KCrush Interview with AGENT OF HAPPINESS Directors

Since 2008 the government and monarchy of Bhutan have made it a political and cultural policy to promote happiness to foster stability of the country itself. By implementing the Gross National Happiness (GNH) index, an equation that mathematically measures and calculates the happiness levels of the population, the government believes the success of the people equals the success of the country.

But what happens when Agents of Happiness, the very people tasked with researching the happiness of others, realize that they themselves aren’t happy, and that what’s needed to make a person truly happy, and content can’t be quantified by numbers?

Premiering in the World Cinemas Documentary Competition program at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, Utah. Agent of Happiness is the second collaboration by Bhutanese director Arun Bhattarai (Mountain Man) and Dorottya Zurbó (Easy Lessons) of Hungry – The Next Guardian being their first – explores this very concept in the uniquely structured narrative documentary, Agent of Happiness.

Filmed over the course of four years beginning in 2019, Bhattarai and Zurbó followed agents Amber Kumar Gurang a Nepalese refugee living in Bhutan, and his co-worker Guna Raj Kuikel as they interview residents all over the stunningly beautiful mountains and countryside villages to find out how their happiness rates on a scale of 1 – 10.

Using criteria ranging from possession of agricultural machinery, modern technology, to how jealous they are, Amber and Guna discover that though Bhutan is known as the happiest country in the world, the Bhutanese people themselves aren’t exactly happy in ways that were expected.

Bhattari and Zurbó’s decision to let the subjects of the film guide them in where to take the story, proves very effective in showing how the people of Bhutan are no different to anyone anywhere else.

Having been displaced at the age of 2-years-old with his now aging mother, and thousands of others from their homeland in Nepal became embroiled in a civil war, Amber has never felt as though he truly belonged anywhere. Though he loves his adopted homeland, the failure of the Bhutanese government to grant him citizenship has created subconscious feelings of discontent and loneliness hidden behind his shy smiles and gentle nature.

Like Amber, the film specifically highlights the lives of people struggling to find happiness in their interpersonal relationships and contentment. There’s Yanhka Lhamo, a teenaged girl whose disappointment in her mother’s alcoholism has created a sense of insecurity and uncertainty in her mother’s ability to be a dependable adult.

Despite the assurances of her beauty and value as a human being from her mother, transgender female performer Dechen Selden struggles with feelings of jealousy and worry of ever fitting into a society that accepts her at night when she’s performing on stage, but not in the daytime.

Ultimately, what Agents of Happiness highlights is that happiness is a universal emotion that every human being experiences, but what that means to us and how it’s achieved and experienced is as individual and unique as each star in the sky. If Bhutan wants to ensure the Gross National Happiness of its people, the individual needs must first be acknowledged to be met. Which is a lesson every single one of us needs to learn for ourselves.

We should be the agents of our own happiness because we know what’s truly necessary for us to be our own version of happy.

Carolyn Hinds

Freelance Critic, Journalist & Podcaster
African American Film Critics Association Member, Tomatometer-Approved Critic
Co-Host & Producer So Here’s What Happened! Podcast
Bylines at http://Authory.com/CarolynHinds
Twitter & Instagram: @CarrieCnh12

#AgentofHappiness #ArunBhattari #MountainMan #DorottyaZurbo #EasyLessons #krushnews #Sundance2024 #SundanceFilmFestival2024 #Bhutan #WorldCinemasDocumentaryCompetitionProgram #ParkCityUtah #BhattaraiZurbocollaboration #TheNextGuardian #kcrushamericamagazine #kcrushinterview #kcrushfeaturedinterview #asianfilmdirector #narrativedocumentary #filmcompetition #kcrushtopasianentertainmentmagazine #kcrushcom #kcrushfilmfestivalcoverage #kcrush #BhutanPromoteHappiness #Bhutanculture #BhutaneesePeople #kcrushinterview

K-Pop sensations CRAVITY, KISS OF LIFE, AMPERS&ONE and others performing on April 26 & 27

GRAMMY Museum^® returns to host their own stage at three-day expo featuring Q&A panel discussions with artists

Tickets to go on sale starting January 30 for presales and February 1 for public sales at webridgeexpo.com

WE BRIDGE, the three-day convention and two-day music festival celebrating Asian entertainment and culture, has announced their return to Las Vegas on April 26-28 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center and Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. The industry’s trailblazing icons DYNAMIC DUO, HWASA and JESSI will be performing at the 12,000-seat arena show who will be joined by boy group CRAVITY as well as up-and-coming groups KISS OF LIFE, and AMPERS&ONE who will be making their U.S. debut on the WE BRIDGE stage. Artist announcements will continue to be unveiled via the WE BRIDGE social media channels, culminating in the full lineup reveal just before ticket sales open next week.

Building off of 2023’s wildly successful inaugural event that showcased performances, panel conversations, and fan engagements with ENHYPEN, MONSTA X, Jessi, BamBam, KANGDANIEL, Dreamcatcher, CIX, ONEUS, VIVIZ, and BE’O, the 2024 iteration is set to return with an even wider variety of entertainment. WE BRIDGE’s vision is to shine a light on Asian artists and their artistry by providing a platform for emerging talent to make their U.S. introduction and reuniting legendary names with their fans alongside today’s current artists who are paving the way for Asian entertainment. Furthermore, the event strives to build a space for all fandoms to unite and connect with their online friends in real life for a community and experience unlike any other.

One of the favorites returning as part of WE BRIDGE’s annual programming is the GRAMMY Museum^® Stage where artist engagements, hosted by Emily Mei, will be held throughout the three-day expo and open to all expo passholders. Hi-touch events with the artists will follow each panel, accessible to all ticket holders of qualifying tiers. Another fan favorite returning to the expo is the art gallery, partnering with pop culture curators and creators to showcase the work of some of Asia and Asian America’s finest visual artists and their work.

WE BRIDGE is presented by premier global entertainment company Infinite Prospects Entertainment (IPE) with the support of MGM Resorts International. IPE is best recognized as the team who turned the Las Vegas Strip purple in April 2022 for ‘The City’ project with megastar group BTS who performed four sold-out nights of their ‘Permission To Dance On Stage’ tour at Allegiant Stadium. The company also recently worked with K-pop living legend The RAIN for the U.S. leg of his highly anticipated comeback world tour. With the explosion of Asian influence on mainstream pop culture around the world and its tremendous impacts across music, film, art, and fashion, WE BRIDGE’s mission is to connect these various creative expressions and the artists and cultures that are fueling them within one epic experience. The result is a multi-sensory, live event that immerses attendees into a curated world that bridges what is now, new, and next in all aspects of Asian pop culture.

“I’m honored to be bringing back a celebration of Asian culture to Las Vegas, one of the entertainment capitals in the world where we can introduce our favorite artists and new talent to American fans,” said Alex Kang, CEO of Infinite Prospects Entertainment. “Last year was our first humble beginning in bringing this kind of experience, and with the continued rise of Asian prominence in mainstream culture and entertainment, we are proud to bring more access to diverse global artists and brands for our community. With this awareness, WE BRIDGE Music Festival and Expo is coming back and will be bigger this year. We are happy to be teaming up with past partners, such as the GRAMMY Museum and MGM Resorts who helped make WE BRIDGE 2023 a huge success.”

Chris Baldizan, MGM Resorts’ Executive Vice President of Entertainment, said, “We are proud to once again partner with Alex Kang and his team as WE BRIDGE returns to Mandalay Bay for a second consecutive year. We look forward to another successful event, providing guests with a one-of-a-kind entertainment option combining live music with immersive experience.”

“We are excited for our continued partnership with WE BRIDGE,” said Michael Sticka, President/CEO of the GRAMMY Museum. “WE BRIDGE isn’t just an event; it’s a vibrant platform for cultural exchange and artistic expression, which aligns with the Museum’s mission and values. We look forward to our second year of collaboration and the opportunity to again showcase our renowned public programming alongside our unwavering commitment to diversity and heritage across communities and music’s many genres. ”

Projected to be one of the largest West x East Asian-centric events of the year, get up-to-date news by following @webridgeexpo on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube, and join the conversation using #webridge2024 and #nownewnext. For all information on WE BRIDGE Music Festival and Expo, please visit webridgeexpo.com.

ABOUT INFINITE PROSPECTS ENTERTAINMENT

INFINITE PROSPECTS ENTERTAINMENT (IPE) is a Las Vegas-based entertainment & events company devoted to bridging Asian and Western pop culture. IPE is the team that brought the megastar K-Pop group BTS to Las Vegas for ‘THE CITY’ project, transforming the city into a BTS-themed playground and famously turning the Las Vegas Strip ‘borahae’ purple for two weekends of four sold-out ‘PERMISSION TO DANCE ON STAGE’ concert shows. Most recently, the company worked with K-pop legend The RAIN on the U.S. leg of his highly anticipated comeback world tour.

ABOUT MANDALAY BAY

Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino is set on 120 lush acres featuring Mandalay Bay Beach, a tropical pool paradise with real sand. The Michelob ULTRA Arena, award-winning restaurants, exhilarating entertainment, unique shopping, Shark Reef Aquarium and the 2-million-square-foot convention center combine to make Mandalay Bay a captivating Las Vegas resort destination. The resort offers three distinct hotel experiences: Mandalay Bay with 3,211 luxurious rooms and suites reflecting a modern tropical ambiance; Four Seasons Hotel, a AAA Five Diamond hotel offering 424 rooms and suites; and the luxury all-suite Delano Las Vegas. Mandalay Bay is operated by MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM). For more information and reservations, visit mandalaybay.com, call toll free at (877) 632-7800, or find us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

ABOUT MGM RESORTS INTERNATIONAL

MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) is an S&P 500® global entertainment company with national and international locations featuring best-in-class hotels and casinos, state-of-the-art meetings and conference spaces, incredible live and theatrical entertainment experiences, and an extensive array of restaurant, nightlife and retail offerings. MGM Resorts creates immersive, iconic experiences through its suite of Las Vegas-inspired brands. The MGM Resorts portfolio encompasses 32 unique hotel and gaming destinations globally, including some of the most recognizable resort brands in the industry. The Company’s 50/50 venture, BetMGM, LLC, offers U.S. sports betting and online gaming through market-leading brands, including BetMGM and partypoker, and the Company’s subsidiary LeoVegas AB offers sports betting and online gaming through market-leading brands in several jurisdictions throughout Europe. The Company is currently pursuing targeted expansion in Asia through the integrated resort opportunity in Japan. Through its “Focused on What Matters: Embracing Humanity and Protecting the Planet” philosophy, MGM Resorts commits to creating a more sustainable future, while striving to make a bigger difference in the lives of its employees, guests, and in the communities where it operates. The global employees of MGM Resorts are proud of their company for being recognized as one of FORTUNE® Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies®. For more information, please visit us at www.mgmresorts.com. Please also connect with us @MGMResortsIntl on Twitter as well as Facebook and Instagram.

ABOUT THE GRAMMY MUSEUM

The GRAMMY Museum, currently celebrating its 15th anniversary, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating and exploring music from yesterday and today to inspire the music of tomorrow through exhibits, education, grants, preservation initiatives, and public programming. Paying tribute to our collective musical heritage, the Museum values and celebrates the dynamic connection in people’s diverse backgrounds and music’s many genres, telling stories that inspire us, and creative expression that leads change in our industry.

For more information, visit www.grammymuseum.org, “like” the GRAMMY Museum on Facebook, and follow @GRAMMYMuseum on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.

#WEBRIDGE #WEBRIDGE2024 #kcrushnews #TheGrammyMuseumWeBridge2024 #kpop #asianculture #koreanculture #HallyuCraze #MGMResortInternational #MandalayBayResort #InfiniteProspects #Asia #InfiniteProspectsEntertainment #IPE #ChrisBaldizan #MichaelStickaPresidentGrammyMuseum #kpopmusic #kpopconcert #DYNAMICDUO #HWASA #JESSI #CRAVITY #KISSOFLIFE #AMPERS&ONE #kcrushamericamagazine #kcrushtopasianentertainmentmagazine #SEO #kcrushmedia #fansofkpop

She Her Her Hers is a rising indie powerhouse across Japan, China, and the world at large. Currently in their biggest Asian 2023-2024 tour for their “Diffusion of Responsibility” album, the three piece band has had a massive popularity uprising in the last 5 years since their debut in 2011. The Chelsea hit-maker band has showcased its musical forte through its hypnotizing works, including through the “Location” and “Afterglow” albums. Known for their uniquely mesmerizing beats fused with harmonizing lyrics, She Her Her Hers band’s live performances have become a spectacle worth looking forward to.

KCrush America had an interview with She Her Her Hers to get to know them more.

What’s the story behind She Her Her Hers band?

The band was born as a special band for one night only at an all-night event hosted by Hiroyasu Takahashi, who had been the bassist until then. “If you don’t like it, you can decline it, but…” Hiroyasu sent me the demo soundtrack, which was excellent in terms of voice and melody, and I immediately replied that I wanted to play in the band. At the time, we were both bass players, so the question “So, what should I do?” came up at the same time.

Tomasong

Your first-ever international tour, for the “Location” album in 2019, was a success. How did it materialize, how was the experience, and how did it impact your career?

Immediately after the digital release of the “SPIRAL EP” in 2018, we were contacted by our staff in China at the time and we decided to go on tour. Our first tour in China was right after we released “location”, so it wasn’t as popular as it is now, but I think it was because of that tour we gradually spread and got to where we are now.

I’m grateful that people are empathizing with songs that I personally think are good, so I can continue to create freely.

Hiroyasu Takahashi

You are famous for the insane raw sounds of “human-driven” instruments, which are most alive during your live performances. Would you say that this is part of your identity?

This is a very important part. The songs have a kind of madness that lies dormant in the tranquility of the soundtrack (it is scattered in the phrasing and lyrics). I feel like we are releasing it in our live performance and expanding the song. Balancing rationality and emotion is very important and difficult in recording and live performance. It’s fun because it is and always will be difficult.

