The popular K-pop group SHINee (샤이니) is set to return with their seventh solo concert titled ‘SHINee WORLD Ⅶ [E.S.S.A.Y] (Every Stage Shines Around You)’. This exciting event will take place from May 23 to May 25 at the KSPO DOME in Olympic Park, Seoul. Fans can look forward to a vibrant showcase of SHINee's diverse music and performances.

All four members—Onew (온유), Key (키), Minho (민호), and Taemin (태민)—will participate in this concert, making it a significant occasion as it coincides with the group's 17th debut anniversary. Following their 15th anniversary fan meeting in 2023 and the encore of their sixth solo concert in 2024, SHINee plans to celebrate their debut date (May 25) with their official fandom, SHINee World (샤이니월드).

Ticket sales for the concert will be handled through Melon Ticket, with fan club pre-sales starting on March 18 at 8 PM and general sales opening on March 20 at 8 PM.

As SHINee marks their 17th year in the industry, they continue to be recognized for their unique musical style, earning them the title of the 'Edge of K-pop' and maintaining a strong, devoted fanbase worldwide.

SHINee Announces Their 7th Solo Concert: SHINee WORLD Ⅶ [E.S.S.A.Y]

Hoshi and Woozi, the dynamic duo from SEVENTEEN, are set to release their first single album titled 'BEAM' today, March 10, at 6 PM KST. The title track, '동갑내기' (Same Age Friends), along with all other songs on the album, showcases their collaborative efforts. The two members aim to represent the '96 line with originality and self-love in this new project.

Teasers for the '동갑내기' music video, released on March 8 and 9, have heightened anticipation for their performance, featuring catchy lyrics like "Wait a minute, Hoo's here" and "Let's do it like us, Same Age Friends." The playful choreography, including high-fives and arm-crossing, highlights their genuine friendship.

In a recent interview with their agency, Pledis Entertainment, Hoshi and Woozi shared their thoughts on the album.

**Q: How do you feel about releasing 'BEAM'?**  
**Hoshi:** I've always been close to Woozi since we were kids. I've dreamed of doing unit activities together, and I'm excited to finally share 'BEAM' with everyone. We poured our hearts into the music, and we plan to enjoy the stage.
  
**Woozi:** I'm thrilled to release new music with my best friend. We had a lot of fun working on it, and I believe we've created an honest album.

**Q: What about the title track '동갑내기'?**  
**Hoshi:** I think it's a song that truly represents us! Woozi and I love to dance and have fun whenever we hear a song we like. We approached the new tracks with a genuine love for music.

**Q: How was the collaboration with So!YoON! on the track 'PINOCCHIO'?**  
**Woozi:** When we were working on 'PINOCCHIO (feat. So!YoON!)', I thought it would be great to have a talented female vocalist. I reached out to So!YoON!, and she was quick to agree. I'm really grateful for her participation.

**Q: What new aspects did you discover about each other during the making of 'BEAM'?**  
**Hoshi:** Woozi's producing skills are well-known, but he's also an amazing dancer, a true 'multi-talented idol'! I want to showcase a more free and enjoyable side of myself this time, different from my previous work with the group.
  
**Woozi:** We've known each other for so long that it's hard to discover new sides. However, I always strive to do my best, even if I don't think I have anything particularly unique to show.

**Q: What do you think you did well on 'BEAM'?**  
**Hoshi:** I'm really happy with how the jacket photos turned out. Thanks to the amazing staff for capturing great shots. I think I look good! ♥
  
**Woozi:** I think we can commend ourselves for how much fun we had working on it. Since it's an album with my best friend, I hope it leaves us with great memories.

**Q: What qualities of each other have positively influenced you?**  
**Hoshi:** Woozi's dedication to whatever he focuses on and his wise, sometimes cold decision-making inspire me.
  
**Woozi:** Hoshi is closely associated with the word 'superstar' for me. His passion is a significant driving force in my life.

