ICYMI IN CASE YOU MISSED IT / NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 6

[Polaris_Tae]

NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 6


Hello once again Hallyuplussers, and welcome back to another week of ICYMI! This week was relatively quiet, but we did see some major comebacks and debuts. Some of which we're sure you've been waiting for too! Kai finally made his solo debut with the fantastic R&B single "Mmmh" that we have totally not swear on our lives had on repeat since its release earlier this week. We also had some interesting news from China, where we just keep wondering whatever is going on with R1SE. This is their fourth scandal in under three months. What scandal, you ask? You'll have to read on to find out! Now with that said, let's jump into another fantastic article!

BY BEEFY & POLARIS_TAE


MONDAY:
#1- Unfortunately, NMB48's Shiroma Miru and UP10TION's Bitto have tested positive for COVID-19; we wish both idols a safe and healthy recovery! Following the news of Bitto testing positive SBS MTV's The Show was canceled due to safety protocols of idols and staff; in addition, everyone who attended SBS' Inkigayo with the idol had to undergo COVID-19 testing. We hope everyone will stay safe and test negative!

#2- Now for some news on releases, CJSH's Stephanie made her comeback with a new single titled "Love Pain" on December 4th; then two days later on December 6th duo Poetic Narrator released their first full album, 수필 (隨筆)! Finally, MC Mong will be releasing his 9th full album sometime this month. We are looking forward to all these future releases!

#3- Sadly, Yukika announced that she has departed from ESTIMATE Entertainment following her decision to now renew her contract with the company. Then, J-POP group Yukueshirezutsurezure announced that they will be disbanding on January 2nd of next year after five years together. The members shared they mutually agreed to end the group as four and will hold their final concert Yukue Shibuya Rezure ONEMAN LIVE ~ The Scream ~ on their disbandment date.

#4- The fourth lineup for 2020 MAMA has been released; the artists now confirmed to be performing are ENHYPEN, CRAVITY, (G)-Idle, Oh My Girl. ATEEZ. Stray Kids, and The Boyz! Keeping with the end of the year ceremonies, all contents for the 2020 Melon Music Awards (MMA) have been pre-recorded and will be aired on December 2nd through 5th as MMA week. The 2020 APN Awards has announced the winners for their Popularity Award; the winners include Kang Daniel, IU, BTS, IZ*ONE, and many more. For the entire list of winners for APN make sure to check out the linked thread!

#5- Zhang Yuxin has been appointed as the new captain of SNH48 Team NI! We congratulate her on such an achievement!

#6- Rookie girl group STAYC had a trending post on Weibo with over 300,000 views; fans on the platform have nicknamed the group 'Little T-ARA' due to their similarities to the legendary group! The news pertaining to the group doesn't stop here, on a VLive WJSN's Yeonjung shared that STAYC and aespa are two junior groups she wishes to get close to! We are really happy to see these two rookie groups getting a lot of love!



TUESDAY:
#1- Top Media Entertainment has announced that UP10TION's Kogyeol has also tested positive for COVID-19, the rest of the members, sans Bitto have all tested negative for the virus. Despite their negative results the members and staff will be self-isolating for the next two weeks as a safety precaution. We wish them a safe and healthy recovery!

#2- Soloist Jung Seunghwan will be making a winter comeback with a new single on December 8th; then, INFINITE's Kim Sunggyu will be making his long-awaited comeback on December 14th with his third mini-album Inside Me. We can not wait for both releases!

#3- Super Junior's Heechul will be joining KBS' Problem Child as a permanent cast member following Jung Hyungdon's exit from the show. His first episode will be broadcasted on December 29th! Will you be tuning in?

#4- DIspatch has revealed that Jessica Jung's fashion brand Blanc Eclare had revenues of 20 Billion WON or 18 million USD in 2019! We are happy to see that her business is doing extremely well!



WEDNESDAY:
#1- Yuehua Entertainment announced that EVERGLOW's Yiren and Sihyeon tested positive for COVID-19, trot singer Lee Chan Won has also unfortunately tested positive for the virus. We wish all three artists a fast, safe, and healthy recovery! In addition to news pertaining to the virus, Pentagon's Hui had to delay his enlistment, originally set for December 3rd. as he is currently self-isolating as a safety precaution.