I play with the feeling of:

Recording / It’s Your World

Live performance/ Welcome to Our World.

Can you somehow feel it? I hope you will all nod in agreement (laughs).

Music doesn’t belong to anyone, it’s the shared energy of the world.

Sorry, the story has gone off track quite a bit (laughs).

Taiki Matsuura

How would you describe your style of music?

I do the music creation, and the two members write the lyrics. When it comes to composition, I am careful to create songs that are simple and have beautiful melodies. In terms of arrangements, rather than creating a lot of variations on the album, I try not to create an imbalance in the overall temperature of the album.

Hiroyasu Takahashi

Your enchanting rhythm-infused lyrical pieces, including Spiral, Chelsea, and Law of Attraction, have got global fans hooked for life. What is your lyrical and beat creation process like?

The songs created by Hiroyasu Takahashi, who is at the core of the music production, absolutely have a melancholic and lyrical atmosphere and a good melody that can capture people’s hearts globally, even as demo recordings. It is the starting point from which the lyrics and beats are born. Lyrics are not only about conveying meaning through language but also about the sound that can be heard within the music.

Tomasong

“Diffusion of responsibility” is such a heavy wording. What is the concept behind this “diffusion of responsibility” album?

The theme of the debate was chosen as the title.

The phenomenon of leaving the criteria for judgment to a group of people (other people) when taking action is an everyday occurrence in the world. What are the causes of these evils? Society, the system, the people who created it. Ah, this story is getting long, and I’m afraid readers might be tempted to leave for Instagram, so I’ll spare them…

For example, Japan has a low voting rate compared to other countries in the world, and it is said that many people are uninterested in politics (I think this is true). It’s not indifference, but I think that people have developed this kind of “habit” of “leaving it to others and it will work out”. Leaving the proactivity to those who are aware only is a dangerous path and won’t lead to growth.

I wanted to suggest the following:

To face society, we need to have a dialogue with other people living in this world. Before that, we need to have conversations. So, first, how about standing up from your chair and trying to talk? It doesn’t have to be a serious conversation, just try it when you’re relaxed.

This is not an obligation. But I wanted to make this suggestion.

I’m directing the album cover, and doesn’t it look like the last human, almost turned to stone, and stones surrounding it? I will continue to throw stones.

Taiki Matsuura

You are currently on your biggest ever Asian tour for the “Diffusion of Responsibility” album, happening in over 17 cities around China until early January 2024. How did it come to life? How is your experience so far?

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, although we continued to promote mainly online, we were unable to perform live. In each city, we received “We’ve been waiting for you!” and we received energy directly from many fans. I also feel that we are responding well to the fact that we are repeatedly updating and refining our music as we go around on tour with a large number of shows.

Tomasong

Chelsea is one of “Diffusion of Responsibility” album’s hit singles that has stood out from the rest for its fresh beat and grove vibes. What’s the story and message behind this hit single and is this a vibe that fans can expect in your future musical pieces?

In 2023, we performed at a music festival in Asia and had the experience of performing in front of tens of thousands of people. We enjoyed performing with fans in such situations, and I think the rhythms and songs that would stand out on a big stage were born naturally.

The lyrics were also born from the unique atmosphere we felt in China.

Tomasong

What’s next for She Her Her Hers after this “Diffusion of Responsibility” album tour ending early January?

We’re starting to talk to the team about the next production and moves, and the fact that there are a lot of people outside of Asia who are listening to our songs. We want to increase the foundation and opportunities to express ourselves in different countries. We believe in our music stance, so we don’t want to change it, but we want to continue to create works that resonate more strongly with people.

So, KCrush, please spread our “say hello” to the world (laughs). I’ll buy you a beer.

Taiki Matsuura

You have gained an immense following over the years, including outside Japan. What is the secret behind your dominating popularity?

I think one of the band’s great strengths is that we treat both the intro and the song as a melody. I think Hiroyasu (vocal) is a rare songwriter. There is a lot of such wonderful music overseas, and perhaps that feeling and values have begun to interact with the world. But the number one reason is that everyone who listens to us has a great ear! We love you !!! We just keep making the music we love, with love, so please listen to it a lot, make it your own and enjoy.

Taiki Matsuura

What do you enjoy doing in your free time and what’s your favorite local dish?

As I am from Gifu, I like dishes that use miso, such as miso stewed udon, hoba-miso and gohei-mochi.

Hiroyasu Takahashi

What would be your advice to upcoming artists who want to be as successful and impactful as you?

We can’t say that we’re successful and influential yet, but if there’s anything we can be proud of… It’s that we’ve trusted our senses and gone ahead, even when people said things like “That’s cool, but I don’t think it’ll sell” (laughs).

If the members can respect and listen to each other and have their own voice, they will be able to keep going no matter what people say.

Tomasong

What would you like to say to your fans across the globe?

We hope you continue to look forward to our songs, and come and see us when we have a live show at a place near you.

Hiroyasu Takahashi

Thank you for gracing us with this opportunity. We wish She Her Her Hers all the very best in your upcoming endeavors.

Photo Credit: Wendy Lam

—- Karen Mwenda

#SheHerHerHers #SheHerHerHersBand #SheHerHerHersJapaneseBand #kcrushinterview #HiroyasuTakahashi #Tomasong #TaikiMatsuura #ChelseaSheHerHerHers #SheHerHerHersTour #Gifu #misostewedudon #hobamiso #goheimochi #kcrushamerica #kcrushtopasianamericanentertainmentmagazine #Japaneseband #AsianTour #DiffusionofResponsibility #LocationAlbum #AfterglowAlbumSheHerHerHers #EnglishInterview #rockband

Japanese translation:

どの質問にどのメンバーが答えたかを明記していただければとのことで、ファンが各メンバーのことをもっと知りたいと思うので、可能であれば、できるだけ多くの質問に全員のメンバーに答えていただければ嬉しいとのことです。
【締め切り 12/26】

KCrush America https://www.kcrush.com/

She Her Her Hers インタビュー

She Her Her Hersは、日本、中国、そして世界を股にかける新進気鋭のインディーズバンドです。アルバム『Diffusion of Responsibility』を引っ提げ、2023年から2024年にかけて過去最大規模のアジアツアーを敢行しています。彼らは3人組のバンドで、2011年のデビュー以来、この5年間で人気が急上昇しています。彼らは『CHELSEA』を大ヒットさせ、アルバム『location』や『Afterglow』など、まるで催眠術をかけるような作品を通してその音楽的才能を披露してきました。独特で魅惑的なビートやハーモニーを奏でる歌詞で知られるShe Her Her Hersのライブパフォーマンスは壮大なショーとなっています。

She Her Her Hersをより深く知るために、KCrush Americaはインタビューを行いました。

1. She Her Her Hersバンド誕生のストーリーを教えてください。

それまでベーシストであった高橋啓泰が主催するオールナイトイベントで、一夜限りのスペシャルバンドとして誕生。「気に入らなかったら断ってくれていいんだけど、、、」と啓泰から控えめに送られてきたデモ音源は声もメロディも秀逸で、直ぐにやりたいと返事をしました。当時はお互いベーシスト仲間だったので、「で、おれは何をすればいいの？」という疑問も同時に浮かびました。

とまそん

2. 2019年にアルバム『location』を引っ提げた初の海外ツアーは成功を収めました。どのように実現し、どのような経験をしましたか？また、あなたのキャリアにどのような影響を与えましたか？

2018年に「SPIRAL EP」をデジタルリリースして直ぐ当時の中国のスタッフから連絡がありツアーを行う流れになりました。初の中国ツアーは「location」をリリースしてすぐだったので、今のように浸透していなかったのですが、そのツアーがあったからこそ少しずつ広がっていって今の状況になったのだと思っています。

自分が良いと思った楽曲に共感してもらえているので、これからも自由に制作が出来るのが有難いです。

高橋啓泰

3. She Her Her Hersは、ヒューマンドリブンな楽器演奏による狂気のようなものすら感じさせるライブサウンドで有名ですが、それはライブパフォーマンス中に最も際立っています。それが自分たちのアイデンティティの一部だと思いますか

とても大事な部分です。音源の静謐さの中に眠る狂気のような部分は曲達にあって、(それはフレージングや歌詞世界に散りばめられてる)

そこをライブで解放し、曲を拡張させてる感覚です。
音源とライブでは、理性と感情のバランスがとても大切で難しい。一生難しいから楽しい。

音源 / あなたの世界です
ライブ / ようこそ我々の世界

な感覚で演奏してる
なんとなく伝わるかな？
皆が頷いてくれてる事を祈る(笑)

音楽は誰のものでもなく、世界の共有エネルギー。話がだいぶ脱線しちゃったね。

松浦大樹

4. She Her Her Hersの音楽のスタイルについて教えてください。

基本的に自分が楽曲制作を行い、歌詞をメンバー2人が担当しています。曲に関してはシンプルで旋律の綺麗な曲を作るように気を付けていて、アレンジ面はアルバムでバリエーションを多く作ることよりも、アルバム全体の温度感がアンバランスにならないように考えています。

高橋啓泰

5. 『SPIRAL』、『CHELSEA』、『Law of Attraction』など、魅惑的なリズムが取り入れられた叙情的な作品は、世界中のファンを虜にしています。どのようなプロセスで歌詞やビートを作成していますか？

楽曲の根本を制作している高橋啓泰の楽曲はデモ音源の時点で、メランコリックで叙情的な空気感とグローバルに人の心を掴むグッドメロディが絶対的に存在していて、そこを起点に歌詞やビートが生まれていると思います。歌詞も言語として意味を伝えることもさることながら、音楽の中に聞こえてくる音としての響きも大切にしながら制作しています。

とまそん

6.「Diffusion of Responsibility」とはとても重い言葉です。このアルバム『Diffusion of Responsibility』のコンセプトは何ですか？

ディベートのテーマをタイトルにしました。

何か行動を起こす時、判断の基準を集団(他者)に任せてしまう現象は世の中で日常的に起きてしまっていて、それらの諸悪はどこなんだといったら社会であり、システムであり、それを作った人間であり、、ああ、この話は長くなってしまって、読んでくれてる方がインスタに浮気しそうなので割愛しますが、、

例えば、日本は世界に比べて投票率が低く、政治に無関心な人が多いとされてたりしますが(事実ではあるとおもいます)

無関心ではなく、こういった「他者に任せとけばなんとかなる」といった”癖”みたいなものがついてしまってるのではないかと思ってる。気付いた人だけが”しゃかりきになる”は危うさしか成長しません。

社会と向き合うには、この世に生きてる者同士で対話が必要。その前に会話が必要。
だからまず、椅子から立ち上がって話してみない？リラックスしてる時でいいからさ。
の提案をしたかったんです。
義務ではないです。
でも提案したい。

アルバムジャケットをディレクションしてるんだけど、石化しかけた最後の人間とそれを囲む石に見えてきたりしませんか？

一石投じ続けます。

松浦大樹

7. 現在、アルバム『Diffusion of Responsibility』のために、2024年1月初旬まで中国の17都市以上で行われる過去最大のアジアツアーを行っている最中です。どのようにして今回のツアーを実現したのでしょうか？また、現在までのツアーを振り返ってどのように感じていますか？

コロナ禍でオンラインを中心としたプロモーションは続けつつも、なかなかライブがやれなかったので、各都市で「待ってました！」と多くのファンからエネルギーを直接もらえたことや、公演数の多いツアーの中でまわりながらアップデートを繰り返し洗練されていくところにも手応えを感じています。

とまそん

8. アルバム『Diffusion of Responsibility』のヒットシングルの中でも楽曲『CHELSEA』は、そのフレッシュなビートとグルーヴ感で他の曲とは一線を画しています。この曲に込められたストーリーやメッセージは何でしょうか？また、この曲の雰囲気は、皆さんのファンが今後の楽曲に期待するものなのでしょうか？

2023年にアジア圏での音楽フェスに出演して、何万人の前で演奏する経験をさせてもらいました。そんなシチュエーションでファンと一緒にライブを楽しめて、大きなステージでも映えるリズムや楽曲が自然と生まれたと思います。
歌詞も中国で感じた独特な空気感の中から生まれました。

とまそん

9.『Diffusion of Responsibility』アルバムツアーが1月上旬に終了する予定ですが、She Her Her Hersの次の活動を教えてください。

次の制作や動きについてチームと話し始めてるし、アジア以外でも聴いてくれてる方々がたくさんいる事実があるので、色々な国で表現する土台やチャンスを増やしていきたいです。自分らの音楽スタンスは信じきってるから変えずに、より強く共鳴する作品を作り続けたいなと思う。

なのでKCrushさん世界中に我々のsay helloを伝えといてください笑
ビール奢るので。

松浦大樹

10. She Her Her Hersは長年にわたり、日本国外も含めて絶大な支持を獲得してきました。圧倒的な人気の秘密は何ですか？

イントロも歌もメロディとして捉えてるとこはバンドの大きな特長だと思う。ヒロヤス(vo)は稀有なソングライターだと思う。海外はそういった素敵な音楽がたくさんあって、その感覚や価値観が世界と作用し始めたのかもしれません。

でも1番の原因は聴いてくれてるみんなの耳が素晴らしいってことです！愛してる！！！

我々は大好きな音楽を、愛を込めて作り続けるだけだから、たくさん聴いて、自分のものにして、楽しんでね。

松浦大樹

11. 自由時間には何をして楽しんでいますか？また、一番好きな郷土料理は何ですか?

出身が岐阜なので、味噌煮込みうどん、朴葉味噌、五平餅など味噌を使った料理が好きです。

高橋啓泰

12. She Her Her Hersのように成功し、影響力のあるアーティストになりたいと考えているこれからのアーティストに、アドバイスをお願いします。

まだまだ、成功し影響力があるとは言えないけど、自分たちが人に誇れることがあるとすれば、「カッコいいけど、売れると思えないな〜」とか言われても、自分たちの感覚を信じて進めてきたことかな。笑
メンバーがお互いをリスペクトして耳を傾けることと、自分の言葉を持つ事ができれば周りにどんな事を言われてもやっていけると思います。

とまそん

13. 世界中のファンに一言お願いします。

これからも曲を楽しみにしていてほしいし、近くの場所でライブがある時は観に来てください。

高橋啓泰

このような機会をいただきましてありがとうございます。She Her Her Hersの今後のご活躍を心よりお祈り申し上げます。

Japanese band SUIREN released their new digital EP ‘Reverse’ on January 24, showcasing their unique keyboard-laced rock sound.

