ITZY's recent comeback album, "Born To Be," has stirred up discussions among netizens after a post on Nate Pann highlighted its poor first-week sales.

The post revealed that the group managed to sell only about 276,000 copies during the initial week, a stark contrast to their previous album "CAKE," which achieved four times that amount.

The netizen behind the post expressed shock, speculating whether Chinese fans neglected to place orders or if the group's own fans boycotted the album.

Within 12 hours, the post gained around 18,000 views, and the comment section was flooded with various opinions.

Netizens comments include:

"Unlike 'Cake,' which gained popularity after music show performances, this song isn't climbing the charts even though it's being featured. The ranking suggests a decline in fan support. The song reached 101st place on the first day, showing people aren't skipping it, but I think they're not listening due to its quality."

"It's not just ITZY; other idols might also experience a decline in album sales this year."

"Girl groups' songs are expected to be good, but this one falls short."

"Regardless of the song's quality, the fandom should stream it. Fans need to boost the song on charts during music shows. The styling is good this time, and the title isn't that bad. Isn't streaming a way fans can support their favorite singers? I don't understand."

"The chart performance is even worse."

What are your thoughts?

Source[1]

BTS member J-Hope has truly made a mark in the U.S. market, and it’s clear that his popularity knows no bounds!

On February 28th, during the latest episode of MBC’s variety show I Live Alone (episode 585), viewers got a glimpse into J-Hope’s daily life in LA, where he was busy working on his solo album.

The episode showed him visiting a busy shopping mall in California, and what happened next was nothing short of amazing.

While shopping for meat at a butcher’s shop, J-Hope was approached by a young girl who asked, “Can you take a photo with my sister?”

This request was just the beginning! Soon after, more fans gathered around asking for photos and autographs.

One man even mentioned, “My friend works here, can I get an autograph?” But the real shocker came when a grandmother approached him and said, “My grandchildren are your fans.”

Park Na Rae was in awe, exclaiming, “It doesn’t matter the nationality. Even grandmothers are coming!”

J-Hope, always humble, couldn’t believe how widely recognized he was. “I didn’t think I’d be recognized in the local market,” he admitted.

But Jeon Hyun Moo quickly shut him down, saying, “What are you talking about? You’re a world star.”

He continued, “Americans usually don’t do that kind of thing. Even if Keanu Reeves takes the subway, people don’t acknowledge him.”

Jeon Hyun Moo’s words perfectly captured just how incredible J-Hope’s global fame has become!

From fans of all ages to being recognized in the U.S. with ease, J-Hope is truly a world star!

Source: [1]