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Direct from Korean news and other sources

Breaking K-pop News
Monday, July 27, 2026
KARD disbands after 10 years, but members insist story is not over
Jul 27, 20266:07 PM

KARD disbands after 10 years, but members insist story is not over

The four members of KARD are reluctant to use the word "disbandment." By any common definition, it applies. The co-ed group's contract with DSP Media expires at the end of this year, and the agency announced earlier this month that one final album and world tour would conclude KARD's journey. But sitting down with The Korea Times for an interview at a cafe in Gwangjin District, eastern Seoul, Tuesday, the members wanted the word understood on their own terms. "The four of us still want to make music together, but that would just happen in a new environment," Jiwoo said. "I think the misunderstanding was understandable, but there are no plans for us to say goodbye and part ways entirely." J.Seph, the group's rapper, said even his young nephew called to ask. "I explained, like anyone else, I belong to a company, and I'm tied to that company by a contract. The point where that contract ends has simply arrived." In other words, KARD as fans have known it for a decade, a DSP Media act, is ending. What the members refuse to let go of are each other. Nothing concrete is decided, they admit, but

KARD bids farewell with final album, but leaves door open for reunion
Jul 27, 20266:00 PM

KARD bids farewell with final album, but leaves door open for reunion

For most K-pop groups, a first full-length album marks a beginning. For KARD, it marks an ending. Nearly a decade after debuting in December 2016, the four-member coed group will release its first studio album, “Where To Now? (Part.2): Nowhere,” on Tuesday before embarking on its final world tour next month. Following the tour, the members will part ways to pursue individual careers, bringing an end to one of K-pop's longest-running mixed-gender acts. The album arrives as both a farewell and a r

K-pop singers fight back against smoking rumors
Jul 27, 202611:17 AM

K-pop singers fight back against smoking rumors

Two female K-pop singers have publicly denied persistent smoking rumors, calling them false and baseless. Both performers said the claims had spread online and were treated as fact, saying they were unfairly accused. On Thursday, comedian Lee Yong-jin's YouTube channel released an episode of its talk show, "The Trueman Show," featuring fromis_9 members Lee Na-gyung and Lee Chae-young. During the show's lie-detector segment, Chae-young said she does not smoke. When host Lee asked whether she wanted to clear the air, she brought up the smoking rumors without hesitation. "When you search my name, 'cigarette' comes up," she said. "I am a nonsmoker and have never smoked." Regarding the speculation, Chae-young said the claims lacked any factual basis. She explained that she once posted a photo on social media that showed an electronic cigarette in the background. She said the object was far away, and because she does not smoke, she did not realize that the pink object was an e-cigarette. "Many people accepted without question that I was a smoker," she said. "Some even said they would be disappo

Boy band NouerA makes speedy return with love-struck EP '.exe'
Jul 27, 20268:02 AM

Boy band NouerA makes speedy return with love-struck EP '.exe'

K-pop boy band NouerA released its fourth EP ".exe" Monday, running what the group calls a program of love for its fans. The album arrives just four months after the release of its third EP in March, marking an unusually quick return. The mini-album captures the group's determination to confess love without hesitation. Borrowing its title from the file extension for executable computer programs, the album carries the message that the seven members will leap across dimensional boundaries for love. While the previous EP "POP IT LIKE" showcased the group's intense energy and bold performances, the new release tells a story of young, innocent romance. Hours ahead of the album's release Monday, the seven members — Hyunjun, Gihyeon, Junpyo, Yuseop, Lin, Fan and Miraku — met with the press at Yes24 Live Hall in eastern Seoul's Gwangjin District to share the story behind the album and their thoughts on it. Taking the stage in hot-pink football uniforms, the members appeared noticeably more seasoned than at their debut last year. "I'm thrilled and excited to be promoting with a fresh, youthful

