https://www.scmp.com/rss/505322/feed en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Not every K-pop idol can make it big, but those sitting at the top are paid in the millions per year. Although their earnings might evoke envy in some people, we’re just happy to sit here and appreciate the fruits of their labour, as these young and rich stars have already made enough that they can blow the extra cash on some truly covetable luxury watches. Read on for five K-pop idols with timepieces we just can’t stop admiring. 1. S. Coups (Seventeen) The leader of the 13-strong group is... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3220073/5-k-pop-idols-luxury-watches-we-cant-stop-admiring-bts-rms-rolex-perpetual-day-date-platinum?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3220073/5-k-pop-idols-luxury-watches-we-cant-stop-admiring-bts-rms-rolex-perpetual-day-date-platinum?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 11 May 2023 02:00:12 +0000 Michelle Yeoh made history when she won the Oscar for best actress for her performance in Everything Everywhere All at Once. As the first Asian woman ever to take home the Academy Award category’s prize, her achievement was widely lauded by fans across the world. However, South Korean public broadcasting station SBS has come under fire for undermining her speech in the interest of “inclusivity”. What went down SBS (Seoul Broadcasting System) cut the clip of Michelle Yeoh calling “ladies” and... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3213758/why-did-south-korea-edit-michelle-yeohs-oscars-speech-local-broadcaster-sbs-has-been-accused?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3213758/why-did-south-korea-edit-michelle-yeohs-oscars-speech-local-broadcaster-sbs-has-been-accused?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 16 Mar 2023 09:16:53 +0000 Korean fashion in 2022 was all about hip-hop and retro influences, with Y2K looks in particular dominating people’s wardrobes. We saw everything from visible thongs and cargo pants to even mini-braids making a reappearance. But for girlie girls, 2023 might just be your year: ultra-feminine looks are making a serious comeback in the form of balletcore – with Blackpink’s Jennie leading the pack. But just what is balletcore, and how do you sport the style for yourself? What is balletcore? Think... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3213608/how-rock-balletcore-fashion-blackpinks-jennie-her-born-pink-stage-outfits-turbocharged-ultra?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3213608/how-rock-balletcore-fashion-blackpinks-jennie-her-born-pink-stage-outfits-turbocharged-ultra?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 16 Mar 2023 00:00:12 +0000 Blackpink’s Jisoo and English Premier League footballer Son Heung-min, of Tottenham Hotspur FC, have been linked for close to two years, even though YG Entertainment has continuously tried to squash the rumours. Here we delve into the pair’s seemingly intertwined fate. Why is Blackpink’s Lisa still being ‘mistreated’ by YG Entertainment? When things started Things started back in 2019, when Jisoo happened to be in London during the Chuseok (known as Korean Thanksgiving) holiday. She attended a... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3152214/blackpinks-jisoo-dating-footballer-son-heung-min-dating?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3152214/blackpinks-jisoo-dating-footballer-son-heung-min-dating?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 13 Oct 2021 09:29:53 +0000 On August 30, 2021, notorious gossip site Dispatch Korea – which broke the news that G-Dragon and Blackpink’s Jennie are dating, as well as Hyun Bin and Son Ye-jin – splashed news that Lee Min-ho is in a relationship with singer and actor Lee Da-bin, better known as Yeonwoo. According to the outlet, the two have been dating for five months and spent her birthday together on August 1, where Lee picked Yeonwoo up in his car for a movie date. View this post on... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3147804/are-lee-min-ho-and-yeonwoo-really-dating-meet-budding-k?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3147804/are-lee-min-ho-and-yeonwoo-really-dating-meet-budding-k?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 07 Sep 2021 02:57:01 +0000 Sure, being a K-pop idol guarantees that you’ll live in the lap of luxury – if you can make it, that is. But that’s a very big “if”. Many trainees practise their youth away without a day of rest, and some even drop out and end up with massive debts to their agencies. While some idols come from modest backgrounds, these five singers gave up cushy, privileged lifestyles to slog away at chasing their showbiz dreams. IU, Hyeri and Chungha all paid off their families’ debts Twice’s Tzuyu Hailing... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3135074/5-k-pop-idols-who-grew-rich-finding-fame-twices-tzuyu-and?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3135074/5-k-pop-idols-who-grew-rich-finding-fame-twices-tzuyu-and?