BTS Jimin Makes Stunning US Television Debut with 'Who'
BTS member Jimin made his highly anticipated US television debut on July 23, 2024, with a captivating performance of his new single 'Who' on NBC's "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon". The performance, filmed in an abandoned resort swimming pool, showcased Jimin's exceptional dancing skills and vocal prowess.
Key highlights of Jimin's performance:
- Vintage-inspired outfit reminiscent of the 'Who' music video
- Sensual pair choreography with backup dancers
- Dynamic group formations and intricate dance sequences
- Flawless live vocals expressing complex emotions
Jimmy Fallon shared his excitement about the song, revealing that he had heard it for the first time during a chance encounter with Jimin and John Bellion in the recording studio. The host's genuine enthusiasm was evident in a behind-the-scenes video where he can be seen dancing and clapping along to the track.
Jimin's second solo album 'MUSE', released on July 19, has already achieved significant milestones:
- Topped iTunes 'Top Songs' charts in 112 countries/regions
- Set the record for highest daily streams for a K-pop release in 2024 on Spotify's 'Daily Top Songs Global' chart
HYBE Executive Min Hee-jin Denies NewJeans Member Poaching Allegations
Min Hee-jin, CEO of ADOR (a subsidiary of HYBE), has vehemently denied allegations of "poaching" NewJeans members from a pre-debut project. The controversy erupted following a report by Dispatch on July 23, 2024, which claimed that Min had intentionally delayed the debut of an idol group known as "N team" to secure members for NewJeans.
Timeline of events:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Prior to NewJeans debut | Min Hee-jin allegedly involved in branding for "N team" at Source Music |
| Unspecified date | Min reportedly delays "N team" debut, recruits members for NewJeans |
| July 23, 2024 | Dispatch publishes report alleging member poaching |
| July 23, 2024 | Min Hee-jin denies allegations, threatens legal action |
The report also accused Min of engaging in "shamanic management practices", alleging that she had close ties with a shaman and spent tens of millions of won on gut (traditional Korean shamanistic rituals). Min has categorically denied these claims as well.
(G)I-DLE Apologizes for Unauthorized Use of Red Cross Symbol
K-pop girl group (G)I-DLE has issued a formal apology for the unauthorized use of the Red Cross symbol on their stage outfits during a recent performance on KBS 2TV's "Music Bank" on July 19, 2024. The group's agency, Cube Entertainment, released a statement acknowledging the issue and detailing their response:
"We have contacted the Korean Red Cross to apologize and are actively discussing measures to prevent recurrence and follow-up actions. We sincerely apologize once again to all parties who have been inconvenienced by this matter."
The use of the Red Cross symbol without proper authorization is a violation of current law in South Korea. According to Article 25 of the Korean Red Cross Society Organization Act, unauthorized use of the Red Cross emblem or similar marks for business or promotional purposes is prohibited and can result in fines of up to 10 million won.
YouTuber Dalssi Apologizes for "Jeonse Fraud" Controversy
Popular YouTuber Dalssi has issued a formal apology following accusations of attempting to pass on a property involved in a "jeonse fraud" case to another tenant. The controversy began when Dalssi claimed in a video on June 22 that she had been a victim of jeonse fraud and had attempted to sell the property to another tenant before deciding to purchase it herself.
In her apology, posted on July 23, Dalssi expressed remorse for her actions:
"I realized how reckless my actions were and I have reflected deeply. I failed to fully grasp the seriousness of the jeonse fraud situation and incorrectly labeled my experience as 'jeonse fraud'. I sincerely apologize for disappointing viewers by conveying indiscriminate information and personal experiences inaccurately."
Dalssi acknowledged her failure to consider the potential harm to future tenants and promised to be more thoughtful in her actions and statements in the future.
Ex-Girlfriend of Basketball Player Heo Ung Files Defamation Lawsuit Against YouTuber
The former girlfriend of professional basketball player Heo Ung, identified only as "A", has filed a defamation lawsuit against YouTuber Caracula (real name Lee Se-wook) for allegedly spreading false information about her. The lawsuit, filed on July 23, 2024, at the Seoul Seocho Police Station, accuses Caracula of violating the Act on Promotion of Information and Communications Network Utilization and Information Protection.
Key allegations made by Caracula:
- Claimed "A" worked at a Gangnam club during college and met Heo Ung and two other men there
- Alleged "A" had been pregnant by another man and received compensation for having an abortion
Caracula cited testimony from "B", a supposed acquaintance of "A", as the source of this information. "A"'s legal team has also filed a complaint against "B" for defamation.
This legal action comes amidst a complex web of accusations and counter-accusations:
- Heo Ung has filed charges against "A" for blackmail, extortion, and drug use
- "A" has counter-sued Heo Ung for rape and inflicting bodily harm
- Caracula is also facing separate allegations of blackmail and privacy invasion against another YouTuber, Tzuyang
As these cases unfold, they highlight the increasing intersection of social media, celebrity culture, and legal issues in South Korea's entertainment landscape.