Waterbomb festival faces backlash over revealing outfits
Jul 27, 20265:37 AM

Waterbomb festival faces backlash over revealing outfits

Waterbomb is commanding widespread attention again this summer as a premier music festival. The event's signature blend of live music, water fights and audience participation has solidified into a powerful brand identity. However, as the festival's cultural footprint expands, skin-baring outfits and sexually charged performances have become a reliable part of its commercial draw. This dynamic has created a bizarre spectacle where artists' bodies spark more interest than the music itself. Female singers take the stage in revealing attire, while male artists strip off their shirts to flex. Suggestive routines emphasizing specific body parts are treated as a highlight, regardless of gender, becoming a default expectation. Revealing clothes and pronounced sex appeal are not inherently problematic. Choosing a wardrobe and choreographing routines fall squarely within artistic license. Audiences flock to the venue expecting a bold and liberating atmosphere. Public discourse surrounding Waterbomb consistently centers on who wore the most daring outfits and delivered the most provocative routine

(LEAD) S. Korea to launch massive global music festival in LA in May 2028
Jul 27, 20265:30 AM

(LEAD) S. Korea to launch massive global music festival in LA in May 2028

SEOUL, July 27 (Yonhap) -- South Korea will launch a major global music festival

Between stadiums, BTS' V turns to a book on quiet power of everyday life
Jul 27, 20264:46 AM

Between stadiums, BTS' V turns to a book on quiet power of everyday life

Between stadium performances and global commitments, BTS' V has drawn attention to a book that explores the quiet power of simply getting through everyday life. Late Thursday night, the singer shared on his Instagram story "The Sensibility of an Everyday Person" (a literal translation of the Korean title), a newly published essay collection by the celebrated Korean lyricist Kim Eana. The publisher, Storyseller, said messages poured in almost immediately after V shared the book. "Seeing the respo

K-pop goes to the street as 'comebacks' evolve
Jul 27, 20264:45 AM

K-pop goes to the street as 'comebacks' evolve

In an industry dominated by TikTok, YouTube shorts and algorithm-driven promotion, K-pop agencies are increasingly turning to an older marketing strategy: surprise street performances. From idol groups to soloists, more artists have been holding surprise street performances at shopping malls, public squares and riverside parks ahead of album releases, using intimate live performances not only to connect with fans, but also to generate online buzz that extends far beyond the audience gathered at

BTS' 'Butter' tops 1.1 bln views on YouTube
Jul 27, 20262:58 AM

BTS' 'Butter' tops 1.1 bln views on YouTube

SEOUL, July 27 (Yonhap) -- The music video for K-pop superband BTS' 2021 single

ENHYPEN tests K-pop storytelling at San Diego Comic-Con
Jul 27, 20261:57 AM

ENHYPEN tests K-pop storytelling at San Diego Comic-Con

K-pop boy band ENHYPEN and HYBE Labels' original story intellectual property (IP) "Dark Moon" made their debut at San Diego Comic-Con 2026, bringing the Korean vampire franchise to the center of American pop culture with a panel session, a crowded official booth and a late-night live event, the entertainment giant said Monday. "Dark Moon" is a vampire-themed transmedia franchise that HYBE developed around ENHYPEN's music. The campaign ran from Wednesday through Sunday (local time) at the San Diego Convention Center and nearby venues. HYBE, the parent company of Belift Lab, the group's agency, said the event underscored the franchise's potential to reach mainstream North American audiences with its deep lore. The franchise was first introduced through the group's "Drunk-Dazed" music video in April 2021 and launched as the webtoon "Dark Moon: The Blood Altar" on Naver Webtoon in January 2022. ENHYPEN's music has grown alongside the franchise: The group's 2023 EPs "DARK BLOOD," led by the single "Bite Me," and "ORANGE BLOOD" were built on the same lore, while its 2024 special album "MEMORAB

New festival 'Fanomenon' aims to position Korea as global fandom capital
Jul 27, 20261:37 AM

New festival 'Fanomenon' aims to position Korea as global fandom capital

A major new K-culture festival built around the power of global fan bases will bring concerts, exhibitions and fan-focused events to Korea in late 2027, with organizers expecting more than 500,000 visitors and an economic impact of nearly 1 trillion won ($680 million). The Popular Culture Exchange Committee unveiled plans Monday for "Fanomenon," a large-scale event designed to expand Korea’s influence in global popular culture and establish the country as the premier hub for the fandom industry. Scheduled to run from Dec. 2 to Dec. 12, 2027, the 11-day festival will span two major venues: the newly built Seoul Arena in Changdong and the second exhibition hall at KINTEX in Goyang north of the capital. A portmanteau of "fan" and "phenomenon," the name reflects the organizers' vision of fans not merely as passive consumers, but as active partners driving the global reach of Korean culture. "The true power of K-culture stems not just from the artists and content, but from the fandoms that have nurtured and spread it worldwide," said Park Jin-young, co-chairman of the committee. "By creati