**Q: Have there been experiences that helped you love or believe in yourself more since your trainee days?**  
**Hoshi:** It's definitely our fans, CARAT. They believe in and love me more than I do myself, which gives me strength to move forward.
  
**Woozi:** When the members express that they need me, I feel valued and that gives me a sense of light (BEAM) within myself.

**Q: How did the other SEVENTEEN members react to 'BEAM'?**  
**Hoshi:** I played the new songs for the members beforehand, and they all loved it, saying it exceeded their expectations. They encouraged me to go out and rock the stage.

**Q: Any message for CARATs waiting for 'BEAM'?**  
**Hoshi:** We want to shine back the light you've given us. We hope our music and performances bring you happiness. Please support us during the 'BEAM' activities.
  
**Woozi:** CARATs, I wish you all health and happiness! ♥

세븐틴 호시X우지, 96라인 오늘 출격 “우리다운 노래 담았다”[일문일답]

SEVENTEEN's Hoshi and Woozi Release Their First Single 'BEAM'

On March 9, fans were taken aback by a video posted on Jennie's official Instagram, showcasing her performance from 'The Ruby Experience' concert held in Los Angeles two days prior. The video featured Jennie in a variety of outfits, some of which were quite revealing. 

One standout piece was a white sheer jumpsuit with a daring cut that extended down to her navel, leaving little to the imagination when she bent over. Footage from the concert showed her adjusting her outfit frequently, indicating the challenges of wearing such a bold ensemble. Additionally, her bottoms were notably short, resembling underwear. 

The reactions to her outfits were mixed. While some international fans expressed excitement over her daring fashion choices, others, particularly those nostalgic for her BLACKPINK days, were less enthusiastic about the excessive exposure. 

This performance coincided with the release of her first solo album, 'Ruby,' which debuted on March 7. The album features 15 tracks across various genres, including the title track 'like JENNIE,' and showcases her growth as an artist through her involvement in the album's production. 

Despite the controversy surrounding her fashion, Jennie took to social media to express her gratitude for the support she received during the Los Angeles concert, stating, "I still feel like I'm dreaming about the performance. Thank you for the love and support over the past two days. 'Ruby' is still here." Her confidence in her solo career appears unwavering. 

However, the online discourse continues to buzz, leaving many curious about whether Jennie will overcome the exposure controversy and solidify her status with her first solo album.

"제니 취향이지" vs "속옷 아냐?"..첫 정규인데 노출만 논란 [Oh!쎈 이슈]

Jennie's Bold Fashion Choices Spark Controversy During 'The Ruby Experience' Concert

Song Baek-kyung, a member of the original hip-hop group One Time (원타임), has recently shared updates about his life as a businessman. In the latest episode of KBS2's 'Salim Namja-deul 2' (살림하는 남자들2), hosts Eun Ji-won (은지원) and Baek Ji-young (백지영) were seen discussing potential new segments with the production team. During the meeting, the team reminisced about a previous shoot at Baek Ji-young's house, where she had mentioned fellow artists Lee Jae-jin (이재진) and Kim Jae-deok (김재덕), prompting fans to request their appearances. The production team expressed interest in featuring individuals who have stepped away from the spotlight, noting that many fans are curious about their current lives. Eun Ji-won brought up Adam, the 'original virtual singer,' and when discussing Cool's Lee Jae-hoon (이재훈), Baek Ji-young praised him, saying, 'He was really handsome back in the day, and I'm curious about his house in Jeju.' The conversation also touched on Shin Seung-hoon (신승훈) and other artists like Jinusean (지누) and Y2K's Ko Jae-geun (고재근), with Baek Ji-young suggesting they should gather comments from viewers on YouTube to gauge interest. As the episode concluded, a teaser revealed that Song Baek-kyung would be appearing, where he mentioned, 'I’m not an entertainer anymore; I’m living as a restaurant entrepreneur,' while also working as a voice actor for KBS. He reflected on his past, stating, 'I thought I would be a singer for life, but looking back, I remember the tough times,' adding to the intrigue surrounding his departure from the entertainment industry.