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 28 May 2021 01:00:10 +0000 It hasn’t always been peaches and cream for every K-pop idol. While some South Korean stars are famous for being born into “silver-spoon” families, many idols come from average family backgrounds. Don’t believe us? How about this: some even paid off their family’s debts after earning their first pay cheques. Here are six idols whom you’d never expect to have come from such humble backgrounds. Which brands are Korean style icons Song Hye-kyo, Blackpink and Itzy wearing? Hyeri from Girl’s... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3133918/iu-hyeri-and-chungha-all-paid-their-families-debts-6-k?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3133918/iu-hyeri-and-chungha-all-paid-their-families-debts-6-k?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 19 May 2021 01:00:16 +0000 If you caught Netflix thriller Sweet Home, you will have been introduced to actors Lee Do-hyun and Go Min-si. The drama was originally a popular webtoon before it was adapted into a K-drama series. However, one huge change was made in the adaptation – while Lee and Go characters were related by blood in the webtoon, Netflix took some creative liberties and wrote the pair as adopted siblings in the drama. 5 jealous K-drama celebrity couples Fans went wild when they found out this titbit, for... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3132889/why-lee-do-hyun-and-go-min-sis-chemistry-driving-k-drama?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3132889/why-lee-do-hyun-and-go-min-sis-chemistry-driving-k-drama?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 10 May 2021 07:14:51 +0000 Calling K-pop star Jennie “popular” probably doesn’t do her justice. Besides being part of K-pop sensation Blackpink, which grabbed a Coachella performance and Netflix documentary before its fifth anniversary, Jennie was the first member of the girl band to make her solo debut, and is one of the most followed K-pop idols on Instagram. She’s always been a darling when it comes to brand endorsements too. Within just two years of her debut with Blackpink, Jennie signed a deal with domestic contact... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3130774/did-blackpinks-jennie-dethrone-bae-suzy-koreas-cf-queen-k?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3130774/did-blackpinks-jennie-dethrone-bae-suzy-koreas-cf-queen-k?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 23 Apr 2021 05:22:18 +0000 As the K-pop industry becomes increasingly saturated, it’s becoming more difficult for aspiring idols to get noticed. While household names BTS were a classic dark horse story, with some members even going from rags to riches, it doesn’t shake out that way for every idol. In fact, some of the hottest rookies on stage today have famous parents, prompting us to wonder whether these up-and-comers enjoyed a boost from their celebrity connections … What were these K-drama actors like in... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3129426/twices-jeongyeon-and-4-more-k-pop-idols-famous-parents?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3129426/twices-jeongyeon-and-4-more-k-pop-idols-famous-parents?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 14 Apr 2021 01:00:13 +0000 On Monday (January 25) it was reported that South Korean actress Song Yoo-jung had died. Her date of death was recorded as January 23. Her agency, Sublime Artist, has also confirmed the news. She was just 26 years old. Song’s cause of death has yet to be confirmed at the time of writing. As we mourn the passing of a great actress, here are six moments to remember her by. A sneak peek at the K-pop bands set to debut in 2021 Her appearance in iKon’s Goodbye Road In 2018 Song starred in boy band... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3119245/remembering-k-dramas-song-yoo-jung-ikon-and-nive-k-pop?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3119245/remembering-k-dramas-song-yoo-jung-ikon-and-nive-k-pop?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 26 Jan 2021 04:02:04 +0000 South Korean rapper Iron has died at the age of 29. The musician born Jung Heon-cheol was reportedly discovered laying in a flower bed near his Seoul flat, by a security guard, on Monday (January 25) morning. He was sent to a nearby hospital but later pronounced dead. While we await official news on the cause of his death, here are six defining moments from the controversial artist’s life and career. A sneak peek at the K-pop bands set to debut in 2021 His rise to fame Iron rose to fame on... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3119241/iron-was-one-k-pops-most-controversial-stars-working-bts?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3119241/iron-was-one-k-pops-most-controversial-stars-working-bts?