‘Genre Melting Pot’ Xdinary Heroes “Comeback with Fresh + Fun Songs Again” [Q&A]

The band Xdinary Heroes (XH) will be releasing their new mini-album ‘Beautiful Mind’ and its title track ‘Beautiful Life’ on March 24th. Last year, Xdinary Heroes proved the infinite potential of ‘Music Hero’ with the digital single series ‘Open ♭eta’ (open beta) of the ‘2024 Xperiment Project’ (2024 Experiment Project), and shone as a concert hot spot with the ‘Closed ♭eta’ (closed beta) concert series, which sold out all 15 shows. The sixth mini album, ‘Beautiful Mind’, released about five months after the fifth mini album, ‘LIVE and FALL’, will showcase the bold and intense transformation and new narrative of Xdinary Heroes, who are once again being tested by revealing their raw emotions. The new album includes the title song ‘Beautiful Life’, as well as ‘FIGHT ME’.

DRIPPIN Hwang Yoon-seong, Night Bald Head Revealed… Army Active Duty Enlistment “I Will Fulfill My Duty to Defend the Nation” [DA:Today]

DRIPPIN‘s Hwang Yunseong reveals chestnut hair... Enlists in active duty in the army “I will fulfill my duty of national defense” [DA:Today] Group DRIPPIN’s leader Hwang Yunseong will be enlisting in the army as an active duty soldier. Hwang Yunseong will enlist in the Nonsan Army Training Center in South Chungcheong Province this afternoon (the 24th). After completing about 5 weeks of basic military training and being assigned to a unit, he will fulfill his duty of national defense as an active duty soldier in the army. Hwang Yunseong, who will be the first member of DRIPPIN to enlist, personally announced the news of his enlistment and revealed a handwritten letter ahead of time. He said, “I will return healthy, taking with me the precious memories I had with Dreaming (fandom). I will return more mature and stronger” and “The cold weather is getting warmer and spring is coming. Although we will now spend our own seasons instead of the seasons we spent together, I will not forget that

NJZ finally stops activities, confesses his feelings in tears [Comprehensive]

New Jeans (NJZ) Finally Halts Activities, Sobbing and Confessing Their Hearts [Comprehensive] Group New Jeans, who were planning to leave their agency Adore, which was in a dispute, and continue their activities under the name NJZ, have finally announced that they will be suspending their activities. On the night of the 23rd, New Jeans appeared on stage at the ‘ComplexCon Hong Kong’ held at AsiaWorld-Expo in Hong Kong. They went on stage. This stage was the first time that New Jeans would reveal their new song ‘PIT STOP’ as NJZ, and it also garnered a lot of attention from the public as it was their first stage after the court accepted Adore‘s injunction application. After finishing the stage that day, the members took out a handwritten letter and read it, announcing their hiatus. They said, “It is heavy of heart to have to tell you this. Today’s stage will likely be our last for the time being. We have decided to respect the court‘s decision and halt all activities for a while. It was

New Beat, official debut in the music industry… Mnet·SBS special promotion [DA:Today]

NEWBEAT, official debut in the music industry… Mnet·SBS special promotion [DA:Today] Group NEWBEAT will be throwing their hat into the ring in the music industry today with their first full-length album and large-scale debut project. NEWBEAT (Park Min-seok, Hong Min-seong, Jeon Yeo-yeo-jeong, Choi Seo-hyun, Kim Tae-yang, Jo Yoon-hoo, Kim Ri-woo) will release their first full-length album ‘RAW AND RAD’ through various online music sites at 6 PM on the 24th, making their official debut in the music industry. ‘RAW AND RAD’ is an album that contains the spirit of boys who are not afraid of failure and constantly take on challenges. New Beat will tell the story of the boys who shine the most with their bold spirit and honest emotions. In addition to the pre-released songs ‘JeLLo(힘숨찐)’ and ‘HICCUPS’, the title song ‘Flip the Coin’, ‘Intro: RAW AND RAD(feat. Khundi Panda)(Prod. Maalib)’, ‘Sounds like Money’, ‘You, Me +,-’, ‘F.LY(Prod. 임현식)’, ‘Wonder(Solo. 전여여정)’, ‘We Are

