• "Is (G)I-DLE next?" — Netizens react to BTOB leaving Cube Entertainment after 11 years

    BTOB, the famous K-pop group, is saying goodbye to Cube Entertainment after 11 long years.

    On November 6, Cube Entertainment officially announced that BTOB's contract had reached its end, and they decided to part ways without renewing it.

    This marks the end of an era for the group's time with Cube Entertainment, and it's been quite a ride for both sides.

    Cube Entertainment released the following statement:

    "Hello, this is Cube Entertainment. We want to share our official statement regarding BTOB's future endeavors. We had extensive discussions with BTOB members prior to the expiration of our second exclusive contract, and we mutually agreed not to renew it. This decision means that Cube Entertainment and BTOB members, Seo Eunkwang, Lee Minhyuk, Lee Changsub, Lim Hyunsik, Peniel, and Yuk Sungjae, are concluding an 11-year partnership.

    BTOB, which debuted on March 21, 2012, has become a third-generation K-pop sensation known for their exceptional singing and beloved music. We express our gratitude for BTOB's remarkable achievements during their long tenure with Cube Entertainment and thank their devoted fans, MELODY, for their unwavering support.

    While our journey with BTOB ends here, we wholeheartedly support their promising future and new beginnings. Thank you for showing your love to BTOB during this transition."

    Netizens shared their thoughts on this development:

    "I'm glad they're staying together as a group. I hope they don't face the same fate as Beast. Maybe they'll join a new company together."

    "Will Eunkwang still be on the Board of Directors?"

    "It's no surprise why everyone's leaving Cube."

    "(G)I-DLE must be feeling the pressure now that they have to carry the company."

    "With everyone leaving Cube, I wonder if (G)I-DLE will follow suit when their contracts expire. Maybe they'll have more leverage in negotiations as a popular 4th generation girl group."

    "After 11 years, it's time for them to move on."

    "Is this the end of Cube? This seems a bit dramatic."

    "Not yet. (G)I-DLE is still there, so they need to persuade them or face a tough situation."

    Meanwhile, it's been reported that Pentagon member Hongseok is also parting ways with Cube Entertainment, following in the footsteps of other members.

    Stay tuned for updates on both the Pentagon and BTOB's future activities.

    Source[1]

  • BTS's Jimin Makes History by Winning 'Fan’s Choice Grand Prize' at the 2024 MAMA Awards

    BTS member Jimin made history at the 2024 MAMA AWARDS, becoming the first solo artist ever to win the prestigious Visa Fan’s Choice of the Year award.

    On November 22, Jimin was honored with the Fan’s Choice of the Year award at the 2024 MAMA AWARDS JAPAN, held at the Kyocera Dome in Osaka, Japan. This marks a huge milestone in his career, especially considering his ongoing military service.

    Jimin made history as the first solo artist to win the Fan’s Choice of the Year award, a category that BTS had dominated for six years since its debut in 2018.

    In addition to this achievement, Jimin also took home the Fan’s Choice Grand Prize, making him a two-time winner at this year’s awards.

    Although Jimin couldn't attend the ceremony due to his military service, his name was met with loud cheers from fans when announced.

    His incredible win continues to prove his global influence as a solo artist. Jimin had also won Best Male Artist at the 2023 MAMA AWARDS, marking back-to-back wins at the event.

    The MAMA AWARDS praised Jimin for his groundbreaking achievements, saying, “As the first K-pop solo artist to reach 4 billion streams and set the longest-running #1 record for a Korean artist, Jimin has proven his influence as a world-class artist and global pop star.”

    Jimin's win also made him the first solo artist to claim a grand prize at the MAMA AWARDS in 10 years, with his achievement sparking excitement worldwide.

    On X (formerly Twitter), the hashtag “CONGRATULATIONS JIMIN” topped the trends, while “우리지민이상받았네” (Our Jimin Got the Award) reached the #1 spot in Korea.

    Jimin’s ongoing success continues to shine even during his military service. He was also recently named Best K-pop at the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards and continues to be recognized for his charitable efforts, including a recent donation of 100 million KRW to the National Defense Soldier and Veteran Love Fund.

    Source: [1]