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All Things K-pop and Beyond

  • OT7 is Back in the Booth: BTS’s New Album Era Has Begun!

    We’re still reeling from the unforgettable moment that unfolded recently: after a break of nearly two years due to their military enlistment, BTS had their first OT7 live together as a complete group on the 1st of July 2025. This historic reunion wasn’t just a glimpse of the past; it was a powerful statement about their future, marking the beginning of a new chapter for BTS and ARMY.

    The live broadcast itself was an emotional rollercoaster of pure euphoria. Seeing all the members together again, sharing laughter, familiar banters, and that undeniable synergy, was the ultimate reunion gift we had all been longing for. It was a tangible testament to their unbreakable bond and the magic that only comes when all seven are united.

    During this highly anticipated live appearance, the members didn’t just reconnect with fans; they dropped an exciting announcement that struck the fandom. They officially confirmed what we’ve all been dreaming of: a brand-new album and a highly anticipated world tour are firmly in the works!

    Our leader, RM, shared insights into their immediate plans, revealing that several members have already gone to or are currently in Los Angeles, USA, working intensely on the upcoming album. This immediate dive back into the studio post-discharge says a lot about their passion for music and their dedication to delivering new art. While details about the album’s concept remain under wraps, the mere thought of new BTS music is enough to send shivers of excitement down our spines.

    And for the timeline? While keeping expectations grounded, RM provided a hopeful target: they are aiming to release the new album next Spring 2026. This provides us with a clear view to look forward to, promising what is undoubtedly going to be another groundbreaking release. The confirmation of a tour alongside the album release further cemented the promise of more unforgettable moments with BTS on stages around the world.

    This full OT7 live appearance was more than just an announcement; it was a powerful reaffirmation of BTS’s enduring presence and their future as a group. It was a moment of collective joy, relief, and renewed hope for millions of fans worldwide. The pieces are now firmly in place, and the path to seeing all seven members perform new songs on a global stage is clearer and more exciting than ever.

    Reflecting on that incredible live, what was your favorite moment? And what kind of sound are you hoping for in this new album? Share your excitement in the comments below!

  • BLACKPINK’s ‘DEADLINE’: A pink ocean in Goyang!

    After much anticipation, global superstars BLACKPINK officially kicked off their “DEADLINE” concert series in Goyang, with electrifying shows on July 5th and 6th at Goyang Stadium. The concerts marked their awaited return to the stage as a full group, featuring a mix of their iconic hits and the live debut of a brand-new track, “JUMP”. However, this highly anticipated comeback has been met with a spectrum of reactions from their fans.

    The energy inside Goyang Stadium was undeniably palpable as BLACKPINK graced the stage. The extensive setlist, spanning multiple acts dedicated to the group and individual members, showcased their powerful discography. Fans were thrilled to hear classics like “Kill This Love,” “Pink Venom,” “How You Like That,” “Playing With Fire,” and “Shut Down” (which included a dance break incorporating “Crazy Over You” and “Typa Girl”).

    The concert also featured impressive individual member stage performances:

    • Jisoo performed “earthquake” and “Your Love”.
    • Lisa electrified the crowd with “New Woman” and “Rockstar”.
    • Jennie delivered a powerhouse solo with “Mantra,” “with the IE (way up),” and “like JENNIE”.
    • Rosé opened her segment with “3am,” followed by “toxic till the end” and the soaring “APT.”.

    The group acts continued with “Pretty Savage,” “Don’t Know What to Do,” “Whistle,” “Stay” (acoustic), and “Lovesick Girls” (with an extended outro). The finale saw the live debut of their brand-new track “JUMP,” followed by fan favorites such as “BOOMBAYAH,” “DDU-DU DDU-DU,” “As If It’s Your Last,” and “Forever Young.” The encore included a “JUMP” reprise, and “See U Later” (extended outro), with Day 2 also adding “Really”.

    However, the excitement of their return has been notably tempered by criticisms from a segment of the fanbase. Many fans expressed frustration over the perceived lack of a full album, feeling that a single new song after a significant hiatus was insufficient. A prominent point of contention was the perceived similarity of the “DEADLINE” concert to their previous “Born Pink” tour, with some fans noting the setlist felt repetitive and the remixes underwhelming.

