https://www.scmp.com/rss/517709/feed The latest news on Aespa, South Korean girl group, including music news and updates. en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com The Korea Times The Korea Times Like many other things in Korea, K-pop rarely pauses to explain itself. New groups debut, concepts cycle, controversies surface and fade. The industry absorbs the moment, recalibrates and quickly moves on. That forward momentum has long been part of its appeal. It is also what makes the system difficult to read from the outside. However, beneath the choreography and camera-ready polish, a quieter question persists: why does K-pop feel so engineered, not just in sound or style, but in how its... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/bands/article/3342461/stray-kids-aespa-k-pop-loving-business-expert-breaks-down-industrys-systems?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/bands/article/3342461/stray-kids-aespa-k-pop-loving-business-expert-breaks-down-industrys-systems?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 06 Feb 2026 04:45:08 +0000 The Korea Times The Korea Times A faction of BTS member Jungkook’s fans staged a protest truck demonstration in front of Hybe’s headquarters in Seoul on Wednesday, criticising the singer over recent dating speculation involving Aespa member Winter. According to photos and witness accounts shared online, the truck displayed messages accusing Jungkook of misleading fans and damaging the group’s image. The LED signs included phrases such as “erase the couple tattoo or step back from BTS activities”, “Are you in your right mind... https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/east-asia/article/3335882/bts-jungkook-faces-fan-fury-over-dating-rumours-aespas-winter?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/east-asia/article/3335882/bts-jungkook-faces-fan-fury-over-dating-rumours-aespas-winter?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 10 Dec 2025 07:41:37 +0000 The Korea Times The Korea Times A floral quilted vest long seen as an unfashionable “grandma-style” item in Korea – commonly nicknamed the “kimjang vest” after the kimchi-preparing process kimjang, because older women often wear it while making kimchi in winter – is enjoying a surprising revival among young consumers as a trendy winter fashion piece. The trend gained further momentum after global K-pop stars such as Blackpink’s Jennie and Aespa’s Karina shared photos of themselves wearing the vest on social media, sparking... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/fashion/trends/article/3334486/how-blackpinks-jennie-and-aespas-karina-are-helping-koreas-kimjang-vest-make-comeback?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/fashion/trends/article/3334486/how-blackpinks-jennie-and-aespas-karina-are-helping-koreas-kimjang-vest-make-comeback?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 29 Nov 2025 10:00:13 +0000 Lo Hoi-ying Lo Hoi-ying Fans attending Asia’s biggest K-pop awards show to be held at Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Stadium in November can expect to see Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh, the global debut of a new song by South Korean boy band Stray Kids and a special collaboration with Netflix animated series KPop Demon Hunters. The event organisers on Wednesday announced the highlights of the 2025 MAMA Awards, featuring performances by more than 25 acts, ranging from rookie groups to K-pop veterans. The award show,... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3332683/michelle-yeoh-stray-kids-among-star-line-major-k-pop-award-show-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3332683/michelle-yeoh-stray-kids-among-star-line-major-k-pop-award-show-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 13 Nov 2025 12:15:09 +0000 The Korea Times The Korea Times When Newbeat first stormed onto the scene earlier this year with Raw and Rad, the seven-member boy band positioned itself as a blend of hip-hop swagger and unfiltered drive. Eight months later, the act – Minseok, Minsung, Yeoyeojeong, Seohyun, Taeyang, Yunhoo and Riwoo – is turning that energy outward. The group’s first mini-album Louder Than Ever marks a bold turn – four tracks, two title songs and lyrics sung almost entirely in English. “It’s our way of saying we’re ready for the world,” said... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3332193/k-pop-newbies-newbeat-talk-about-their-new-english-language-album-louder-ever?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3332193/k-pop-newbies-newbeat-talk-about-their-new-english-language-album-louder-ever?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 10 Nov 2025 09:23:21 +0000 Harvey Kong Harvey Kong Tickets for South Korea’s 2025 MAMA Awards go on sale this Friday with several K-pop girl groups and three superstars from Blackpink among shortlisted artists for the major music awards ceremony in Hong Kong. The two-day event, which returns to the city after seven years, will be held at the 50,000-seat Kai Tak Stadium on November 28 and 29. Visa cardholders will have early access to two rounds of ticket presales on October 17, while general sales will begin on Monday. Visa is the event’s title... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3329282/tickets-k-pops-mama-awards-hong-kong-go-sale-nominees-revealed?