run a sub 4-hour marathon, and (c) meet Hyun Bin in person (just kidding – not really)!

 

 

—  J.Chung.

 

The Burning Sun scandal continues to spin into orbit as new details emerge about the club and the alleged conduct that occurred there. Additionally, Seungri’s role and knowledge about the alleged prostitution, police collusion, and drug-use have been called into question via an eight-hour police interview. Here are the latest updates.

 

Police Launch Probe into Reporter’s Claims

On February 26, 2019, Seoul Police began investigating prostitution claims involving Burning Sun and Seungri. The claims suggest that Seungri offered prostitutes to Burning Sun investors. 

“We have launched an investigation into the escort service claims that have been reported on by the media,” the Seoul Police Department said.

An SBS FunE reporter who is well-known for her investigative journalism that has called attention to Goo Hara’s assault case and several Korean #MeToo cases shared alleged KakaoTalk messages between Seungri, Mr. Yu (who was revealed to be actress Kim Han-byul’s husband) from Yuri Holdings (he and Seungri headed the company starting in 2015), Singer “C,” and a Mr. Kim (a club employee) that occurred December 6th, 2015. In the texts, the group allegedly discuss finding girls for a Chinese client (some reports state he is Taiwanese) who later became a Yuri Holdings investor in 2016.

The alleged texts have been heavily edited, and the reporter in possession of the texts claims she “cleaned them up” to eliminate “inappropriate expressions.” Dispatch and SBS have different versions of the texts, which seem to show integrity issues with the alleged KakaoTalk messages. Additionally, police cannot recover the original text source and the reporter did not provide the source.

The Seoul Police Department’s Special Crimes Squad said, “We requested the KakaoTalk messages from the reporter who was first to report on the sexual escort services claims involving Seungri. However, we have not received them yet.”

Upon the release of the alleged texts, YG Entertainment said, “After confirming with the individual, we attest that this news report in question is based on fabricated text messages; its claims are entirely false.” YG also threatened legal action.

Meanwhile, VIPs, BIGBANG’s fandom, have called the alleged texts into question claiming that in 2015, BIGBANG were in Osaka, Japan for a concert when the texts were sent. Fans claim this is all the evidence that is needed to debunk the text claims.

Yuri Holdings, too, have claimed the messages to be false. In a statement, the company said,  “We believe someone with malicious intent towards Seungri and our company has fabricated these text messages as a grudge and sent them to reporters. This is fake news that has been published without being confirmed. We plan to request an investigation into the individual who fabricated the text messages and submitted them to reporters, and we will take legal action to reveal the truth.”

However, the reporter states she has no reason to fabricate the messages and that further reports will be released.

“There is no reason why I would edit or fabricate the messages. There was absolutely no fabrication or editing, except for the extremely inappropriate expressions that I’ve purified,” the reporter said. “I will actively participate in the investigation if required to do so in the future.”

She added, “If I had fabricated it, I would have much more to lose [than win]. I would lose everything. And this is the truth. If I didn’t intend to fight until the end, I wouldn’t have started it in the first place.”

Seungri said he didn’t send the texts although he doesn’t remember what happened three years ago. 

 

Money Transferred to the Police

According to the Korean Herald, one of the suspects, surname Lee, admitted to transferring money to the police.

During the investigation into Lee (later revealed to be Lee Mun-ho, the head of Burning Sun), who is alleged part of an organized crime syndicate, police found that he had been working with a former police officer and had transferred a total of 20 million won received from Burning Sun into six accounts. However, it is not clear if any of the accounts belong to the police officer, surname Kang.

Lee claims the transactions occurred August 2018. During the transaction, which Lee claims occurred in his vehicle, 2.3 million won transferred to two current police officers. Former officer Kang, who is currently a board member of a cosmetics company, was present during the transaction. The police state Kang may have been the “middle man” between the police and Burning Sun.

 

Cho, Lee Drug Investigation

In late February, police investigated the house of Burning Sun employee Mr. Cho.

During the investigation, police uncovered ecstasy, ketamine, and “Happy Balloon” (hallucinogenic). Another person connected to the club, an employee by the name of “Anna,” also had suspicious powders and liquids in her home. Anna allegedly is one of the suppliers that provided drugs to other Burning Sun employees and club-goers. The evidence has been turned over to the National Institute of Scientific Investigation for analysis.

Lee Mun-ho was also investigated for drugs. Lee’s home, along with the home of another suspect, Han, were raided February 26. During the raid, drugs were found in the homes; Lee’s urine sample came back as having drugs present in his system.

Seungri, too, has not escaped drug allegations thanks to a Vietnamese news report that claims Seungri was caught inhaling “Happy Balloon” during a 2017 business trip to Hanoi.

In the photo circulated on Vietnamese media, Seungri is seen standing next to a woman who is holding a balloon close to his face. YG Entertainment and Seungri have both denied the claims that it is “Happy Balloon.”

“Upon checking with Seungri, the photo was taken from a misleading angle. He said he has never inhaled nitrous oxide. The reports from Vietnam are clearly false reports, and he feels very falsely accused. He is arguing that it doesn’t make sense for him to inhale nitrous oxide in an public place like a club,” YG Entertainment said.