SUIREN was formed in 2020 by vocalist Sui and keyboard player/arranger Ren. They have won praise for their meticulous sound, centered on Sui’s piercing singing voice and ephemeral, fragile melodies. They have provided theme songs for multiple anime series and movies, drawing attention from music fans.

The EP includes many gems, including the lead track ‘Eye Shadow’, along with ‘stella’, which was used as the main theme song for Square Enix’s highly anticipated game ‘STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R’ – a remake of the classic ‘STAR OCEAN’ RPG. The EP combines the refined keyboard sound that is the core of SUIREN with the appeal of Sui’s penetrating high-tone voice.

SUIREN profile

SUIREN is a unit comprising vocalist Sui and keyboardist/arranger Ren. They formed in 2020, releasing music on YouTube.

Their music is a combination of the fragile and ephemeral melodies created by Sui’s unique singing voice and the beautiful and sophisticated sound created by Ren, creating an atmosphere that is all their own. In their indie days, they released two EPs and four singles.

SUIREN’s music has been featured on many official playlists on major streaming services such as Spotify and Apple Music, and they rapidly gained attention as internet artists. In 2022, they began writing theme songs for various anime series and movies, and also began performing live, building the foundations of a powerful career.

‘stella’ music video -ENGLISH version-

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZYcT6UFO0s&t=28s

‘stella’ music video -JAPANESE version-

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0NyTo_IM-4

‘Eye Shadow’ music video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Va7kIpB6Nk&t=2s

Further information

OFFICIAL WEBSITE: https://suiren-official.com

TWITTER: https://twitter.com/SUIREN_project

YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/SUIRENch

#JapanesebandSUIREN #SUIREN #newsong #StellabySUIREN #kcrushpress #kcrushnews #Sui #Ren #Suivocalist #Renkeyboardist #arrangerRen #indie #ephemeralmelodies #kcrushamerica #digitalEPReverse #SUIRENReverse #newmusic #Japanese #Japaneseband #StarOceanTheSecondStoryR #ThemeSongStarOceanTheSecondStoryR

In this brief interview on the red carpet at Sundance 2024, directors of the narrative documentary Agent of Happiness, Arun Bhattari (Mountain Man) and Dorottya Zurbó (Easy Lessons) spoke with me about translating the unique humor of the people of Bhutan, and how being happy is as much a mind set as it is a political mandate.

Agent of Happiness had its World Premiere in the World Cinemas Documentary Competition program at the Sundance Film Festival, held in Park City, Utah. The film is the second project Bhattarai and Zurbó have collaborated on with the 2017 documentary The Next Guardian, being their first.

Carolyn Hinds

The Kid LAROI added with K-pop icon CL and AB6IX to celebrate Lunar New Year in Los Angeles in stacked lineup on February 9 & 10

Public on sale for February 9 added show begins January 19 at 10 a.m. PT at krazysuperconcert.com

Tickets for February 10 show are on sale now at krazysuperconcert.com

Los Angeles, CA – January 19, 2024 – Pulse Events, the company known for bringing global music events to New York, has announced today a second day has been added with a full artist lineup for ‘Krazy Super Concert’ that will be held on Friday, February 9 at BMO Stadium with CL and The Kid LAROI. Previously announced acts for Saturday, February 10 being (G)I-DLE, aespa, THE BOYZ and ZEROBASEONE will now be performing both nights while TAEYANG from BIGBANG will perform on February 10 along with singer Lauv. Newly added boy group AB6IX will also perform on February 10. The chart-topping groups and record- breaking artists are set to celebrate the cultural holiday, Lunar New Year.

General admission tickets and VIP Packages will be available starting today, Friday, January 19, at 10 a.m. local time via Ticketmaster and via krazysuperconcert.com.

As the charismatic multilingual leader of one of the best-selling female groups of all time, 2NE1, CL has helped pave the way for K-pop’s explosion. She’s collaborated with some of the biggest American artists such as Method Man, Skrillex and Diplo. As the only member to break out to become a true global superstar with the ability to bridge cultures, CL became the pacesetter for K-pop Western migration and that became evident with her last album release, which became her debut full-length body of work known as “+ALPHA+.” Her status in the international pop scene became genre-crossing from catchy pop-R&B hybrids, electronic touches and speaker-busting hip-hop that stand apart.

GRAMMY-nominated artist, The Kid LAROI will make his Krazy Super Concert debut to perform his anxiously awaited full-length debut album, THE FIRST TIME. The recent expansive body of work powered by a signature hybrid of hip-hop, pop, alternative, and indie genres features some of today’s biggest and brightest including JUNG KOOK, Future and more. The Sydney native quickly became a global superstar, captivating fans across the world with songs including “STAY” ft. Justin Bieber on top of other hit collaborations with Juice WRLD and Miley Cyrus.

The additional lineup for February 10 is AB6IX, a group that debuted in 2019 under BRAND NEW MUSIC. Consisting of members WOONG, DONGHYUN, WOOJIN, and DAEHWI, the group made a strong debut with their first EP titled “B:COMPLETE” in 2019, which topped various music charts in South Korea, with lead single, “BREATHE,” garnering 22 million views. Their “B:COMPLETE” album led them to win “Next Generation Star”, “Global Rookie Top 5”, and “Rising Star Award” in 2019. AB6IX has gained a strong following both domestically and internationally and have embarked on successful international tours and festivals, in various countries, including the United States, Europe, and Asia and performed at Krazy Super Concert’s inaugural event at UBS Arena in New York in August 2023.

“I’m thrilled to bring one of the most dynamic lineups of the Krazy Super Concert series to Los Angeles. We hope fans can join us to celebrate Lunar New Year with these incredible artists. We believe that music is a universal language, and we hope everyone will join us to enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience on February 9 and 10,” said Luffy Huang, CEO of Pulse Events.

Bi-coastal events team, Pulse Events take their expertise to the world of K-Pop to deliver the first ever ‘Krazy Super Concert Series’ as event producer in Los Angeles after putting on the inaugural Krazy Super Concert Series in New York with MONSTA X’s SHOWNU and HYUNGWON, IVE, AB6IX, Cravity and Kwon Eun Bi. Known for their extravagant EDM based events featuring artists KSHMR, Yellow Claw, JVNA along with their work with huge names such as EXO and BIGBANG, their mission is to be pioneers of culture and media. This ongoing concert series will be the ultimate K-Pop experience that features the most popular artists, the most trendy music, authentic culture, and unparalleled fan engagement.

Previously Announced Artists Joining Lineup for Both Days:

Recognized as the leading fourth generation K-pop girl group, aespa has carefully curated a discography of hard-hitting singles and albums attracting a massive number of fans worldwide. The Korean group is known for viral tracks such as “Black Mamba”, “Next Level”, “Savage”, and, most recently, “Drama”. The award-winning quartet has performed in several festivals including Coachella in 2022 and headlined international concerts across Europe, Asia, South & North America. Most recently, the group consisting of members Giselle, Karina, NingNing, and Winter released their fourth mini album ‘Drama,’ which sold over one million copies in its first week; becoming their third album in a row to sell over a million copies.

It’s been a remarkable year for (G)I-DLE, with the release of their first English album, “HEAT,” which charted the first single off the hit album. The groups first US digital single “I Do,” has charted on the Pop Airplay rankings on the Top 40 chart. The group also achieved their biggest milestone by debuting at No. 25 on the Billboard 200 Album Chart. The group debuted in May 2018 with their 1st Mini Album “I Am” with their popular title track “LATATA.” Since then, the five-member girl group with members MIYEON, MINNIE, SOYEON, YUQI and SHUHUA has racked over 3 billion streams to date with all their singles combined. Their releases have broken into the Top 10 of South Korea’s Circle Weekly Album chart, as well as topping the Billboard World Albums Chart and Billboard 200.

Fresh off the heels of their new album, “Phantasy Pt. 2: Sixth Sense” accompanied with an electrifying music video, THE BOYZ are an exponential force of talent. Sangyeon, Jacob, Younghoon, Hyunjae, Juyeon, Kevin, New, Q, Ju Haknyeon, Sunwoo and Eric made a splash on the scene after debuting in 2017. The group won several new artist awards, including ‘Best New Male Artist’ at the Melon Music Awards and ‘Next Leader’ at the Fact Music Awards, and have consistently peaked in the top three of South Korea’s Circle Album chart; certified platinum several times with each new release. The group also won the MNET competition show “Road to Kingdom” in 2020 further solidifying their starpower and musical prowess. Their current album sold an impressive 600,000+ copies in the first week of its release breaking the previous first-week sales record of 523,630 from two years ago set by their 2021 mini album “THRILL-ING”.

With one of the most exciting debuts of the year, K-pop rookie group ZEROBASEONE (SUNG HAN BIN, KIM JI WOONG, ZHANG HAO, SEOK MATTHEW, KIM TAE RAE, RICKY, KIM GYU VIN, PARK GUN WOOK, HAN YU JIN), is a global fan-made K-pop boy group from Mnet’s ‘Boys Planet’. The team name ‘ZEROBASEONE’ signifies the radiant beginning of the nine members. The name also embodies ZB1 members’ determination to share this journey with ZEROSE (official fan club). ZEROBASEONE is creating a new chapter in K-Pop history by achieving consecutive double million-seller status with their debut album ‘YOUTH IN THE SHADE’ and second mini album ‘MELTING POINT.’ Only 37 days after their debut, ZEROBASEONE held their first fan concert, ‘2023 ZEROBASEONE FAN-CON’, at the Gocheok Sky Dome, interacting with over 18,000 attendees. ZEROBASEONE has also proven their potential beyond being just a rookie and establishing themselves as the undeniable ‘5th generation icon’ by winning 14 trophies in just half a year.

About Pulse Events

Based in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and New York City, Pulse Events is a proficient Event Producer and Promoter. The company specializes in concerts and live performances across North America and around the world. With a mission to be the pioneer of culture and media innovation, Pulse Events produces, manages, and promotes high-quality IP products for global audiences. These include music concerts, live performances, EDM events, night entertainment, and web3 metaverse events. Since its establishment in 2015, Pulse Events has participated in the production and hosting of world tours of many top South Korean artists. Within these artists include EXO, BIGBANG, T-ARA, Running Man, etc. To date, Pulse Events has hosted over 60 EDM performances, including SLANDER, Yellow Claw, Gryffin, KSHMR, Like Mike, DJ Soda, Tokyo Machine, KUURO, among others.

About BMO Stadium

Located in the heart of Los Angeles in Exposition Park, BMO Stadium is home to the Los Angeles Football Club and Angel City Football Club. BMO Stadium is a world-class venue specifically designed to present all types of star-studded live entertainment and creates an unparalleled fan experience for music, sports, and more. At a capacity of 24,000 for concerts (22,000 for soccer), the venue’s unique “outdoor arena” design provides for an intimate experience. BMO Stadium has hosted numerous global acts such as BLACKPINK, TWICE, Iron Maiden, Guns N’ Roses, The Killers, Queen + Adam Lambert, blink-182, Misfits, Rufus Du Sol, Maroon 5, Jonas Brothers, Santana, Earth, Wind & Fire, System of A Down and more.

#PulseEvents #BMO #KRAZYSUPERCONCERT #BIGBANGSTAEYANG #LuffyHuangCEO #ZeroBaseOne #TheBoyz #kcrushnews #GIDLE #aespa #Lauv #kcrushtopasianamericanentertainmentmagazine #topasianculturenews #BMOStadium #asianculture #LunarNewYearCelebration #KrazySuperConcertLunarNewYearCelebration #ticketsonsale #ticketsonsaleJanuary92024 #kpop #koreanculture #asianLunarNewYear #kpopconcert #kpopidols #LosAngeles #CaliforniaKrazySuperConcertwithTaeyang #LunarNewYearHoliday #bigkpopconcertof2024 #February2024KpopConcert #KRAZYSUPERCONCERTatBMOStadium #twodayevent #February9and10 #kcrushcoverageLosAngelesConcert #CL #TheKidLAROI #CLof2NE1

Hi !

Kpop Club Night is in your area, or at least somewhere pretty close! We have 32 shows for sale right now at kpopclubnight.com, come on out and party in a room full of friends you haven’t met yet! These are Perfect Nights, but in Crazy Form!

DJ YUKA K & KPOP CLUB NIGHT 2024 SCHEDULE …. (SO FAR)

1.19 Miami
1.20 Orlando
1.26 New Orleans
1.27 Atlanta
2.2 Portland OR
2.3 Sacramento
2.10 Honolulu
2.16 Toronto
2.17 Charlotte NC
2.23 Columbus OH
2.24 Cleveland
2.29 Boston
3.1 Philadelphia
3.2 Carteret NJ
3.8 Washington DC
3.9 Denver
3.15 San Diego
3.16 Las Vegas
3.22 Montreal
3.23 Winnipeg
3.29 Los Angeles
3.30 Albuquerque
4.12 Seattle
4.13 Vancouver
4.19 New York City
4.20 Chicago
4.26 Calgary (TBA)
4.27 Edmonton
5.11 Houston
5. 24 Detroit
6.7 Dallas
6.8 Salt Lake City

FOLLOW AND TAG

Make sure to follow and tag us in your posts and stories!
Kpop Club Night http://instagram.com/kpopclubnight
DJ Yuka K http://instagram.com/djyuka
Make requests a week before the show at http://tiktok.com/@kpopclubnight
Listen to past mixes at http://mixcloud.com/kpopclubnight
All tickets on sale now at http://kpopclubnight.com

See you on the dance-floor!