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3329282/tickets-k-pops-mama-awards-hong-kong-go-sale-nominees-revealed?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 16 Oct 2025 13:11:24 +0000 American fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger browses through a rail of custom-made suits worn to this year’s Met Gala by K-pop stars Stray Kids, before opening up a tuxedo to reveal a special label. The eight-member South Korean boy group caused an online frenzy when the Tommy Hilfiger brand ambassadors became the first K-pop group to attend the prestigious Manhattan fashion event in May. “We did a special label ‘Tommy Hilfiger with the Stray Kids’ and they loved it, we loved it and I think it will... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/article/3278071/lisa-lv-bts-jin-gucci-stray-kids-met-gala-luxury-fashion-embraces-k-pop?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/article/3278071/lisa-lv-bts-jin-gucci-stray-kids-met-gala-luxury-fashion-embraces-k-pop?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 11 Sep 2024 20:15:07 +0000 By Dong Sun-hwa The chart competition among K-pop stars will intensify in the next few weeks, as several acts release new music. Among them are girl groups NewJeans and Aespa, boy band Treasure and RM from BTS. NewJeans’ new album, How Sweet, is set to arrive on May 24. It will feature two tracks, titled “How Sweet” and “Bubble Gum”, along with instrumental versions of both songs, as announced by the quintet’s management company, Ador. The details about the lead track, “How Sweet”, have been... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/bands/article/3263427/bts-rm-newjeans-aespa-and-treasure-go-head-head-k-pop-charts-clutch-new-releases?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/bands/article/3263427/bts-rm-newjeans-aespa-and-treasure-go-head-head-k-pop-charts-clutch-new-releases?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 21 May 2024 03:15:19 +0000 In the past few years, South Korea has emerged as a powerhouse of inspiration and innovation in fashion. At the forefront of this revolution you’ll find K-pop idols, whose magnetic charm, fearless experimentation and distinctive wardrobes have captivated fans worldwide – and captured the attention of luxury brands too. If you’re in need of a wardrobe refresh, look no further than these five female K-pop stars who are rewriting style rules, turning heads with their unique dress sense and... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/fashion/celebrity-style/article/3241075/5-gen-z-k-pop-idols-making-waves-fashion-scene-le-sserafims-eunchae-and-newjeans-hanni-ives-wonyoung?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/fashion/celebrity-style/article/3241075/5-gen-z-k-pop-idols-making-waves-fashion-scene-le-sserafims-eunchae-and-newjeans-hanni-ives-wonyoung?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 13 Nov 2023 04:00:09 +0000 After back-to-back hit albums and having just completed its first world tour in September, K-pop girl group Aespa is making a comeback on November 10 with its fourth mini-album, Drama. Deviating from Aespa’s distinct funky and bass-driven futuristic soundscapes, Drama showcased a darker tone. The group, composed of Karina, Winter, Giselle and Ning Ning, has not only achieved remarkable success in the music industry, but has also solidified its presence in the fashion world. The foursome are... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/fashion/celebrity-style/article/3241015/drama-10-aespas-best-fashion-looks-2023-winters-striking-red-gucci-skirt-and-ning-nings-versace-lbd?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/fashion/celebrity-style/article/3241015/drama-10-aespas-best-fashion-looks-2023-winters-striking-red-gucci-skirt-and-ning-nings-versace-lbd?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 10 Nov 2023 06:00:22 +0000 The K-pop industry has become a target for online threats of violent copycat crimes triggered by random stabbing attacks in South Korea in recent weeks. On August 3, 22-year-old Choi Won-jong rammed a car into pedestrians outside a department store in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, before attacking shoppers with a knife inside the building. The attack, which killed a woman in her 60s and wounded 13 people, is believed to be a copycat crime of the stabbing spree that took place on July 21 in which... https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/east-asia/article/3230946/murder-threats-targeting-k-pop-industry-security-beefed?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/east-asia/article/3230946/murder-threats-targeting-k-pop-industry-security-beefed?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 13 Aug 2023 10:26:43 +0000 By Dong Sun-hwa As a child, Kyler Niko dreamed of becoming a singer – and he nearly made it as one, too. Niko – who wrote his first song when he was 14 – was approached by one of the world’s biggest labels at the time, who said he had the looks, voice and songs they had been searching for. There was just one problem – they were not sure how to market him as a Chinese/Asian artist. Ultimately, they did not sign him. Although this frustrated Niko at first, his discontent did not last long, as he... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/article/3227555/hes-made-hits-exo-nct-twice-and-aespa-meet-k-pop-songwriter-kyler-niko-who-nearly-made-it-singer?