MONSTA X, Avatar Blind Date, But Why Am I Excited… Straightforward Romance♥ (Even If You Eat Monsters)

MONSTA X, Why Am I Excited About Avatar Blind Date… Straightforward Romance♥ (Monsta X, Eat Monsters, Go) Group MONSTA X took on an avatar blind date. Recently, MONSTA X released the 35th episode of their own reality show ‘Monsta X, Eat Monsters, Go’ through their official YouTube channel. In this video, MONSTA X gathered at a cafe and filmed ‘Monsta X, Eat Monsters, Go’ with the avatar blind date concept. It was a blind date between members, and through a random selection, Shownu and I.M were chosen to become pilots and control Jooheon and Minhyuk, respectively. Since the members have known each other for over 10 years, they showed a puzzled reaction to ‘true love’, but they were immediately immersed. Jooheon and Minhyuk, who sat down first, lightened the mood with small talk and then moved according to the orders of their respective pilots. As the atmosphere became sweeter with the back and forth of the plot as if it were a real blind date, Minhyuk faithfully followed I.M‘s orders, w

Kim In-seong, first love memory manipulation completed… ‘Your Wedding’ first public performance successful

Kim In-seong, first love memory manipulation complete… Successful first performance of ‘Your Wedding’ SF9 Kim In-seong has finished his first performance of the musical ‘Your Wedding’. Kim In-seong met the audience as Hwang Woo-yeon in the musical ‘Your Wedding’, which was held at Interpark Uniplex 1 on the 22nd. The musical ‘Your Wedding’ is a work that contains the eventful journey of first love between Seung-hee, who believes in 3 seconds of fate, and Woo-yeon, who falls in love with her the moment he sees her. It is based on the movie of the same name starring Park Bo-young and Kim Young-kwang that was greatly loved by 2.82 million viewers when it was released in 2018. The role of Hwang Woo-yeon, played by Kim In-seong, is a ‘pure and straightforward man’ who falls in love with Hwan Seung-hee, a transfer student from high school, at first sight and only looks at her. On this day, Kim In-seong delicately portrayed the character‘s emotional line and process of change in scenes that c

Five New Jeans members announce ‘suspension of activities’ ‘respecting the court‘s injunction decision’ [Comprehensive]

“This will likely be our last stage for the time being.” The five members of New Jeans declared a voluntary hiatus from activities after the court ruled that they would return to Adore. Their agency, Adore, unilaterally notified them of the termination of their contracts. They did present a new song, which was a ‘product’. This happened at the Hong Kong paid omnibus performance ‘Complex Con Hong Kong’, where they signed a contract to appear as NJZ without their agency, Adore. The five members of New Jeans stood on the stage of ‘Complex Con Hong Kong’, held at the Hong Kong AsiaWorld-Expo at 10:40 PM on the 23rd (Korean time). They did not directly mention NJZ, which they had always used as their stage name, as if reflecting the result of the injunction handed down by the court on the 21st. Immediately after the live that lasted about an hour, the five members took out the pieces of paper they had each prepared and delivered a message that stated ‘Temporary hiatus’. The five members sta

“Quiet Beach” Jessica, Enjoying an Elegant Vacation [DA★]

Jessica, formerly of Girls‘ Generation, is attracting attention by enjoying her vacation. On the 22nd, Jessica posted several photos on her SNS with the caption, “Quiet beach, sparkling colors.” The photos show Jessica enjoying her vacation. Jessica is wearing a bra top and black slacks, drawing attention. Meanwhile, Jessica recently appeared on the girl group re-debut survival program, “Seungpungparang Jeokjeojeo” season 3 and placed 2nd. Reporter Choi Yoon-na, Donga.com yyynnn@donga.com