IN ADDITION:

We just announced our next shows in Texas! Save the dates and get the crew together to catch mixmaster DJ Yuka K and the world-famous Kpop Club Night crew for another perfect night!

MAY 11 – First up, finally we are visiting Houston for the first time! We know most of you on this email list are from DFW, but if you’ve got some besties in Htown let them know! The venue is the incredible Warehouse Live Midtown, we couldn’t have found a better space! Special discounted Early-bird tickets are on sale now (**discounted only until Jan. 31**) at https://www.eventbee.com/v/kpop-club-night-in-houston-may-11/event?eid=245712103#/tickets.

JUNE 7 – Dallas get ready for Round 3 back at the ultra-fantastic DEEP ELLUM ART CO! We absolutely love this space and can’t wait to be back there dancing with you! Special discounted Early-bird tickets are on sale now (**discounted only until March 30**) at https://www.prekindle.com/event/38251-kpop-club-night-with-dj-yuka-k-dallas.

FOLLOW AND TAG

See you on the dance-floor!

#KPopClubNight #KPopClubNightNationwide #kcrush #kcrushannouncement #DJYukaK #kpop #kcruhamerica #dancenight #funnight #crazynightwithKPopClubNight #singalong #dancealong #kpopclubnightfunnightout #kpopclubnightticketsonsale #kpopclubnighttickets

Ashley Borjon is multifaceted. She’s a podcaster, independent music producer and composer, business entrepreneur and mentor, world traveller, funny, smart and so much more. In this interview I speak with Ashley about that “so much more” facet of her identity as a person and businesswoman.

Working in various fields has given Ashely an outlook on life and work that’s uniquely hers. She’s worked in spa services, education, freelance journalism and for various nonprofit and for-profit centuries. Having a spirit of adventure and not being afraid of taking risks, Ashley turned to podcasting after becoming intrigued with Korean pop music during a very difficult time in her life.

In April of 2019 she created An Album a Day (A3Day), a podcast focused on the history of Korean pop music – or K-pop as it’s most commonly known – as a genre, and the history of individual groups and artists themselves. Demonstrating a deep knowledge and genuine interest in the music and culture gained through on the ground research during multiple visits to South Korea over several years, Ashley became known as an authority on the subject leading to a career as a professional consultant for Korean and American companies. And as it’s nothing to overlook, A3Day has also gained a significantly sized following within the K-pop fandom community for her fun and engaging personality.

After 5 years and 7 seasons of An Album a Day, Ashley made the difficult decision to place the podcast on extended hiatus due to health concerns. Though it was of course an extremely difficult decision, it was the right one. Putting her physical and mental wellbeing first allowed Ashley to take a step back and reassess where she wanted her life to go and as a result, she founded The Worker’s Workshop, a business mentorship initiative to give professional coaching advice to people looking to transition to a new career and path, the same way Ashley did.

Interestingly enough, while An Album a Day has been on hiatus, it’s been nominated for The Sonic Bloom Award in two categories: the Innovator Award, and People’s Choice Award. But that’s not all. In November of 2023, she won a pitch competition for SURE at the University of Houston for The Worker’s Workshop.

During our discussion we spoke about Ashely making her mental health a priority and having it be a focal point in her work as a podcaster with the KPSN Podcast Festival – a special initiative to bring K-pop and K-drama fans together to raise mental health awareness – and the role it played in discontinuing the podcast and beginning a new career path. We also spoke of how these specific decisions she’s made are paying off dividends in the form of recognition for her work with multiple award nominations. We also spoke about if she would ever go back to podcasting perhaps for a special occasion, and what’s next for her.

Carolyn Hinds

#kcrushinterviewwithashleyborjon #AshleyGriffinBorjon #KPSNPodcastFestival #kcrush #AnAlbumaDay #TheSonicBloomAward #UniversityofHoustonforTheWorker’sWorkshop #SURE #kpop #kpopreviewpodcast #AshleyBorjonproducer #mentalhealth #podcaster #A3DayPodcast #koreanpopmusic #kcrushmedia #kcrushAshleyGriffinBorjon #wellbeing #AshleyAnAlbumaDay #kcrushinterview #kcrushamerica #kpopskatenight #kcrushtopentertainmentmagazine #AshleyMultifaceted #AshleyGriffinBorjonComposer

FEMM, who are disbanding at the end of 2023, has just reached their 10th year anniversary in October 2023.

In 2023 alone, they have performed at various major festivals in Europe, US, and in the Middle East. And finally performed their last solo concert in London, followed by their last collab event in Tokyo on Christmas eve, which was a joint event with Tokyo’s largest LGBTQ+ organization “fancyHIM,” which titled “HIMM &FEMM.”

FEMM member RiRi just dropped her solo MV “Living in the Spotlight” included in their latest EP “CHERRY,” and now LuLa has revealed hers as well. Her first solo song “Butterfly to the Moon” MV was prepared as a final surprise gift from FEMM to their agents (fans.)

In this song, she sings about her honest feelings about the past and hope for the future, and in the MV she expresses her raw self.

Message from LuLa

“Over the years, I am grateful that I could sing so many songs, and sometimes I had an opportunity to cowrite lyrics with RiRi. But for my first solo song, I really dug deep and wrote true feelings of my own. In this song, I wanted to thank my agents, and express my expectations and fear for the future. I tried to make the MV as raw as possible to showcase my real feelings. I hope our agents like this surprise present from me. I wish for your happiness.”

Butterfly to the Moon (Music Video) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IzCao8oCpKM

Last EP “CHERRY”

DL & Streaming: https://femm.lnk.to/1115CHERRY

CHERRY on TOP (TV Asahi “Freestyle Japan Unification” theme song)
We Flood the Night (MYLK Remix)
SUN
Living in the Spotlight
Butterfly to the Moon

FEMM / Profile

Two mannequins with intentions / Female rap duo by RiRi and LuLa. Their 1st album “Femm-Isation” entered the top 10 of the US Billboard chart “World Albums” and was selected as “Best Indies Album” at all HMV stores in the UK. The latest album “Tokyo Ex Machina” features participation from world-class producers such as “Jenna Andrews,” who worked with BTS, and “Kool Kojak,” who worked with Ariana Grande and Doja Cat. “We Got Each Other”, which was one of the first to incorporate Y2K pop punk, was ranked on the major US radio chart “Mediabase Activator Chart” for 12 consecutive weeks. In 2023, which will be the 10th anniversary of their activities, they announced that they will cease their activities by the end of the year.

YouTube: https://bit.ly/2THLXBn

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/femm____/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/FEMM____

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@femm____

Official Website: https://femms.jp/

#FEMM #FEMMdisbandment #RiRi #FemmIsation #kcrush #kcrushnews #LuLa #FEMMsLastGift #jpop #Japanesegirlgroup #FEMM10thYear #RiRiFEMM #RiRiNewMusic #kcrushamericacontent #kcrushmedia #FEMMJapanesegirlgroup #kcrushSEO #TokyoExMachina #JennaAndrewsproducer

Novel Core’s first single of 2024, ‘RULERS’, was released on Wednesday, January 10.

The song has been selected as the closing theme to the fifth season of the anime series ‘Kingdom’, which will begin broadcasting in January 2024. As a fan of both the anime adaptation of ‘Kingdom’ and the original manga, Novel Core has created this all-new song with producer Ryosuke “Dr.R” Sakai, who has worked with such globally successful artists as SKY-HI, BE:FIRST, UVERworld, AK-69, Chanmina and milet.

Novel Core’s newly written lyrics on the theme of “inconsistent justice” are sprinkled with references that will resonate with ‘Kingdom’ fans; he skillfully and expressively sings and raps these lyrics over Ryosuke “Dr.R” Sakai’s aggressive digital-rock sound. These core elements fuse to create an emotional song that reflects the unique tension present in Season 5 of ‘Kingdom’.

Download and streaming links

https://NovelCore.lnk.to/20240110_RULERS

Music video link

https://youtu.be/9Y1pJR7RUS0

Novel Core Profile

Born in Tokyo and aged 22, Novel Core is a rapper, singer and songwriter. He is signed to BMSG, the artist management company/label run by SKY-HI. Novel Core’s first major-label album ‘A GREAT FOOL’ and his second ‘No Pressure’ each reached No.1 on Japan’s charts, as he exploded in popularity from the very start of his major-label career. He has held successful tours of Japan including the Zepp chain of concert venues, as well as a solo performance at Toyosu PIT in Tokyo, with all performances selling out immediately. On January 17, 2024, he will hold his first solo performance at the legendary Nippon Budokan, which is also completely sold out.

In addition to establishing a solid presence on the music scene, Novel Core has also attracted attention from the fashion industry, modelling for top fashion houses such as Ferragamo and Etro – establishing him as a true new-generation artist.

Artist links

Official website: https://novelcore.jp/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iamnovelcore
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/iamnovelcore/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamnovelcore/
LINE: https://page.line.me/?accountId=novelcore
Music: https://novelcore.lnk.to/MUSIC
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/NovelCore
BMSG: https://bmsg.tokyo/

#NovelCore #NovelCoreNewMusic #kcrush #NovelCoreTokyo #kcrushnews #NovelCoreModeling #NovelCoreFerragamo #NovelCoreEtro #NovelCoreRulers #NovelCoreFirstAlbum #Kingdom #anime #closingthemeKingdom #producerRyosukeDrRSakai #kcrushamerica #kcrushSEO #Japaneseanime #animemusictheme #BMSG #newmusic

Japanese ensemble unit NAQT VANE have released their first full-length album, ‘Dispersion’, on Wednesday, January 10. The album title is a reference to the way that light is refracted through a gemstone. The strength to which light is dispersed varies depending on the type of jewel, and diamonds have a perfectly balanced dispersion that makes them shine so vividly. NAQT VANE’s message on ‘Dispersion’ is that just as each gem shines in its own way, a group of people who embrace their differences can unite to create a dazzling brilliance.

The lead track ‘puzzle’ expresses how we can use the power within ourselves to break free from confusion and chaos. The song’s strong melody line embodies the essential NAQT VANE-esque quality the group have already fostered, only a year and a half on from their debut.

The music video for ‘puzzle’ shows a person living in perpetual disarray, an endless cloud of coiled emotions and incidents. The self, other people, matter – all chaotically intertwined. Amid this turmoil, we search for where we belong and where we should go. The video makes impressive use of camera framing and space to show us one such person, who draws on something deep inside to free themselves from the clutches of chaos.

To celebrate the album release, the band will hold a concert in Japan titled NAQT VANE Special Event -Dispersion – on Saturday, May 11. A livestream that can be viewed from overseas is also under consideration, so keep an eye out for updates.

About NAQT VANE

“A team project creating an uplifting tailwind to guide those with a challenger spirit.”

NAQT VANE is an ensemble project produced by Hiroyuki SAWANO. The group features vocalist Harukaze, who spent eight years living abroad before returning to Japan’s music scene, along with art collective Classic 6 who handle the group’s art direction. They made their debut on September 16, 2022 with the digital single ‘Break Free’.

The group breathe new air into their stories, freeing their true new selves.

Hiroyuki SAWANO｜Overall Producer

Born in Tokyo in 1980, Hiroyuki SAWANO is a highly celebrated composer and producer, providing compositions for music artists, TV shows, anime and movies.

In 2014, he began the project SawanoHiroyuki[nZk], undertaking star collaborations with renowned artists such as Akihito Okano (Porno Graffitti), Sukima Switch, Aimer, Jean-Ken Johnny (MAN WITH A MISSION), Aina the End (BiSH), Yuuri, Taiiku Okazaki, ASKA, suis (Yorushika) and more.

In 2019, he held a solo performance at the Mercedes-Benz Arena in Shanghai, China, with an audience of more than 10,000 fans, marking his advance to the global stage.

After meeting vocalist Harukaze, he launched the team project NAQT VANE in September 2022, participating as overall producer. The group have been releasing original music in Japan and around the world.

Harukaze｜Vocalist

Born in Hokkaido in 1998, Harukaze left Japan at age 15 to attend high school and college abroad. While studying Music Business in Los Angeles, she got a taste of a music culture that was different from what she’d experienced in Japan, and began to make music with people she met in the local scene. She became involved in NAQT VANE after meeting Hiroyuki SAWANO in 2021.

Classic 6｜Art Direction

Classic 6 are a creative collective active in Japan and overseas. They undertake art direction and overall production for the fashion, art and music industries, including graphic design, video and venue production. With a focus on visual branding that emphasizes stories and concepts, they are constantly exploring new creative outlets as a collective across a wide range of genres.

Download and streaming links

Music video

Further information

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | YOUTUBE

#NAQTVANE #kcrush #Dispersion #NAQTVANFirstFullAlbum #Japanesegroup #JapaneseEnsemble #anime #NAQTVANEisanensembleprojectproducedbyHiroyukiSAWANO #HiroyukiSAWANO #HarukazeVocalist #PuzzleNAQTVANE #Puzzle #newmusic #kcrushnews #kcrushamerica #kcrushSEO #kcrushpress

Japanese band Atarayo, billed as “A band that feeds on sadness,” have released their new single ‘I am…’, which is the opening theme song for Season 2 of anime series ‘The Dangers in My Heart’. The single was released on January 8.

▼ Download and streaming links:

https://asab.lnk.to/iam

‘I am…’ was written especially for the second season of ‘The Dangers in My Heart’, which is currently being broadcast weekly as part of the ‘NUMAnimation’ animation block on TV Asahi’s 24 affiliate stations across Japan. It is a dramatic and emotional song that will pierce your heart, with lyrics that explore the feelings of series protagonist Kyotaro Ichikawa through Atarayo’s eyes, combined with a melody that expresses Ichikawa’s lonely world as it opens ever wider.

To celebrate the release of ‘I am…’, a special download campaign has also been announced! Those who purchase ‘I am…’ from designated online download stores will have the chance to win a ‘The Dangers in My Heart’ poster signed by the members of Atarayo. Winners will be selected at random by lottery.