    Furthermore, the newly released lightstick also faced criticism for being too similar to the previous version, with some fans feeling it lacked significant updates or innovation. This, coupled with the perceived repetition in the concert format and the limited new music, led some to label the entire comeback strategy as a “money grab”.

    Despite these mixed reactions, there’s no denying BLACKPINK’s enduring power and captivating stage presence. The “DEADLINE” concert marks their official re-entry into the performance scene. As the tour continues to cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, Toronto, Paris, London, and many more, it will be interesting to see how these initial fan sentiments evolve and what future plans BLACKPINK and YG Entertainment have in store.

    What are your thoughts on the “DEADLINE” kick-off and the fan reactions? Let us know in the comments below!

  • #RUNSEOKJIN_EP.TOUR Kicks Off in Goyang! as The Astronaut Lands

    Kim Seok-jin, also well known as WWH has officially kicked off his highly anticipated solo tour, “#RUNSEOKJIN_EP.TOUR,” with two unforgettable nights in Goyang, held yesterday (Day 01, June 28th) and today (Day 02, June 29th).

    The atmosphere at the Kintex Exhibition Center was absolutely electric, burning with pure joy and the warm glow of ARMY bombs. Fans filled the venue, ready to welcome back our eldest hyung to the stage, and Jin did not disappoint. He graced us with phenomenal performances, including beloved solo tracks like “Awake,” “Epiphany,” and of course, the vibrant “The Astronaut.” In addition to his collaboration with Wendy on the song “Heart on the Window” and adding more spark, he even performed. Beyond his solo works, his performances of iconic BTS songs, such as “Spring Day” and “Dynamite,” were met with thunderous applause. It was a beautiful moment for fans to hear these beloved tracks delivered with Jin’s distinctive voice and charm, reigniting that irreplaceable group energy. As each song was delivered with his signature powerful vocals and heartfelt emotion, it reminded us all just how much we missed his stage presence.

    Adding more color to the opening night was seeing his supportive brother’s appearance, making it extra special.

    On Day 01 (June 28th), the crowd erupted as RM, V, and J-Hope surprised everyone by arriving to support their only hyung. Tonight, Day 02 (June 29th), the excitement continued with SUGA, Jimin, and Jungkook making their presence and endless support felt. Seeing these recently discharged members there to cheer on Jin just solidified the unbreakable bond of BTS and added another layer of emotional significance to the concert.

    The pure joy of witnessing these reunions, even if brief, highlights the unique camaraderie that defines BTS. It’s moments like these that remind us why this group means so much to us.

    These two nights in Goyang were just the beginning! Jin’s “#RUNSEOKJIN_EP.TOUR” is set to continue bringing his music and charm to ARMYs around the world. Be sure to keep an eye out for his upcoming stops in CHIBA , OSAKA, ANAHEIM, DALLAS, TAMPA, NEWARK, LONDON and finally AMSTERDAM.

    What was your favorite moment from Jin’s kick-off concert? Share your excitement in the comments!

  • FESTA 2025: The Reunion We’ve Dreamed Of!

    ARMY, how are we all recovering from FESTA 2025?! While June 13th is always a date marked with purple pride in our calendars, this year’s anniversary felt profoundly special – perhaps the most anticipated in a long time. And it’s all thanks to a moment that truly brought us to tears: the unofficial, yet utterly magical, full group reunion!

    After nearly two years, the wait for all seven members to be together again felt endless. But this FESTA delivered a glimpse of that dream becoming reality. The highlight that stole all our hearts was undoubtedly J-Hope’s “Hope On The Street” finale on Day 1.

    The energy was already electric for Hobi’s grand performance, but when Jin and Jungkook graced the stage with him, performing together, it was pure euphoria. More than just their incredible stage presence, it was the sight of the rest of the members – RM, V, Jimin, and even a pre-discharge Suga – present and cheering on their brothers, that made this FESTA truly special.

    For the first time in what felt like forever, we got to witness all seven of them in the same space, laughing, supporting, and simply being themselves. It was a powerful, emotional, and long-awaited moment that resonated deeply with every single ARMY. This wasn’t just an anniversary celebration; it was a beautiful prelude to the full comeback we are all so desperately yearning for.