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/article/3227555/hes-made-hits-exo-nct-twice-and-aespa-meet-k-pop-songwriter-kyler-niko-who-nearly-made-it-singer?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 14 Jul 2023 08:15:09 +0000 Want to appear in a K-pop music video grooving to your favourite track? Now you can, if you happen to be in Seoul. K-Pop Ground is located on the second floor of a cultural complex in Jongno district called HiKR [Hi from Korea] Ground. It houses studios equipped with the latest MV production tech and props, including sets previously featured in videos by K-pop sensations such as BTS and Aespa. The five studios respectively resemble the interior of a metro carriage, a laundromat, a spaceship, a... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3221475/star-your-own-bts-or-aespa-k-pop-music-video-free-classic-video-backdrops-seouls-k-pop-ground?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3221475/star-your-own-bts-or-aespa-k-pop-music-video-free-classic-video-backdrops-seouls-k-pop-ground?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 23 May 2023 03:15:10 +0000 By Dong Sun-hwa K-pop girl group Aespa have returned to the “real world” after defeating their long-time enemy – Black Mamba – in the virtual world known as Kwangya. The quartet, whose musical universe centres on digital avatars and the metaverse, looked like fearless warriors in their previous singles such as “Black Mamba” (2020) and “Girls” (2022), when they were fighting against an evil force. However, in their third mini-album, Welcome to MY World, they return to reality and spend their time... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/bands/article/3220033/k-pop-girl-group-aespa-record-breaking-new-ep-welcome-my-world-which-sees-them-return-real-world?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/bands/article/3220033/k-pop-girl-group-aespa-record-breaking-new-ep-welcome-my-world-which-sees-them-return-real-world?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 11 May 2023 11:15:13 +0000 By Dong Sun-hwa May cannot come soon enough for K-pop fans, with a slew of megastars releasing new music. We look closely at what’s coming from three of them – Le Sserafim, Aespa and Oneus – and give updates on May releases from (G)I-dle, Mijoo and Shinee. 1. Le Sserafim – Unforgiven (May 1) K-pop girl group Le Sserafim will drop their first full-length album, Unforgiven, on May 1. It is seven months since the quintet’s last release, following the EP Antifragile in October 2022. According to... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/news/article/3218127/le-sserafim-aespa-g-idle-shinee-new-k-pop-releases-may-2023-look-forward?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/news/article/3218127/le-sserafim-aespa-g-idle-shinee-new-k-pop-releases-may-2023-look-forward?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 25 Apr 2023 03:15:08 +0000 It’s no secret that some of the world’s most established luxury fashion houses understand the global influence of today’s hottest Korean stars. One only has to check the social media feeds of brands like Chanel and Fendi to see Korean celebrities promoting their clothes and accessories. Actors like Lee Min-ho, IU and Yoo Ah-in have all had their fair share of ambassadorships over the years. On the K-pop idol front, we’ve seen this interest in how all seven members of BTS were welcomed to the... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/luxury/article/3206990/5-rookie-k-pop-groups-rocking-luxury-fashion-world-newjeans-danielle-ambassador-louis-vuitton-while?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/luxury/article/3206990/5-rookie-k-pop-groups-rocking-luxury-fashion-world-newjeans-danielle-ambassador-louis-vuitton-while?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 17 Jan 2023 04:00:26 +0000 By Dong Sun-hwa Ushering in 2023, K-pop powerhouse SM Entertainment has vowed to tackle the climate crisis and ensure environmental sustainability in cooperation with its artists and their international fans. Its first step is to plant trees, according to the company’s founder and executive producer, Lee Soo-man. “A song can change one’s life. In the same way, one tree can change the world,” Lee said during the recent SM Sustainability Forum. This is the first time a Korean entertainment company... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/news/article/3205311/one-tree-can-change-world-k-pop-label-behind-exo-aespa-and-other-groups-launches-tree-planting?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/news/article/3205311/one-tree-can-change-world-k-pop-label-behind-exo-aespa-and-other-groups-launches-tree-planting?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 03 Jan 2023 03:15:08 +0000 In the cutthroat industry of K-pop, it’s unfortunately not always surprising to hear about K-pop idols being overworked or even mistreated. But there are some cases where specific members of groups seem to be, intentionally or not, excluded and treated especially badly by their own companies or by brands. From Aespa’s Giselle to Blackpink’s Lisa, here are five K-pop idols who seem to have suffered from unfair treatment during their time in the spotlight … 1. Aespa’s Giselle Aespa’s Giselle... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3193814/why-are-these-5-k-pop-idols-getting-short-end-stick-fans?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3193814/why-are-these-5-k-pop-idols-getting-short-end-stick-fans?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 26 Sep 2022 07:44:20 +0000 2022 has made it very clear: the girls are back – K-pop girl groups, that is. As we enter the heart of summer, the heat is on as some of the biggest girl groups and female stars out there start to (or make plans to) release new music, many doing so for the first time in a while. In general, the biggest hits from K-pop this year have been released by women, with less established girl groups like IVE and Le Sserafim making their marks on the first half of the year. The summer will be similarly... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/news/article/3185089/blackpink-twice-aespa-2022s-summer-belongs-girls-k-pop-and-we?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/news/article/3185089/blackpink-twice-aespa-2022s-summer-belongs-girls-k-pop-and-we?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 13 Jul 2022 14:49:52 +0000 The Korean version of Netflix’s Spanish crime series Money Heist features a powerful cast of veteran actors and newcomers. Its meteoric success is reminiscent of the streaming giant’s Korean thriller series Squid Game, which also brought us many new rising stars, as well as familiar faces. Model Jang Yoon-ju, 41, a household name in the fashion scene, plays the role of Nairobi, a bold leader and a reliable member of the team. But could she be the next HoYeon Jung, who also transitioned from... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3184005/next-hoyeon-jung-meet-jang-yoon-ju-money-heist-korea?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3184005/next-hoyeon-jung-meet-jang-yoon-ju-money-heist-korea?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 04 Jul 2022 03:38:09 +0000 Fast-rising K-pop girl group Aespa, composed of members Karina, Giselle, Winter and Ningning, have been surpassing records and achieving milestones since its debut in 2020 (a very successful one, in the middle of a global pandemic, at that!) The group also recently made it into Forbes’ 30 under 30 Asia list, being the only K-pop group included. The prestigious list hails Gen Z and millennial leaders who’ve survived and thrived in their respective fields amid lockdowns, uncertainties and other... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3181054/aespa-new-blackpink-k-pop-supergroups-compared-karina?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3181054/aespa-new-blackpink-k-pop-supergroups-compared-karina?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 10 Jun 2022 04:00:23 +0000 K-pop girl group Aespa have become a trending topic in South Korea after reports of the quartet being sexual harassed surfaced. On May 2, the group performed at Kyungbock High School, an all-boys secondary school in Seoul in South Korea, in celebration of the school’s 101st anniversary. Members of the audience swarmed the band members both during and after the performance, while photos and videos posted on social media have gone viral for sexual comments made about the four women. “I did... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/news/article/3176448/sexual-comments-about-k-pop-girl-group-aespa-prompt-apology?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/news/article/3176448/sexual-comments-about-k-pop-girl-group-aespa-prompt-apology?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 04 May 2022 10:15:19 +0000 Plenty of K-pop idols have odd scouting stories, with agency reps asking for their numbers on the street or even at school events. Some artists, though, were long-time fans of K-pop themselves before their debuts … and ended up having the good fortune of joining the same companies as the singers and bands they love! So which K-pop stars were once lucky fans who debuted in the same company or group as their idols? 1. Itzy’s Ryujin Itzy’s rapper and dancer, Ryujin, has the dream casting story of... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3175929/6-k-pop-fans-who-became-stars-debuting-same-agencies?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3175929/6-k-pop-fans-who-became-stars-debuting-same-agencies?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 01 May 2022 22:00:18 +0000 Sometimes K-pop idols make waves even before they debut. While it can be difficult to get even a small glimpse at the trainees working hard behind the scenes at a K-pop agency, the companies themselves know all too well which of the stars-to-be will blow up once they’re introduced to the public. Fans have dubbed these trainees their agency’s “secret weapons” – individuals who are so exceptional, their debuts are considered akin to the agency releasing a deadly weapon into the entertainment... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3175163/5-k-pop-idols-dubbed-secret-weapons-bts-v-and-blackpinks?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3175163/5-k-pop-idols-dubbed-secret-weapons-bts-v-and-blackpinks?