• Fans Voice Discontent Against Pledis for Lack of Promotions for fromis_9

    Amidst the ongoing turmoil surrounding HYBE LABELS and the conflict with ADOR’s CEO Min Hee Jin, fans of the girl group fromis_9 have initiated a three-day protest against Pledis Entertainment, a subsidiary under HYBE LABELS.

    The Flover Global Alliance expressed concerns that the treatment of the group shifted following Lee Da Hye's appointment as CEO in 2022.

    Alongside truck protests, they took their grievances online, utilizing hashtags such as #이다혜플레디스직무유기해명해 (LeeDaHye_explain_dereliction_of_duty) and #플레디스구체적인활동계획발표해 (PLEDIS_announce_detailed_promotions), accompanied by an official notice.

    According to the alliance's notice in English, they perceived a significant decline in the group's support and promotional activities since Lee Da Hye assumed the role of CEO. Their grievances include:

    • Reduced frequency and quality of official content uploads
    • Unannounced comeback delays and communication blackout in March 2023
    • Inadequate support during the 1st album 'Unlock My World' activities
    • Insufficient promotion via official accounts and press releases
    • Neglect of overseas fandoms
    • Frequent reuse of stage outfits

    The alliance demanded that Lee Da Hye and PLEDIS make the following changes:

    • Cease making hollow promises and release a detailed plan on supporting fromis_9
    • Explain the reasons behind the reduced support for fromis_9 activities since her tenure as CEO
    • Demonstrate through actions that her appointment is not due to her association with Bang Si Hyuk, HYBE's chairman

    Fans expressed dismay at the treatment of the group despite their eagerness to perform and make a comeback.

    Meanwhile, the resignation of PLEDIS's visual director has stirred further speculation among fans.

    Source: [1]

  • IVE's Ahn Yujin Opens Up About How aespa's Karina Reached Out to Her First After Wanting to Get Closer

    IVE's Ahn Yujin just shared a sweet story about her friendship with aespa's Karina, and fans are loving the adorable details!

    On January 28, Ahn Yujin appeared on Salon Drip 2 and got candid about how her friendship with Karina began.

    During the show, Jang Do Yeon asked Ahn Yujin if she had ever talked to Karina, who is also a leader, about the struggles of being in charge after they performed on stage together.

    Ahn Yujin revealed, “I’ve wanted to get closer to Karina for a while. I’ve focused on just becoming friends, so we didn’t really talk deeply yet, but I want to ask her more about it. Our teams are very different, but they’re all so amazing!”

    When asked how she approached Karina, Ahn Yujin shyly admitted, “The first time we met was through a challenge. Karina’s team wanted to take photos with me, and I made sure to dress nicely. I was so nervous!"

    She added, "I had two things I wanted to ask: ‘Can I call you unnie?’ and ‘Can I get your number?’ But I couldn’t bring myself to do it because there were just too many things on my mind. I wanted to talk well, dance well, and look good on camera.”

    Ahn Yujin then explained that after a collaboration stage offer came up, she thought of Karina and even got her number through a mutual acquaintance. But, worried about making Karina feel uncomfortable, Ahn Yujin didn’t contact her right away. Instead, she waited until Karina contacted her first!

    Ahn Yujin shared, “I heard Karina was talking about me, so I thought I should contact her. But then, she contacted me first,” looking genuinely touched. Jang Do Yeon teased, “You both are so cute! Are you getting close now?”

    With a bright smile, Ahn Yujin responded, “Yes! We’ve decided to have a meal together soon.” She also thanked Karina for being so kind, especially when Karina texted her after practice, saying she had worked hard.

    Ahn Yujin revealed, “Lately, I keep asking her if it’s okay to post pictures of us on social media,” showing just how strong their growing friendship is.

    Source: [1]