#2- Sexy-Zone's Marius Yo had a drug overdose and is currently recovering at home; it was shared that the idol has been suffering from physical and mental anxiety recently which led to multiple hospital visits. We wish him a healthy recovery!

#3- Legendary soloist Rain will be releasing a collaboration song with Park Jin Young (JYP) on January 1st of 2021, what a great start to the year! With this year coming to an end, Melon has announced the top songs of the decade, Busker Busker's "Cherry Blossom Ending" and IU's "Through the Night" took the Top 2 spots on the list! For the complete list and more make sure to click the linked thread!

#4- R&B singer Bumkey has renewed his contract with Brandnew Music, the re-signing took place on December 1st. We look forward to his future activities!

#5- SM C&C has launched the new brand 'CELEBRAND' which features products produced by celebrities. Some upcoming items include BoA's "Little Bird" Scarf/Muffler Super Junior's Heechul toothpaste, Soohyun lip tint, and SNSD's Yuri's home training equipment. WIll be you be buying any of your favorite artist's products?

#6- Idols in their final year of high school took the 'CSAT 2020' on December 3rd, some of these idols include LOONA's Yeojin, Cravity's Hyeongjun and Minhee, Treasure's Bang Yedam, Weki Meki's Lucy, CIgnature's Semi, GWSN's Lena, and many more! We hope all of their exams went smoothly and they aced it!

#7- Rookie girl group LUNARSOLAR has announced that the official name of their fandom is '해달 (HAEDAL)', the group's members explained that the name holds two meanings which are 'the sun and the moon' and 'sea otter'. Do you like the chosen name?



THURSDAY:
#1- We began Thursday with some amazing news! Taeyeon will be making her comeback on the 15th of December with a brand new mini-album, What Do I call You. Meanwhile, Suran released an OST, "O.V.E.R" for the KBS drama, Cheat On Me, If You Can.

#2- We found out that everyone's favourite girl group, BLACKPINK would be holding their very first online concert live-stream 2020 #BLACKPINK: THE SHOW on the 27th of December. Meanwhile, following the recent Covid-19 scare across the South Korean entertainment industry, PENTAGON has announced the date of their rescheduled online concert, "WE L:VE:" to be on the 13th of December. We can't wait!

#3- Rising actor Kim Seonho has nabbed himself yet another amazing opportunity! The actor will be hosting the 2020 MBC Gayo Daejejeon. Will you be tuning in just to see his beautiful face?

#4- It has been reported that Lee Ga-eun will be starring in the upcoming omnibus movie, Motelier. We can't wait!

#5- Sadly, it has been announced that trot singer Lee Chan-won, who placed 3rd on Mr Trot, has contracted and tested positive for Covid-19. We hope he recovers soon.



FRIDAY:
#1- A few releases were announced on Friday as well! 3YE's Haeun will be dropping her "Winter Special" digital single on the 13th of December. BiSH's AiNA THE END announced her first solo project, "THE END" will begin with the release of an album in 2021. Lee Seung-gi has announced that BTS members, RM & J-Hope will be featured artists on his track, "A Song To Make You Smile" which is set to be included in his 7th full album. What came as anything but a surprise to fans of NCT on Friday, SM announced that the music video for NCT2020's "RESONANCE" had been postponed due to further editing. Thankfully the music video has now been released to the public, and we get to see NCT2020 in all their glory!

#2- The Golden Disk Awards announced that they would be holding their 35th annual awards ceremony on January 9th & 10th in 2021. We can't wait!

#3- ZE:A member and actor, Im Siwan celebrated his birthday on Friday, and to mark the day the actor gave a generous donation of 20 million KRW to the Community Chest of Korea in celebration. We that him for his generosity.

#4- BRAND NEW MUSIC has sadly announced that AB6IX member Jeon Woong will be sitting out from upcoming group schedules due to consistent stomach pains. We hope he recovers soon.



SATURDAY:
#1- Great news for people who've been eagerly awaiting the release of Wang Yibo's upcoming drama, Legend of Fei! It has been announced that the Idol-Actor will be dropping his OST for the drama, titled "熹微" (Xi Wei) on the 8th of December. We can't wait! Hopefully, this means that the premiere of the drama isn't too far as well!

#2- Just when we thought our week couldn't get better we learned that the variety show kings that are Super Junior will be guesting on the JTBC variety, Knowing Brothers! That's not all though, as we learned that a number of idols would be joining TV Chosun's Miss Trot 3 as contestants. Those set to participate include CLC's Sorn, Heo Chanmi, ex-MOMOLAND member Taeha and more! Will you be tuning in to these great shows!