In related news, Seungri reportedly passed a drug test during his questioning. 

 

Seungri Cooperative with Police; Activities Halted

On February 27, Seungri was questioned by the police for over eight hours. During the questioning, police state the allegations of drug use, prostitution, sexual favors, and sexual assault were among the discussion topics. 

When he arrived at the police station, Seungri spoke to reporters.

“This morning, I submitted a petition asking for a thorough investigation into myself. Once again, I apologize for causing concern and anger with the various controversies and accusations. I will earnestly cooperate with investigations so that the truth can be revealed as soon as possible,” he said.

Upon leaving the station, he added, “Questioning for all allegations has been finished. Regarding drugs, I underwent all drug tests requested by the narcotics unit. Many people are angry about the various controversies, and I will cooperate with police so that all suspicions can be dispelled. I ask that you wait for the results of the investigation. If the police require anything else, I will return for further questioning.”

The police stated, “Currently, he is not an overt suspect in the case; he is an internal suspect. In terms of the case regarding claims of hiring prostitution, further investigation is required for completely accurate results.”

 

Following the questioning, YG Entertainment announced that Seungri will be going on hiatus and that his remaining concerts in Jarkarta, Indonesia and Osaka, Japan have been canceled. Regarding the cancelations, YG Entertainment released a statement:

Hello, this is YG Entertainment.

Seungri has unfortunately canceled his upcoming concerts in Osaka on March 9 and 10 and in Jakarta on March 17. We ask for the generous understanding of many people who were waiting for the concerts.

Seungri voluntarily arrived at the police station at approximately 9 p.m. yesterday and diligently participated in the police investigation regarding the suspicions for about eight hours and 30 minutes.

Seungri earnestly requested for the police to especially investigate the suspicions regarding prostitution services rigorously.

Not only the concerts, but Seungri will halt all other scheduled activities and actively cooperate with all upcoming police investigations.

As they are suspicions that many people are curious about, we hope that all of the suspicions and truths are unveiled as quickly as possible through speedy and rigorous investigations by the police.

Investigations are still ongoing with more details expected to be revealed in the coming days. All parties are considered innocent unless proven guilty in the court of law.

 

—- Olivia Murray

 

The March 1st Movement was one of the main public demonstrations of Korean resistance during the colonial rule of Korea by the Japanese. This movement that lasted from the year of 1910, refers to an important event which occurred on the first day of March of 1919. On this day, Koreans hang the national flag at home and at most public places to honor their ancestors who fought hard for the country’s emancipation. On May 24 of 1949, South Korea officially designated the first day of March, as its National holiday.

On March 1, 1919 at 2 p.m., 33 Korean activists gathered at Taehwagwan Restaurant in Seoul, along with a huge crowd to announce the Korea’s Declaration of Independence and the associated delegates also read the same proclamation throughout their regions on the same day, and hour. The leading activists all signed the document and sent a copy to the Governor General, which stated:

“We herewith proclaim the independence of Korea and the liberty of the Korean people. We proclaim this to all the nations of the world in witness of human equality. We proclaim this to our descendants so that they may enjoy in perpetuity their inherent right to nationhood. In as much as this proclamation originates from our five-thousand-year history, in as much as it springs from the loyalty of twenty million people, in as much as it affirms our yearning for the advancement of everlasting liberty, in as much as it expresses our desire to take part in the global reform rooted in human conscience, it is the solemn will of heaven, the great tide of our age, and a just act necessary for the co-existence of all humankind. Therefore, no power in this world can obstruct or suppress it!

 

 

The Korean leading activists then phoned the Japanese police to inform of their actions and were soon arrested. An enormous crowd assembled in Pagoda Park, and a young student Chung Jae-yong read the declaration of independence out loud. In 2017, Chung’s grandson revealed in the news that his grandfather had arrived at the scene earlier that day as a supporter, and publicly read the announcement by pure chance, since he had a copy of the statement with him and the leaders were not present or arrested at this time.

The crowd continuously chanted “Daehan Minkuk Mansei!” which translated into “Long live Korean independence!” in Korean and this went on until the Japanese police weren’t able to control the crowd, so they called for their military and naval forces for aid. Approximately 2,000,000 Koreans were present to participate in over 1,500 demonstrations, and a vast number of them were massacred by the Japanese police force and army.

The Bloody History of the Korean Independence Movement by Park Eun-sik states that 7,509 people were killed/executed, 15,849 wounded and 46,303 arrested. The killing by the Japanese police went to the extreme, as seen from the existing photos of Korean men, women and even children murdered and left in the streets.

So many precious lives were wrongfully taken on this day, but this Movement reached beyond the Korean peninsula and influenced the growing non-violent resistance in India and other suppressed countries. It became the foundation for the establishment of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea based in Shanghai, in April 1919 and numerous Korean leaders went into exile in China or Russia to continue their work for the country’s independence, which eventually happened in August of 1945.

This day on March 1st, we wish to reflect on past history, to really appreciate the human rights and freedom which we are so fortunate to be able to claim.

 

 

— J.Chung.