J-Hope‘s Back-to-Back Home Runs with ’Mona Lisa‘ ‘Reckless Rampage Mode’

‘Announcement Syndrome’ J-Hope is capable of it. Even before the craze for his comeback song ‘Sweet Dreams’ has died down, J-Hope is showing ‘Merciless’ runaway mode with his follow-up song ‘Mona Lisa’. J-Hope‘s new song ‘Mona Lisa’, released on the 21st (Korean time), is quickly taking over various global popularity charts. iTunes, the representative platform for popular music around the world, is a representative example. ‘Mona Lisa’ (MONA LISA) topped the iTunes ‘Top Song’ charts in 67 countries and regions, including France and Japan, starting from the morning of the 22nd, the day after its release. As a result, ‘Mona Lisa’ also rose to the top of the ‘World Wide iTunes Song’, which is also a global integrated chart. J-Hope’s previously released comeback song, ‘Sweet Dreams’, is showing off its potential as a mega hit song by entering the ‘Weekly Top Song Global’ Top 100 on Spotify, another global pop music platform. Following ‘Sweet Dreams’, and with the consecutive release of new

Oneus Seoho releases solo single ‘Hatchling’ today (23rd)

ONEUS member Seoho is lending his voice of support to those about to make a new beginning. Seoho will release his first solo single, ‘Hatchling’, through various music sites at 6 p.m. today (the 23rd). ‘Hatchling’ is a refreshing and exciting emo genre song inspired by the hearts of small creatures that have just hatched from eggs. Seoho‘s signature refreshing vocals are pleasantly incorporated into the melody, and it is expected to deliver warm hope to everyone who is facing small fears about to make a new beginning. The music video that will be released along with the song is expected to humorously portray Seoho’s adventures as he wants to be free, raising expectations. ‘Hatchling’ is Seoho‘s first solo song since his debut, and it holds even more meaning to both Seoho and TuMoon (fandom name). In particular, Seoho is known to have shown special affection for Tumun, such as completing the recording before enlistment in order to give him a surprise gift. Seoho’s message to those who a

Liberante Jinwon and Noh Hyunwoo “I want to collaborate with Day6…I dream of a new company and a world tour” [Photoshoot]

Liberante Jinwon and Noh Hyunwoo have completed a legendary duet pictorial through the April issue of @star1. In this pictorial, the two showed off their improved visuals, professional expressions, and poses, drawing praise from the on-site staff. The two are from the same group, same university, same department, and same grade. Jinwon and Noh Hyunwoo, who are inseparable, expressed their sincere affection for each other in this interview. First, Noh Hyunwoo said about Jinwon, “If there is a good hyung textbook, it would be Won hyung,” and “He is dependable but also cheerful, so I really rely on him a lot as the youngest member of the team.” Jinwon also expressed his trust in Noh Hyunwoo. He said, “He is a reliable and dependable younger brother. Sometimes, he is like an older brother. He emphasized his strong presence, saying, “I don’t know how much strength it gives me when I stand on stage with someone I trust.” Noh Hyun-woo is a legendary student who was accepted into Yonsei Univer

Zero Base One, a mature youth… Japanese magazine cover decoration [Photoshoot]

The group ZEROBASEONE has been featured on the covers of famous Japanese magazines one after another. Anan revealed the cover image of the special edition of ‘anan 2441’ featuring ZEROBASEONE (Sung Hanbin, Kim Jiwoong, Jang Hao, Seok Matthew, Kim Taerae, Ricky, Kim Kyubin, Park Gunwook, Han Yujin) through their official SNS. The members of ZEROBASEONE on the cover show off their chic and cool youth with more mature visuals. The dandy suit style that shows off each member‘s individuality makes their individual charms stand out even more. In particular, it is said that the nine members approached the pictorial shoot with a professional attitude in order to produce a high-quality result, drawing admiration from the on-site staff. An interview was also conducted along with the pictorial. The interview is expected to include stories on various topics, including behind-the-scenes stories about the production of Zero Base One’s first Japanese EP, ‘PREZENT’, the bond between the members, and t

