K-pop Guides & Updates

British music magazine NME has recognized five K-pop acts in their “The NME 100: Essential Emerging Artists For 2025” list, released on February 12. TWS, KATSEYE, Badvillain, Rescene, and SAILOR HONEYMOON were selected among emerging talents yet to release their debut full albums. TWS, the only K-pop boy group on the list, earned praise for their authentic approach to exploring youth experiences in modern society. HYBE and Geffen Records’ joint venture group KATSEYE received recognition for their retro-inspired sound and polished choreography. Badvillain, featuring Street Woman Fighter stars Emma and Chloe Young, was highlighted for their powerful stage presence, while Rescene garnered attention for their nostalgic sound. Female punk band SAILOR HONEYMOON was praised for their unique revival of rebellious spirit. Key Updates...

Girl group aespa and BLACKPINK’s JENNIE have been announced as winners at the 2025 Billboard Women in Music Awards, Billboard revealed on February 12. aespa will receive the Group of the Year award, with Billboard highlighting their expanded world tour and recent full-length album “Armageddon.” JENNIE has been honored with the Global Force Award, recognizing her significant contributions to the music industry both as a BLACKPINK member and solo artist. The ceremony will take place on March 29 at the YouTube Theater in Los Angeles, featuring other winners including Erykah Badu, Gracie Abrams, Meghan Trainor, and Tyla. Key Updates...

TXT Achieves New RIAA Gold Certifications, Brings Total to Three TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT) has secured two new RIAA Gold certifications for “0X1=LOVESONG” and “5:53’s Sky,” BIGHIT MUSIC announced. These achievements bring the group’s total RIAA Gold certifications to three, following their first certification for “minisode 1: TEMPTATION” in 2023. The RIAA Gold certification requires 500,000 units sold in the United States. Both certified tracks serve as title songs from previous releases – “0X1=LOVESONG” from their second full album “The Chaos Chapter: FREEZE” and “5:53’s Sky” from their third mini album “minisode1: Blue Hour.” Key Updates...

BOYNEXTDOOR Announces Special Track for Tom and Jerry’s 85th Anniversary K-pop group BOYNEXTDOOR will release a special collaboration track celebrating Tom and Jerry’s 85th anniversary, KOZ Entertainment announced. The group revealed the upcoming collaboration during their appearance at Warner Bros. Japan’s Tom and Jerry 85th anniversary event on February 10. The collaboration marks a significant partnership with Warner Bros.’ iconic animation series, which first aired in 1940. The special track is scheduled for release later this year as part of the cartoon’s anniversary celebrations. Currently on their Japan tour, BOYNEXTDOOR continues their performances across Miyagi, Fukuoka, and Kanagawa prefectures. Key Updates...

Girl group IVE has secured their fifth consecutive million-seller with their third mini-album “IVE EMPATHY,” selling 1,048,048 copies in its first week, Starship Entertainment announced on February 11. This marks the highest first-week sales for any K-pop album released in 2025. Released on February 3, “IVE EMPATHY” reached #3 on iTunes Worldwide Album Chart, while its double title track “REBEL HEART” claimed the top spot on both Melon Top 100 and Hot 100 charts as of 10 AM today. The album, focusing on the theme of empathy while maintaining the group’s signature confident identity, follows their successful streak of million-sellers including “After LIKE” and “I’ve IVE.” Key Updates...

Stray Kids’ music video for “God’s Menu” (神메뉴) has surpassed 500 million views on YouTube, JYP Entertainment announced on February 10. The milestone was achieved around 8:55 PM on February 9, marking the group’s first music video to reach this view count. “God’s Menu,” written and composed by members Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han, is characterized by its addictive melody and unique lyrics. The group is currently conducting their “dominATE” world tour, which is expected to draw 2.2 million attendees across 55 shows in 34 regions. This sets a new record for the largest single-tour audience by a K-pop group, surpassing BTS’s “Love Yourself: Speak Yourself” tour. Key Updates...