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 22 Apr 2022 06:54:12 +0000 Asian musicians and artists of Asian descent have taken centre stage at this year’s Coachella. The popular music festival takes place over the weekends of April 15 to 17 and 22 to 24 in the Colorado Desert in California, and returns after being cancelled previously because of the Covid-19 pandemic. Over the first weekend, the biggest moments came during the section curated by 88Rising, an Asian-centric music company. The performers included rising South Korean star Bibi with hip-hop icon... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/bands/article/3174983/asian-acts-shine-coachella-2022-jackson-wang-2ne1-aespa-niki?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/bands/article/3174983/asian-acts-shine-coachella-2022-jackson-wang-2ne1-aespa-niki?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 21 Apr 2022 10:15:15 +0000 Jay Park is one of the K-pop industry’s most influential singers and savviest businessmen. He founded two record labels, Aomg and H1ghr Music, and recently started his own soju brand, Won Soju. However, his life in the spotlight is far from unblemished. He was forced to leave his group 2PM because of leaked MySpace messages that criticised Korea and offended fans. He was even once slapped in the face by UFC fighter Brian Ortega, who got angry over his translation of comments from “Korean... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3172564/4-k-pop-idols-who-love-jay-park-despite-his-scandals-bts?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3172564/4-k-pop-idols-who-love-jay-park-despite-his-scandals-bts?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 01 Apr 2022 04:00:28 +0000 K-pop idols never hold back with their style, whether for music videos, performances or even just Instagram posts. But with every hit comes a few misses, so it’s no surprise that our favourite stars have donned their fair share of unsavory fits too. But sometimes fans notice a pattern where one member in a group consistently gets the worst outfits, leading to backlash against their stylists. So, which idols do fans believe are their stylists’ least favourite? 1. Twice’s Jeongyeon After hiatuses... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3170779/stylists-revenge-5-worst-dressed-k-pop-group-members?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3170779/stylists-revenge-5-worst-dressed-k-pop-group-members?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 17 Mar 2022 04:58:30 +0000 Girls on Top is the newest K-pop girl group under Korean mega-label SM Entertainment, which debuted on January 1. But its seven members are no stranger to the label’s audience, since they comprise a collection of the biggest female K-pop idols ever – including soloist Boa, Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon and Hyoyeon, Red Velvet’s Wendy and Seulgi, and Aespa’s Winter and Karina. Thanks to their previous successes, they’re already all millionaires – but who is the richest of them all? Let’s take a... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3161680/whos-richest-member-girls-top-k-pops-new-supergroup-net?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3161680/whos-richest-member-girls-top-k-pops-new-supergroup-net?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 02 Jan 2022 03:00:46 +0000 K-pop fans rejoice: Girls on Top is coming, a group featuring some of the biggest names of the past two decades. The new group, formed by South Korean media giant SM Entertainment, features soloist BoA, Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon and Hyoyeon, Red Velvet’s Wendy and Seulgi, and Aespa’s Winter and Karina. Girls On Top are slated to perform together for the first time on New Year’s Day at SM Entertainment’s New Year concert, and their first song will be released on January 3. Each of the singers... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/news/article/3161130/female-superm-k-pop-group-girls-top-feature-aespa-pair-boa?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/news/article/3161130/female-superm-k-pop-group-girls-top-feature-aespa-pair-boa?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 27 Dec 2021 04:08:40 +0000 In 2021, K-pop was all over the place musically, much like every other element of the world in the second year of the Covid-19 pandemic. Reliable acts put out music that didn’t necessarily match their typical standards of excellent musicality or put out less music than usual, and many shifted their focus to English-language music. Meanwhile, newer acts strode onto the stage with surprisingly addictive releases that became among the most memorable of the year. Despite, or because of, the changing... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/article/3159820/20-best-k-pop-songs-2021-inspirational-sounds-bts-butter-feels?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/article/3159820/20-best-k-pop-songs-2021-inspirational-sounds-bts-butter-feels?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 15 Dec 2021 11:15:08 +0000 Pets are said to be people’s best friends, and many pet owners have strong feelings for their furry friends. Many Korean celebs like to splurge on luxurious gifts for their pets, and some get praised for setting a good example by adopting abandoned dogs. On the other hand, some have faced controversies over their pets – as popular and influential as they are. Here are just a few times K-pop idols sparked online debates over their fluffy companions. Blackpink’s Lisa was accused of being an... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3159164/5-k-pop-idol-pet-scandals-blackpinks-lisa-accused-animal?