GOKPOP | Exclusive K-News in Malaysia & Singapore

THE BOYZ is “Right Here” for their first show in Kuala Lumpur and electrifies (for real)

Monday, September 09, 2024

The B (fandom name for THE BOYZ) had the time of their lives as they witnessed their favourite idols, THE BOYZ, at the Mega Star Arena. The eleven-member band, consisting of Sangyeon, Jacob, Younghoon, Hyunjae, Juyeon, Kevin, New, Q, Haknyeon, Sunwoo and Eric, finally dropped by Malaysia for the first time for their ZENERATION II world tour.

Jacob had to perform seated due to health issues, also announced by their company IST Entertainment on X prior to the show.

THE BOYZ stuns with their impressive jaw-dropping synchronization by kicking off with ‘Diamond Life’, ‘Out of Control’ and ‘MAVERICK’. Following a VCR, the members changed into all-black sets and continue with powerful numbers ‘TATTOO’, ‘Levitating’, ‘Back All Black’ and ‘Breaking Dawn’.

They also dished out their much-anticipated intros, with a mix of English, Korean and Malay:

Eric: “Apa kabar! I’ve been waiting for this moment. It’s been 7 years to have our boys’ first ever concert in Malaysia. Welcome, let’s have fun tonight! It’s your energy boy Eric!”

Younghoon: “This is our first concert in Malaysia, so we have a lot of expectations.”

Juyeon: “Yo! I’m really happy to be here. You guys are so mantap!”

Q also kindly reminded fans to stay safe while having fun throughout the concert.

Returning in colourful outfits that bring out their youthful energy, THE BOYZ performed a cheerful medley – ‘Complete Me’, ‘Fantasize’, ‘Right Here’ & ‘THRILL RIDE’. They brought the atmosphere to an all-time high with ‘D.D.D’, where they started a dance party with fans jumping and cheering with all their might. Screens also displayed fans’ euphoria!

Kevin: "You just need to know how to have fun, and show us okay?"

With the members' encouragement, The B Dance party starts for D.D.D💃#THEBOYZinKL #ZENERATION2inKL #TBZinKL #제너레이션2 pic.twitter.com/daaOX2773c
— GOKPOP (@goKPOP) September 7, 2024

After the adrenaline rush, the group took things slower with some sentimental ballads. During ‘Horizon’, The B flashed – literally – a surprise for THE BOYZ by waving pink LED lights, turning the arena into a breathtaking pink ocean. Some members like New, Eric and Younghoon were even seen holding the lights, showing their appreciation for their beloved fans.

The B’s efforts and love for THE BOYZ could be felt not only through their uniformed red and black dress code (even matching their lightstick colours), but also through this sweet fan project.

We're definitely down for your love, @IST_THEBOYZ'! The members exude charisma with one of their biggest hits, Reveal 🔥#THEBOYZinKL #ZENERATION2inKL #TBZinKL #제너레이션2 pic.twitter.com/Kk7t5S50Ed
— GOKPOP (@goKPOP) September 7, 2024

Emotions continued flowing with a throwback to 2018 with ‘Back 2 U’, and their latest soft rock ballad, ‘Hurt Me Less’.

The K-pop act was ready for another round of power-packed performances by looking all suave in black leather and fishnets. They dropped ‘Bite Back’, ‘Reveal’, ‘The Stealer’ and a remix of ‘WATCH IT’, showing no signs of losing their energy despite sweating profusely.

Towards the end of the concert, things took a turn when power in the hall malfunctioned, plunging the arena into darkness. However, the members took the chance with The B to sing happy birthday to Hyunjae, whose birthday was in less than a week.

“Seriously, I thought it was a surprise,” Hyunjae remarked, with Haknyeon laughing along.

The show was almost brought to an unexpected closure with an announcement asking fans to leave. Fortunately, the power came back on and the members were able to give their farewell speeches.

Complete in their ZENERATION II tees, each member of THE BOYZ hilariously rushes through his speech, just in case their mics stop working again.

Ending ments from the rest of the members~

ft. Kevin the professional interpreter 🙌#THEBOYZinKL #ZENERATION2inKL #TBZinKL #제너레이션2 pic.twitter.com/qhNHEpJo17
— GOKPOP (@goKPOP) September 7, 2024

Props to Eric who was constantly hyping up the crowd but not compromising on his performances at the same time; truly living up to his nickname “Energ-eric”!

Kevin even posted on his Instagram “partied so hard power went out”, and also displayed his not-so-secret talent in interpretation as he translated his members’ ments.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kevin Moon (@kev.in.orbit)

Adding yet another stop under their belt, THE BOYZ left a memorable impression with a multiple change of outfits that showcased their versatile images, professionalism and calmness despite technical difficulties, and solid camaraderie - Hyunjae was seen giving Jacob a hi-five to encourage him. We wish Jacob a speedy recovery, and for the group to have a good rest before embarking on their upcoming Europe stops.