'힙합 원조' 원타임 송백경, 연예계 은퇴→사업가-성우됐다.."평생 가수일줄 알았는데"(살림남2)[핫피플]

One Time's Song Baek-kyung Transitions to Businessman

The K-pop group LE SSERAFIM is poised to reveal their latest musical transformation with the upcoming release of their fifth mini album, 'HOT'. True to their name, which is an anagram of 'I'M FEARLESS', the members—Kim Chaewon, Sakura, Heo Yunjin, Kazuha, and Hong Eunchae—have consistently embraced bold musical directions since their debut with the album 'FEARLESS' in 2022.

LE SSERAFIM's title tracks have been a testament to their adventurous spirit. Their debut song 'FEARLESS' showcased a punk-infused alternative pop sound, followed by the Latin-inspired 'ANTIFRAGILE', and the sampling of the iconic theme from the Western film 'The Good, the Bad and the Ugly' in 'UNFORGIVEN (feat. Nile Rodgers)', highlighting their diverse musical range.

As a group known for their exceptional performances, LE SSERAFIM has also explored various styles. In 'EASY', they embraced old-school hip-hop from the 1980s and 90s, while 'CRAZY' featured the sharp movements of voguing. These fresh challenges have resonated with fans worldwide, earning them widespread acclaim.

The fearless identity of the group will be reflected in 'HOT', which is set to drop on March 14. The title track, also named 'HOT', blends rock and disco elements within a pop framework, alongside tracks that explore genres like nu jazz and Jersey house. A highlight medley released on March 7 revealed a more lyrical and emotional side to their music, raising anticipation for this new chapter.

LE SSERAFIM's mini album 'HOT' will feature five tracks that express a heartfelt dedication to love. Additionally, they will embark on their first world tour, '2025 LE SSERAFIM TOUR 'EASY CRAZY HOT'', connecting with global fans.

르세라핌이 전 세계에서 통하는 이유..한계없는 음악 스펙트럼

LE SSERAFIM Set to Showcase Musical Evolution with New Album 'HOT'

On the March 9 episode of MBC's Good Day (굿데이), chef Ahn Sung-jae shared his inspiring journey with G-Dragon. Ahn, who began his culinary career at the age of 24, recounted how he was motivated by a head chef who received his first Michelin star at 32. "I thought I needed to achieve that before him," Ahn said, explaining that he became a head chef at 30, opened his own restaurant at 34, and earned a Michelin star just a year later at 35. He emphasized the importance of learning from the best in the industry, stating, "When I asked who the top was, I sought them out and worked hard to learn everything. I think that helped me progress faster than others." 

Defconn, a fellow guest, inquired about Ahn's early experiences, to which Ahn admitted, "I did two years of mopping floors. It's not easy to commit to that for two years, but that time laid the foundation for everything I do now." 

In a surprising revelation, G-Dragon shared that he trained for 11 years before debuting, which astonished Ahn. "I spent five years at SM and six years at YG, back when the concept of trainees was still developing. We had no salary. We would go to school, change clothes, clean, and learn while trying not to disturb our seniors during their practice. We practiced in hidden corners, thinking, 'You never know what could happen,'" he recalled.

안성재도 놀란 지드래곤 연습생활..“SM 5년+YG 6년 총 11년 했다” (‘굿데이’)[순간포착]

G-Dragon and Chef Ahn Sung-jae Reflect on Their Journeys on Good Day

In the latest episode of SBS's variety show My Little Old Boy (미운우리새끼), it was revealed that Kim Jong-min's fiancée is a businesswoman with a background in studying abroad. During the broadcast on March 9, Kim Jong-min headed to Hong Eun-dong, located beneath Bukhansan Mountain, where he pulled out a 'house-hunting checklist' sent by his fiancée. Upon seeing this, Shin Dong-yup commented, 'It makes sense since she is a businesswoman; she seems to be more meticulous.' 