Virtual K-pop group PLAVE has made history with their third mini-album “Caligo Pt.1” achieving million-seller status in its first week. BLAST Entertainment announced the album sold 1,038,308 copies from February 3-9, according to Hanteo Chart, marking the first time a virtual idol group has reached this milestone in their debut week. The title track “Dash” topped Melon’s Top 100 chart upon release, reaching 10 million streams within its first 24 hours. Released five months after their previous album, “Caligo Pt.1” features five tracks including “Dash.” Key Updates...  

Former miss A member and actress SUZY will release her new digital single “Come Back” on February 17 at 6 PM KST, Management SOOP announced today. The release marks SUZY’s first non-OST music project since her 2022 single “Cape.” Producer Kang Hyun-min, who previously collaborated with SUZY on hits like “Satellite” and “Cape,” returns for this new track. SUZY teased her musical return through Instagram, sharing concept photos alongside the release date. The multi-talented artist has remained active in entertainment, starring in the film “Wonderland” last year and recently appearing on KBS variety show “The Singer” for a special busking performance. Key Updates...

BLACKPINK member Lisa has unveiled her new single “Born Again,” a dynamic pop track featuring Grammy winner Doja Cat and six-time BRIT Awards recipient Rae, Sony Music Entertainment Korea announced today. The music video, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Vardha Zainali, known for collaborations with Sabrina Carpenter and Tate McRae, showcases the collaborative effort of these global artists. This release precedes Lisa’s first solo full-length album “Alter Ego,” scheduled for February 28. The album will include previously released singles “New Woman,” “Moonlit Floor,” and “Rockstar.” The BLACKPINK rapper is also expanding her career into acting, making her debut in HBO’s “The White Lotus” Season 3 premiering February 16, followed by a performance at Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in April. Key Updates...

K-pop group NewJeans has officially announced their name change to NJZ, marking a significant shift in their identity. The group revealed the rebranding through their social media platforms on February 7, transitioning their official accounts to “njz_official.” Their first performance under the new name is scheduled for Complex Live at Hong Kong’s ComplexCon, taking place March 21-23 at AsiaWorld-Expo. Member Minji expressed anticipation for the upcoming event, stating, “We’re excited to showcase our new identity and share fresh music with our global fans at this crucial moment.” ADOR, the group’s former agency, responded to the rebranding announcement, stating, “We regret this unilateral decision made before legal resolution,” while affirming their commitment to protecting the NewJeans brand value. The statement follows ongoing legal proceedings since the group’s contract termination announcement in November 2024. Key Updates...

BLACKPINK’s Rosé continues to make Billboard history as her collaboration with Bruno Mars, “APT.,” maintains its No. 3 position on the Hot 100 chart for a second week. According to Billboard’s February 4 update, the track has now charted for 15 consecutive weeks, establishing a new record for female K-pop soloists. The achievement comes alongside other notable Korean artists’ success on Billboard charts. BTS member Jimin’s “Who” holds strong at No. 31 on the Hot 100, reaching its 27th week on the chart. This sustained performance marks one of the longest-running singles by a K-pop soloist. On the Billboard 200 albums ranking, multiple Korean artists have secured positions: Rosé’s debut solo album “rosie” ranks No. 26 Jimin’s second solo release “MUSE” places at No. 115 Stray Kids’ “HOP” (合) charts at No. 122 Entertainment analysts note that... 