▼ Entry information (Japanese):

https://atarayo-band.jp/news/detail.php?id=1113560

In 2023, Atarayo released the concept album ‘kiokunohako’ and held a hugely successful performance in Taiwan. As the band’s momentum continues to accelerate, don’t miss out on more to come in 2024.

Release information

Atarayo ‘I am…’

Digital release Monday, January 8, 2024

Download and streaming links:

https://asab.lnk.to/iam

Broadcast information (Japan)

‘The Dangers in My Heart’ is now broadcasting weekly!

TV Asahi’s 24 nationwide affiliate stations in the ‘NUMAnimation’ animation block: Every Sunday from January 7 at 1:30 am Japan Standard Time

BS Asahi: Every Sunday from January 14 at 1 am JST

CS TV Asahi Channel 1: Every Sunday from January 21 at 10 pm JST

Streaming information

Streaming exclusively on Amazon Prime Video, every Sunday from January 7 at 2 am JST

Atarayo profile

“A band that feeds on sadness”

The band name Atarayo means “sorrowful night” in Japanese, meaning “a night so beautiful it’s a shame to see the dawn”. They started posting music on YouTube in 2020. Their first song ‘Jyugatsu mukuchi na kimi wo wasureru’ caught listeners’ attention for its sad and emotion-filled vocals, its urban vibe and its heartbreaking lyrics that evoke sympathy while building a world all the band’s own.

When Atarayo began releasing music digitally in March 2021, they quickly topped the charts on LINE MUSIC, Spotify, TikTok and AWA. Within a year, the band made an appearance on the coveted series ‘THE FIRST TAKE’. In July 2023, they released ‘tadasukitoietara’, their collaboration with KERENMI that was used as the theme song for the movie ‘Our Secret Diary’ and became a hit among teenagers. The concept album ‘kiokunohako’ was released on August 23, 2023.

■ Atarayo links

Official website: https://atarayo-band.jp/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@atarayo
Twitter: https://twitter.com/atarayo_band
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atarayo_band/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@atarayo_hitomi_0124

■ ‘kiokunohako’ download and streaming links

https://asab.lnk.to/kiokunohako

Seoul Business Agency (SBA) brings technology and entertainment to the heart of Seoul on New Year’s weekend ringing in 2024. With riveting performances by Jay Park and CHUNG HA, and attendance by celebrities such as League of Legends’ World Champions T1 team to a sold-out event at the DDP Oullim Square.

SEOULCon, the two-day annual cultural exhibition took place on December 30 and 31 hosting a magnitude of illustrious content from Netflix’s biggest shows such as “Single’s Inferno” and “Physical 100”. Stated as the world’s largest influencer expo with visitors from over 50 countries and more than 3,000 influencers, the 100,000+ attendees connected through immersive experiences and global brand presentations.

Kim Hyun Woo, CEO of SBA introduced the 2023 SEOULCon saying, “We want to make Seoul a center of world media and content by gathering influencers who influence them in Seoul and holding people-centered events. Humanity’s industrial trend has changed from agriculture to industry, and from knowledge and information to information and communication technology. Cultural content, and media and content that deliver this in an easy and fun way, will lead the global industrial trend.”

The full music artist lineup consists of K-pop heavyweights such as Jay Park, APINK, ASH ISLAND, CHUNG HA, DJ Soda and LEE GIKWANG of HIGHLIGHT. A Hallyu Star and Global Influencer Awards took place presenting beloved actors such as Lee Jun-Ho with acting awards for their performances in popular series.

PHOTO CAPTIONS

K-Drama star Lee Jun-Ho from Netflix series King the Land accepting his Grand Prize acting award at SEOULCon APAN Star Awards on December 31 in Seoul, South Korea

Source : 한국연예매니지먼트협회(Korea Entertainment Management Association)

K-Pop star YoonA accepting her acting award from Netflix series King The Land at SEOULCon APAN Star Awards on December 31 in Seoul, South Korea

Source : 한국연예매니지먼트협회(Korea Entertainment Management Association)

League of Legends’ World Champions T1 team attends SEOULCon on December 31 in Seoul, South Korea

Source : 한국연예매니지먼트협회(Korea Entertainment Management Association)

#SeoulCon #SeoulConCountdown #kcrushnews #kpopconcert #Koreacountdowncelebration #kpop #kcrushamericamagazine #kcrushcontent #kcrushannouncement #kcrushtopentertainmentmagazine #SeoulConWorldChampionsLeagueofLegendsT1 #YoonA #LeeJunHoActor #KingofLand #koreanactors #SeoulConbringsin2024 #SeoulKorea

Family holidays are a great way to break away from daily routines, relieve stress, and bond with loved ones while making memories and passing cultural knowledge through generations. Korea has set the pace by maintaining its traditional rituals through nationwide official holidays celebrated throughout the year. Despite modernization and globalization, Koreans still observe some of these holidays across the globe. Here are some of the major traditional holidays celebrated in Korea.

1. Seollal

Also termed Lunar New Year’s Day, Seollal marks the first day of the Korean lunar calendar. Observed alongside the Chinese New Year, Seollal is often celebrated in January or February. This is the most crucial traditional holiday that is faithfully upheld by Koreans across the globe. Seollal became a national holiday during the Goryeo dynasty, between 918 AD and 1392 AD. The first Seollal celebrations are also recorded in the Book of Sui and the Old Book of Tang (7th-century Chinese historical works). Seollal entails performing ancestral rites and paying respects to one’s elders before exchanging well-wishes with family members. Traditionally, families gather in the eldest sibling’s home (preferably male sibling), pay their respects to both the elders and ancestors, and receive money before the whole gathering enjoys traditional foods and games. In this ancestral reverence ritual, also called Charye, ancestors’ favorite foods are prepared by female relatives and served by male relatives. Afterward, all family relatives enjoy the offered food in a bid to receive ancestral blessings for the coming year.

2. Chuseok

Also known as Thanksgiving Day, Chuseok is another major Korean holiday celebrated on the 15 of every August as per the lunar calendar. This holiday usually lasts 3 days and causes the year’s biggest traffic jams as individuals travel to their ancestral hometowns outside Seoul for the festivity. Chuseok started back in Korea’s agrarian society and was held during the full harvest where families gathered to celebrate and thank their ancestors for a plentiful harvest. An ancestral memorial ceremony, Charye, was also performed during Chuseok where a table was filled with food, especially newly harvested fruits and rice. The modern-day Koreans celebrate Chuseok with special foods such as Songpyeon (rice cakes) which are prepared on the eve of Chuseok by all family members to deepen their bond and show the importance of family. Sharing is also a major theme during Chuseok and involves giving gifts to family members, friends, and colleagues.

3. Hansik

Also known as Cold Food Day, Hansik is celebrated on the 105^th day in the Lunar calendar and often falls on April 5^th in the Gregorian calendar. This festivity started with an ancient Chinese practice where people restrained from using fire and ate cold food for some time. People also predict how the year will turn out depending on the weather during Hansik Day. There are beliefs that the weather will be warmer if Hansik falls in February (Lunar Year). Others believe that if the weather is a clear and calm day, there will be a good harvest but if there is a thunder strike, the year will be filled with bad omens. Some regions also believe that Hansik translates to “Gongmail – evil spirit-free day” which means they can tend to their ancestors’ graves on this day without fearing the wrath of the gods. On Hansik, Koreans perform ancestral rites, Charye, at ancestral graveyards or shrines. Modern Koreans, mostly those living in the city, perform the ancestral rites in their houses which include preparing a table of food for the ancestors and paying respect before enjoying a meal as a family.

4. Dano

Also known as Surit nal or Spring Festival, Dano is celebrated on the 5th day, the 5th month of the lunar calendar, and usually falls on May or June in the Gregorian calendar. Traditionally, the women practiced Danojang culture where they washed their hair in iris water (water boiled with Sweet Flag), wore new clothes, and ordained themselves with changpo ornamental hairpins. Women also wore Angelica polymorpha flowers while men, iris roots around their waist with both practices believed to repel evil spirits. All genders would then engage in folk games and dancing. Dano festivity is said to be from a shamanistic ritual of worshipping the sky deity during end-of-sowing season celebrations to pray for a bountiful harvest after planting crops. During Dano, Koreans enjoy various traditional foods, including rice cakes and herbs, and traditional dances such as swinging and wrestling. Dano is also termed spring day since it falls in the season where spring turns into summer with the yang energy at its peak. Modern Koreans enjoy the Dano festivity while enjoying the beauty of spring before the heat of summer takes its toll.

—- Karen Mwenda

#MajorKoreanTraditionalHolidays #kcrush #Danojang #changpo #DanoFestivity #Hansik #coldfoodday #eatcoldfoodday #Chuseok #Seollal #koreanholidays #koreanfestivals #koreantraditions #kcrushamericamagazine #kcrushcontent #kcrushnews #lunarcalendar

Performed by Japanese rock band BACK-ON, ‘CHEMY×STORY’ is the opening theme song to ‘KAMEN RIDER GOTCHARD’. At a press conference held back in August, BACK-ON stated in a video message that they plan to evolve the song through collaboration with other artists, echoing the fusion seen in ‘KAMEN RIDER GOTCHARD’. And now, in 2024, they have followed up on that promise with the release of a new collaboration version of the theme song!

For this new version, BACK-ON have joined forces with fellow rock band FLOW, teaming up under the name BACK-ON × FLOW! And from Sunday, January 7, when the first new episode of ‘KAMEN RIDER GOTCHARD’ of 2024 was broadcast, the theme song has been updated to the two bands’ new version of ‘CHEMY×STORY’! The “TV size” short version of the song is also out now on download and streaming services, following its release on January 7.

Look out for this new version of ‘CHEMY×STORY’ arranged by FLOW on your favorite music service or during the TV show’s opening!

‘CHEMY×STORY’

BACK-ON × FLOW

Lyrics: Shoko Fujibayashi

Music: Hi-yunk (BACK-ON)

Arrangement: FLOW

Download and streaming

https://avex.lnk.to/KR_GOTCHARD_BACK-ON_FLOW_TV

▼ Comment from BACK-ON

“We can finally announce this! The story in ‘Gotchard’ is filled with twists and turns, and this seemed like the perfect timing to add a surprise twist to the opening theme song as well. We thought of this band as soon as this project first came along, and we wanted to go further than all the ‘Rider’ collaborations of the past, so we crashed through the boundaries to bring this track to life!

“I personally have admired FLOW since I was a teenager, and I had always wanted to have the opportunity to perform together with such a great band on a ‘Rider’ collaboration… Through this song, which has great chemistry with ‘Gotchard’, we want to convey each Sunday morning that dreams can come true if you keep pursuing them!

“We hope you enjoy the new ‘CHEMY×STORY’!”

▼ Comment from FLOW

“This collaboration was made possible when we were approached by the two members of BACK-ON. As fans since childhood, it was a pleasure to work on a song for our hero ‘Kamen Rider’. This is a song that could only have been made together with BACK-ON, so we hope you enjoy this unique chemical reaction, just like the fusion in ‘Kamen Rider Gotchard’.

“Let’s all join together to enjoy ‘Kamen Rider Gotchard’.”

About BACK-ON × FLOW

BACK-ON

BACK-ON is a band consisting of MC TEEDA and vocalist/guitarist KENJI03, two childhood friends from Tokyo’s Adachi Ward. They perform live not only in Japan but also in Asia, North America, Europe, South America and other parts of the world. They have received acclaim from listeners all around the world for their musicality and their live performances. In addition to writing their own material, they also write songs for many other artists.

Under the name Hi-yunk, KENJI03 previously composed the theme song ‘Trust · Last’ for ‘Kamen Rider Geats’, which was broadcast until August 2023, and the theme song ‘Change my future’ for ‘Kamen Rider Geats × Revice: Movie Battle Royale’. ‘CHEMY×STORY’ was his second theme song in a row for a new series of ‘Kamen Rider’. BACK-ON’s song ‘Chair’ also featured in ‘Kamen Rider Geats’, marking the band’s first contribution to the ‘Kamen Rider’ series as BACK-ON.

FLOW

FLOW is a five-piece cross-genre rock band featuring KOHSHI (vocals), KEIGO (vocals), TAKE (guitar), GOT’S (bass) and IWASAKI (drums). Older brother KOHSHI and younger brother TAKE began their music career together in 1993, and formed FLOW in 1998. They were joined in 1999 by KEIGO and GOT’S, with IWASAKI rounding out the lineup in 2000.

Since making their major-label debut with the single ‘Blaster’ in 2003, FLOW have released hit after hit, boasting strong twin-vocal melodies and a wide musical palette. The band have released numerous anime theme songs, including the opening theme songs ‘GO!!!’ from ‘NARUTO’, ‘COLORS’ from ‘Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion’, and ‘Kaze no Uta’ from ‘Tales of Zestiria the X’ – earning them a reputation as a band perfectly suited to anime.

FLOW celebrated their 20th anniversary on July 2, 2022; and on November 16 that year, they released the single ‘Daydream Believer’, a collaboration with ORANGE RANGE. In July 2023, they performed their largest ever headline concert, titled FLOW 20th ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL LIVE 2023 ~ANIMESHIBARI FESTIVAL~, which was held at Makuhari Messe International Exhibition Hall just outside of Tokyo.

#BackOn #Flow #Kohshi #Keigo #Take #Gots #Iwasaki #Blaster #Gothemesongs #Narutothemesong #Colorsthemesong #Hiyunk #KENJ103 #KamenRiderGeats #CHEMYxSTORY #MCTEEDA #kcrushnews #jpop #anime #TokyoAdachiWard #kcrushmagazine #BackOnandFlowCollaboration #kcrushamerica #Japaneseband #FLOW20thANNIVERSARYSPECIALLIVE2023 ANIMESHIBARIFESTIVAL #kcrushtopamericanasianmag #fivepiececrossgenrerockband #kcrushannounces

Chart-topping K-pop girl group DREAMCATCHER is set to embark on their European tour through “Dreamcatcher 2024 World Tour [Luck Inside 7 Doors] in EUROPE.” The seven-member girl group, managed by DREAMCATCHER COMPANY, will showcase their talent in five European cities, including Barcelona, Warsaw, London, Offenbach, and Paris. The tour kicks off in Barcelona on February 17, 2024, and concludes in Paris on February 25, 2024.