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 26 Jan 2021 03:42:58 +0000 Many people haven’t yet caught on to the brilliance of K-drama The Penthouse – especially since many of its primary cast members like Uhm Ki-joon, Yoon Jong-hoon and even Eugene are relatively unknown. But while international audiences have been slow to catch onto the show due to its lack of Hallyu-famous cast members – and no doubt its seemingly old-fashioned murder mystery plot line – the weekday drama has become a huge deal in South Korea. In fact, it has been so successful that it was... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/leisure/article/3117254/penthouse-really-sky-castle-steroids-k-drama-might-not?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/leisure/article/3117254/penthouse-really-sky-castle-steroids-k-drama-might-not?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 12 Jan 2021 01:00:09 +0000 If the latest K-drama hunk struts like a seasoned supermodel, your intuition might not be too far from the truth. Many popular Korean actors start out as runway models before making the shift into acting. Don’t believe us? Here are five established actors that once prowled the catwalk. Why are so many 30-something K-drama hotties making a comeback? Kim Woo-bin Kim Woo-bin heats up runway for Sewing Boundarieshttps://t.co/YH9aXwQcLl#KimWooBin #FAshion #SewingBoundaries #... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3109051/nam-joo-hyuk-lee-jong-suk-5-korean-actors-who-started?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3109051/nam-joo-hyuk-lee-jong-suk-5-korean-actors-who-started?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 09 Nov 2020 10:00:22 +0000 Seo Ye-ji made a phenomenal splash with her role as Ko Moon-young in summer lockdown Netflix hit, It’s Okay to Not Be Okay. She played the beautiful but just as brazen character to the hilt, leaving fans gagging for her next screen turn. Well, the wait is over – the actress has just accepted an offer to star in upcoming drama Island. She’s been written as – yep, you guessed it – yet another rich girl who you just can’t hate, prompting the question, how does her new role compare to her... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/k-pop/k-drama/article/3108324/seo-ye-jis-new-k-drama-character-island-sounds?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/k-pop/k-drama/article/3108324/seo-ye-jis-new-k-drama-character-island-sounds?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 04 Nov 2020 02:00:29 +0000 Blackpink fans are in for a treat: member Jisoo will be starring in her first-ever lead K-drama role. Slated to air during the first half of 2021, Snowdrop is a historical romance drama that features a stellar cast and crew. It’s written and directed by the same team that created one of Korean cable television’s highest rated K-dramas, Sky Castle. Jung Hae-in will star alongside Jisoo, while the supporting cast is rounded out with Kim Hye-yoon and Yoon Se-ah, also of Sky Castle... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3107238/blackpinks-jisoo-scored-her-first-k-drama-lead-role?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3107238/blackpinks-jisoo-scored-her-first-k-drama-lead-role?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 27 Oct 2020 07:12:50 +0000 Web-based Chinese hit drama A Love So Beautiful has amassed over 5.5 billion views since its original run on Tencent in 2017. Evidently its popularity couldn’t be contained, and now the world of K-drama wants a piece of the action. Slated to air at the end of 2020, the Korean remake stars newcomer Kim Yohan as Cha Heon (Jiang Chen in the Chinese original) and So Juyeon as Shin Solyi (Xiaoxi). So just who is Kim Yohan – and how did he manage to score such a coveted role? Read on to find out more... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3103706/who-kim-yohan-21-year-old-produce-101-k-pop-idol-bagged?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3103706/who-kim-yohan-21-year-old-produce-101-k-pop-idol-bagged?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 03 Oct 2020 00:00:22 +0000 We may follow Kim Soo-hyun’s every move since he became a household name thanks to It’s Okay Not to Be Okay and My Love from the Star, but what about before he became the world-famous best-paid actor in K-drama? From bad hair days to underwear photo shoots, we take a deep dive into the life of the lovable 32-year-old actor before we knew who he was. 5 biggest plot holes in It’s Okay to Not Be Okay He once starred opposite Bae Suzy in a teen drama In Dream High he played the goofy country... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3102009/kim-soo-hyun-its-okay-not-be-okay-fame-wasnt-always?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3102009/kim-soo-hyun-its-okay-not-be-okay-fame-wasnt-always?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 18 Sep 2020 02:14:11 +0000 Korean designers are finally having a big moment in the sun now that K-pop and K-drama taking over the world. Take Netflix’s latest hit It’s Okay to Not Be Okay, for instance. The K-drama actress Seo Ye-ji’s stunning fashion choices have wowed fans and fashion lovers, and while outfits from notable luxury labels like Chanel and Cartier feature in her wardrobe, Seo has also thrown local Korean brands into the international spotlight – here are a few of our favourite ones. Subyul While Seo’s... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3101802/how-netflixs-its-okay-not-be-okay-k-drama-star-seo-ye-ji?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3101802/how-netflixs-its-okay-not-be-okay-k-drama-star-seo-ye-ji?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 17 Sep 2020 02:00:16 +0000 Mukbang YouTuber Moon Bok-hee’s channel, Eat With Boki, became one of the most popular “eating shows” on YouTube in recent months, attracting more than four million subscribers in little over a year to watch her guzzle down enormous quantities of food. But when you become this popular this fast, your fans can be just as quick to turn their backs. So just what is Boki being accused of? Eagle-eyed YouTubers have flagged the fact that she’s been editing her videos to cut the moments where she spits... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3101201/eat-bokis-moon-bok-hee-just-latest-mukbang-star-be?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3101201/eat-bokis-moon-bok-hee-just-latest-mukbang-star-be?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 13 Sep 2020 02:00:12 +0000 Na Jaemin only left his teenage years behind last month, turning 20 on August 13 – on the Western calendar anyway, the NCT Dream star is already 21 in Korea – however he’s already earned legions of dedicated fans. And in case you were in any doubt just how dedicated those fans are, wait until you hear what they organised for his birthday. Read on to discover five facts you should know if you’re to match their dedication. What crazy birthday gifts do K-pop fans shower on their favourite... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/luxury/article/3100887/nct-dreams-na-jaemin-5-facts-about-k-pop-angel-chinese-fans?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/luxury/article/3100887/nct-dreams-na-jaemin-5-facts-about-k-pop-angel-chinese-fans?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 10 Sep 2020 02:00:05 +0000 As Mark Parker, the CEO of Nike once told website HighSnobiety, streetwear’s constant evolution means that the company needs to quickly suss out what’s coming next – and then deliver it, quick. Over the year’s this restless guessing game has seen Nike break rank and collaborate with numerous designer brands that once represented the antithesis of the streetwear credo – here are five of the most iconic. Why limited edition sneaker collabs resell for a fortune Nike x Dior Talks of the two... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/luxury/article/3100380/nikes-5-most-iconic-sneaker-collaborations-dior-x-air-jordan?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/luxury/article/3100380/nikes-5-most-iconic-sneaker-collaborations-dior-x-air-jordan?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 05 Sep 2020 22:00:12 +0000 Blackpink dropped their collaborative track Ice Cream with Selena Gomez last week and fans are still going wild over the music video. Ice Cream became the second fastest music video ever to hit 100 million YouTube views in less than 48 hours, outdone only by Blackpink’s last drop, How You Like That. What caught the eye of many were the outfits that the girls wore in the video, a mix of whimsical and luxe. Kitschy-cute is super popular right now and Blackpink have managed to blend brand pieces... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/article/3099872/blackpink-fashion-style-their-stunning-ice-cream-outfits?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/article/3099872/blackpink-fashion-style-their-stunning-ice-cream-outfits?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 03 Sep 2020 06:45:14 +0000 With everyone staying at home and observing quarantine, time spent online and watching videos is inevitably increasing. And with the simultaneous rising popularity of K-dramas, Netflix has been upping its investment in the market, producing more and more K-drama originals, as well as allocating higher budgets, Following the success of Netflix’s first original K-Drama, Kingdom, about a gory zombie takeover in the Joseon dynasty, next year brings us Sweet Home, a thrilling action-packed drama... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/leisure/article/3097393/netflixs-k-drama-success-its-okay-not-be-okay-spurring?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/leisure/article/3097393/netflixs-k-drama-success-its-okay-not-be-okay-spurring?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 15 Aug 2020 04:00:14 +0000 From fashion to beauty, South Korea is the source of many of the latest trends for teens around the world. When it comes to hairstyles, the hottest new looks often originate on the heads of K-pop stars. The current permed hair trend among young people in Hong Kong and China is a direct reflection of the popularity of South Korea’s top boy bands. Chahong Room, a popular hair salon chain in South Korea, made choosing perms easy for young men by coming up with a perm catalogue. The names for the... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/article/3097235/jungkook-bts-flying-perm-chen-exos-front-frizz-latest?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/article/3097235/jungkook-bts-flying-perm-chen-exos-front-frizz-latest?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 14 Aug 2020 21:15:10 +0000 Jessica Jung only turned 31 in April and her resume already includes singer, actress, YA book author, songwriter, fashion brand creative director and founder and, most recently, YouTuber. Meanwhile, her novel Shine is slated to hit the shelves in September 2020. What do we know about this long-awaited book, as well as Jung and her journey? Born in San Francisco, California, she later moved to Korea in her early teens to train at SM Entertainment, one of Korea’s best agencies. Making her debut... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3095932/jessica-jungs-first-novel-shine-k-pop-autobiography?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3095932/jessica-jungs-first-novel-shine-k-pop-autobiography?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 05 Aug 2020 04:00:06 +0000 It’s Okay to Not Be Okay currently sits at the coveted top spot on Netflix’s most-watched series ranking in various countries all over the world. If you’re yet to tune in, the show centres around Seo Ye-ji as Ko Moon-young, a children’s book writer known for her beauty and talent, and her budding romance with Moon Kang-tae, a guardian at a mental health hospice, played by Kim Soo-hyun. Her character often dons extravagant pieces that somehow come off as classy and luxurious rather than... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3095535/seo-ye-jis-luxurious-outfits-netflixs-its-okay-not-be?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3095535/seo-ye-jis-luxurious-outfits-netflixs-its-okay-not-be?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 03 Aug 2020 00:00:15 +0000 While not yet renowned as a global fashion hub, a steady crop of designers have been putting Thailand on the radar, designing for local celebrities and royals, as well as for the everyday woman. At the front of queue is Thai Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana, daughter of the current king of Thailand, King Vajiralongkorn, who upholds such creative fashion energy with her eponymous label Sirivannavari. She just might serve as an inspiration for these other young forces putting the southeast Asian... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3094382/blackpinks-lisa-loves-kemissara-heres-4-hip-thai?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3094382/blackpinks-lisa-loves-kemissara-heres-4-hip-thai?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 23 Jul 2020 09:30:16 +0000 For those not yet in the know, the leader of K-pop sensations NCT 127 was struck with controversy – rumours emerged alleging that Taeyong was a middle school bully when a nasty comment he had left on a class blog resurfaced on online communities. An ex-classmate stepped forward to accuse Taeyong of bullying another schoolmate for her slightly larger frame, although many others had apparently left even worse comments. When this issue first arose, the young singer apologised and later met up with... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3093863/k-pop-bullying-controversy-ncts-taeyong-finally-cleared?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3093863/k-pop-bullying-controversy-ncts-taeyong-finally-cleared?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 20 Jul 2020 04:04:26 +0000 Highly anticipated due to the combination of esteemed writer, Kim Eun-sook, and its big name lead actors – pairing Lee Min-ho’s post-military service comeback with “Goblin girl” Kim Go-eun – The King: Eternal Monarch fared poorer than expected, clocking low domestic network ratings and tepid reviews. But, why? What went wrong and, whisper it, whose fault was it? The hype machine Lee Min-ho, known for previous roles in hits such as City Hunter, Legend of the Blue Sea and Boys Over Flowers, made... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3092472/k-drama-king-eternal-monarch-tanked-netflix-who-blame?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3092472/k-drama-king-eternal-monarch-tanked-netflix-who-blame?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 09 Jul 2020 06:54:07 +0000 Fans of the group NCT may know Johnny as the lovable ball of sunshine that radiates positivity throughout his 6-foot frame, but for those new to the group, here are some lesser known facts about the American-born K-pop star otherwise known as John Suh or Suh Young-ho. Should K-pop only be by, and for, Koreans? He was dedicated to completing his high school education in the United States Despite passing auditions for star training back in 2007, Johnny was allowed to fly back and forth between... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3092320/ncts-johnny-suh-americas-very-own-k-pop-star-catlike?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3092320/ncts-johnny-suh-americas-very-own-k-pop-star-catlike?