The duo then discovered a charming three-story house at the end of a hilly road. Kim Jong-min was impressed by the serene yard and was astonished to find a private swimming pool that offers 24-hour heated water. Everyone expressed their delight, exclaiming, 'This is amazing!' 

They also revealed a cozy living room adjacent to the kitchen. Kim Jong-min affectionately referred to his fiancée as 'Hiyung' and boasted about her cooking skills, showcasing her impressive culinary abilities with dishes like galbijjim (braised short ribs), japchae (stir-fried glass noodles), and miyeok-guk (seaweed soup) that she prepared for his birthday. He noted her proficiency in both Korean and Western cuisines, saying, 'It feels like she has a study abroad vibe,' and mentioned that she indeed studied abroad. 

However, Kim Jong-min humorously added, 'I might want to order food after we get married because it might be tough,' showcasing his affectionate side.

Kim Jong-min's Fiancée Revealed as a Businesswoman with Study Abroad Experience on 'My Little Old Boy'

Seulgi, a member of the popular K-pop group Red Velvet, is set to release her second mini album titled 'Accidentally On Purpose' today, March 10, 2025. The album will be available for streaming on various music platforms starting at 6 PM KST, and fans can also catch the music video for the title track 'Baby, Not Baby' on the SMTOWN YouTube channel.

This new album features a total of six tracks, including the pop dance song 'Baby, Not Baby,' which showcases Seulgi's dynamic artistry with its punk bass and refreshing electric guitar sounds. The album promises to offer a deeper insight into Seulgi's evolving musical style.

In addition to the album release, Seulgi will host a countdown live event on YouTube, TikTok, and Weverse starting at 5 PM KST, allowing her global fans to celebrate her comeback together.

In a recent interview, Seulgi shared her thoughts on the album and her artistic journey:

Q: It’s been about 2 years and 5 months since your first solo album. How do you feel about releasing your second mini album?
- I’m really happy to greet everyone with a solo album after such a long time. I spent a lot of time discussing with the staff how to capture my growth in this album. I hope you enjoy it as much as we enjoyed preparing it.

Q: Can you introduce the title track 'Baby, Not Baby'? Why did you choose it as the title track?
- 'Baby, Not Baby' conveys a message about focusing on my true self rather than conforming to others' expectations of me. When I first heard the music, I felt a strong connection to the character I could portray, and I thought it would be fun to work on, which is why it became the title track.

Q: You’ve taken on a different 'bad girl' styling in the album jacket and music video. How was that experience? Any memorable reactions?
- It was fun to present a look and concept that contrasts with what I've shown in Red Velvet. The character I portray in the album acts outlandishly, which surprised and entertained those around me since it’s something I wouldn’t normally do.

Q: What should fans look out for in the 'Baby, Not Baby' music video? Any memorable moments from the shoot?
- I think every part of the video is a highlight. I hope you notice my lovable yet mischievous side, the changing styles, and the performances with the dancers. The last scene we shot, where I had messy hair and smudged makeup, was particularly memorable because I really got into character and went wild. (laughs)

Q: Seulgi is known for her powerful performances. What did you focus on while preparing for this album's choreography?
- I practiced a lot with the dancers to ensure our movements matched the lyrics and captured the details of the choreography. Since the dance requires strong core stability, I also worked hard on my core exercises.

Q: Besides the title track, which other song would you recommend from the album?
- I recommend 'Praying.' It was the last song I recorded for the album, and I insisted on including it because I felt it was too good to leave out. I love that it showcases my deeper vocal range from low to high notes.

Q: You participated in writing the lyrics for 'Weakness' as well. How was that experience, and what should listeners pay attention to?
- The lyrics came together surprisingly quickly. I wrote several lines that matched the song's sweet mood, and I was thrilled that some of my lyrics were chosen. Sometimes, having feelings for someone can feel like a weakness you don’t want to reveal. I hope listeners think of someone they like while listening.