DREAMCATCHER is a seven-member girl group under the label DREAMCATCHER COMPANY consisting of members JI U, SU A, SIYEON, HANDONG, YOOHYEON, DAMI, and GAHYEON. They have proven their limitless talent by showing off their unique charm through their strong, dynamic tracks with powerful vocals to beautiful, soft ballads. DREAMCATCHER has captured the hearts of music fans both domestically and internationally.

DREAMCATCHER recently made a comeback with their ninth mini-album, ‘VillainS,’ marking the successful initiation of an alternate universe-themed series. This album signifies the commencement of the new series called “VersuS,” narrating the tale of a villain. The storyline unfolds around the pursuit of a crown with the ability to allure people, where the villain occasionally opts for harm and manipulation to advance their motives. The title track, “OOTD,” is an acronym for “Outfit Of The Day,” portraying a narcissism that extends beyond mere confidence. DREAMCATCHER has solidified the group’s identity by embracing the role of a villain in “OOTD.” The instrumental sound and vocal effects, frequently utilized in punk rock, convey an unconventional and destructively confident vibe, leaving listeners impressed with DREAMCATCHER’s diverse musical palette.

Additionally, the album includes “Intro: This My Fashion,” “Rising” infused with strong opinions, “Shatter” featuring lyrics that yearn for freedom, and “We Are Young,” conveying a message of hope, all contributing to solidifying DREAMCATCHER’s distinct musical identity. Particularly during this comeback promotion, dance previews were uploaded, heightening fans’ anticipation for the upcoming stage performances. DREAMCATCHER has consistently presented fans with a unique universe and concept in each album, leading to a successful career that is reflected in their latest achievement of topping the U.S. iTunes Worldwide Albums chart with the new release.

In 2023, DREAMCATCHER engaged in a variety of activities to connect with their fans both in Korea and internationally, marking another significant turning point by concluding the Apocalypse trilogy series and introducing a new universe. The group has consistently experienced an upward trajectory, securing numerous awards on music broadcast programs and even topping the U.S. iTunes chart. As a highly anticipated presence in the K-pop scene, they were honored with the ‘Best Choice’ award at the 2023 Asia Artist Awards in the Philippines. The ‘Best Choice’ Award is bestowed upon an unparalleled artist that AAA recognizes. This accolade reaffirmed DREAMCATCHER’s unrivaled position in K-pop and underscored their global influence.

DREAMCATCHER is set to reunite with their European fans approximately a year after the conclusion of their 2022 DREAMCATCHER World Tour: [Apocalypse: Follow us]. The Paris show, a part of this tour, witnessed a complete sell-out, serving as a testament to their immense global popularity. Taking the stage for a dynamic two-hour performance, the group showcased a diverse setlist of songs, delivering an electrifying experience. The local response was nothing short of explosive, with fans energetically singing along in Korean and cheering fervently, creating an atmosphere that filled the entire venue.

The highly awaited Dreamcatcher 2024 World Tour [Luck Inside 7 Doors] in EUROPE is poised to create lasting memories for both DREAMCATCHER and their devoted “InSomnia.” With this tour, DREAMCATCHER is advancing in their quest to establish themselves as a “Live Performance Blockbuster.” Since the tour announcement on December 27, numerous InSomnia have been eagerly paying even closer attention to DREAMCATCHER. With every show, DREAMCATCHER is crafting a new chapter in their history, and as news of the upcoming tour circulates, fans’ expectations are intensifying.

Dreamcatcher 2024 World Tour [Luck Inside 7 Doors] in EUROPE – Ticket Sales Dates

BARCELONA, WARSAW, OFFENBACH, PARIS

January 8, 2024, at 3:00 PM (CET)

LONDON

January 8, 2024, at 3:00 PM (GMT)

Information regarding ticketing for the shows can be found on: mmt.fans/bwaB

Dreamcatcher 2024 World Tour [Luck Inside 7 Doors] in EUROPE

February 17 – Barcelona, Spain; Sant Jordi Club
February 19 – Warsaw, Poland; Progresja
February 21 – London, UK; Troxy
February 23 – Offenbach, Germany; Stadthalle
February 25 – Paris, France; Zénith Paris – La Villette

About DREAMCATCHER COMPANY:

Established in 2008, DREAMCATCHER COMPANY is a South Korean record label and entertainment

agency founded by the prominent production duo E-tribe. Since the debut of its first artist Nassun, the company has grown in size over the years, producing artists and idol groups under its name. The company also launched subsidiary labels HF Music Company, Dreamcatcher Company, and D1CE Entertainment, which is garnering much attention and recognition from the public as the rising creator

of future K-pop artists.

About MyMusicTaste:

MyMusicTaste organizes fan-initiated concerts around the world. We’re driven by our mission to connect and amplify the voices of fans all over the world. We’ve successfully promoted concerts of artists such as EXO, Machine Gun Kelly, ATEEZ, and more in over 40 different cities. With the simple idea – empowering fans to bring their favorite artist’s concert to the city of their choice based on fan demand–MyMusicTaste is challenging the $27 billion concert market through cutting-edge technology and sophisticated, user-friendly service. Our service currently supports more than 30 countries and offers 15 languages. MyMusicTaste is truly growing as a global service. Our investors include Com2us, SK Networks, Kolon, Samsung Venture Capital, Golden Gate Ventures, KTB network, SL Investment, and numerous global firms that are recognized worldwide.

#DREAMCATCHER #DREAMCATCHER2024WorldTourInEurope #kcrushnews #kpop #EuropeTour #LuckInside #kpoptopgirlgroup #MyMusicTaste #DREAMCATCHERCompany #kcrushamericamagazine #korean #DREAMCATCHERLuckInside7Doors #JIU #SUA #SIYEON #HANDONG #YOOHYEON #DAMI #GAHYEON #kcrushannouncement

K-pop girl group EVERGLOW is heading to Europe to meet their fans, “FOREVER” (official fandom name), through their highly-anticipated EVERGLOW EU TOUR [ALL MY GIRLS]. EVERGLOW just released their spot video for the EVERGLOW EU TOUR [ALL MY GIRLS], marking the heightened excitement of the group’s first Europe tour and is sure to captivate fans in six different cities across Europe throughout January and February of 2024.

EVERGLOW is a six-member girl group formed by Yuehua Entertainment on March 21, 2019, consisting of members SIHYEON, E:U, MIA, ONDA, AISHA, and YIREN. The group debuted with their first single album, Arrival of Everglow, and its lead single track, “Bon Bon Chocolat”. Arrival of Everglow was met with immediate enthusiasm and public interest, debuting at number 6 on South Korea’s Gaon Chart and their track “Bon Bon Chocolate” peaked at number 5 on the Billboard World Digital Song Sales chart.

In November 2023, EVERGLOW successfully completed their 2023 EVERGLOW US TOUR [ALL MY GIRLS]. Starting the show in New Haven, EVERGLOW held their U.S. tour in 10 cities; New York, Atlanta, Washington, D.C., St. Petersburg, Louisville, Chicago, Denver, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Proceeding with their U.S. tour success, EVERGLOW is now ever more ready to meet “FOREVER” in their upcoming Europe tour.

Tickets for the tour: mmt.fans/bwEm
Meet & Greet tickets: mmt.fans/bwLe

EVERGLOW EU TOUR [ALL MY GIRLS]

January 23 – Barcelona, Spain – Sala Apolo
January 25 – Paris, France – Le Bataclan
January 27 – Amsterdam, Netherlands – Melkweg
January 30 – London, UK – O2 Shepherds Bush Empire
February 2 – Warsaw, Poland – Palladium
February 4 – Berlin, Germany – Huxleys

#EVERGLOW #EVERGLOWEUTOUR #EVERGLOWALLMYGIRLS #kcrushnews #Barcelona #Paris #Amsterdam #London #Warsaw #Berlin #EVERGLOWConcert #EVERGLOWTOUR #kcrushtopamericanasianentertainmentmagazine #kcrushamerica #EVERGLOWTickets #mmtfans #BonBonChocolat #kpop #koreangirlgroup #kpopidol #EVERGLOWEuropeanTour #kcrushmedia #kcrushasiancontent #kcrushkpop

WHIB, a high-end boy group of 8 members, is presented by CJeS Studio, a company known for housing many prominent actors in Korea. They debuted in the music industry with the release of their single album ‘Cut-Out’ on November 8th.

Could you please provide an introduction to WHIB and brief profiles for each member?

JAYDER: I’m Jayder, the leader of WHIB. WHIB is a combination of WHITE and BLACK, symbolizing our ambition to show a spectrum of colors, like the many colors between white and black on the color chart, and our goal to find our unique hue among these diverse colors.

HASEUNG: I’m Haseung, the oldest member and vocalist of WHIB.

JINBEOM: I’m Jinbeom, the powerhouse and visual of WHIB.

Ugeon: I’m UGeon, the rapper of WHIB, representing sincerity.

LEEJEONG: I’m Leejeong, the choreography leader with a charming vocal tone.

JAEHA: I’m Jaeha, the member with the biggest eyes and beauty like a character from a webtoon.

INHONG: I’m Inhong, the pure vocalist of WHIB.

WONJUN: I’m Wonjun, the confident youngest member who excels in everything physical.

You recently wrapped up your first single album activity. Could you please introduce the first single and share your thoughts on the experience?

HASEUNG: ‘Cut-Out’ is an album name that embodies the idea of creating a work of art by cutting and pasting various colored papers. I think it’s an album that best represents WHIB’s identity. It consists of the double title tracks ‘BANG!’ which is as intense and powerful as BLACK, and ‘DIZZY,’ which captures the pure and refreshing charm of WHITE.

JAEHA: It was an activity full of wonder and fun as it was our first. There were some regrets since it was our first, but I see those as part of our growth process. I want to show an even better side of us in our next activities.

INHONG: This was an activity where I really felt the weight of standing on stage as WHIB. The tension didn’t ease even up to the last week of our 4-week activities. However, as time went by, performing in front of our fans and meeting them at fan sign events made me realize that my dream had come true, making it a meaningful experience.

It hasn’t been two months since your debut. How long were you trainees, and what was the process of WHIB members coming together?

JAYDER: I became a public trainee through the rookie development project ‘made in cjes’. Although there were slight differences in the timing of our joining, except for Wonjun who joined last, all of us have been trainees for several years since we were first revealed in 2021.

JINBEOM: We weren’t selected as WHIB among various trainees; instead, we were told from the beginning that we would be one team and prepared accordingly. Maybe because of that, I feel a deeper bond and camaraderie with each other.

What is the musical direction that WHIB pursues, and what points would you like to proudly share with KCrush readers worldwide?

LEEJEONG: I believe WHIB’s strength and goal is its focus on diversity. Like the meaning behind our team name, I hope you look forward to WHIB’s ability to present a wide spectrum of performances and continue to create diverse performances and songs.

Are there any other K-pop stars you are fans of? Could each member introduce a singer (domestic/international) who has inspired them?

LEEJEONG: It’s Jungkook of BTS. He recently went solo, and I think every performance he shows on stage is really amazing.

Ugeon: For me, it’s Juyeon of The Boyz. The ease and attitude he displays on stage are so impressive that I want to emulate him.

JINBEOM: Every time I watch a performance by NCT seniors, I always think that I want WHIB to be a group that can put on such stages.

I enjoyed the fresh and lively feel of the music videos. Are there any behind-the-scenes stories from the video shoot? What was the most enjoyable and challenging part of the process?

JAYDER: In the opening scene of the ‘DIZZY’ music video, I break a statue. It was surprisingly difficult to get the timing and angle right to knock it over. I was worried about what would happen if we broke all the prepared statues and still didn’t get an OK take, but fortunately, we finished shooting successfully.
INHONG: In the ‘DIZZY’ music video, Jinbeom and I have a scene where we’re acting in front of a chessboard. It was my first time shooting with such long takes, so the movement and various aspects were a bit confusing.

LEEJEONG: It rained on the day we shot the ‘BANG!’ music video outdoors. My individual shooting was the first schedule that morning. Filming outdoors in the rain wasn’t easy, but thanks to all the staff who worked hard for me, we created some great scenes. I was really grateful.

Do you have a styling you would like to showcase next time?

Ugeon: I want to show a stronger concept than what we presented in ‘BANG!’ This time, I tried a bridge hairstyle, but next, I’d like to experiment with a dark red hair style.
HASEUNG: I want to change my hair color to a cool tone and try a rock chic concept for my outfit.

JINBEOM: I want to dye my hair a different color, preferably something cooler. I think long hair would also suit me well.

WONJUN: I’d like to try slightly long, straight hair, preferably black. I’m also interested in trying out hip-hop style outfits.

K-pop artists often take staircase shots on music shows. Did WHIB have a similar experience? How was it, and is there a reservation system for staircase usage?

Ugeon: First of all, it was really fascinating to see those stairs in real life. We didn’t have to reserve a spot; if a senior artist was already shooting, we waited on the side and then took our turn. As more people gathered, a line naturally formed.

HASEUNG: Shooting the stair shot for the music broadcast made me really feel like ‘I’ve truly debuted.’

JINBEOM: For some music broadcast stairs, you can only use them after all the schedules, including the live broadcast, have finished. Usually, it’s first-come, first-served.

How do you manage your diet these days? Do you eat everything delicious and exercise, or do you follow a healthy diet plan?

Ugeon: These days, I eat what I want for one meal and manage the rest with a controlled diet, which usually consists of instant rice and chicken breast. I’m also working out alongside this diet.

HASEUNG: Before entering our active period, I managed my diet with meal replacements, chicken breasts, and the like, and did consistent aerobic and strength exercises. During our active period, as there’s less time to exercise, I tend to control my regular meals.

JINBEOM: I actually eat whatever I want and make sure to exercise. Personally, I want to gain a little weight, so I’m mixing oatmeal with my regular meals.