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 08 Jul 2020 08:36:19 +0000 Success can often mask the past. Many of these stars may now be wealthy household names, but their backgrounds were tough, which may have helped give them the strength to succeed. Blacking up, leashing men: are Mamamoo K-pop’s most controversial group? TVXQ’s Yunho Yunho is now known for his success with one of the pioneering K-pop groups, TVXQ. When he was young, however, his family went bankrupt and he had to provide for them and his younger sister. Later on, his father cut him off... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3090275/bts-suga-iu-tvxqs-yunho-and-more-k-pop-idols-lived?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3090275/bts-suga-iu-tvxqs-yunho-and-more-k-pop-idols-lived?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 24 Jun 2020 00:00:20 +0000 In 2013, Chloe Cho stepped in front of a national audience at just 16 years of age when she took to the stage on a reality TV talent show in South Korea. Fast forward to 2020 and Cho has signed with leading record label AOMG, headed by Jay Park, dropping her much anticipated music video EVITA! under the moniker DeVita. DeVita is the third female artist to be signed to the male-dominant label that is home to many household names including Cha Cha Malone, Gray and Simon Dominic. RIP Yohan – 5... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3090061/devita-south-koreas-next-star-singer-why-chloe-cho-aims?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3090061/devita-south-koreas-next-star-singer-why-chloe-cho-aims?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 22 Jun 2020 08:00:07 +0000 After a successful round of promotions with Kick It, NCT 127 is back with a repackaged version of their March album “Neo Zone”. “Neo Zone: The Final Round” features three brand new songs, including title track Punch, soulful ballad Make Your Day and a fast-running hit Nonstop.  As they wrap up their first week of promotions, we sit down with the boys via a virtual interview to pick their brains on the new album, their successful live-stream virtual concert, communicating with fans and their... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3088822/k-pop-band-nct-127-their-new-album-neo-zone-final-round?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3088822/k-pop-band-nct-127-their-new-album-neo-zone-final-round?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 17 Jun 2020 00:00:16 +0000 After highly successful spins with What's Wrong with Secretary Kim? and Her Private Life, Park Min-young has moved outside her usual feminine, cutesy, Cinderella romcom characters, for a more melancholic role in JTBC's When the Weather is Fine. While her previous gigs were cheerful and comedic, amid a fast-paced and oftentimes cringey romance, her current project is the very opposite. With muted colours and a slow build-up, it might be a snoozer for some, but will prove just the tonic for... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3089122/why-when-weather-fine-starring-park-min-young-and-seo?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3089122/why-when-weather-fine-starring-park-min-young-and-seo?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 16 Jun 2020 08:00:05 +0000 After a whirlwind three weeks, NCT Dream has concluded the promotional cycle for its first comeback in nine months with new EP “Reload”. The lead track, Ridin’ hits hard with pumping beats and snazzy dance moves, as well as flashy costumes and make-up. Fans, naturally, were very excited about the return of NCT Dream after a long period of waiting since last EP, “We Boom”, released in July 2019. View this post on Instagram A post shared by NCT DREAM... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3088053/k-pops-nct-dream-new-ep-reload-live-stream-beyond-dream?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3088053/k-pops-nct-dream-new-ep-reload-live-stream-beyond-dream?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 08 Jun 2020 09:43:46 +0000 Reality TV series Produce 101 first appeared on the radar in 2016, making headlines for shocking visuals in their teaser introduction that featured 101 girls dancing on a stage. The concept was to select 11 trainees to debut as a temporary project pop group from a starting pool of 101 different trainees from various entertainment companies. The first season saw the successful debut of girl group I.O.I. In a short span of time, they shot to fame, winning multiple awards and raking in more than... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3087550/are-winners-rigged-k-pop-reality-show-produce-101?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3087550/are-winners-rigged-k-pop-reality-show-produce-101?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 04 Jun 2020 08:32:24 +0000 The past month has been filled with surprises as many Korean celebrities announced their impending marriages and even new additions to their families. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Yeonhee.lee (@yeonhee.luv) on Apr 24, 2020 at 1:47am PDT Seo Ji-hye is back in a new K-drama – Shall We Eat Dinner Together Actress Lee Yeon-hee, best known for her roles in Paradise Ranch and The Game: Towards Zero, penned a heartfelt letter to her fans... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3086728/exos-chen-shinwas-jun-jin-lee-yeon-hee-which-k-pop-and?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3086728/exos-chen-shinwas-jun-jin-lee-yeon-hee-which-k-pop-and?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 01 Jun 2020 02:00:08 +0000 NCT Dream first stepped onto the K-pop scene in August 2016 – a group of bubbly, bright-eyed blondes on hoverboards with an average age of 15.6 years. Over the years, fans have watched them grow past puberty into adulthood, with all but the youngest member now legal adults. View this post on Instagram A post shared by NCT DREAM OFFICIAL (@nct_dream) on May 1, 2020 at 4:43am PDT Originally, the band was to have a temporary cast, with members... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3086342/why-nct-dream-k-pop-group-watch-year-following-rebooted?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3086342/why-nct-dream-k-pop-group-watch-year-following-rebooted?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 28 May 2020 01:00:11 +0000 “High teen” is a Konglish (a mishmash of Korean and English) term that comes from “high school” and “teenager”, and refers to various aspects of pop culture as it relates to young people. Today, it is more commonly used to refer to Western coming-of-age movies and television dramas like Clueless and Gossip Girl. In fashion, high teen translates into preppy pieces such as pleated skirts and tartan patterns. Looks and items from the 1990s or early 2000s, such as the outfits worn by Cher Horowitz... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/article/3085675/thank-jennie-blackpink-south-koreas-high-teen-fashion?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/article/3085675/thank-jennie-blackpink-south-koreas-high-teen-fashion?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 24 May 2020 09:30:10 +0000 As South Korea endures its second wave of coronavirus outbreaks, those that have been spotted at potential hotspots are under intense scrutiny and criticism. While most of the general public may glide under the radar, celebrities are at the centre of the rumour mill. Here we separate fact from fiction. Everything we know about BTS’ new album so far Fact View this post on Instagram A post shared by KARA (@kara_k_world) on May 11, 2020 at 1:40am... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3085000/k-pops-jungkook-park-gyu-ri-and-song-min-ho-all-face?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3085000/k-pops-jungkook-park-gyu-ri-and-song-min-ho-all-face?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 19 May 2020 08:00:10 +0000 South Korean actress Han So-hee appeared on the K-drama radar with her role in 2019 TVN series Abyss, playing a serial killer's daughter who flip-flops between the two sides of bad and good. That breakout role transformed her career following minor roles in hits such as 100 Days My Prince and Money Flower. ‘Candy girl’ no more – has K-drama finally embraced feminism? Rising fame View this post on Instagram A post shared by 소희하뚜 (@xeesoxee_fp) on May 1,... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3084004/world-marrieds-han-so-hee-5-things-know-about-breakout?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3084004/world-marrieds-han-so-hee-5-things-know-about-breakout?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 13 May 2020 02:00:19 +0000 May will be a treat for many K-pop fans worldwide – other than the usual round of comebacks made by various groups, two iconic collaborative tracks have dropped, just a day shy of each other, gearing up for another battle on the charts. Why is Song-Song couple’s US$11 million ‘love nest’ being destroyed? IU x BTS’ Suga drops Eight Lee Ji-eun, better known as her stage name, IU, surprised fans last week when news of her upcoming collaboration with BTS’ Suga was released on Korean portal site,... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3083817/k-pop-collab-showdown-bts-suga-and-iu-vs-exos-baekhyun?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3083817/k-pop-collab-showdown-bts-suga-and-iu-vs-exos-baekhyun?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 11 May 2020 12:00:18 +0000 K-pop sensations Exo jolted into the public consciousness in 2012 with debut EP “Mama” – propelled by the title track’s hit music video – before going on to make history with million-selling follow up “XOXO” a year later, South Korea’s bestselling album in 12 years. Baekhyun’s role in the nine-piece group is considered pivotal by many fans, as he is known for his vocal talent as well as his soft, puppy-like looks. In celebration of Baekhyun’s 28th birthday on May 6, here are five things you... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3082865/5-things-know-about-baekhyun-k-pop-star-exo-and-superm?