    This year’s FESTA has undeniably become one of the most special anniversaries in FESTA history. What was your favorite moment from FESTA 2025? Share your thoughts below!

  • Closer to Seven: Jimin and Jungkook Return Home!

    Today, June 11th, 2025, is another Special day for BTS and ARMY! We are absolutely thrilled to welcome back two more beloved members: our talented vocalist Jimin and our Golden Maknae Jungkook, as they officially complete their mandatory military service.

    The joy radiating from their return is spectacular. With RM and V having just been discharged yesterday, and Jin and J-Hope already back, the energy amongst fans is at an all-time high. Each return brings us closer to the much-anticipated day when all seven members will be standing together as seven again.

    This wave of excitement is perfectly timed with the ongoing BTS FESTA celebrations, leading up to their debut anniversary on June 13th. While we dive deeper into all the FESTA goodies already given, and also the ones in the process, soon the spirit of reunion and new beginnings is undeniably intertwined with these joyous homecomings.

    The anticipation for the full group reunion is now more real than ever. With Jimin and Jungkook back, only one member remains to complete his service. Our genius producer and rapper, SUGA, is set to return on June 21st, which will officially mark the full comeback of all seven members. Just thinking about that moment sends chills down our spines, realizing how fast time passed as we watched them take their leave to the military in 2023, to see them come out in 2025

    Today, let’s just soak in the happiness of seeing Jimin and Jungkook safely back. Their unique talents and charming personalities have been deeply missed, and we can’t wait to see what they’ll bring next, as the countdown to seven continues, the future has never looked brighter.

  • A Welcomed Return: RM and V Complete Service

    Today, June 10th, represents a crucial event for ARMYs around the world! The air is buzzing with uncontrolled joy as we officially welcome back two more cherished members of BTS: our leader, RM, and V, who have both successfully completed their mandatory military service.

    The wait has been long, but at last, the excitement has grown into a mass celebration.. Across South Korea, the excitement is palpable, and the country is quite literally lighting up in purple! From cityscapes subtly bathed in the iconic BORA color, to buses adorned with welcoming posters, and banners declaring their return, the collective joy for RM and V’s discharge is impossible to miss. It’s a beautiful, vivid expression of the deep connection between BTS and their fans, and a heartwarming sight for anyone witnessing it.

    Their return brings us another significant step closer to the highly anticipated full reunion of all seven members. Having already welcomed back Jin and J-Hope, whose recent appearances have already filled our hearts with immense joy and laughter, the homecoming of RM and V means four of our seven stars are now back with us.

    The energy this creates is incredible, and it sets the stage for even more exciting times ahead. We’re now looking forward to the discharge of Jimin and Jungkook tomorrow, June 11th, followed by Suga on June 21st. Each release is an essential piece, building towards that unforgettable day when all seven members stand together once more.

    This period, especially with BTS FESTA 2025 already in full swing, feels like a grand prelude to the next era for BTS that awaits. The individual growth and experiences of each member during their service will undoubtedly enrich their artistry, and we can’t wait to see what new masterpieces they’ll create together. Let’s continue to color the world in purple and celebrate the incredible journey of BTS and ARMY.

    What are your first thoughts and feelings seeing RM and V back? Share your excitement and welcome messages in the comments below!

  • It’s BANGTAN Month! Kicking Off FESTA 2025 with 2seok and a Full Schedule!

    It’s officially here, ARMY! The most anticipated time of the year has arrived – It’s BTS month! and with it comes the highly anticipated BTS FESTA 2025! As we get ready to celebrate another incredible anniversary with our beloved seven, the excitement is already through the roof.

    호석진 Photo (Classic ver.)

    And what a way to kick things off! Our incredible 2seok (Jin and J-Hope) have officially completed their military service and are already blessing us with content. Seeing their familiar faces and knowing they’re back with us adds an extra layer of joy to this year’s festivities. Their return is a huge milestone, and it truly feels like the beginning of a new chapter.