Kiki, Official Debut ‘Uncut Gem’ 3 Points to Look Forward to

The new group KiiiKiii (Kiki/Jiu, Lee Sol, Sui, Haeum, Kiya) will release their first mini-album ‘UNCUT GEM’ on the 24th at 6 PM. Previously, on the 16th of last month, Kiki began a differentiated teasing promotion and pre-released the title song ‘I DO ME’. The ‘I DO ME’ music video, which contains Kiki‘s unconventional charm, rose to the top of the domestic YouTube trending videos within 12 hours and maintained the top spot on the trending music videos for 4 consecutive days. It spread its influence domestically and internationally, rising to the top of QQ Music and Line Music charts and being featured in The Hollywood Reporter in the United States. Kiki also wrapped up her promotions by showing off her unique concept digestion and stage presence on various music show stages, displaying moves befitting a ‘monster rookie’. In addition, they were featured on the cover of 10 Magazine USA, the first K-pop group to do so before their official debut, as well as in domestic fashion magazines

Oneus Seoho, Sensational Visual Concept Photos Revealed

Group ONEUS member Seoho has revealed the third concept photos for his solo single ‘Hatchling’. In the photos, Seoho shows off his trendy charm with casual denim styling. With photogenic poses and facial expressions, he has shown a charm that is 180 degrees different from the concept photos he has shown so far, raising expectations. ‘Hatchling’ is Seoho‘s first solo song since his debut. With the motif of the heart of a small creature that has just hatched from an egg, he plans to deliver a warm message of hope and support to everyone who is facing small fears ahead of a new beginning this spring. Seoho’s solo single ‘Hatchling’ will be released on various music sites at 6 p.m. on the 23rd. Reporter Jeon Hyo-jin, Donga.com jhj@donga.com

‘Debut’ New Beat, Intense Energy Completed with Lee Hyo-ri and BTS Photographer

The group NEWBEAT (Park Min-seok, Hong Min-seong, Jeon Yeo-yeo-jeong, Choi Seo-hyun, Kim Tae-yang, Jo Yoon-hoo, Kim Li-woo) has released the group concept photos for their title song ‘Flip the Coin’ from their first regular album ‘RAW AND RAD’. In the photos, NEWBEAT is wearing kitschy outfits and showing off a free-spirited vibe. The intense energy of the members, who stare at the camera with eyes that are nonchalant yet charismatic, evokes admiration. NEWBEAT‘s unique aura that seems to break through the screen also made fans’ hearts flutter. In addition, another world unfolds above the space where NEWBEAT is standing, stimulating curiosity about the album concept. Photographer Jang Deok-hwa, who has worked with famous artists such as Lee Hyo-ri and BTS, participated in the concept photos to complete NEWBEAT‘s unique charm. ‘RAW AND RAD’ is an album that contains the spirit of boys who are not afraid of failure and constantly take on challenges. New Beat will portray the story of the

Xdinary Heroes, Rich Music Genres… Highlight Sampler Released

The band Xdinary Heroes (XH) has released a highlight sampler video containing excerpts from all seven tracks included in their new album, ‘Beautiful Mind’. Starting with track 1, ‘FIGHT ME’, the video goes on to highlight sections from seven tracks, including the title track, ‘Beautiful Life’, ‘more than i like’, ‘Diamond’, ‘Supernatural’, ‘George the Lobster’, and ‘BBB (Bitter But Better)’. They expressed the mood of each song and showed the musical synergy of a free-spirited rock band. Xdinary Heroes participated in the production of all the songs included in the new album ‘Beautiful Mind’, completing their own music that is the most beautiful and special. Recently, Xdinary Heroes announced a new world tour and participated in famous overseas music festivals.