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3159164/5-k-pop-idol-pet-scandals-blackpinks-lisa-accused-animal?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 10 Dec 2021 04:53:13 +0000 October 2021 saw several high-profile K-pop releases, including the long-awaited first album from CL, Aespa’s first EP, and Twice’s English-language The Feels. Popular boy bands, including NCT 127, Enhypen and Seventeen, all made an impact with addictive new music. Here are some of the must-listen releases. Twice – The Feels (October 1) Since their debut in 2015, Twice have regularly brightened up the K-pop and the J-pop scenes. But with The Feels, they’ve looked towards the West, releasing a... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/bands/article/3154184/best-k-pop-releases-october-2021-nct-127s-favorite-aespas?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/bands/article/3154184/best-k-pop-releases-october-2021-nct-127s-favorite-aespas?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 31 Oct 2021 13:15:21 +0000 Singer Giselle of K-pop girl group Aespa apologised today for seemingly mouthing a racial slur while singing a song, which prompted a backlash online. In a behind-the-scenes look at the band preparing to release their hit single Savage, the members were seen singing along to Sza and Travis Scott’s Love Galore, and Giselle was spotted mouthing a line that includes a word that can be used as a slur against black people. The video, which was uploaded to SM Entertainment’s YouTube channel on October... https://www.scmp.com/culture/music/article/3153581/k-pop-star-giselle-aespa-apologises-mouthing-along-racist-slur?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/culture/music/article/3153581/k-pop-star-giselle-aespa-apologises-mouthing-along-racist-slur?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 25 Oct 2021 06:41:50 +0000 While K-pop acts like BTS and Blackpink may be getting more popular in English-language music markets, music in English is also gaining a larger foothold in South Korea, a sign of the increasing connectivity of global music industries. Last week, K-pop girl group Aespa’s new single Savage replaced the long-standing chart-topper, Stay by The Kid Laroi and Justin Bieber, the latest example of the popularity of English-language songs in the South Korean music scene. On October 8, for example, a few... https://www.scmp.com/culture/music/article/3152012/while-bts-and-blackpink-continue-their-overseas-success-western-songs?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/culture/music/article/3152012/while-bts-and-blackpink-continue-their-overseas-success-western-songs?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 12 Oct 2021 14:15:11 +0000 Aespa have gone to the next level with their first album, Savage, which arrived on October 5. A six-track EP, Savage comes almost a year after the K-pop girl group debuted with their first single, Black Mamba, last November. Fronted by a single of the same name, Savage arrived about five months after the group’s May single Next Level, which became a viral hit in South Korea and turned the rising rookies into one of the industry’s most prominent female acts. Formed by K-pop company SM... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/bands/article/3151480/k-pop-girl-group-aespas-first-ep-savage-blends-creative?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/bands/article/3151480/k-pop-girl-group-aespas-first-ep-savage-blends-creative?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 07 Oct 2021 09:45:10 +0000 October is looking to be full of high-profile releases from some of the biggest names in the K-pop industry. The month will kick off in a big way for girl groups when Twice’s first official English-language single The Feels lands on October 1. Days later comes the highly anticipated release of Savage, rising rookie girl group Aespa’s first EP, to follow up on the success of their massive hit single Next Level earlier this year. aespa to bring the ‘Savage’ syndrome this time! A trap song that... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/article/3150279/k-pop-releases-october-2021-look-out-twices-single-feels-new?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/article/3150279/k-pop-releases-october-2021-look-out-twices-single-feels-new?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 30 Sep 2021 14:15:12 +0000 Although the K in K-pop clearly stands for Korean, the industry isn’t shy when it comes to drawing from global talent – most notably, Blackpink’s Lisa hails from Thailand while NCT’s Mark Lee is Canadian. Closer to home, there are also many Chinese K-pop idols in various famous groups, with naturally interesting casting stories to tell. So let’s take a look at five currently active K-pop stars from China, who they were before hitting the big time – and how they got where they are today. 4... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3146583/5-k-pop-idols-china-exos-lay-and-aespas-ningning-gi-dles?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3146583/5-k-pop-idols-china-exos-lay-and-aespas-ningning-gi-dles?