Q: What are your plans for promoting this album, and what goals do you have?
- I’ve never set limits for myself. I enjoy challenges and find fulfillment in showing new sides of myself. I’m excited to finally share a fun side of Seulgi in this album. I hope it becomes a great gift for my fans, known as 'ReVeluv,' and I want to perform in various places with their support.

Q: Last year was significant for you with Red Velvet's 10th anniversary and starting your YouTube channel. What do you want 2025 to be like?
- I hope 2025 will be a year where I can showcase more great content, starting with this solo album. Personally, I want to take more lessons to develop myself further.

Q: Finally, do you have a message for your global fans who have been waiting for your comeback?
- It’s been a while since I’ve greeted you with a solo album. Thank you for your patience and for all the supportive messages. They have helped me create the music I want to make. I’m grateful for your constant support! I’ll repay you with my performances! Thank you, I love you!

Red Velvet's Seulgi Releases Second Mini Album 'Accidentally On Purpose'

G-Dragon has officially announced his exit from MBC's 'Good Day'. In the episode aired on March 9, the artist was seen passionately working on a music project. He reunited with Jung Hyung-don and Defconn after two months, surprising Jung with a back hug while they were chatting. G-Dragon complimented Jung, who recently lost 21 kg, saying, "You've become quite handsome lately; you look the most like a celebrity I've ever seen."

Jung responded with a smile, saying, "I've decided not to accept that kind of thing from you anymore."

With just 35 days left to complete the project, G-Dragon expressed, "It feels like a great gift to see familiar faces again. I need to create the most important song, but I haven't done it yet. Before meeting everyone, I envisioned a grand and powerful song, but I realized I was too quick to decide on the direction. I had a very rigid image in mind. After meeting the participants and gaining inspiration, I've decided to erase my previous list and redefine the direction for the group song."

He also declared, "I’m stepping back. I didn’t think about myself. It’s a good pressure, but when you say, 'You’ll handle it,' it adds more pressure."

Later, G-Dragon attended Taeyang's solo concert, where he performed alongside Taeyang and Daesung as part of Big Bang. He boldly stated, "I’ve been waiting for you guys. You need to inspire me, you creative geniuses!"

Taeyang responded with a dose of reality, saying, "The song usually comes last. I feel like we’re not there yet," but G-Dragon insisted, "Now that we need to make music, drop your ideas in the group chat one by one."

Taeyang and Daesung began brainstorming, and G-Dragon expressed his satisfaction, saying, "This is why our team is so great. We listen to the music I create and provide immediate feedback."

G-Dragon Announces Departure from 'Good Day'

In a world submerged by a massive flood, a lone black cat discovers an old boat and embarks on a journey with a diverse group of animals, including a Golden Retriever, a capybara, and a snake-eating eagle, all seeking survival. This unique narrative unfolds in the Latvian film 'Flow', directed by 1994-born Gints Zilbalodis, which recently made headlines at the Academy Awards by winning the Oscar for Best Animated Feature, triumphing over major studios like Pixar and DreamWorks. 

With a modest budget of €3.5 million (approximately $3.5 million) and a production team of just over 20 people, 'Flow' has been hailed as a remarkable achievement, especially when compared to the $200 million budget of its competitor, 'Inside Out 2'. The film's success is seen as a potential game-changer for the animation industry. 

The story follows the black cat as it navigates a post-apocalyptic world, reminiscent of Noah's Ark, where it must learn to cooperate with other animals to survive. Viewers experience the beauty of nature through the cat's perspective, exploring a world where only remnants of humanity remain, and nature is reclaiming its space. 

Unlike typical animated films featuring anthropomorphized characters, the animals in 'Flow' behave authentically, with no dialogue throughout its 85-minute runtime. This absence of speech encourages audiences to immerse themselves in the meticulously crafted sounds of nature, such as flowing water, cracking earth, and breaking trees, enhancing the tension and fear experienced by the small creatures. 

The film's innovative production method has also garnered praise, as it was created using the free 3D animation software Blender. While it may not boast the flashy CGI of Disney films, its unique visual style, reminiscent of video game graphics, is distinguished by delicate animal movements and a watercolor-like color palette. 