Solar, the magic of love… ‘WANT’ preview released

MAMAMOO member Solar has revealed a secret preview of her second single, ‘WANT’. In the video, Solar appears as the main character, ‘Secret Partner’. As Solar takes off the hotel sign that says ‘WANT’, the sign soon turns into a hairpin. Solar‘s confident attitude can be felt as she smiles brightly at the camera with the hairpin in her. ‘WANT’ is Solar’s second single, and it depicts the moment when love begins with a pink mood full of excitement. With Solar‘s signature cheerful and confident charm, she will be active as a ‘Secret Partner’, instilling confidence in those who are hesitant about love. Solar’s second single ‘WANT’ will be released on various music sites at 6 p.m. on April 2. Jeon Hyo-jin, Donga.com reporter jhj@donga.com

Daesung, First Appearance at KCON… Additional Lineup for ‘KCON JAPAN 2025’ in May Revealed

CJ ENM‘s K-POP fan & artist festival ‘KCON JAPAN 2025’ has announced the lineup of ‘SHOWCASE’, which will be KCON’s new signature content, along with news of additional artists joining. ‘KCON JAPAN 2025’, to be held at Makuhari Messe, Chiba, Japan from May 9 to 11, has announced the special lineup appearance of K-POP legend artist DAESUNG. As a member of group BIGBANG, DAESUNG is loved as an artist with both unique vocals and stage manners, as well as wit and talent in various fields, and this will be his first KCON appearance. Daesung, who has already been receiving a lot of attention since announcing his solo comeback after a year and is about to release his first mini-album ‘D’s WAVE‘ and hold an Asia tour in April, will once again perform a legendary stage in Japan following his live tour ’D’s IS ME‘ that captivated 10 cities in Japan last year.

Lucy, ‘Wajangchang’ concept photo released… Pre-released song ‘Jamkke’ to be released on the 27th

Lucy, ‘Wajangchang’ concept photo revealed… Pre-released song ‘Jamkkae’ to be released on the 27th The band Lucy has released the first concept photo for their 6th mini album ‘Wajangchang’. In the photo released on the 21st, Lucy is wearing pajamas that match the concept of the pre-released song ‘Jamkkae’, showing off perfect visuals. While leaning on high mattresses, Shin Ye-chan and Choi Sang-yeop caught the attention with their bright expressions, while Jo Won-sang showed off a playful facial expression as if he was holding back sleepiness against the office background. Along with the news of her comeback on April 23, Lucy is sequentially revealing teasing contents such as the signature logo film and release schedule for her 6th mini album‘s first title track, ‘Sleep’, showing off her cheerful yet kitschy charm. Lucy will release her 6th mini album ‘Wajangchang’ through various music sites on April 23 at 6 PM, and will pre-release her first title track ‘Sleep’ on March 27. Meanwhile

Band Nell to hold solo concert in May

Band Nell to hold solo concert in May Band Nell will be holding their first solo concert of the year in May. Nell will be holding NELL’S SEASON 2025 ‘Acoustic Concert’ (Nell‘s Season 2025 Acoustic Concert, hereinafter referred to as ‘Steel Sunset’) for a total of 7 times from May 2nd to 11th at the Universal Arts Center in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul. ‘Steel Sunset’ is an acoustic performance being presented for the first time in 7 years since 2018. Nell’s acoustic concert is one of the most anticipated performances among music fans along with their signature performance, ‘NELL’S ROOM’. Under the theme of ‘Between spring and summer, our season that stays on the border’, this performance will present existing songs in a new way with acoustic arrangements that contain Nell‘s delicate sensibility. Last year, Nell actively interacted with fans through various festivals, domestic and regional tours, and overseas performances. They plan to continue their colorful activities this year as well.