Written by: Joreen

Photos by: STAR Planet

beast

Highlighting a Special Return— HIGHLIGHT concert in Singapore

Monday, September 09, 2024

The excitement was palpable at the Singapore EXPO Hall 7 on 8 September 2024 as HIGHLIGHT made their highly anticipated return to Singapore after more than a decade. This makes the HIGHLIGHT LIVE 2024 [LIGHTS GO ON, AGAIN] in Singapore extra 'special' with their last Singapore concert being in 2012.

Cheers erupted from the crowd the moment the lights dimmed, as DUJUN, YOSEOP, GIKWANG and DONGWOON made their grand entrance onto the stage, kicking things off on a high with ‘Switch On’.

[#HIGHLIGHTinSINGAPORE 🇸🇬] Starting off with SWITCH ON#HIGHLIGHT #LIGHTS_GO_ON_AGAIN #BEAST #HIGHLIGHTXBEAST #YOONDUJUN #YANGYOSEOP #LEEGIKWANG #SONDONGWOON #CKStarEntertainment #CKStarSG pic.twitter.com/GXXAuFjEhN
— GOKPOP (@goKPOP) September 8, 2024

From the moment HIGHLIGHT took the stage, the atmosphere was electrifying as the boy group delivered impressive live performances, demonstrating their unwavering and prominent position in the industry as artistes.

[#HIGHLIGHTinSINGAPORE 🇸🇬]#HIGHLIGHTS is CALLING YOU 📞#HIGHLIGHT #LIGHTS_GO_ON_AGAIN #BEAST #HIGHLIGHTXBEAST #YOONDUJUN #YANGYOSEOP #LEEGIKWANG #SONDONGWOON #LIGHTS_GO_ON_AGAIN_in_SG pic.twitter.com/RaueEsZKtM
— GOKPOP (@goKPOP) September 8, 2024

Visuals accompanied with talents— their vocals were top-notch and unrivaled, and their stage presence was nothing short of spectacular. Despite the passage of time, the group's energy and enthusiasm echoed their early debut days, proving their experience and professionalism as artistes. HIGHLIGHT Steady Lah!~

The next segment of the show was a great nostalgia trip for B2UTYs (affectionate name for BEAST fans). HIGHLIGHT introducing themselves as BEAST was both a touching and euphoric moment for LIGHTs and B2UTYs, where the quartet earned the loudest cheers from the audience.

BEAST opened the segment with global hit tracks ‘Bad Girl’, ‘Shock’ and ‘Special’—songs which have seen impressive metrics from more than a decade ago! During the night, BEAST proved that their diverse discography is indeed timeless.

Continuing with the iconic melodies of ‘Good Luck’, ‘Shadow’ and even ‘Breath’, LIGHTs and B2UTYs were captivated as they embraced the classic hits of K-POP with the energy levels at the peak. Their unfaltering enthusiasm validates their genuine support and pure affection for BEAST (and HIGHLIGHT), even after all these years.

Not forgetting the anthems, ‘Fiction’ and ‘On Rainy Days’— at this point, the concert venue was engulfed in a sea of thunderous cheers, reverberating through every section as fans fully immersed themselves in the sentimental throwback.

In some lighthearted TMI sharing about their time in Singapore, YOSEOP shared that he recently purchased and camera and still require time to learn the ropes in editing.

DUJUN humorously recounted his simple TMI— having breakfast before coming to the concert venue!

GIKWANG expressed his enthusiasm about the hotel’s gym facilities and that he exercised hard that day.

DONGWOON raved about feasting on delicious bak kut teh and that it was Shiok!

Another prominent facet of the show was undoubtedly HIGHLIGHT’s genuine appreciation towards their fans’ relentless and unconditional support. Though veterans in the industry, HIGHLIGHT’s humility and affection for their fans were evident throughout the show— expressing their sincere gratitude for the warm welcome back to our sunny island and even apologised for returning to Singapore only after so many years.

To end off the exhilarating concert, the members took turns to make their closing comments.

YOSEOP: Thank you for coming down to see us even though the weather was bad. We prepared a lot and we wish to return your support as well. I hope we don't come back too late the next time we meet again. Although we are not sure when we will meet again but till then, please stay happy and healthy!

DONGWOON: Sorry for coming here only after such a long time. The next time we have a tour, I will insist that we have to come to Singapore. I heard a lot of people also came from outside of Singapore, please stay healthy until we meet again, thank you lah!~

GIKWANG: I’m very happy to have a pretty ending in Singapore WOOOO! I heard that there are many more of B2UTYs and LIGHTs who came to see us today, as compared to our previous show in Singapore from years back. Because of that, I am very grateful. In our age and experience it’s not an easy thing to achieve, thank you for loving and supporting us and coming to see us again, I hope you will work less and earn more.