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JunFuhPlayer Yujin and Wonyoung in the pic✨✨✨
Seventeen’s DK, Vernon to begin military service
Jul 27, 202612:50 AM

Seventeen’s DK, Vernon to begin military service

Seventeen members DK and Vernon will begin fulfilling South Korea’s mandatory military service in the coming months, Pledis Entertainment announced Monday. According to a notice posted on Weverse, DK will enlist as an active-duty soldier in the Army on Sept. 8, while Vernon will begin his alternative service as a social service agent on Aug. 20. Both members will carry out their scheduled official activities before beginning their service, the agency said. Pledis also asked fans not to visit DK’

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SunghoonsWifeyy NAURRR
SVTofJoshua I will miss the 218s
Louis1glazer *cries in missing some of my bias-wreckers*
Korea to hold Coachella-style K-culture festival in 2027
Jul 27, 202612:30 AM

Korea to hold Coachella-style K-culture festival in 2027

An 11-day K-culture festival built around K-pop concerts and an awards show centered on fandom will debut in December 2027. The Presidential Committee on Popular Culture Exchange, co-chaired by Culture Minister Chae Hwi-young and JYP Entertainment founder J.Y. Park, released its plan for the event, called Fanomenon, on Monday. The festival runs Dec. 2 to 12, 2027, opening with a gala on the first night. It will be split between Seoul Arena in Changdong, northern Seoul, which is due for completio

Stray Kids to drop digital album on Saturday
Jul 26, 202611:29 PM

Stray Kids to drop digital album on Saturday

Stray Kids will roll out digital album “SKZ-Replay 2026 Pt. 1” on Aug. 1, JYP Entertainment announced Sunday. The rollout is part of a weeklong celebration of the forming of the group’s official fandom community, Stay. According to the track list released Monday, the digital set will comprise 17 tracks including lead single “Battle Ground (Korean Version)” and a number of solo singles, some of which were exclusively performed during the octet’s 2023 tour. The team is running a pop-up cafe to cel

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FlowerQueen4Skz AHHHHH SO EXCITED!!!!🤍🩵🩷🤍🩵🩷
BTS’ Jungkook reaches 1.5b for 2nd time
Jul 26, 202611:26 PM

BTS’ Jungkook reaches 1.5b for 2nd time

Jungkook of BTS hit 1.5 billion Spotify streams with “Standing Next to You,” Big Hit Music announced Monday. This is the second time he achieved the feat with a solo song, following “Seven (Feat. Latto).” “Standing Next to You” was unveiled in November 2023 as the focus track for Jungkook's first solo album, “Golden,” hitting Billboard’s Hot 100 at No. 5 and spending 19 weeks in total on the main singles chart. It was his sixth entry on the chart and third among the top 10. It landed atop both t

NCT 127 to release seventh LP ‘Blingy’
Jul 26, 202610:13 PM

NCT 127 to release seventh LP ‘Blingy’

NCT 127 will return with its seventh album “Blingy” next month, marking the group’s first major release since July 2024. The nine-track album will be released across global music platforms at 6 p.m. on Aug. 24, SM Entertainment announced Monday. Physical copies of the album will also be released on the same day. According to the agency, “Blingy” reflects on the group’s decadelong journey while expressing the members’ pride in the team and their commitment to continuing forward together as one te

Hanroro brings modern rock polish to classic 'Evangelion' theme song
Jul 26, 20269:52 PM

