NewJeans has done it again! For the third year in a row, the girl group stole the show at the Asia Artist Awards (AAA) 2024, claiming a triple crown, including the coveted Daesang (Grand Prize). Their incredible journey continues as they celebrate with their fans and look forward to even bigger achievements in the year ahead.

On December 27, NewJeans lit up the 9th Asia Artist Awards (AAA 2024) held at the IMPACT Challenger Hall in Bangkok, Thailand.

Speaking to Star News, Hanni couldn’t hide her excitement, saying, “It’s amazing to be here at AAA for the third year, especially during such a busy time of the year. It’s wonderful to meet our Bunnies [NewJeans' fandom] from all around the world. I hope we can enjoy today together.”

Hyein added, “It’s such a joy to perform in front of K-pop fans in Thailand before the year ends. I’m so happy to share this moment with everyone.”

NewJeans made history back in 2022 when they won Performance of the Year and Rookie of the Year right after their debut. In 2023, they made an even bigger splash, sweeping up six awards, including two Daesangs for Singer of the Year and Song of the Year. And now, in 2024, they’ve once again bagged a Daesang (Singer of the Year), along with Best Artist and Best Performance, making it three years in a row for their Daesang wins.

Minji expressed her gratitude, saying, “We were able to perform so many stages this year because of our amazing Bunnies. I’m incredibly thankful, and I promise to keep working hard.”

This year, NewJeans released their double single How Sweet and their Japanese debut single Supernatural, both of which received massive success. They even made history as the fastest act to perform at the Tokyo Dome. Danielle reflected on this exciting journey: “This year was filled with growth and achievements. Looking back on the memories with Bunnies makes me even more excited for what’s to come.” Haerin added, “We’ve had so many fun stages this year. Seeing everyone enjoy our performances brought us so much joy too.”

When asked about their favorite song of the year, the group all agreed it was Supernatural. Danielle explained, “Just like our debut song Attention, Supernatural is one of those tracks that gives us a rush every time we hear it, and it holds such special memories for us.” Hanni shared, “It’s tough to pick one, but I remember feeling chills the first time I heard Supernatural.”

As the year wraps up, Minji promised fans, “We’ll be back with more exciting stages and great music.” Hanni set her sights on the future, saying, “Next year, I want to give back to Bunnies and everyone who has supported us.”

Danielle shared a heartfelt message with fans: “Bunnies, let’s stay safe and make all our dreams come true next year. Thank you, and I love you.” Haerin added, “You worked so hard this year, and I’m so grateful. Let’s meet again next year, even happier.” Hyein concluded, “Bunnies, let’s stick together and never drift apart next year.”

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Squid Game 2 has sparked intense reactions from viewers all around the world, with opinions swinging from high praise to harsh criticism. In the midst of all the buzz, director Hwang Dong Hyuk is confidently looking ahead to Season 3, even promising that it will be better than the second season.

In an interview with AP News on November 26, ahead of Squid Game 2’s release, Hwang Dong Hyuk shared his thoughts on the series’ future. The director admitted to feeling some pressure about discussing the third season but gave a sneak peek of what’s to come.

"It’s set in the future, 10 to 20 years from now", he revealed. "Season 3 will have a darker atmosphere, very brutal and sad, but also quite bizarre and humorous." Hwang boldly added, "Season 3 will be better than Season 2," fueling even more anticipation from fans.

While the director remains optimistic, Squid Game 2 has received mixed reviews from both domestic and international media. Major foreign outlets have voiced disappointment with the season.

The New York Times published an article titled "Squid Game Turns on the Red Light," criticizing the second season for being too similar to the first, claiming that it repeats the same elements without offering anything new.

Similarly, Hollywood Reporter slammed the season, saying, "The second season of Squid Game was a complete disappointment. It lacked the fun and ingenuity of the first season and didn't provide new details or insights into the essence of the game."

However, not all reviews were negative. Some international outlets gave praise to Squid Game 2. IGN highlighted the script’s exploration of economic and political systems, adding a layer of democracy that increases the tension of the game.

Meanwhile, Independence UK appreciated how the season expanded beyond the first, skillfully twisting key moments of the story and shining a light on humanity's worst traits.

Despite the criticism, Squid Game 2 continues to dominate the global scene. It quickly reached the top of the viewership charts in 92 countries, including the United States, France, and Mexico, just a day after its release. Fans are already buzzing about the upcoming third season, which is expected to drop in the first half of next year.

As for Squid Game 2 itself, the story picks up where the first season left off, with Gihun (played by Lee Jung Jae) returning to the game for revenge. His fierce confrontation with the Front Man (Lee Byung Hun) and the reintroduction of the deadly game itself create intense drama and suspense.

However, some viewers found the season lacking in momentum, particularly in the second half. Criticism has also been aimed at former BIGBANG member T.O.P., who plays the role of Thanos, a drug-dealer rapper. Many fans expressed their disappointment with his acting, with some even saying they stopped watching because of it.

Others criticized the show for its repetitive costume designs and character concepts, claiming that the female characters felt too similar to those from Season 1.

Despite these mixed reactions, Squid Game 2 remains a major cultural phenomenon, setting the stage for an even bigger Season 3. Fans will be eagerly waiting to see if Hwang Dong Hyuk’s promises come to life.

Source: [1]