https://www.scmp.com/rss/503024/feed en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com One surprising aspect of the K-pop industry is the way some performers develop long backstories even before they are officially introduced. While singer Jinny made her debut with the promising girl group Secret Number this year, her story has been years in the making. Her early life Park Jin-hee was born in Los Angeles, California, in January 1998. Jinny grew up loving pop stars including Justin Bieber, and K-pop artists such as Big Bang and 2NE1 – in particular G-Dragon and CL. Jinny followed... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3106424/jinny-secret-number-nearly-blackpink-member-then-found-her?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3106424/jinny-secret-number-nearly-blackpink-member-then-found-her?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 24 Oct 2020 14:15:08 +0000 With three decades of experience in show business, South Korean super label SM Entertainment has shown it can make unknown performers into superstars. While most K-pop hopefuls would jump at any opportunity to potentially meet with the label, one of the company’s rising stars nearly lost out on his big chance over trust issues. Here’s a rundown of Chinese star Winwin’s unusual road to K-pop success. His early life Dong Sicheng was born in the city of Wenzhou in China’s eastern coastal province... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3104895/winwin-nct-and-wayv-how-chinese-dancers-lack-trust-nearly?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3104895/winwin-nct-and-wayv-how-chinese-dancers-lack-trust-nearly?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Oct 2020 14:15:14 +0000 Fans of K-pop use the term “successful fan” to refer to the select few who are able to get noticed by or sometimes even develop a direct relationship with their idols. Ryujin of girl group Itzy seems to have upgraded that definition with her remarkable rise from fangirl to K-pop artist. Here’s how she became so successful, both as a fan and an artist. Her early life Shin Ryu-jin was born in South Korea’s capital city of Seoul in April 2001. A young Ryujin developed an early interest in... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3103952/ryujin-itzy-successful-fan-who-became-real-k-pop-star-and?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3103952/ryujin-itzy-successful-fan-who-became-real-k-pop-star-and?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 03 Oct 2020 14:15:15 +0000 South Korean super label SM Entertainment formally introduced NCT 2020 this month. The large-scale music project brings together the 23 members of SM’s ambitious K-pop boy band venture NCT for a series of new songs and videos. While it’s already tough to stand out in the South Korean music industry, it’s even harder when you’re standing alongside 22 other idols. Here’s how NCT Dream member Jaemin has matched his peers and set himself up for an exciting, multifaceted career. His early life Na... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3103006/jaemin-nct-talented-and-rising-star-k-pop-idol-and-actor?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3103006/jaemin-nct-talented-and-rising-star-k-pop-idol-and-actor?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 26 Sep 2020 14:15:17 +0000 Most K-pop stars are known for looking put together, but Amber Liu stands out for her edgy, glamorous tomboy style. It’s not just Liu’s looks that have allowed her to stand out in the industry – it’s also her refreshingly honest attitude and do-it-yourself spirit. Read on to find out about Amber’s life so far. Her early life Amber Josephine Liu was born in Los Angeles in September 1992 the youngest daughter of Taiwanese immigrants. She grew up loving both sports and – thanks to her mother –... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3102098/amber-fx-self-reliant-outspoken-tomboy-whose-musical-skills?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3102098/amber-fx-self-reliant-outspoken-tomboy-whose-musical-skills?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 19 Sep 2020 14:15:12 +0000 While the K-pop industry has welcomed several stars from China, not all have had the same impact as Zhoumi. He has not only been a strong presence on stage and television, but he has also worked behind the scenes to help connect the Chinese and Korean cultures. Here’s Zhoumi’s story so far. His early life Zhou Mi was born in Wuhan, the capital city of China’s Hubei province, in April 1986. An only child, he developed an early love of music and often spent his allowance on CDs. While Zhoumi was... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3101191/zhoumi-super-junior-m-multilingual-chinese-vocalist-who?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3101191/zhoumi-super-junior-m-multilingual-chinese-vocalist-who?