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K-Pop's Work Ethic: A Window into Korean Diligence and Creativity
"Watching K-pop artists, you can truly appreciate how hardworking Koreans are," said Maria Peña, a Spanish woman, during an interview outside the 'Paris La Défense Arena,' Europe's largest concert venue located in the western suburbs of Paris, on the 15th (local time).
She added, "Through K-pop, I've come to understand Korean culture better." Maria shared her insights, highlighting the diligence and dedication of Koreans, which she observed as K-pop artists tirelessly trained as trainees and worked diligently to achieve popularity after their debut.
Maria Peña had flown two hours from Spain to attend the first European performance of the K-pop chart program 'M Countdown,' hosted by CJ ENM that day. She remarked, "Watching the intense dance moves, mesmerizing songs, and visual effects, I got a strong sense that Korean culture is vibrant and creative."
Source: Donga-ilbo (Korean)
Allegations of Racial Profiling and Excessive Security Measures at K-Pop Concert in Paris Raise Concerns
In the wake of a K-pop concert held in Paris, France, local security personnel have come under scrutiny for alleged racial discrimination and excessive security measures, and the event's organizer, CJ ENM, has stated that they are "investigating the facts." The event in question was the 'Mnet M Countdown in France,' held on the 15th (local time) at the Paris La Défense Arena.
While the performance concluded successfully, some attendees expressed dissatisfaction with the conduct of local security personnel, who they claimed subjected East Asian attendees to stricter security checks.
One participant shared his or her experience, stating, "They asked East Asians carrying bags to open them and insisted on checking cameras. Meanwhile, European attendees beside me, avidly filming the stage, were left untouched." Another post read, "They checked the bags of people sitting quietly, and if they had cameras, they were pulled out. But when they did, it turned out that everyone targeted was of East Asian descent."
The allegations of racial profiling and excessive security measures have raised concerns among concertgoers and K-pop fans, prompting a closer examination of the incident by event organizers and local authorities.
Source: Seoul Shinmun (Korean)
All-in-One IP Business Platform Startup 'BIGC' Successfully Wraps Up 'IDOL RADIO LIVE in SEOUL' Concert
BIGC, the startup behind the all-in-one IP business platform, recently announced the successful conclusion of 'IDOL RADIO LIVE in SEOUL,' an MBC Radio K-pop concert that attracted approximately 600,000 fans from 129 countries worldwide.
The 'IDOL RADIO LIVE in SEOUL' concert featured a star-studded lineup, including Kim Jaejoong, Apink, Lee Seungyoon, OH MY GIRL, YoungK (DAY6), iKON, ONF (ON&OFF), ATEEZ, LUCY, NMIXX, PLAVE, and EVNNE.
It marked one of the largest K-pop concerts of the year's second half.
BIGC's global live broadcast of the event drew over 590,000 fans, with audiences coming from countries such as Taiwan, the United States, Mexico, and 129 other nations. This diverse international fandom made the concert a resounding success, showcasing K-pop's global appeal and influence.
Source: Digital Times (Korean)
Photo by YG Entertainment
Blackpink's Jennie Hits Top Spots on Billboard Charts with Special Single 'You & Me'
On the 16th (local time), Blackpink's Jennie made a remarkable mark on the U.S. Billboard charts with her special single, 'You & Me,' as revealed by Billboard through their website and social media platforms.
According to the latest Billboard charts, 'You & Me' secured the 7th position on the Billboard Global 200 and claimed the coveted 1st spot on the Billboard Global Excl. U.S chart. These charts are compiled based on streaming and music sales (downloads) data collected from over 200 regions worldwide. Billboard's Global charts are considered a significant indicator of global popularity and reflect the latest trends in the music industry.
With this achievement, Blackpink has become the first K-pop group where all members have made it to the top 10 Billboard Global 200 with solo tracks. Previously, Rosé with 'On The Ground,' Lisa with 'LALISA' and 'MONEY,' and Jisoo with '꽃 (FLOWER)' all secured positions in the top 10 of these charts.
Source: Chosun Biz (Korean)