#3- Sadly, it has been announced that the AKB48 theatre 15th-anniversary special performance, which was due to take place on the 8th of December has been postponed after multiple members had contact with NMB48's Shiroma Miru — who recently tested positive for COVID-19 — 11 AKB48 members are currently restricted to self-quarantine following this incident. The group will instead be holding an online talk on the 8th of December instead, while the performance has been postponed to December 31.

#4- DAY6's Jae has proven himself to be a generous king after the idol blessed us with kindness through his donation of 100 million KRW to the Jed Foundation to go towards helping protect mental health & suicide prevention. We thank him for his generosity.

#5- Block B's Taeil has some good news for us this week! He'll be discharged from mandatory military service on the 4th of January 2021. Meanwhile, Exo's Xiumin & ex-INFINITE member, Hoya returned from their respective services on Sunday!

#6- In what becomes R1SE's fourth scandal in less than three months, R1SE's youngest member, Yan Xujia has been accused of cheating by an ex-girlfriend. The idol spoke out the following day to deny all cheating accusations stating that there was no third party in the relationship but nonetheless apologizes for causing hurt. He went on to claim that he had spent the past few days reflecting on his actions stating that he is not mature enough in matters of love and promises to focus on work and school for the foreseeable future. Prior to the idol addressing the issue his fan club stated their intention to refuse to support the idol until he or his agency speak out regarding these claims. What are your thoughts on this issue?



SUNDAY:
#1- SNH48 Team HII has a brand new captain in the form of Shen Mengyao. Congrats! We think she'll be a great leader!

BY BEEFY & POLARIS_TAE


#1- KAI - MMMH
Kai has joined his fellow members in officially making his solo debut with the title track "Mmmh" from his self-titled mini-album. "Mmmh" is a sensual and smooth r&b track that perfectly encapsulates Kai's aura as a performer. The song has a very unique structure, with three verses rather than the standard two. Each verse contains Kai's distinctive vocal tone paired with a deep and dark bassline, though all of them are rather short as we are immediately thrown into the chorus. The chorus seems rather simple at first, but its simplicity is where it shines the vocalized "mmmh" is catchy and will definitely be stuck in your head after just one listen. A change occurs in the song's brief bridge when the bassline is put on the backburner and, in true SM nature, vocals become center stage. The video for "Mmmh" is amazing, as Kai is shown in a futuristic setting going through different sceneries and outfit changes; some include the idol as a futuristic cowboy and him sensually dancing in water. There are even callbacks to EXO's superpower concepts as Kai is shown teleporting throughout the video, and a teaser for his groupmates D.O. and Xiumin is shown through their respective powers earth and ice. His debut album is very cohesive as it maintains its r&b sound throughout with some variation. One personal favorite track is "Nothing On Me", it has a slightly retro sound and is similar to songs put out by The Weeknd. Overall, this was an amazing solo debut that worked to Kai's strength, we can not wait for his next release.





#2- BOA - BETTER
Queen BoA is back with "Better" from her 10th full-length album Better, it's been a year since her last Korean release with December's "Starry Night" and we are glad the wait is over! However this is not all, BoA is also celebrating twenty years since her debut, making this release extra special! BoA continues with her signature sound in "Better", choosing to go with a sophisticated pop track like her previous title releases. The song immediately starts off with a funky bassline and off-beat guitar melody. This continues throughout the short verse, and we are met with a beautiful string-filled pre-chorus that when paired with BoA and Yoo Youngjin's backing vocals creates a feeling of tension. The pre-chorus is the perfect lead-up to the bombastic chorus which continues with the strings and a funky and brighter bassline. With the repetition of "you're better than this" in its second half, the song has created a memorable chorus. The bridge is filled with a crisp synth instrumental with slight percussion in order to shift attention to vocals and then dives into a funky bass-filled little breakdown with some talk rapping. We can't talk about a BoA release without mentioning choreography, and luckily the music video puts this to full display as we get to see the idol's captivating performance. Better is a stellar album that keeps a consistent mature pop sound throughout its entirety, there are many standout tracks but we'll only share a few. These few include "L.O.V.E", "Cut Me Off", "Temptations", and "Gravity". BoA, the legend herself, has blessed us with yet another amazing release, and we are definitely looking forward to a future with many more!