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 27 Aug 2021 04:13:03 +0000 Aespa are going Hollywood with a new deal. The four member K-pop act, produced by South Korean company SM Entertainment, have signed with high-profile US media and talent agency Creative Artists Agency (CAA). Other acts currently signed with the California-based CAA include many of the most popular entertainers in the world, and fellow SM groups NCT 127 and SuperM. The news was first reported by media outlet Pollstar on July 22, and SM Entertainment’s US-based executive Jeremy Lopez later... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/bands/article/3142235/k-pop-group-aespa-signs-hollywood-talent-agency-caa-joining?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/bands/article/3142235/k-pop-group-aespa-signs-hollywood-talent-agency-caa-joining?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 23 Jul 2021 08:00:14 +0000 NCT, the 23-strong K-pop mega group with shifting line-ups, have a big six months ahead, their label SM Entertainment has revealed. A day after the launch of an album by one of its subgroups, NCT Dream, SM said on June 29 that two others, NCT 127 and WayV, will also release LPs; the whole group will produce material together as NCT 2021; and the NCT concept will spread to the US with a survival television series, the winners of which will form a group called NCT Hollywood. Current NCT members... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/news/article/3139125/new-music-nct-aespa-and-other-k-pop-acts-coming-2021-says-sm?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/news/article/3139125/new-music-nct-aespa-and-other-k-pop-acts-coming-2021-says-sm?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 29 Jun 2021 05:52:16 +0000 In October 2020, K-pop media company SM Entertainment announced its new girl group, Aespa. The four members of the act, stylised “aespa”, would be joined by virtual “ae” counterparts. The news led to debate online over the potential for dehumanisation, but since then, Aespa have had one of the biggest K-pop hits of 2021 with their recent single Next Level. Aespa are far from the only K-pop act to incorporate virtual avatars in their musical projects. On March 22, an 11-member girl group,... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/article/3138999/k-pops-virtual-future-aespa-eternity-rise-digital-performers-and-ai?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/article/3138999/k-pops-virtual-future-aespa-eternity-rise-digital-performers-and-ai?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 28 Jun 2021 16:00:20 +0000 K-pop stars often experiment with creative concepts and narratives. In recent weeks, the genre has been full of futuristic, science-fiction-fuelled material from many of the biggest groups. Storytelling across different mediums is used by K-pop acts to captivate their audiences and, as the industry grows and becomes more popular across the globe, artists and their companies are constantly finding new ways to up their levels of engagement. Aliens and space come up once in a while in K-pop music... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/bands/article/3137510/science-fiction-k-pop-why-groups-bts-aespa-tomorrow-x?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/bands/article/3137510/science-fiction-k-pop-why-groups-bts-aespa-tomorrow-x?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 16 Jun 2021 09:15:00 +0000 In March, girl group Eternity made its debut with the song, I’m Real. Like other K-pop acts, it also unveiled an eye-catching music video and short interview clips featuring each member. The 11-piece group looks no different from other girl groups – except that the members are not real human beings. They are actually hyperrealistic virtual characters created through state-of-the-art artificial intelligence (AI). It was AI graphic company Pulse 9 that brought the members to life. The company’s... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/tech-design/article/3136950/could-virtual-k-pop-girl-group-dethrone-blackpink-after?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/tech-design/article/3136950/could-virtual-k-pop-girl-group-dethrone-blackpink-after?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 12 Jun 2021 04:00:00 +0000 Some new K-pop songs, including recent releases from girl group Aespa and Joy of Red Velvet, are remakes of old tunes. Aespa’s single Next Level, issued in May, is a remake of a 2019 song from a Fast and Furious film soundtrack, and Joy’s first mini album, “Hello” – released on May 31 – sees the vocalist recreating some of South Korea’s biggest hits from the 1990s and ’00s. In February, Aespa also released Forever, a remake of a song from the ’00s. Both Joy and Aespa are under media company SM... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/bands/article/3135711/remakes-and-covers-are-having-moment-k-pop-thanks-joy-red?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/bands/article/3135711/remakes-and-covers-are-having-moment-k-pop-thanks-joy-red?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 03 Jun 2021 14:15:06 +0000 Every month, there are numerous releases out of the world of K-pop. In May 2021, some of the most engaging releases came from BTS, Heize, Everglow, and NCT Dream, with each artist and group pushing their musical style and career forward with this latest sonic era. Aespa – Next Level Although they’re less than a year-old and only have three songs to their name, Aespa – stylised as “aespa” – are already making waves. The rookie girl group’s third single is worth checking out just for its world... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/bands/article/3135447/must-listen-k-pop-releases-may-2021-bts-aespa-everglow-nct?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/bands/article/3135447/must-listen-k-pop-releases-may-2021-bts-aespa-everglow-nct?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 31 May 2021 14:15:17 +0000 Rookie K-pop girl group Aespa has been the talk of the town since its debut last year, largely thanks to its never-before-seen concept involving virtual avatars. The SM Entertainment group consists of four human members (Karina, Winter, Giselle and Ningning) and their avatars (ae-Karina, ae-Winter, ae-Giselle and ae-Ningning) which are known as the quartet’s alter egos. IU, Hyeri and Chungha all paid off their families’ debts The new concept puzzled people at first, with many raising questions... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3134389/whos-real-aespa-hot-rookie-k-pop-girl-group-eight-piece?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3134389/whos-real-aespa-hot-rookie-k-pop-girl-group-eight-piece?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 23 May 2021 03:00:05 +0000 Aespa want to take K-pop to the next level with their latest single, which they released on Monday. The song, the girl group’s third since forming last year, is the latest move by the quartet and their management company SM Entertainment to delve into an alternate, fictional universe. The hip-pop track Next Level is a remake of a song on the 2019 soundtrack of the Fast & Furious franchise film Hobbs & Shaw. Aespa, the latest act from a company that has produced many of K-pop’s biggest hits, are... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/article/3134185/aespa-brings-k-pop-next-level-new-single-takes-listeners?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/article/3134185/aespa-brings-k-pop-next-level-new-single-takes-listeners?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 20 May 2021 10:15:09 +0000 South Korean company SM Entertainment has shot down fan concerns over a video that appears to show Winter, a member of K-pop girl group Aespa, being photographed inappropriately without her knowledge by a staff member on the set of a photo shoot. The video, uploaded on March 10 to Aespa’s YouTube channel, featured a behind-the-scenes look at the band’s recent Dazed magazine photo shoot as brand ambassadors for Givenchy. In it, a male on the set of the shoot can be seen behind two members of... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/bands/article/3129608/k-pop-upskirt-photo-scare-over-footage-aespas-winter?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-pop/bands/article/3129608/k-pop-upskirt-photo-scare-over-footage-aespas-winter?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 15 Apr 2021 04:47:04 +0000 By Park Ji-won Last year, haute couture designer Kay Kim received an unexpected phone call from Lee Soo-man, the founder and chief director of SM Entertainment. SM, one of the big four entertainment agencies in South Korea, along with JYP Entertainment, YG Entertainment and Big Hit Entertainment, was about to unveil girl band Aespa. It was the first time in six years that SM was launching a new girl band. The “international K-pop act” – made up of a Japanese, a Chinese and two Korean girls –... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/article/3123240/haute-couture-designer-k-pop-costume-creator-aespas-debut?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/article/3123240/haute-couture-designer-k-pop-costume-creator-aespas-debut?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 27 Feb 2021 07:45:13 +0000 Earlier this month, we looked at some of K-pop’s most over-the-top stage outfits du jour, but this week’s featured K-stars are far more relaxed and laid-back – without looking any less luxurious. Song Hye-kyo and Aespa made K-fashion history, Blackpink’s Lisa stole the spotlight – again – G-Dragon personalised his look with Peaceminusone accessories and Girls’ Generation’s Sooyoung proved she might be the most fashionable cast member in sports drama Run On. Which 5 items did BTS’ Jungkook... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3122223/k-pop-fashion-song-hye-kyo-blackpinks-lisa-and-aespa-plus?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3122223/k-pop-fashion-song-hye-kyo-blackpinks-lisa-and-aespa-plus?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 18 Feb 2021 22:00:16 +0000 It was a fabulous fashion-filled week in the world of K-pop, with comebacks, virtual concerts and more. From power girl groups Blackpink and Aespa, to solo singers Hyuna and IU, we explore their sartorial choices: how the stage is reserved for the bright and bold, the most extreme and eccentric looks – while behind-the-scenes is all about letting their beauty shine through.  Below is a rundown of their best style moments, the luxury labels they wore, and new streetwear and home-grown Korean... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/k-pop/artists-celebrities/article/3120330/what-did-blackpink-iu-aespa-and-hyuna?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/k-pop/artists-celebrities/article/3120330/what-did-blackpink-iu-aespa-and-hyuna?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 04 Feb 2021 22:00:17 +0000