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3082865/5-things-know-about-baekhyun-k-pop-star-exo-and-superm?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 05 May 2020 02:55:30 +0000 The “fox eye challenge” is a social media trend inspired by famous women, including model Bella Hadid and actress Megan Fox, who have almond-shaped eyes lifted at the outer corners to smouldering effect. The trend’s hashtag, #foxeye, has gained more than 10.1 million views on TikTok alone. Ways to achieve the desired look include shaving off the eyebrows after the arch and redrawing them, and applying a heavy-handed cat eye with eyeliner. Shaving off the end of the brow creates a straight which... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/article/3081664/fox-eye-challenge-racist-why-some-asians-are-giving-side?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/article/3081664/fox-eye-challenge-racist-why-some-asians-are-giving-side?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 27 Apr 2020 22:45:09 +0000 The coronavirus pandemic has forced the indefinite postponement of many large-scale entertainment events the world over. In the sphere of K-pop, NCT Dream’s Japan tour dates, titled The Dream Show, were cancelled and no updates have been given for NCT 127’s planned North American tour dates this summer. Beyond LIVE : A new era of live concert begins SuperM LIVE : 4/26 (SUN) 3PM (KST) WayV LIVE : 5/3 (SUN) 3PM (KST) NCT DREAM : 5/10 (SUN) 3PM (KST) NCT 127 : 5/17 (SUN) 3PM (KST) #Beyond_LIVE... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3081771/bts-brought-live-streaming-concerts-k-pop-fans-lockdown?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3081771/bts-brought-live-streaming-concerts-k-pop-fans-lockdown?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 27 Apr 2020 12:00:20 +0000 With Korean idol entertainers entering the industry as young as 15 years old, it is no wonder that they are able to amass a sizeable amount of wealth before they even hit 20. But as these lucky few increasingly flaunt their lavish lifestyles online, it draws the public eye, as many argue whether such copious wealth is truly deserved. The best new K-pop releases to look forward to this month US$200,000 before 20 Solo singer Jeon So-mi, previously of I.O.I and variety show fame, showed off her new... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3079758/why-young-rich-k-pop-stars-jeon-so-mi-suzy-and-seolhyun?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3079758/why-young-rich-k-pop-stars-jeon-so-mi-suzy-and-seolhyun?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 14 Apr 2020 03:00:07 +0000 Seo Woo-jin is the five-year-old South Korean child actor who plays veteran actress Kim Tae-hee’s daughter in hit K-drama Hi Bye, Mama! The unconventional part? Seo is biologically male, leading many viewers to become curious as to why a boy was chosen to play the role when there is an abundance of female child actors in the country itching to be called up. Gender identity? I’m sure everyone who’s ever interacted with my son knows that’s nothing to worry about. Woo-jin is very boyish Seo... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3078752/hi-bye-mamas-gender-backlash-explained-5-year-old-boy-was?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3078752/hi-bye-mamas-gender-backlash-explained-5-year-old-boy-was?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 07 Apr 2020 07:00:13 +0000 Coronavirus has governments advising people to stay home as much as possible to minimise the spread of Covid-19. When social distancing is recommended and with gyms shut as they are apparent hotbeds of infection with crowds of sweaty, shirtless gymrats, options for staying fit seem limited and many are dissolving into various states of unhealthy slothdom. Day 5 of self-quarantine: I made emoji sugar cookies pic.twitter.com/ro7SpJ6EPE — BubblyTea Ⓥ (@FruityTeaLover) March 16, 2020 However, as... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3078323/best-youtube-fitness-videos-and-motivational-apps-your?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3078323/best-youtube-fitness-videos-and-motivational-apps-your?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 06 Apr 2020 01:00:09 +0000 The coronavirus took off in South Korea early in March after a mass infection at a church in Daegu under the Shincheonji sect, where one infected member managed to pass on her illness to thousands more as she refused to undergo treatment and testing multiple times, insisting that her religion made her impervious to disease. The infected members continued their daily life, travelling around the country, resulting in a sudden spike in numbers over the course of a few days. Numbers hit 7,400 on... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3077875/which-korean-celebrities-caused-storm-over-their-social?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/news-trends/article/3077875/which-korean-celebrities-caused-storm-over-their-social?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 01 Apr 2020 03:04:16 +0000