#3- ENHYPEN - GIVEN-TAKEN
ENHYPEN made their highly anticipated debut with "Given-Taken" from their mini-album Border: Day One on Monday. The group makes their debut with a horror concept which is perfected by the song's moody and compelling sound and spooky music video. We are brought into the song with a sweet harp melody that almost feels bewitching, this same melody can be heard throughout the song which only adds to its vibe. The verses are rather static with no variation between the different member's parts; however, the pre-chorus switches to a softer and lullaby-like sound as the instrumental drops out completely. This moment creates the perfect contrast as it drops us into the song's chorus; this section of the song is its strongest as it's filled with an extremely groovy instrumental and compelling vocals. The second part of the chorus is addictive with yet another beat drop paired with a catchy "ohhhh". Both the music video and lyrics put the group's spooky vampire concept on full display. The lyrics make multiple references to the member's having "white fangs" and "red eyes"; but the lyrics also hold the members' feelings about participating and debuting through I-Land and whether their opportunity was given to them or taken away from others. As for the rest of their debut album, it provides a lot of variety for listeners. The songs to look out for include "Let Me In (20 CUBE) which is a cutesy reggae-pop track; and "10 Months" is a subdued track with an explosive chorus. ENHYPEN have debuted with a strong track and we're looking forward to their future releases!





#4- GOT7 - LAST PIECE
GOT7 made their return earlier this week with "Last Piece" form what could likely be their final album under the management of JYP, Breath of Love: Last Piece where they act as curators of a gallery and declare their love for you by asking you to the final piece to their puzzle of love. In all honesty, "Last Piece" as a title track is a slightly underwhelming song to go out on — I actually liked their pre-release, "Breath" much more — but still happens to have a few details that you'll find yourself enjoying. In particular, the pre-choruses, spearheaded by Jinyoung and Jackson was greatly enjoyable and left me thinking that the chorus would be just as great! Sadly, the chorus won't be to everyone's tastes. It is a largely rock-dominated chorus that gives off a feeling similar to similar early 2000s releases — most notably SUPER JUNIOR's "Don't Don" — while also seemingly combining both the rock-inspired genre of the chorus with the EDM inspired influences to give the track a modern flair. Their latest album, Breath of Love: Last Piece is largely dominated by slower sounding EDM masterpieces like "Wave" & We Are Young" as well as something to bless your coffee shop loving self in the form of "Thank You, Sorry". Nevertheless, "Last Piece" is an interesting release that will likely leave you with mixed feelings, but loving the release regardless.





#5- MO HAN - WALKING IN THE RAIN
After graduating from SNH48 earlier this year, Mo Han has finally made her solo debut with, "Walking In The Rain". The track is described as a fresh R&B single which has been penned by the artist herself. She describes the hesitant feelings of waiting for rain but instead looks forward to sharing an umbrella and the close distance between two people when such an action takes place. This is Mo Han's first solo single since her recent graduation from SNH48. It is in this release that she expresses her desire to let go of the past — while also reminiscing on the fond memories she made during her time with SNH48 — to continue her journey into establishing her much-awaited solo career. In conclusion, walking in the rain is a sweet song that describes Mo Han's hesitance, yet also giving us a glimpse of her hopes for the future.





#6- CHANMINA & SKY-HI - HOLY MOLY HOLY NIGHT
Are you tired of listening to the same boring Christmas songs over and over again? Well, Japanese rappers Chanmina and Sky-Hi have come together to give us the perfect bop for the holidays in the form of "Holy Moly Holy Night"! From the get-go, the song is full of brass and hearty vocals as it goes all-in on its jazz-inspired sound. The verses are filled with charismatic and unique vocals; Chanmina's higher nasally tone creating a nice contrast with Sky-Hi's deeper one. We get a brief rap section from both parties right before the brass kicks in and propels us to the chorus. Despite the song's lyrics, which feature the duo singing about this being the "worst Christmas ever" and wishing they could spend it with someone else; the chorus is very cheerful living up to the song's quirky nature while maintaining its strong jazz sound. During this portion of the song, we can also hear hints of '40s doo-wop music only makes the song an even more fun listen! The bridge is an absolute treat, we are met with a little breakdown void of any brass, it's just Chanmina's stunning vocals and quiet percussion as a driving point into the final chorus. The music video is a very fun watch, it depicts the duo being stuck in the house with one another on Christmas due to an alien invasion; with a homage to different eras such as the '70s and the early 2000s. We'll definitely be playing this release all season!