WONJUN: Personally, I don’t follow an extreme diet. I just control my dinner a bit. I often eat sweet potatoes for dinner.

Are the members currently living together? I’m curious about the roles each member takes on during group living.

JAYDER: Currently, we all live together in a dorm. Usually, I’m the first to fall asleep in the evening, so I have the nickname ‘Baby.’ In the morning, I’m the first to wake up and do a bit of tidying before leaving for work.

WONJUN: I usually go to sleep last, so I take on the role of turning on the boiler before bed. (laughs)

INHONG: In the dorm, the only roles we’ve specifically divided are for cleaning. We have a day once a week when we all clean together. The tasks are divided into recycling, general waste, bathroom cleaning, and taking care of dishes and food waste.

What message would each member like to convey through future songs?

JAYDER: I prefer to convey the feelings experienced during the song-making process directly into the music. So, I want to present songs that make listeners feel, ‘Ah, this is what the members were thinking at that time.’

LEEJEONG: As WHIB will encounter a wide variety of concepts and songs in the future, I want to show our continuous growth with each activity. Recently, reading letters from our fans, I’ve been touched by the beautiful words they write. So, I’ve been writing lyrics lately as if responding to our fans’ letters.

WONJUN: I also want to capture our growth process in our songs.

INHONG: I want to convey a range of emotions so that listeners can empathize with the stories in our songs.

To our readers who love K-culture, could each member introduce their favorite Korean food?

LEEJEONG: I love galbijjim (braised short ribs)! I don’t think there’s any other meat dish that can replace galbijjim!

INHONG: My favorite is kimchijjim (braised kimchi). It’s also my favorite Korean dish, and I’ve hardly seen anyone who doesn’t like kimchi and pork, so I highly recommend kimchijjim.

WONJUN: My favorite is also kimchijjim, so I’d like to recommend it too.

Lastly, could each member share a few words with K-Crush readers?

JAYDER: Please continue to love and support WHIB in the future. We’ll always work hard and show our growth.
LEEJEONG: KCrush readers, I wish you a lot of happiness in the new year and ask for your continued interest in WHIB.

—- Jiyoung Lee

#WHIB #kcrushinterviewwithWHIB #kcrushinterview #JAYDER #LEEJEONG #WONJUN #INHONG #JINBEOM #kpop #kpopnewboygroup #korean #kculture #koreanfood #favoritekoreanfoodWHIB #CJESSTUDIO #kpopidol #kcrushtopasianamericanentertainmentmagazine #HASEUNG #UGEON #JAEHA #UgeontherapperofWHIB #JaydertheleaderofWHIB #kimchijjim #kimchi #kimchijjimrecommendedbyWHIB #BANGWHIB #DizzyWHIB #kcrushamerica #kcrushamericamagazine #interviewswithkcrush #INHONGthepurevocalistofWHIB #CUTOUT

(G)I-DLE and ZEROBASEONE also set to celebrate Lunar New Year in Los Angeles on February 10

Early access to tickets, begins January 9, via krazysuperconcert.com

Public on sale begins January 10 at krazysuperconcert.com

Los Angeles, CA – January 5, 2024 – Pulse Events, the company known for bringing global music events to New York, has announced today the full artist lineup for ‘Krazy Super Concert’ that will be held on Saturday, February 10, at BMO Stadium with TAEYANG of BIGBANG as headliner as well as Lauv, (G)I-DLE and ZEROBASEONE, and including previously announced acts aespa and THE BOYZ. The chart-topping groups and record-breaking artists are set to celebrate the cultural holiday, Lunar New Year.

General admission tickets and VIP Packages will be available through pre-sale on Tuesday, January 9, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time via krazysuperconcert.com and public on-sale on Wednesday, January 10, at 10 a.m. local time via Ticketmaster.

TAEYANG is one of the most celebrated acts in Korean music history. This will be his first solo headlining performance in the U.S. in his illustrious career that spans nearly two decades. In early 2023, the icon released his long-awaited EP, “Down To Earth,” that included the lead single “VIBE (feat. Jimin of BTS),” a smash hit collaboration that reached No. 1 on Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales Chart. His first project since 2017’s “WHITE NIGHT,” this body of work remains one of his most popular among other standout collaborations featuring LISA of BLACKPINK, rapper Beenzino and THEBLACKLABEL’s own Bryan Chase. The global superstar is an accomplished solo artist releasing four massively successful albums including two that have gone No. 1 on Billboard’s World Albums Chart and his global hit “Eyes, Nose, Lips,” which won “Song of the Year” on all the major Korean award shows that year.

Multi-Platinum chart-topping singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Lauv who is one of today’s most intriguing storytellers. His stories continue to enchant audiences everywhere by converting the magic around him into generational anthems. After introducing himself with viral sensation “I Like Me Better,” he landed a global smash that tallied over 1.1 billion streams on Spotify, while reaching Top 10 chart positioning at Top 40 radio and Top 5 chart positioning at Hot AC radio in the US, went sextuple-Platinum in the US and platinum in twelve other countries. In 2020, his Gold-certified full-length debut album, “~how i’m feeling~,” bowed in the Top 20 of the Billboard Top 200. Lauv kicked off 2022 with an entirely new chapter of music on his second full-length album, “All 4 Nothing,” and toured globally in 2023 in support of the body of work.

It’s been a remarkable year for (G)I-DLE, with the release of their first English album, “HEAT,” which charted the first single off the hit album. The groups first US digital single “I Do,” has charted on the Pop Airplay rankings on the Top 40 chart. The group also achieved their biggest milestone by debuting at No. 25 on the Billboard 200 Album Chart. The group debuted in May 2018 with their 1st Mini Album “I Am” with their popular title track “LATATA.” Since then, the five-member girl group with members MIYEON, MINNIE, SOYEON, YUQI and SHUHUA has racked over 3 billion streams to date with all their singles combined. Their releases have broken into the Top 10 of South Korea’s Circle Weekly Album chart, as well as topping the Billboard World Albums Chart and Billboard 200.

With one of the most exciting debuts of the year, K-pop rookie group ZEROBASEONE has become a significant force in the global music genre from their strong pre-debut popularity on the hit TV survival show, MNET’s Boys Planet bursting onto the scene with their high energy and groundbreaking streaming numbers when they debuted. The nine artists— SUNG HAN BIN, KIM JI WOONG, ZHANG HAO, SEOK MATTHEW, KIM TAE RAE, RICKY, KIM GYU VIN, PARK GUN WOOK, and HAN YU JIN were already international sensations before they realized it, reaching a career milestone of one million Instagram followers in just six days from launch and becoming the first K-pop group to earn 780,000 pre-orders of a debut album in just five days; hitting over one million pre-orders in 13 days.

“I’m thrilled to bring the Krazy Super Concert series to Los Angeles. We’ve been working on this for quite some time and we can’t wait to celebrate Lunar New Year with the incredible artist lineup and all the fans,” said Luffy Huang, CEO of Pulse Events.

About Pulse Events

About BMO Stadium

JSW A 1

On the last day of 2023, we headed to Jeju Island to attend the annual JSW Countdown held by Jeju Shinhwa World.

According to the organizers, Jeju Shinhwa World, the two-day year-end festival, held on December 30th and 31st, attracted over 20,000 attendees to a special outdoor venue spanning 6000 square meters.

And the presale age group ranged from the 20s to 50s, attracting a diverse audience. Foreign tourists from Southeast Asia, China, Europe, including fans of Sandara Park from the Philippines, were notably present.

The first day’s performance on the 30th required raincoats due to rain and strong winds, and the second day on the 31st was cold, but the audience enjoyed the shows regardless.

Legend Special Concert | Dec. 30

The event kicked off with performances by DJ Kyte and DJ Mewloud. Heavy rain started from the entrance queue, peaking during Wheesung’s 8 PM performance.

JSW 2
JSW 3

Wheesung, soaked for 30 minutes, showed a ‘rainy-day spirit’ by performing hits like ‘Insomnia,’ ‘With me,’ ‘Incurable Disease,’ and ‘I Thought of Marriage.’ He candidly discussed his wandering and challenging times. As someone who attended Wheesung’s debut concert in 2002, hearing him 21 years later brought different emotions. He mentioned having news about a new album but plans to limit his activities. I hope he continues his music and personal life as he wishes.

Sandara Park’s performance followed. Known for 2NE1, it was intriguing to see her solo act, which exceeded expectations. Sandara brought positive energy to the stage and introduced lesser-known songs from her solo album. Her performance of <DARA DARA>, produced by Gray, perfectly captured her charm. She then reminded the audience of the 2010s with 2NE1’s hit songs.

JSW A 6

Jinusean’s presence was still strong, over 30 years since their 1997 debut. Their stage manner, energy, and appearance were unchanged, offering the most moving performance. Their message, “To someone who had a hard time, don’t forget Jinusean is cheering for you, and better days are waiting just beyond the tough moments,” resonated warmth. Sean recently broke ground for a Lou Gehrig’s disease care hospital, a 14-year dream. Sean has been actively campaigning for the hospital’s construction. They also performed ‘Gasoline,’ his debut song that shaped Jinusean today, adding an emotional touch.

The event on the 30th truly lived up to its theme, spending time with K-pop legends. It was a meaningful experience, filled with songs and life stories that resonated deeply. The night ended with a spectacular fireworks display.

2024 JSW Countdown | Dec. 31

The second day opened with DJ B4SSDROP. Despite the cold weather and contrary to the weather forecast, no rain fell, and a large crowd filled the venue. Mirani and Hyolyn created a young and hot atmosphere.

JSW A 9

Kim Jong-kook, active since 1995 with Turbo, took the audience on a nostalgic journey with his numerous hits. His unwavering vocal skills and voice, just like in his prime, were astounding. Kim Jong-kook, who maintains his robust physique through excellent self-care, showed his professionalism as a singer. Mikey, also from Turbo, made a surprise appearance, adding to the excitement.

As the countdown approached, more people gathered, anticipating Dynamic Duo’s performance. Debuted in 2000 as CB Mass and rebranded in 2004 as Dynamic Duo, they have numerous hits like ‘Confession,’ ‘Rewriting Resume,’ ‘Check-in,’ ‘Mother’s Soybean Paste Soup,’ ‘BAAAM,’ ‘Girl,’ and more. ‘AEAO'(2014) re-trended and charted in 2023 again, and ‘Smoke’ became a sensation through Street Woman Fighter, making their performance the most enthusiastically received.

The fireworks show scheduled for the 31st countdown was canceled due to the weather, but a few fireworks were set off to lessen the disappointment. The presence of warm zones and snack booths gave a well-prepared festive feel.

Reflecting on 2023 with K-pop legends left me deeply satisfied. Recalling the past with numerous songs that accompanied my life, empathizing with the musicians’ life stories, and stepping into 2024 with hopeful and vigorous strides filled me with excitement on January 1st.

[All photos are property of KCrush]

—Jiyoung Lee

#JSW #JSWCountdown2024 #kcrushnews #JejuShinhwaWorld #JejusAndeokmyeon #kcrushamerica #kpop #hiphop #pop #ShinsegaePremiumOutlets #kcrushtopasianentertainmentmagazine #2023countdowncelebration #Wheesung #ballads #DJKite #DJMuraoud #DJBasedrop #Jinusean #SandraPark #DynamicDuo #Hyolyn #Mirani #InterparkTicketSales #hiphop #newyearcountdown #koreanJejuisland #KimJongKook #JejusBestCountdownWithLegendaryArtists #ticketssoldnow #ticketssoldonInterparknow #Shinhwa #kcrushinterview #kcrushfeaturedinterview #kcrushgoogleindexed #OChaemin #Gotjawal #MZgeneration #2024NewYear

JSW Countdown 2024

K-Pop의 주인공들과 함께 들여다보는 과거, 현재, 미래

2023년 마지막날, 제주도로 향했다. 제주신화월드가 매년 진행하는 JWS Countdown을 보기 위해서다.

12월 30일, 31일 양일간 열린 연말 축제에는 6000 제곱미터 규모의 특별 야외 공연장에 합산 2만명이 넘는 관객이 모여든 것으로 집계되었다.

주최측에 따르면 사전예매 연령도 20대부터 50대에 이르기까지 남녀노소가 모두 어우러졌다고 한다. 현장에서 확인하기로도 필리핀에서 온 산다라박의 팬을 비롯해 동남아시아, 중국, 유럽 등지에서 온 외국인 관광객들도 많이 눈에 띄었다.

30일 첫날 공연은 비와 강풍 때문에 우비를 입어야 했고 31일 둘째날은 낮아진 공기 덕에 추위 속에 공연을 관람해야 했지만, 관객들은 아랑곳하지 않고 공연을 즐겼다.

Legend Special Concert | 12.30 19:00-22:00

30일은 DJ Kyte와 DJ Mewloud의 공연으로 시작되었다. 입구에 줄을 설 때부터 많은 비가 쏟아졌고 비는 8시 휘성 공연 때 가장 강하게 내렸다.

휘성은 30분동안 비를 흠뻑 맞고 ‘빗속투혼’을 보이며 Insomnia, With me, 불치병, 너와 결혼까지 생각했어 등 히트곡을 들려주었다. 특히 공연 중간중간, 방황했던 시간, 힘들었던 시간에 대해 허심탄회하게 대화를 이어나갔다. 필자와 동행인은 2002년 휘성의 데뷔 콘서트를 관람했는데 21주년을 맞아 다시 휘성의 공연과 아픔에 대해 들으니 소감이 남달랐다. 앞으로 새 앨범 소식이 있다고 하는데 활동을 많이 하지는 않을 계획이라고 했다. 본인이 원하는 음악과 개인생활을 잘 이어가길 바란다.

이어서 2NE1으로 유명한 산다라박의 공연이 이어졌다. 2NE1은 워낙 인기곡이 많기는 하지만 솔로로 어떤 모습을 보여줄지 궁금했는데, 공연은 기대 이상이었다. 산다라박은 혼자서도 무대를 따뜻하게 채우는 긍정적인 에너지를 가지고 청중에게 다가왔고, 아직 많이 알려지지 않았던 솔로 앨범 수록곡들도 잔잔하게 소개하는 시간을 가졌다. 특히 그레이가 프로듀싱한 <DARA DARA>는 산다라박의 상큼함을 잘 표현한 무대였다. 이후 2NE1의 히트곡들을 불러 청중들에게 2010년대 감성을 리마인드 시켜 주었다.