    But the good news doesn’t stop there! Sticking to FESTA tradition, Big Hit Music has delivered the ultimate gift on Weverse: the official FESTA 2025 schedule! You know what that means – a full month of surprises, exclusive content, and heartwarming moments leading up to the grand anniversary. We’ve all been eagerly awaiting this “What’s to Come” roadmap, and it looks like it’s going to be a truly unforgettable celebration.

    호석진 Photo (Concept Switch ver.)

    From new photo collections with different concepts to glimpses of behind-the-scenes footage, the anticipation is building. This schedule is our official countdown, and we’re ready to soak in every single moment that BTS has prepared for us.

    So, let the FESTA celebrations begin! Let’s cherish the return of the members, dive into every piece of content, and make this BTS Month the most memorable one yet. What are you most excited about in this year’s FESTA? Let us know in the comments below!

  • RM Makes History at the AMAs: A Solo Win for the Record Books

    What a week for ARMYs! As the D-30 countdown to BTS’s full reunion continues, a massive piece of news just dropped, reminding us of the immense individual talent within the group: RM has officially won “Favorite K-Pop Artist” at the 2025 American Music Awards!

    This incredible win is a huge milestone, not just for RM, but for K-pop as a whole. To secure such a prominent award from a major U.S. music show while actively fulfilling his military service is simply outstanding. It speaks volumes about the lasting resonance of his music and the unwavering dedication of ARMY.

    RM’s second solo album, Right Place, Wrong Person, released in May 2024, has been praised by critics for its raw honesty, experimental sound, and profound lyricism. The album showcased a more vulnerable and thoughtful side of RM, firmly establishing his unique voice outside of the group dynamic. This AMA win is a direct acknowledgment of that artistic boldness and the global appeal of his individual sound.

    He was nominated alongside artists like fellow BTS member Jimin, ATEEZ, Rosé of BLACKPINK, and Stray Kids. This win solidifies RM’s position as a standalone force in the global music scene, proving that his influence extends far beyond the K-pop group format.

    As we count down the final days to his military discharge on June 10th – part of the exciting D-30 countdown to BTS’s full reunion – this AMA win serves as a powerful reminder of the immense talent returning to the music world.

  • D-30 and Counting: The Final Countdown to BTS’s Full Reunion Has Begun!

    The air among ARMYs is practically buzzing with excitement and joy. The highly awaited countdown has officially begun, marked by BTS leader RM himself: “D-30.” This isn’t just about a calendar date; it’s the thrilling final sprint towards the full reunion of the seven members of BTS, the moment we eagerly anticipated for almost two years since their temporary pause for individual pursuits and mandatory military service.

    The journey towards this grand reunion has been marked by both absence and incredible growth. The eldest member, Jin, was the first to return in June 2024, greeted with an outpouring of love. He wasted no time re-engaging with his music, recently releasing his deeply personal album “Echo” and embarking on his first solo tour, “RUN SEOKJIN EP. TOUR,” a testament to his immediate desire to reconnect with fans through his art. J-Hope followed, completing his service in October 2024. He also quickly re-immersed himself, sharing his captivating “HOPE ON THE STREET Vol. 1” album and documentary, and lighting up stages with his “HOPE ON THE STAGE” tour. Both members’ successful transitions back into the spotlight have reinforced the boundless talent and dedication of BTS’s individual artists.

    Now, the spotlight shifts to the five remaining members, whose discharge dates are just around the corner, making the “D-30” countdown a beacon of hope for fans.

    • RM and V are set to complete their service on June 10, 2025.
    • Jimin and Jungkook will follow closely on June 11, 2025.
    • Finally, Suga will complete his social service on June 21, 2025, marking the official return of all seven members.

    And even during their enlistment, these members haven’t been inactive, further keeping their status as global powerhouses with impactful solo outcomes:

    • RM delivered the critically acclaimed album Right Place, Wrong Person in May 2024, showcasing his profound lyricism and diverse musicality. He also recently released his collaboration with Daniel Armand Lee, better known by his stage name Tablo, giving us “Stop the Rain” in May 2025, continuing his boundary-pushing artistry.
    • V captivated with his soulful solo debut album Layover in September 2023, and later charming fans with singles like “FRI(END)S” (March 2024) and “Winter Ahead” (November 2024), while also making strides in acting and fashion.
    • Jimin made a strong impression with his album FACE in March 2023, and is set to release his highly anticipated second solo album, MUSE, in July 2024, preceded by the pre-release track “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band” in June 2024.
    • Jungkook exploded onto the solo scene with his record-breaking album Golden in November 2023, featuring global hits like “Seven” and “3D.” He also has a new single, “Never Let Go,” released in July 2024, promising more of his golden touch.
    • Suga, serving as a social service agent due to a shoulder injury, released his powerful D-DAY album in April 2023 and embarked on a groundbreaking solo tour as Agust D, becoming the first BTS member to do so. His popular talk show Suchwita also provided a cherished connection for fans throughout his service.