Hanroro brings modern rock polish to classic 'Evangelion' theme song

Nearly three decades after its release, "A Cruel Angel’s Thesis" — the iconic theme song to the legendary anime "Neon Genesis Evangelion" — is getting a fresh, modern rock revival. Korean singer-songwriter Hanroro has been tapped as the second artist for the ongoing J-POP REMAKE initiative, with her Korean-language reimagining of the 1995 classic set to drop on July 30 at 6 p.m. The choice of artist feels deliberate. Hanroro, who clinched Artist of the Year at the 2026 Korean Music Awards, has carved out a distinct niche in the domestic music scene through her poetic songwriting, delicate vocals and atmospheric modern rock arrangements. Expectations for the official release are particularly high following a viral live performance at WONDERLIVET 2024, where Hanroro first covered the track. Her ability to retain the grand, explosive energy of Yoko Takahashi’s original while infusing it with her own vulnerable, narrative-driven vocal style sparked an immediate wave of fan requests for a studio version. A teaser image released Sunday hints at a concert poster aesthetic, signaling a h

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Atyourbackdoor Ok why does she low-key looks like im hanrim from teach you a lesson???:0
NCT 127 to release 7th album 'BLINGY' Aug. 24, marking 10th anniversary
Jul 26, 20269:42 PM

NCT 127 to release 7th album 'BLINGY' Aug. 24, marking 10th anniversary

A decade into a career defined by avant-garde production and muscular choreography, NCT 127 is stepping into its milestone 10th anniversary with a renewed declaration of unity. The Seoul-based group will release its seventh full-length album, "BLINGY," on Aug. 24, launching a compelling new chapter for one of K-pop’s most distinct musical identities. Set to drop at 6 p.m. Korean time across major streaming platforms, the nine-track project doubles as a reflective victory lap and a forward-looking manifesto. According to SM Entertainment, the record synthesizes the group's decade-long journey, grounding its narrative in collective pride and the steadfast bond of a one team commitment as they forge ahead. Since debuting in July 2016 with a mission to project Seoul’s vibrant sound onto the global stage, NCT 127 has built a legacy on uncompromising sonic experimentalism. Signature hits like "Cherry Bomb," "Kick It," "Sticker," and "Walk" established a template of heavy industrial beats, complex harmonies, and theatrical performances that set them apart in an increasingly crowded global

BabyMonster sets Aug. 3 release for 'MOON' music video with haunting new teaser
Jul 26, 20269:42 PM

BabyMonster sets Aug. 3 release for 'MOON' music video with haunting new teaser

Currently sweeping through packed arenas across Japan, the rising K-pop septet BabyMonster is translating its live stage energy back into the digital realm. On Aug. 3 at midnight, the group will release the official music video for "MOON" — a track that first sparked fervor among fans during its world tour opener in Seoul earlier this summer. The release marks the fourth music video rollout from the group’s third mini-album, CHOOM, following visual treatments for the title track, "SUGAR HONEY ICE TEA," and "I LIKE IT." The strategy fulfills a multitrack visual commitment previously outlined by YG Entertainment’s executive producer, Yang Hyun-suk, aiming to sustain long-tail momentum in a fast-moving global music market. Musically, "MOON" represents a striking stylistic pivot. Driven by a heavy 808 bassline and minimal, deliberate production, the Southern trap-infused R&B number relies on eerie synths and surreal lyrics to weave a uniquely haunting narrative. It offers a sharp departure from the sun-drenched pop palettes typical of midsummer releases. A teaser poster released Monday s

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JunFuhPlayer ❤️
Atyourbackdoor @ZeroseHoonwonie aw, sorry to hear that:( hope ur grandma had a peaceful rest and hope u have a peaceful life also:)
Atyourbackdoor I could feel that this is gonna be heaven
BTS bounces back to top 10 on Billboard 200
Jul 26, 20269:36 PM

BTS bounces back to top 10 on Billboard 200

BTS' fifth album “Arirang” jumped to No. 9 on the Billboard 200 dated Aug. 1, according to the chart preview released Sunday in the US. The album leapt up 17 rungs from the previous week, charting 13 weeks in the top ten on the main albums chart, a first-ever for a K-pop artist. The group's release of an exclusive vinyl edition with two bonus tracks — “Voice Message: Love Song” and “Normal” — boosted sales alongside a historic performance at the halftime show for the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. T

