• KARA Shines as 'Hallyu Queens' with Successful 'KARASIA' Concerts in Tokyo and Osaka

    KARA, the legendary group known as the '2nd Generation Legend,' has made a triumphant return to Japan with their solo concert series after nearly nine years.

    On August 24th and 25th, KARA—featuring Park Gyuri, Han Seungyeon, Nicole, Kang Jiyoung, and Heo Youngji—held their solo concert "KARA THE 5th JAPAN TOUR 2024 'KARASIA'" in Osaka.

    The concert, titled 'KARASIA,' marked KARA’s first meeting with their Japanese fans in almost a decade. The show was a celebration of their impressive 17-year career, featuring a hit song parade that highlighted their status as 'Hallyu Queens.'

    The concert kicked off with the Japanese version of their popular track "WHEN I MOVE" from their 15th-anniversary special album "MOVE AGAIN."

    Fans were treated to a blast from the past with hits like "Lupin," "Pandora," "Honey," "Pretty Girl," "JET COASTER LOVE," and "GO GO Summer!" The performances were full of energy and excitement.

    Each member had their moment to shine with solo stages that showcased their unique talents. KARA also performed their latest single's title track "I Do I Do" and the touching song "HELLO" from the same release.

    The "HELLO" stage was especially moving, with six microphones set up to honor the late Goo Hara, creating a heartfelt moment for the fans.

    The concert reached its peak with lively performances of "Mamma Mia," "Mister," and "Happy Hour." For the encore, KARA wowed the audience with "SOS," "Rock U," and "STEP," delivering a spectacular finale.

    This concert allowed KARA to create new, cherished memories with their fans after a long hiatus. The diverse setlist, reflecting their journey from debut to the present, was met with enthusiastic applause, making the event a truly special occasion.

    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]