BY NARA


#1- GOT7 made a comeback with their latest album 'Breath of Love: Last Piece' which along with its title track 'Last Piece' has reached #1 on US iTunes! It is the group's first song and first album to reach these milestones. 'Last Piece' also did very well in YouTube views as it reached 30 million views within four days after its release! Congrats to the group!

#2-BTS made history in Billboard charts as they earn their 5th Billboard 200 #1 with their latest album 'BE.' They're the first non-English act to reach this milestone! Their title track 'Life Goes On' also launches its historic #1 on Billboard Hot 100. 'Life Goes On' is their third song overall and also their first non-English song to land on Billboard Hot 100.

#3- Spotify records were made this week for BLACKPINK whose hit track 'How You Like That' has surpassed 300 million streams! (G)I-DLE also slayed as they reached 2 million followers on Spotify!

#4- Congrats to TWICE as they become the first girl group to sell over 10 million albums in Korea and Japan! They continue to prove to be queens of sales!

#5- Congrats to this year's monster rookies aespa and STAYC whose title tracks 'Black Mamba' and 'So Bad' has charted #65 and #159 in Gaon Weekly Digital Chart respectively.

#6- For YouTube records this week, Stray Kids' MV for 'Back Door' has reached 100 million views, and WOODZ's MV for 'Bump Bump' has surpassed 10 million views!

BY POLARIS_TAE

Our User of the Month for the first month of winter was announced! It was revealed to be none other than everyone's favourite girl group gif gardener hatfelt. Congrats!

Our Events Team member, Riri is still taking sign-ups for "Music Station" where users have to submit a song based on a pre-determined theme. The top 3 users with most points at the end of the rounds will be the winners! So be sure to sign up ASAP!

Shop+ fans, our Shop+ Team worked hard again this week by adding even more great items for you to display alongside your fantastic sets! Get your hands on them ASAP!

The Public Relations Team is taking suggestions for YouTube content. What kind of YouTube content do you our community would like to see? If you have a suggestion then be sure to submit it before the 15th of December!

Our Translations Team welcomed, Some to their team. They'll be our new Korean translator. Congrats and welcome! The team also gave us three translations this week!

Lurkette added Momoiro Clover Z's "Buryoutougen Nakayoshi Monogatari" to the lyrics catalogue. They also gave us an amazing translation of Tsunku♂'s interview with Morning Musume '20s Fukumura Mizuki and her thoughts about idol graduations and ageing.

Some brought us a fantastic translation of WJSN member Yoo Yeonjung's fancafe post where she gives us a sweet message to help motivate her fans!


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Hallyu+ is actively recruiting for staff. If you want to contribute to the forum's growth and join our amazing team, don't hesitate and apply now!
We are searching for new members for the following teams GFX, Public Relations - Video & Outreach Divisions, Translations and SM Team - Press Division.



This brings us to the end of another great In Case You Missed It. We'll see you again at the same time next week as we prepare to put up our very much delayed Christmas decorations and spend the winter with you — even if it is Summer for those of us south of the equator. For now, let's hope that our Southern Hemisphere users don't get heatstroke and meet you all again next week for another great article!





GFX BY @yerm
PROOFREAD BY @AKID❀KI
FEATURED ARTISTS Sunoo (ENHYPEN), Mo Han (Ex-SNH48), Kai, Jessica Jung, Yugyeom (GOT7)​

 

[ARandomFan]

As always, thank you so much!!

 

[UMJI MOODS]

So much happened. A lot of Covid-19 news that I hope will not become a regular occurrence. Thanks for an insightful presentation as always.

 

[Mimi]

Thank you for the updates
wow so many SuJu ones
and Xiumin being discharged from the military

and Seonho hosting the awards show....truly a rising actor

and on top of it all your reviews about mmmh
I also found interesting the structure with the three verses
thank you for writing all this

sad news are the covid news...didnt know so many caught it ;_;

 

[kimsguardian]

what a great recap, once again thank you for your hard work

 

[demasta]

thanks for the updates

 

[Happy]

Thank you for the updates!

 

[anh]

thanks for the updates!