    The excitement that overlays the ARMY fandom is real. What does a full BTS reunion mean? It means seeing their unparalleled synergy back on stage, hearing new group music that promises to push boundaries, breaking records, and witnessing the return of their collective dynamic that has captured hearts worldwide. While HYBE has hinted that a full group comeback and tour will require preparation time, the sheer joy of having all seven members back in the same space, creating, collaborating, and simply being together, is the ultimate milestone.

    The “D-30” countdown isn’t just about dates; it’s a living timer to the beginning of BTS’s next monumental chapter. The individual successes of RM, JIN, SUGA, J-HOPE, JIMIN, V, and JUNGKOOK have shone brightly during this period, but the anticipation for their collective light to once again illuminate the global stadiums is truly overwhelming. The wait has been long, but the promise of OT7 together again makes every passing day a step closer to a dream realized.

    What are your thoughts and hopes for the highly anticipated 7 Again reunion? Share your thoughts and excitement in the comments below! We would love to hear what “D-30” means to you!

  • ITZY’s Back as Five! Anticipating Their June 2025 Comeback “Girls Will Be Girls”

    Get ready, MIDZY! The news you’ve been eagerly awaiting is finally here: ITZY is officially set to make their highly anticipated comeback in June 2025 with their new album, “Girls Will Be Girls,” dropping on June 9th! This announcement marks a significant moment for the beloved K-pop lovers, signaling the members’ return to the music scene as a complete five-member group, signaling a powerful and new chapter for the dynamic girl group.

    While the members haven’t been completely out of the spotlight, this period has seen them explore individual lanes, showcasing their diverse talents. Notably, leader Yeji captivated fans with her solo debut album “AIR” in February 2025, demonstrating her individual artistry. Other members have also graced various fashion events and collaborations, keeping their presence felt within the industry.

    “Girls Will Be Girls” Trailer clips

    However, the upcoming June comeback holds a special weight as it marks Lia’s return to a full group release. Following a hiatus that began in September 2023 due to health concerns, Lia officially resumed group activities in July 2024, She rejoined her fellow members by appearing at their 5th-anniversary celebrations. Even though her absence was deeply felt during the “Born to Be” comeback in January 2024 and the following world tour marks her participation in this upcoming release, bringing moments of immense joy and anticipation for MIDZY worldwide.

    The title of their new album, “Girls Will Be Girls,” sparks curiosity. Known for their confident and empowering anthems, this title could hint at a continuation of these themes, perhaps with a more mature or subtle perspective. It will be fascinating to see what concept, sound, and visual aesthetic ITZY will unveil with this comeback.

    The brief glimpses of the new music have also been a major talking point. While only short segments have been revealed, the sonic direction appears to be a blend of ITZY’s signature energetic sound with potentially a more mature or fine undertone, perfectly aligning with the album’s title.

    “Girls Will Be Girls” Trailer clips

    Beyond the immediate excitement, the trailer has also become a fruitful ground for fan theories. Keen-eyed MIDZY are meticulously analyzing every detail – from subtle symbolism in the visuals to potential connections to ITZY’s previous music videos and concepts. Rumors are swirling about potential storylines within the music video, possible hidden meanings in the lyrics hinted at, suggesting a deeper, more corresponding narrative.

    The return of ITZY as five for their “Girls Will Be Girls” comeback in June 2025 is more than just a new album release; it’s a celebration of their bond, their strength, and their unwavering connection with MIDZY. Get ready for a powerful new chapter from ITZY – the wait is almost over! What are you most excited to see and hear from their upcoming comeback? Share your thoughts with fellow MIDZY!