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 12 Sep 2020 14:15:16 +0000 While some K-pop idols begin their careers with an unexpected on-the-street casting or because they were convinced by friends to attend an audition, others got started because it’s been a dream of theirs for a long time. Renjun was so determined to make it that, with less than one day’s notice, he made the life-changing decision to travel hours to reach an audition. How that decision has paid off for him. His early life Renjun was born Huang Ren-jun in Jilin province, northeast China, in March... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3100230/renjun-nct-dream-chinese-k-pop-star-who-passionate-focused?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3100230/renjun-nct-dream-chinese-k-pop-star-who-passionate-focused?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 05 Sep 2020 14:15:09 +0000 The K-pop industry has embraced idols from China for several years now, but few have scaled the heights like Victoria Song. From her beginning as the leader of a K-pop girl group to eventually becoming one of China’s most powerful celebrities, Song’s success is the result of years of hard work. Here’s the story of how she became an industry leader. Her early life Song Qian was born in February 1987 in the Chinese port city of Qingdao in Shandong province. She left her hometown to study... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3099235/victoria-song-fx-one-first-chinese-k-pop-group-leaders-she?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3099235/victoria-song-fx-one-first-chinese-k-pop-group-leaders-she?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 29 Aug 2020 14:15:16 +0000 The K-pop industry is now so huge that many of the world’s biggest stars want a piece of the action. Whether it’s the likes of Lady Gaga, Ed Sheeran or Diplo collaborating with K-pop idols, or a famous Chinese child star moving to South Korea to find greater opportunities, connecting with the K-pop world can take an artist’s career to a new level. And China-born star Chenle did just that. Signed to SM Entertainment, he debuted with NCT Dream. Read on for a look at his life so far. His early... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3098306/chenle-nct-chinese-child-star-who-moved-south-korea-get-k?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3098306/chenle-nct-chinese-child-star-who-moved-south-korea-get-k?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 22 Aug 2020 14:15:13 +0000 Seunghee from Oh My Girl seems to have been destined to become a great K-pop diva. From earning a nickname as a junior version of one of South Korea’s top soloists to befriending the star who inspired her to pick up the guitar, Seunghee is living a life most singers could only dream of. But musical talent isn’t all she has to offer. Read on to learn more about what has made Seunghee a stand-out K-pop star today. Her early life Hyun Seung-hee was born in January 1996, in Chuncheon, the capital... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3097368/seunghee-oh-my-girl-beyonce-fan-and-powerhouse-singer-who?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3097368/seunghee-oh-my-girl-beyonce-fan-and-powerhouse-singer-who?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 15 Aug 2020 14:15:17 +0000 As the K-pop industry continues to grow overseas, China has become an important market – not only for its sheer number of potential fans but also as a source of new idols. As a Chinese member of one of the largest and biggest-selling boy bands today in Seventeen, The8 has been important not only in helping the K-pop industry grow, but also showing that its stars can come from any background. From his early days studying martial arts and dance to eventually becoming a songwriting fashion icon and... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3096466/the8-seventeen-how-chinese-k-pop-star-went-martial-arts?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3096466/the8-seventeen-how-chinese-k-pop-star-went-martial-arts?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 09 Aug 2020 14:15:05 +0000 From the rigorous training to the intense public scrutiny, the challenges of K-pop fame almost forced one of the scene’s most beloved stars to give up early in his career. Luckily for fans around the world, Heechul overcame these early bumps in the road to become one of the most distinguished and well-liked stars in the industry. Learn more about the Super Junior star’s journey. His early life Kim Hee-chul was born in July, 1983, in Hoengseong in South Korea’s Gangwon province, the younger of... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3095557/heechul-super-junior-how-singer-put-troubles-behind-him?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3095557/heechul-super-junior-how-singer-put-troubles-behind-him?