Cortis hits 1b mark on Spotify
Jul 26, 20269:20 PM

Cortis hits 1b mark on Spotify

Cortis stormed past 1 billion streams on Spotify on Friday, according to Big Hit Music on Sunday. The rookie boy group hit the mark with the 13 songs it has released since debuting in August 2025 -- 12 tracks from two mini albums, “Color Outside the Lines” and “Greengreen,” as well as “Mention Me,” from the soundtrack of the animated film “Goat.” The quintet racked up 100 million plays on the platform in less than a month, having reached 900 million on June 26. The group is poised to start the N

Jul 27, 202612:03 PM

VERIVERY Announces Schedule For “GIVE ME FIVE, KEEP THAT VIBE” Tour

VERIVERY is embarking on a concert tour! On July 28, the dates and cities were announced for VERIVERY’s upcoming tour “GIVE ME FIVE, KEEP THAT VIBE.” Starting with Seoul in October, VERIVERY will then visit fans in Jakarta, Osaka, Tokyo, Warsaw, Amsterdam, Cologne, Berlin, Paris, Macau, and Taipei. Find the schedule below, and also check

Jul 27, 20264:49 AM

ATEEZ’s Seonghwa Talks About Constantly Reinventing Himself, Building His Own Identity, And More

ATEEZ’s Seonghwa recently sat down with Arena Homme Plus for a pictorial and interview! During the interview, Seonghwa spoke about the satisfaction he gains from participating in photo shoots. He shared, “Every time I do a photo shoot, I feel more satisfied with myself. I’m currently promoting as an idol, but I think these shoots

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Jisungiiiee fr mother is gorg ❤️
LEGOLovrXO i wanna read that magazine now hes my inspiration 🥹
Jul 27, 20263:21 AM

Leeteuk, Shindong, DAWN, Johnny, Kim Yo Han, And Jisung Battle For Perks In “ALL Or NOTHING”

“ALL or NOTHING” has unveiled new stills ahead of its premiere! “ALL or NOTHING” is a new winner-take-all travel variety series set in Egypt. Over seven days and six nights, the cast will compete for the title of “prince” across the cities of Cairo, Luxor, and Hurghada. The show features SUPER JUNIOR members Leeteuk and

Jul 27, 20263:20 AM

Car, the Garden, Dowoon, Lee Chae Min, And Tarzzan Form A Special Bond While Hiking In New Variety Show “Take A Hike!”

Netflix’s upcoming variety show “Take A Hike!” has unveiled new stills! “Take A Hike!” is a “self-hiking” variety show about four involuntary hikers who have never had an interest in mountaineering as they embark on their first-ever midwinter expedition up a snow-covered mountain. The show stars Car, the garden, Dowoon, Lee Chae Min, and Tarzzan

Jul 27, 20262:45 AM

SUPER JUNIOR’s Yesung Announces Stops For 10th Anniversary Tour “ABOUT THE THINGS WE CALLED ORDINARY”

SUPER JUNIOR’s Yesung will be going on a 10th anniversary tour! On July 27, Yesung announced the dates and venues for his 2026 10th anniversary tour “ABOUT THE THINGS WE CALLED ORDINARY.” After kick-starting his tour in Seoul at the KBS Arena on October 17 and 18, Yesung will visit Kuala Lumpur, Macau, Kaohsiung, Singapore,

Jul 27, 20261:36 AM

ALPHA DRIVE ONE’s Agency Releases Statement On Sanghyeon’s Health

ALPHA DRIVE ONE’s agency has released an official statement regarding Sanghyeon’s health condition. On July 27, WAKEONE released an official statement, sharing that ALPHA DRIVE ONE member Sanghyeon recently experienced sudden discomfort in his throat and was advised by his doctor to avoid straining it. Read the agency’s full statement below: Hello, this is WAKEONE

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Jisungiiiee MY KING? MY KING? MY KING? MY KING? MY KING? MY KING?
Jul 26, 20269:36 PM

SEVENTEEN’s DK And VERNON Announce Military Enlistment Dates

SEVENTEEN’s DK and Vernon will be enlisting in the military! On July 27, PLEDIS Entertainment released an official statement on Weverse, announcing that SEVENTEEN members DK and Vernon will be enlisting for military service in September and August, respectively. Read the agency’s full statement below: Hello.This is PLEDIS Entertainment. We would like to inform you