The black cat, initially fearful of water and struggling to connect with other animals, gradually learns to adapt and grow through its experiences. After winning the Oscar, Zilbalodis expressed gratitude to the Academy, Blender, his parents, and his pets, emphasizing the importance of unity and overcoming differences. 

Watching nature quietly recover without human noise brings a sense of peace, and the ASMR-like sounds may even induce drowsiness. However, surrendering to the flow of water may lead to unexpected discoveries. 'Flow' is suitable for all audiences and is set to be released on March 19.

Latvian Film 'Flow' Wins Oscar for Best Animated Feature

On March 5, at Jeonju Vision University in Jeonju, South Korea, a group of 29 international students from various countries, including Vietnam, Myanmar, and Bangladesh, engaged in hands-on training with precision machining equipment such as lathes and milling machines. This initiative is part of the university's Future Mobility Department, which has expanded its foreign student enrollment from 30 to 120 to address the declining domestic student population. Among the students, 18 are from Vietnam, 10 from Myanmar, and one from Bangladesh, with a total of 10 female students participating. They collaborated in Korean, occasionally mixing in their native languages, to learn how to operate the machinery. One student, 26-year-old Pial from Bangladesh, shared his journey of leaving his studies in physics and chemistry to pursue a career in South Korea, expressing his desire to settle in Jeonju and eventually take the naturalization exam. 

Jeonju Vision University is part of a government initiative aimed at training foreign technical personnel in the root industries, which has led to a significant increase in foreign student enrollment. Students in this program typically spend a year studying Korean before embarking on a two-year curriculum focused on automotive parts and machinery. To support their living expenses, many work part-time jobs in convenience stores and restaurants while attending classes. Upon graduation, they often secure positions in domestic automotive parts companies. 

The number of foreign students in the Future Mobility Department has grown from an initial 30 to 50 in 2023, and 119 last year, with plans to enroll 120 students from countries like Vietnam and Myanmar by the second semester of this year. As the foreign student population increases, the university has also expanded its faculty and training equipment, adding two more professors and increasing the number of lathes and welding machines. Professor Baek Il-hyun noted that as graduation approaches, companies from various regions frequently inquire about hiring graduates, emphasizing the importance of foreign students in sustaining both the educational and industrial sectors. Graduates of this program are particularly sought after due to their superior Korean language skills compared to other foreign workers, making them valuable assets in the struggling domestic manufacturing industry.

The university's focus on recruiting international students is a response to the declining birthrate in South Korea, which has led to a significant drop in domestic student numbers. Jeonju Vision University, which once enrolled 100 Korean students annually, now sees only about 50 local students. To maintain financial stability, the institution has turned its attention to attracting foreign students.

The initiative includes 12 technical colleges, such as Jeonju Vision University, Geoje University, and Gunsan University, participating in the foreign technical personnel training program. The total number of new students in this program has surged from 260 in 2021 to 879 last year, with schools like Geoje University actively promoting the program in local universities in Kyrgyzstan to attract new students. As of last year, there were approximately 210,000 international students in South Korea, with plans from the Ministry of Education to increase this number to 300,000 by 2027.

Local governments are also taking steps to attract international students to offset the declining youth population. For instance, Busan has organized recruitment events in Japan and Central Asia, offering legal and housing support to help international students settle in the city after graduation. A representative from Busan stated that as the population in the second-largest city continues to decline, they aim to enhance support for international students to contribute to the local economy.

SHINee Announces Their 7th Solo Concert: SHINee WORLD Ⅶ [E.S.S.A.Y]

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Kim Jong-min's Fiancée Revealed as a Businesswoman with Study Abroad Experience on 'My Little Old Boy'

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G-Dragon Announces Departure from 'Good Day'

Latvian Film 'Flow' Wins Oscar for Best Animated Feature

International Students Thrive in Future Mobility Program at Jeonju Vision University

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