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 01 Aug 2020 14:15:05 +0000 Many of the music industry’s top female vocalists – think Madonna and Beyoncé – have long been known by their first names. Taeyeon is no different. The soulful singer has spent more than half her life singing professionally, becoming one of K-pop’s representative voices both as a member of a legendary girl group and a renowned solo performer. Learn more about the life of the member of K-pop girl group Girls’ Generation. Her early life Kim Tae-yeon was born in March 1989 in the touristy city of... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3094166/taeyeon-girls-generation-leader-legendary-k-pop-girl-group?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3094166/taeyeon-girls-generation-leader-legendary-k-pop-girl-group?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 22 Jul 2020 14:15:04 +0000 South Korea holds its Miss Korea beauty pageant every year, and the title arguably could have gone to singer-actress-model Seolhyun for several years running given how much love she receives from her home country. A pageant winner shouldn’t just stand out for her beauty or popularity, but also for how she looks to use her influence to help those less fortunate. Once South Korea’s most searched celebrity on the internet, and sought after for her charity work, learn more about Seolhyun. Seolhyun’s... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3092703/seolhyun-aoa-singer-actress-and-model-happiness-what-you?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3092703/seolhyun-aoa-singer-actress-and-model-happiness-what-you?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 11 Jul 2020 14:00:16 +0000 His birth name is Kim Jun-myeon, but the world knows him by his stage name, Suho, which has a special meaning in Korean. Taken from the Korean verb “to protect like a guardian”, Suho’s stage name as a member of Exo has come to mean more than he probably ever realised. We explain why the “guardian” role is a perfect fit for the leader of the history-making K-pop boy band. Suho’s early life Kim was born in Seoul’s wealthy Apgujeong neighbourhood in May 1991. Young Kim was an exemplary pupil, was... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3091747/suho-exo-k-pops-handsome-guardian-who-keeps-band-together?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3091747/suho-exo-k-pops-handsome-guardian-who-keeps-band-together?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 04 Jul 2020 14:00:16 +0000 Few Korean pop stars are lucky to have a career that lasts 10 years, and rarely are they as varied and fruitful as Jung Yong-hwa’s. The multifaceted singer-songwriter-producer-actor has been able to grow in different creative fields, with fans supporting his endeavours all the way. Here’s a look at Jung’s decade in K-pop. His early life Jung Yong-hwa was born in Seoul in June 1989. The younger of two brothers, he and his family moved to the country’s second-most populous city, Busan, in 1991,... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3090755/jung-yong-hwa-cnblue-rocking-busker-japan-multitalented?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3090755/jung-yong-hwa-cnblue-rocking-busker-japan-multitalented?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 27 Jun 2020 14:15:16 +0000 Ong Seongwu is something of a rarity in South Korea – fewer than 1,000 people in the country share his surname. The multitalented performer has something else to boast about too – in less than three years, he has taken over the Korean entertainment industry. Learn more about Ong’s life so far. His early life Ong, now 24, was born in the South Korean city of Incheon in August, 1995. Growing up, he was interested in dance, learned to play the drums, and attended Seoul’s Hanlim Multi Art School... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3089421/former-wanna-one-singer-ong-seongwu-man-many-talents-korean?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3089421/former-wanna-one-singer-ong-seongwu-man-many-talents-korean?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 18 Jun 2020 14:00:14 +0000 Haechan may be a relatively new arrival on the K-pop scene, but the singer has already made an impact thanks to constant activity and striking personality. From his multiple roles in different NCT line-ups to his wild, but gentle persona, here’s a look at the multifaceted world of Haechan. His early life Lee Dong-hyuck was born in the South Korean capital, Seoul, in June 2000. The eldest of four children, the future star lived on popular Korean holiday destination Jeju Island for part of his... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3088769/haechan-nct-and-nct-127-talented-and-confident-performer?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3088769/haechan-nct-and-nct-127-talented-and-confident-performer?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 13 Jun 2020 14:00:08 +0000 Although South Korean singer Jisoo officially made her debut on the K-pop scene in 2016 as a member of Blackpink, she has been a star on the rise for almost a decade. From her pre-debut activities to becoming a member of one of the world’s biggest girl groups, this is Jisoo’s unconventional, yet empowering story. Her early life Kim Ji-soo was born in the city of Gunpo, south of Seoul in South Korea’s Gyeonggi province, in January 1995. The youngest of three siblings, she played basketball and... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3087692/jisoo-blackpink-mystery-girl-global-sensation-her-story-so?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3087692/jisoo-blackpink-mystery-girl-global-sensation-her-story-so?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 06 Jun 2020 14:00:14 +0000 One of the most exciting things about K-pop is that there are many roads that idols can take to get to the top. (G) I-dle’s Soojin hasn’t always taken the easier path, but her experiences have paved the way for her to become the beloved star she is today. Here’s what you need to know about the rising star’s life so far. Her early life Seo Su-jin was born in South Korea’s Gyeonggi province in March 1998. She learned jazz dance and taekwondo while studying at the Korean Arts High School. She... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3085244/soojin-gi-dle-girl-groups-main-dancer-whos-cutest-offstage?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3085244/soojin-gi-dle-girl-groups-main-dancer-whos-cutest-offstage?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 20 May 2020 14:00:14 +0000 On or off the stage, K-pop star Shownu is a charismatic, fit performer who looks like he was born to be in front of an audience. But take a deeper look at the dancer-singer’s life and you’ll soon see his major strength is his compassion and leadership. The member of boy band Monsta X may have big muscles, but he is even stronger than he appears. Here’s a look at Shownu’s journey so far. His early life Sohn Hyun-woo was born in Seoul’s Changdong neighbourhood in June 1992. Growing up as an only... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3083783/shownu-monsta-x-muscular-lead-vocalist-main-dancer-and?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3083783/shownu-monsta-x-muscular-lead-vocalist-main-dancer-and?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 11 May 2020 15:45:14 +0000 First impressions are important in K-pop. All the members of girl group Twice have captivated K-pop fans and the Korean general public since their debut single Like Ooh Ahh in 2015, but band member Jeongyeon stood out visually early on with her shorter hairstyle. Audiences quickly learned that the starlet has much more to offer than cool haircuts. She is now known as one of the scene’s most affectionate and sensitive individuals. That strong sense of care was instilled in Jeongyeon from a young... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3083071/twice-members-jeongyeon-k-pop-girl-bands-humble-lead-singer?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3083071/twice-members-jeongyeon-k-pop-girl-bands-humble-lead-singer?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 06 May 2020 14:00:09 +0000 The life stories of many K-pop stars involve heart-warming tales of a lifelong journey towards a career in music, but others only find their true worth after joining the industry. Wonho for example turned around his tough childhood by becoming a K-pop star and finding love in his fans’ support. Even when controversy from his past threatened to destroy his career, the singer-producer-dancer never lost the faith of his fans who kept him going through it all. Here is all you need to know about... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3080992/wonho-formerly-monsta-x-how-fans-love-helped-singer?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3080992/wonho-formerly-monsta-x-how-fans-love-helped-singer?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 22 Apr 2020 14:00:20 +0000 The K-pop scene is dominated by boy bands and girl groups, but solo stars can break through, too. One of the top South Korean divas is Chungha, a starlet who almost quit the industry, then became a consistent chart-topper and found fame. This is her story so far. Her early life Chungha was born Kim Chan-mi in Seoul in February 1996. She and her family moved to America to live in Dallas, Texas, when she was young, which is why Chungha is fluent in English. She moved back to South Korea when she... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3080027/chungha-unlikely-superstar-k-pop-who-never-thought-she?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3080027/chungha-unlikely-superstar-k-pop-who-never-thought-she?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 15 Apr 2020 14:00:25 +0000 The definition of what it takes to become a successful K-pop star is changing, thanks in part to IZ*One. The 12-member Korean-Japanese girl group is breaking records and seeing its popularity exploding. One of its breakout stars is Miyawaki Sakura. Read on to learn more about the growing star. Her early life Sakura was born in the southern Japanese city of Kagoshima in March 1998. The singer’s love of music began as a child when she used to listen to opera with her mother. Her entertainment... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3078985/sakura-izone-j-pop-idol-making-waves-k-pop-her?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3078985/sakura-izone-j-pop-idol-making-waves-k-pop-her?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 08 Apr 2020 14:00:04 +0000 Sometimes life brings us the most unexpected people as friends. When it comes to K-pop star I.M and his eventual boy band Monsta X, it first seemed unlikely that he would fit in with the group. Yet, the star not only came to be became adored by his bandmates, but ended up as an important voice for the group. Find out how I.M grew from an unexpected rival into an international K-pop leader. His early life Im Chang-kyun was born in South Korean city of Gwangju in January 1996. I.M, his elder... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3078222/meet-im-monsta-x-unwanted-competitor-who-became-global-k?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3078222/meet-im-monsta-x-unwanted-competitor-who-became-global-k?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 03 Apr 2020 14:00:13 +0000 A cornerstone of the K-pop industry is its training, a process that can be tough and lengthy for many young hopefuls. And for Seulgi – who would eventually become a superstar as a member of girl group Red Velvet – her seven years of training were often filled with moments of self-doubt. However, those tough times taught her valuable lessons which have inspired her musical career. Get to know Seulgi’s inspiring story so far. Her early life Kang Seul-gi was born in Ansan, in South Korea’s most... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3077331/seulgi-red-velvet-singer-dancers-struggles-trainee-helped?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3077331/seulgi-red-velvet-singer-dancers-struggles-trainee-helped?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 29 Mar 2020 14:00:09 +0000 In the K-pop industry, very few artists can say they became an instant star. But for Yeonjun from new boy band Tomorrow X Together, it’s true. When K-pop Big Hit Entertainment last year announced TXT as its first new boy band since introducing superstars BTS several years before, all eyes were on Yeonjun as the first member of the group to be revealed. The video that introduced him scored one million views in less than 24 hours on YouTube, while his name became the top trending topic on Twitter... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3076878/yeonjun-tomorrow-x-together-instant-k-pop-idol-who?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3076878/yeonjun-tomorrow-x-together-instant-k-pop-idol-who?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 25 Mar 2020 14:00:19 +0000 Natalie Portman’s character in the award-winning film Black Swan has taught us that performers can feel all sorts of psychological and physical pressures in their pursuit of perfection. While K-pop star Mina’s life is not anything like that of the psychological thriller, the member of girl band Twice knows all about the commitment needed to succeed in the worlds of dance and music – and how that can affect an artist. Here’s why Mina is helping inspire new conversations among K-pop stars. Her... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3075588/mina-twice-isnt-afraid-speak-out-about-mental-health-and-k?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3075588/mina-twice-isnt-afraid-speak-out-about-mental-health-and-k?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 18 Mar 2020 14:00:05 +0000 Looks can be deceiving. Despite his youthful appearance and short stature, iKon member Jay is a mature K-pop idol in touch with his emotions. From his deep connection with his fellow band members to the way he becomes emotionally invested in strangers, the powerful vocalist has not only touched fans with his voice but with his affection for others. Get to know this remarkable star and his career path so far. His early life Jay we was born Kim Jin-hwan on a Jeju Island, a popular holiday and... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3074831/jay-ikon-baby-faced-k-pop-singer-who-wears-his-heart-his?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3074831/jay-ikon-baby-faced-k-pop-singer-who-wears-his-heart-his?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 13 Mar 2020 14:00:15 +0000 Musical talent is required of all K-pop stars, but it’s certainly not everything. Many go from K-pop into acting, modelling, hosting and other endeavours that put their music on the back burner. Wendy from K-pop girl band Red Velvet offers a reminder of just how far a dedicated, passionate lover of music can go in the industry. Here’s why the world is taking notice of the powerhouse vocalist. Her early life She was born Son Seung-wan in Seoul’s Seongbuk-dong district on February 21, 1994. Her... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3073969/wendy-red-velvet-powerhouse-vocalist-musician-through-and?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3073969/wendy-red-velvet-powerhouse-vocalist-musician-through-and?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 08 Mar 2020 14:00:08 +0000 As a member of K-pop boy band NCT 127, Jaehyun has constantly proven to be K-pop’s social butterfly. An effervescent singer, dancer and rapper, he is widely known for his charisma. Read on to learn why so many have fallen for Jaehyun’s charm. His early life Born Jung Jae-hyun in Seoul, on February 14, 1997, the future star lived in the US from the age of five to 10 years old, so he speaks English fluently. Jaehyun was interested in music from a young age, playing the piano and listening to R&B... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3065216/jaehyun-nct-127-k-pops-social-butterfly-whos-favourite?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3065216/jaehyun-nct-127-k-pops-social-butterfly-whos-favourite?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 06 Mar 2020 14:15:08 +0000 In the glamorous world of K-pop, fans do not often see genuine, raw emotions from their idols. But Jihyo, the leader and main vocalist of girl group Twice, has always worn her heart on her sleeve from day one. After 10 years of training with K-pop powerhouse JYP Entertainment and watching many of her friends achieve stardom, Jihyo finally made her debut as leader of the nine-member girl group in 2015. But during the first live performance of the group’s debut single Like Ooh-Ahh, Jihyo was... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3052663/jihyo-twice-courageous-lead-singer-whos-source-strength-her?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3052663/jihyo-twice-courageous-lead-singer-whos-source-strength-her?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 01 Mar 2020 14:00:11 +0000 The disbandment of boy band X1 remains one of the K-pop industry’s most heavily debated topics – and their fans aren’t ready to give up on the guys just yet. After being created on South Korea’s singing competition Produce X 101 and creating one of last year’s bestselling albums, X1 were embroiled in controversy after it emerged that the show’s producers manipulated the final results in favour of certain contestants and their representative companies. The news led to a lengthy hiatus for the... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3052278/x1-fans-refuse-stay-silent-over-disbanded-k-pop-boy-band?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3052278/x1-fans-refuse-stay-silent-over-disbanded-k-pop-boy-band?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 25 Feb 2020 14:00:14 +0000 K-pop stars typically take a few years to build themselves up and break out in the industry. But then there are idols such as Mark Lee who seem destined to be huge. The Canadian-born star only debuted on the K-pop scene in 2016, but has been racking up accomplishments like a seasoned star as a member of the boy bands NCT and SuperM. From songwriting credits on singles to becoming the main spokesman for his groups overseas, Mark has a built up a résumé of important, passionate work. Learn more... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3051710/mark-nct-and-superm-k-pops-instant-superstar-whose-writing?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3051710/mark-nct-and-superm-k-pops-instant-superstar-whose-writing?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 21 Feb 2020 14:00:11 +0000 While much has been made about the tough life of K-pop stars, Bang Chan from Stray Kids may have experienced one of the longest journeys on his way to K-pop stardom. Raised in Australia, the singer, rapper and producer spent years preparing for his K-pop debut and hasn’t slowed down for a minute since getting his big break with Stray Kids. Yet despite opening up about his long wait and the loneliness he’s experienced, Bang Chan remains one of the most humble and heartfelt stars in the industry,... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3050918/bang-chan-stray-kids-inspirational-k-pop-leader-who-spreads?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3050918/bang-chan-stray-kids-inspirational-k-pop-leader-who-spreads?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 17 Feb 2020 14:00:10 +0000 As K-pop extends its reach around the world, Korean groups are seeing more of their foreign members shine in the international spotlight. One of the brightest examples of this phenomenon is Yuqi, a member of girl group (G)I-DLE. The six-member group have an international fan base thanks to their powerful and confident concept, and their ability to produce and write their own music. China-born member Yuqi plays a key role in recruiting new followers. With her unmistakable vocals and growing... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3049990/yuqi-gi-dle-chinese-k-pop-star-whos-tv-scene-stealer-and?