K-pop sensation IVE unveiled their latest single “ATTITUDE” on M Countdown today, featuring a new viral dance move called the “Wonyoung Turn” that’s already trending on social media. The performance marks the group’s first comeback stage of 2025. The new track, characterized by empowering lyrics and sophisticated vocal arrangements, highlights IVE’s musical growth since their successful “Rebel Heart” promotions, which achieved a six-week music show winning streak. Each member showcases their own version of the signature choreography, adding personal flair to the performance. IVE’s comeback follows their breakthrough international performances at major music festivals including Lollapalooza Chicago and Summer Sonic. The group continues

G-DRAGON Makes U.S. Festival Return at Head in the Clouds 2025, Drops New Album K-pop legend G-DRAGON will headline Day 1 of Head in the Clouds LA 2025 on May 31, marking his highly anticipated return to American stages. The festival, taking place at the Rose Bowl, represents a significant milestone in 88rising’s premier Asian music showcase. The BIGBANG icon is simultaneously preparing for his musical comeback. His new album “Übermensch,” releasing February 25, marks his first full-length solo project in 11 years. Recent appearances, including the prestigious Yellow Pieces charity event in France, have sparked international interest in his return. Head in the Clouds has established itself as America’s leading platform for Asian artists. G-DRAGON’s headlining appearance reinforces the festival’s growing influence in bringing Asian music to global audiences. Key Updates:

BREAKING: K-pop queens BLACKPINK just dropped the bomb we’ve all been waiting for – they’re hitting the road AGAIN! The tea? YG Entertainment just blessed us with a teaser that’s got BLINKS worldwide SHOOK. After their record-breaking BORN PINK tour (which BTW served 1.8M fans across 34 cities – casual flex , the girls are coming back for more! Fun fact: Their last tour literally made HISTORY as the biggest girl group world tour in K-pop… like ever? Sources spill that YG’s got a whole special team cooking up something...

In a candid interview with The New York Times, K-pop superstar Rosé broke down in tears while discussing the dark side of fame, revealing her battles with online harassment and the isolating journey to stardom. “It really, really hurt,” the BLACKPINK member admitted, her voice cracking as she addressed the cyberbullying she’s faced as a female artist in the spotlight. Despite her typically composed demeanor, the 27-year-old singer showed rare vulnerability when confronting these painful experiences. The emotional interview comes as Rosé prepares to release “R0SIE,” her first full-length solo album, dropping March 6. The album follows her recent global hit “APT.,” which has cemented her position as a solo force in the music industry. “I never thought it would actually be possible,” she said about creating her own album. “When I first started this whole process last year, I doubted myself a lot.” Born to Korean immigrant parents in New Zealand and raised in Australia, Rosé’s path to K-pop stardom began at age 15 when she took a leap of faith and auditioned for YG Entertainment in 2012. After passing the audition, she left behind her life in Australia to pursue her dreams in South Korea – a decision that would test her resilience. “I didn’t understand the loneliness I had to go through. It was traumatizing,” she revealed about her trainee days. Yet she refused to give up: “I had traveled so far to become an idol. I didn’t want to go back to Australia and explain the whole failed process.” The BLACKPINK star offered a rare glimpse into the rigid world of K-pop training, where perfection is the only acceptable standard. “We were trained to present ourselves perfectly, including our online interactions with fans,” she explained. “We weren’t trained to talk about our emotions, feelings, and experiences.” Finding salvation through songwriting, Rosé discovered a powerful outlet for her struggles. “Songwriting came to me like a blessing when I really needed it,” she shared. “I would go in with a really big problem, put it in a song, and it would leave my heart.” With a laugh, she added, “Some days, if I don’t like the song, I’ll say ‘That didn’t help!’ Those songs won’t make it to the album.” Her upcoming album “R0SIE” represents more than just a collection of songs – it’s a personal statement years in the making. “I wanted to create music that I grew up with and could relate to,” she explained, highlighting her evolution from K-pop idol to authentic artist. The interview paints a striking portrait of resilience in an industry known for its grueling demands. Despite the challenges,...