마지막으로 지누션의 존재감은 여전했다. 1997년 데뷔 이후 30년이 훌쩍 넘었지만, 그때와 무대매너도, 에너지도, 외모도 그대로였고 가장 감동이 큰 무대를 선사했다. 특히 “힘든 시간을 보냈을 누군가에게, 그 순간만 지나면 정말 좋은 날들이 기다리고 있다면서 지누션이 응원하고 있다는 걸 잊지 말라”는 멘트는 팬들에게 따뜻한 마음을 전달하려는 진심이 느껴지게 했다. 최근 션은 14년간의 꿈이던 루게릭요양병원의 착공식을 가졌다. 션은 병원 건립을 위해 각종 캠페인·챌린지를 활발히 펼쳐왔다. 또한 신나는 히트곡들 외에도, 자신을 오늘날의 지누션으로 만든 데뷔곡 “가솔린”을 잊지 않고 불렀다는 점 역시 감동 포인트였다.

30일 공연은 정말 테마 그대로 케이팝의 레전드들과 함께 한 시간이었다. 각자의 노래와 인생을 팬들과 공감한 시간들이어서 많은 생각을 하게 되었던, 생각보다 너무 뜻깊은 공연이었다. 마지막에 정말 멋진 불꽃쇼가 진행됐다. 넓지 않은 공간에 관객들 머리위로 떨어질 것 같은 멋진 불꽃으로 한해의 마지막을 장식할 수 있었다.

2024 JSW Countdown | 12.31 20:30-00:30

둘째날 공연도 DJ B4SSDROP가 문을 열었다. 이날 일기예보와 달리 비는 거의 내리지 않았지만 기온이 뚝 떨어져 추운 날씨에도 수많은 인파가 촘촘히 공연장을 메웠다. 미란이와 효린이 젊고 뜨거운 분위기를 만들어줬다.

1995년부터 터보로 활동한 김종국은 워낙 히트곡이 많아 청중들에게 추억 여행을 선사했다. 무엇보다도 놀라운 것은, 그 누구보다도 흔들림 없이 예전 그대로인 가창실력과 목소리였다. 뛰어난 자기관리로 탄탄한 외모를 그대로 유지하는 김종국은 가수로서도 프로페셔널한 모습 그대로였다. 또한 터보 활동을 함께 했던 마이키도 깜짝 등장해 함께 무대를 꾸며 반가움을 더했다.

카운트다운 시간이 가까워지면서 점점 더 많은 인파가 모여들었고, 모두가 다이나믹듀오의 공연을 기다리는 눈치였다. 2000년 CB Mass로 데뷔해 ‘진짜’, ‘동네한바퀴’ 등으로 인기를 얻고 2004년 다이나믹듀오로 이름을 바꿔 등장했다. ‘고백’, ‘다시쓰는이력서’, ‘출첵’, ‘어머니의 된장국’,’죽일놈’, ‘BAAAM’, ‘해뜰때까지만’ 등 수많은 히트곡이 있지만, 2023년에는 특히 ‘AEAO’가 차트를 역주행했고 스우파를 통해 ‘Smoke’ 광풍까지 불었다. 그래서 그런지 가장 열광적인 호응을 이끌어냈고 노련한 뮤지션으로 관객들을 뛰게 만들었다.

31일은 카운트다운에 맞춰 불꽃쇼가 또 한번 예정되어 있었지만, 기상 관계상 취소되었다. 그럼에도 마지막에 한두번의 불꽃은 보여주어 아쉬움을 달랬다. 곳곳에 웜존이나 간식을 먹을 수 있는 부스들이 설치되어 있어 아기자기한 축제를 잘 준비한 인상을 받았다.

2023년을 케이팝의 레전드들과 함께 한 소감은 대만족이었다. 그동안 삶을 함께 해 온 수많은 노래들과 함께 과거를 돌아보고, 또 뮤지션들과 삶에 대한 이야기도 공감하면서 다가오는 2024년을 위해 다 같이 희망차고 힘차게 발걸음을 한다는 생각에 설레는 1월 1일을 맞이했다.

KCrush visited the special influencer expo organized by the Seoul Metropolitan Government

‘The 2023 SeoulCon’ is the world’s first global influencer expo organized by the Seoul Metropolitan Government and the Seoul Economic Promotion Agency. Unlike traditional expos that focus on products or services, this unique event targets influencers (people) as its main subject. It is also part of the Seoul Winter Festa, a major winter festival in Seoul. The Seoul Economic Promotion Agency (SBA) announced on January 3rd that approximately 100,000 people participated in the ‘2023 SEOULCon,’ the world’s first and largest influencer expo, held at the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) from December 30th last year to January 1st.

At SeoulCon, influencers from over 50 countries with a total of 3 billion subscribers were invited. Notable domestic and international influencers like Kristel Fulgar and Anushka Sen also attended. Among them, Jang Elina, Kika Kim, Kristel Fulgar, Anushka Sen, Cam, and Cassandra Bangson, six global influencers, were included in the 22 people who participated in the New Year’s bell-ringing event, which was broadcast live worldwide and became a topic of discussion.

The event showcased Seoul’s lifestyle in content, beauty, fashion, and more, leveraging the expertise of the Seoul Promotion Plan (SPP) and the experience in supporting the overseas expansion of small and medium-sized enterprises in Seoul.

‘2023 SEOULCon’ featured 28 diverse programs across four categories: festivals, conferences, content, fashion, beauty, performance, and entertainment. This included the APAN Star Awards, SeoulCon X World K-Pop Festival & Countdown, and 2023 T1Con, all held successfully with great participation.

AI App Experiences K-Pop Dance

Sidewalk Entertainment, a real-time motion recognition AI startup, set up STEPIN, a K-Pop dance AI platform, featuring K-Pop Random Play Dance Battle, STEPIN Score Challenge, and a STEPIN Experience Zone.

On the stage set up at the venue, the K-Pop Random Play Dance Battle was conducted in pairs in real-time, selecting the final winner, and the STEPIN Score Challenge alternated, challenging participants to score over 70 points using STEPIN’s AI scoring feature. There was also a zone where attendees could freely use STEPIN.

The K-Pop Random Play Dance Battle, in particular, drew attention. The battle, conducted in a tournament format, featured participants with outstanding dance skills, heating up the atmosphere inside the venue.

Kukgi Bong, the CEO of Sidewalk Entertainment and a former professional gamer, said, “The K-Pop Random Play Dance Battle feature, which debuted today, will soon be available through the app.”

‘SeoulCon Media Trailer’

The cast of Netflix’s survival entertainment program ‘Physical 100’ and global influencers competed in a ‘Squid Game’ challenge. ‘Physical 100’ winner Woo Jin-yong, along with Kim Kyung-baek, Jo Jin-hyung, and ‘Australian Tarzan,’ were among the four ‘Physical 100 Crew’ members who participated. Contestants from Netflix’s dating show ‘Solo Hell’ conducted love counseling and talk shows.

Moreover, about 50 domestic and international influencers who participated in the 2023 SeoulCon were also present.

‘2023 Creative Force Awards’

Oh Se-hoon, the Mayor of Seoul, gave a welcoming speech at the 2023 SeoulCon Creative Force Awards. He presented the Mayor of Seoul Award to five outstanding beauty creative force teams and six teams for this year’s creative force.

In his speech at the award ceremony, Mayor Oh Se-hoon said, “We have entered an era where the creative industry and creative convergence industry determine the future of the country. Fortunately, thanks to K-Content, the world has begun to pay attention to Seoul, South Korea. It is a pleasure and gratitude to see how your efforts are doubling the speed and effectiveness of this attention.”

The Creative Force is a project conducted by the Seoul Business Agency (SBA) and the Seoul Metropolitan Government to foster individual media creators who will promote Seoul’s outstanding resources in tourism and small businesses. Participants were provided with various support programs, including a dedicated single-person media studio and partners’ space, a corporate matching and branded content production program, and mentoring and networking with professionals in the industry and single-media experts.

Since its launch in 2017, Creative Force, now in its eighth year, has produced 1,006 active creators, generated over 90 billion video views, and supported 5,235 campaigns for a subscriber base of approximately 136.79 million.

Mayor Oh Se-hoon personally presented the awards to six outstanding beauty creative force teams and five teams in this year’s Creative Force category. The Outstanding Beauty Creative Force is an award for teams that have promoted Seoul’s beautiful spots, excellent beauty companies, and brands through beauty content this year. NASU, Rachel Kim, Restoration King, IMDAY, and Jiwon were honored with awards.
This year’s Creative Forces included six teams. The channel ‘Jin and Hattie’ with the steepest subscriber growth won the Growth Award, while ‘On Oppa,’ the most subscribed channel.

Continuing, the award for Passion went to ‘Nukkimchaek,’ which was selected the most for the highest number of branded content production projects. ‘DicoDCO,’ which had the highest usage of studio and equipment rental, received the Activity Award. The Proactive Award was given to ‘Coyoupu TV’ for participating in the most diverse range of SBA single-person media support projects.

K-Pop Random Play Dance

Right in front of the exit, a dance battle took place, drawing a large crowd of spectators, creating a bustling atmosphere.

At the Oullim Square, when the song ‘Standing Next to You’ by Jungkook of BTS started playing, about 50 influencers from around the world began dancing in unison to the same choreography. During the dance break sections, following the beat, the influencers’ flashy moves prompted hundreds of citizens and foreign tourists to quickly take out their smartphones to record and cheer loudly. Every 30 seconds, music from leading K-pop groups like BLACKPINK, NewJeans, aespa, and Seventeen flowed, and the influencers smoothly performed the choreography. In the special K-pop Random Play Dance segment for artists, 49 members from 8 rookie idol groups, including AMPERS&ONE, 82MAJOR, YoungPaci, Rocking Doll Roa, E’LAST, Eastshine, Busters, and Beauty Box, participated.

‘Original Seoul’

‘Original Seoul,’ showcasing Seoul’s street fashion, featured 22 fashion brands including Levi’s and Musinsa, each setting up booths to display the essence of Seoul’s street fashion.

Original Seoul, held at the DDP Design Lab 1st floor D Forest, was themed ‘Fashion-based Original Brands Coming Together to Voice the True Original.’ It showcased the unique perspectives of each brand on Original Seoul, presenting sustainable Seoul fashion and culture.

Although not as crowded as other events, it was mainly influencers who were observed exploring the exhibition.

Shinsegae’s select shop CaseStudy decorated a unique exhibition space using a variety of collaborative products they recently worked on. Popular fashion brands among the younger generation, such as 2000Archives and THUG CLUB, also participated. Particularly, THUG CLUB has been recognized as an emerging street fashion brand by global fashion magazines.

Saytouche is a brand that showcases clothing based on artistic works. At this Original Seoul event, they provided a unique experience by displaying their products as art pieces. The fashion brand Sunwoo exhibited concept clothing, while Danha presented modern reinterpretations of traditional Korean hanbok clothing and accessories. Danha has recently gained international attention after featuring in a BLACKPINK music video. The select shop Aglet displayed clothing collaborated with contemporary British artist Damien Hirst. The global electric bicycle brand MATE also participated, exhibiting electric bicycles created in collaboration with fashion brands like Moncler. The outdoor brand Helinox showcased camping gear and clothing in collaboration with IAB Studio. The F&B culture brand CNP participated with brands like NICE WEATHER, OLD FERRY DONUT, and PACINO ESPRESSO.

Costume Play

Wrap-Up

SeoulCon extended beyond just an influencer expo, integrating various events of Seoul city. The highlight of SeoulCon, the SeoulCon x World K-Pop Festival & Countdown, held at the DDP, welcomed the new year with a countdown attended by global influencers, citizens, and K-pop fans from various countries, totaling over 4,000 participants. Performers like Jay Park, Apink, Ash Island, Hi Cutie, Lee Gikwang, N-Sign, Secret Number, and Chungha joined to celebrate the new year, alongside a K-pop and EDM concert surrounding the Bosingak bell-ringing ceremony. The concert featured traditional Korean music group S.O.S, mask dance and Bukcheong Lion Dance, Nongak (farmer’s music) troupe, Ambiguous Dance Company, Zerobaseone, Enhypen, The Boyz, and Oh My Girl, showcasing the charm of Korean culture and K-pop’s global status. A light show centered around a 12-meter structure symbolizing the midnight sun was displayed at Gwanghwamun Square.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government and the Seoul Economic Promotion Agency plan to establish Seoul as the hub city for global individual media industry trends and business through this event.

—- Samual Kim

#SeoulCon #SeoulConinfluencerexpo #SeoulConWorldKPopFestivalandCountdown #kpop #kcrush #kcrushnews #JayPark #Apink #AshIsland #SOSmaskdance #BukcheonLionDance #koreanculture #kcrushamerica #Chungha #AmbiguousDanceCompany #kcrushtopasianamericanentertainmentmagazine #kcrushonsite #kcrushcoverage #GwanghwamunSquareNewYearsLightShow #SeoulEconomicPromotionAgency #Cosplay #Saytouchefashion #SunWoofashion #Danhafashion #Helinoxfashion #Moncler #THUGCLUBfashion #2000Archivesfashion #DDPDesignLab #SeoulStreetFashion #Levis #Musinsa #OullimSquare #KPopRandomPlayDance #kpopmusic #Nukkimchaek #DicoDCO #CoyoupuTV #SeoulMayorMayorOhSehoon #MayorofSeoul #NASU #RachelKim #RestorationKing #IMDAY #Jiwon #SeoulMetropotianGovernment #SeoulWinterFesta #NewYearsBellRinging #SidewalkEntertainment #NetflixssurvivalentertainmentprogramPhysical100 #SquidGame #T1Con

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