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3049990/yuqi-gi-dle-chinese-k-pop-star-whos-tv-scene-stealer-and?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 12 Feb 2020 14:00:11 +0000 Wheein, of K-pop girl group Mamamoo, is an idol with a message. Since their debut in 2014, Mamamoo’s foursome have become one of the leading female groups in K-pop thanks to their soulful performance style and energy. Despite being signed to a relatively small entertainment label, RBW, the group (made up of Wheein, Solar, Moonbyul and Hwasa) have released multiple chart-topping albums and songs centred around a refreshing, retro-inspired sound. Their throwback style has piqued international... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3049527/wheein-mamamoo-singer-who-challenges-k-pop-norms-her-frank?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3049527/wheein-mamamoo-singer-who-challenges-k-pop-norms-her-frank?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 09 Feb 2020 14:00:05 +0000 Felix, one of South Korean boy band Stray Kids’ stand-out rappers and dancers, is a fresh but increasingly significant face in the international K-pop industry. Although Stray Kids only made their official debut in 2018, Felix and his bandmates have worked non-stop to create their own brand of personal storytelling and music. They have already released seven albums, filmed more than 30 music videos, recorded songs in English, Korean and Japanese, and performed concerts across Asia, North... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3048851/felix-stray-kids-husky-voice-catlike-looks-and-intense?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3048851/felix-stray-kids-husky-voice-catlike-looks-and-intense?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 05 Feb 2020 14:00:10 +0000 Mark Tuan, well known as one of boy band Got7’s favourite rappers and singers, has spent more than five years honing his talent in the K-pop industry. Got7 have had No 1 albums in South Korea, the United States, Japan, Thailand and beyond, and played arenas around the world, in large part thanks to the band’s multinational make-up. Its members are from South Korea, Hong Kong, Thailand and the US. An integral part of the group, he has been spreading his wings in the fashion world and as a solo... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3047994/meet-mark-got7-multilingual-k-pop-rapper-dancer-and?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3047994/meet-mark-got7-multilingual-k-pop-rapper-dancer-and?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 29 Jan 2020 14:00:10 +0000 After a decade in which K-pop achieved unprecedented global success, 2020 has begun with a bunch of newcomers, all looking to make an impact around the world. From rising acts on the cusp of greatness to rookies about to make their debut, these seven new acts are likely to make a lot of noise this year. Ateez The boy band whose name will be on everyone’s lips in 2020 is likely to be Ateez. As an underdog outfit signed by the relatively small agency KQ Entertainment, the eight-member act can’t... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3045547/seven-rising-k-pop-acts-watch-2020-ateez-g-idle-too?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3045547/seven-rising-k-pop-acts-watch-2020-ateez-g-idle-too?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 11 Jan 2020 16:00:16 +0000 Despite a string of scandals and tragedies, the K-pop industry saw unprecedented global success in 2019, with its music and the scene’s biggest artists being enjoyed by more people than ever. From local chart hits in South Korea to songs that have resonated around the globe, here are our picks for the top 10 K-pop tracks of 2019, based on local and international chart performance, YouTube views, awards, fan reaction and critical acclaim. 10. How Can I Love the Heartbreak, You’re the One I... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3042914/10-best-k-pop-songs-2019-hit-tracks-supergroups-bts-and?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3042914/10-best-k-pop-songs-2019-hit-tracks-supergroups-bts-and?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 21 Dec 2019 14:00:17 +0000 K-pop was in a strange place at the end of the previous decade. Its biggest artists, such as Rain, BoA and Wonder Girls showed potential to take the sound global, but there was a disconnect between the excitement for the music in Asia and the rest of the world. Fast forward to 2019 and the K-pop scene is at an all-time high in terms of commercial success and global interest, with this past year being perhaps the industry’s biggest to date. From the boundaries pushed internationally to the... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3040900/k-pop-2019-bts-blackpink-break-new-ground-deaths-and?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3040900/k-pop-2019-bts-blackpink-break-new-ground-deaths-and?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 07 Dec 2019 14:00:12 +0000