OMG! ROSÉ’s collab with Bruno Mars “APT.” just SMASHED the Billboard Hot 100, debuting at #8! That’s the highest EVER for any K-pop female artist – sis really did THAT! The track is giving everyone major feels, competing with heavy hitters like Billie Eilish (#3) and Sabrina Carpenter (#5) on this week’s chart! Talk about keeping some SERIOUS company! Fun fact: The previous record for K-pop queens? BLACKPINK’s “Ice Cream” with Selena Gomez at #13 back in 2020. Rosé just said “hold my champagne” and CRUSHED her own solo record (from “On The Ground” at #70) But wait, there’s MORE! This bop isn’t just slaying in the US – it hit #4 on the UK Official Singles Chart too! We see you, global queen! BTW… this is just a teaser for...  

ROSÉ is serving and the numbers don’t lie! The BLACKPINK queen’s latest banger “APT.” featuring Bruno Mars just hit 100M views on YouTube FASTER than any other music video this year — and sis did NOT come to play! The track is basically WORLD DOMINATION rn: #1 on Spotify Global & US Charts (first Korean female soloist to do it, periodt!) Topped charts in 40 countries on iTunes Slaying ALL Korean music charts Word on the street is our girl’s about to make HISTORY on Billboard Hot 100 next week, potentially becoming the highest-charting K-pop female soloist ever! We see you, queen! So why is everyone obsessed? The song’s got that TikTok-ready “piki piki” hook that’s living rent-free in everyone’s head, plus Bruno Mars bringing that superstar energy. Plus, let’s be real – those viral memes and short-form clips are spreading faster than hot gossip! ROSÉ spilled the tea about the track’s inspo, telling us it literally came from a game she plays with her friends: “We were just vibing in the studio… I’m just so grateful everyone’s enjoying it!” Sources close to the industry tell TMZ the track’s success is...

In a jaw-dropping display of K-pop dominance, girl group LE SSERAFIM is setting Spotify ablaze! Their hit tracks are racking up mind-blowing numbers, proving these fierce females are unstoppable! Stream Queens ‘ANTIFRAGILE’ just crushed the 500 million streams mark on Spotify! ‘EASY’ isn’t far behind, sailing past 200 million streams! SOURCE MUSIC dropped the bombshell on October 13th, confirming LE SSERAFIM’s first-ever 500M streamer with ‘ANTIFRAGILE’. Talk about girl power! Fan Frenzy Hold onto your hats, because LE SSERAFIM’s fanbase is EXPLODING: Monthly listeners? Skyrocketed from 11 million to a whopping 15 million+ after ‘CRAZY’ dropped in August! That’s right, folks – ‘CRAZY’ is pulling in new FEARNOT by the millions! Awards on the Horizon? These K-pop sensations are eyeing some serious bling at the upcoming 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards: Best Push Best New Best K-pop Will they sweep? Stay tuned! LESSERAFIM #SpotifyQueen #ANTIFRAGILE #EASY #CRAZY #KpopDomination #GirlPower #MTVEMAs LE SSERAFIM is proving they’re not just another girl group...

Hold onto your wigs, K-pop stans! BLACKPINK’s queen bee JENNIE just broke the internet with her latest solo banger “Mantra” Quick hits: Dropped worldwide at 9 AM KST (aka middle of the night for us mere mortals) Music video directed by Tanu Muino (ya know, the genius behind Lil Nas X’s “Montero”) Rolling Stone calls it “mesmerizing” (duh) First solo track since “You & Me” last October Jennie spilled the tea: “It’s the perfect song to kick off a new era. Not only will it make fans happy, but it’ll show a fresh side of me as a solo artist.” The track’s all about embracing your inner baddie and...

OMG, Blackjacks! Your fave girl group is BACK and ready to slay! 2NE1 just dropped a bomb about their 15th anniversary concert in Seoul, and we’re shook! Here’s the tea: 3-day concert extravaganza starts TOMORROW First OT4 show in 10 YEARS (!!!) Venue: Olympic Hall, Seoul ALL. SHOWS. SOLD. OUT. CL spilled: “We’re bringing the ORIGINAL 2NE1 vibe. No frills, just pure fire!” Dara’s still pinching herself: “10 years felt like forever,...