DUJUN: I wanna say thank you to all the LIGHTs for coming to see us even across borders, Singapore is our last Asia stop so it’s even more memorable for us. Since this is the last time I wanna thank Singapore fans the most.

In addition, as part of the ending credits of the show, a message on the screen displayed, "To B2UTY & LIGHT (especially Singapore), as long as you're here, we'll sing eternally"— a thoughtful reply to the fan banner project. From the small details to the grand moments, the concert was meticulously crafted to contribute to a deeply immersive and satisfying experience for LIGHTs, B2UTYs and HIGHLIGHT themselves.

It was certainly a Special and Beautiful Night.

We would like to extend our gratitude to CK Star Entertainment for the media invitation!

Written By & Photo Credits: Amanda

ACT:PROMISE World Tour

TOMORROW X TOGETHER wishes to be ‘Back For More’ shows with Singapore MOA

Sunday, September 08, 2024

There’s nothing quite like a TOMORROW X TOGETHER concert. TOMORROW X TOGETHER, also known as, TXT, fired up the stage at the Singapore Indoor Stadium on 7 September 2024 for their <ACT: PROMISE> World Tour, marking the team’s second visit to our sunny island.

Given the demand from their previous show here, the Singapore Indoor Stadium was undoubtedly a breeze for TXT to fill. The 9,200-strong crowd experienced a dazzling showcase of TXT’s stunning visuals and dynamic performances.

From the moment the lights dimmed and the concert began, it was clear that the concert setlist was meticulously crafted to highlight their diverse discography and versatility as performers. YEONJUN, SOOBIN, BEOMGYU, TAEHYUN and HUENINGKAI opened the show with their latest track ‘Deja Vu’, earning explosive cheers from MOAs.

From ‘Run Away’ and ‘0x1=LOVESONG (I know I Love You)’ to ‘Trust Fund Baby’ and ‘Thursday’s Child Has Far to Go’, the concert setlist was a perfect mix of both global hit title tracks and popular B-sides. MOAs were enchanted— evident from the roaring (and barking) cheers.

MOAs were also to treated to special unit stages. BEOMGYU, TAEHYUN and HUENINGKAI impressed with a performance of ‘Quarter Life’, a song that honours the message of overcoming a quarter life crisis.

SOOBIN and YEONJUN put up a top-notch performance of ‘The Killa (I Belong To You)’, proving that they were born for the stage.

1. Deja Vu

TXT's recent concert in Singapore was a remarkable sequel to their first visit. While their <ACT: Sweet Mirage> show was met with exuberant energy, Leader SOOBIN chimed that atmosphere for last night’s show was even more electrifying— cheers from the crowd were louder and more passionate than ever. Main vocal TAEHYUN reflected on the night and made a special mention that the Singapore show was among the best he has ever performed, highlighting the incredible reception and enthusiasm of the Singapore MOAs.

2. LO$ER=LO♡ER

A concert is never complete without fan interactions. The show was certainly a ‘SUGAR RUSH RIDE’ for MOAs as the sweet boys of TXT charmed MOAs with sincere and heartfelt interactions— showcasing their genuine bond. It was endearing to see the boys of TXT, going above and beyond to wave and interact with MOAs from all levels and corners of the venue.

[#TXT_IN_SINGAPORE 🇸🇬] #BEOMGYU fans, this is for you guys 🧡🪭#투모로우바이투게더 #TOMORROW_X_TOGETHER #TXT #ACT_PROMISE #TXT_TOUR_ACTPROMISE #Act_Promise_in_SG #TXTinSG pic.twitter.com/Sxdrn8zaV1
— GOKPOP (@goKPOP) September 7, 2024

In a short segment, the boys of TXT took turns to flip a folding fan, which brought immense joy to the crowd. Earning the loudest cheers was BEOMGYU, who showed both coolness and elegance.

Like idol like fans— MOAs prepared a special event for YEONJUN, a Birthday Song Sing-along! He was genuinely surprised and thanked MOAs, for the surprise was his best birthday present.

[#TXT_IN_SINGAPORE 🇸🇬]
SWEE lah~~ #HueningKai’s Cover of Cruel Summer #투모로우바이투게더 #TOMORROW_X_TOGETHER #TXT #ACT_PROMISE #TXT_TOUR_ACTPROMISE #Act_Promise_in_SG #TXTinSG pic.twitter.com/kkk77sbgSx
— GOKPOP (@goKPOP) September 7, 2024

The youngest, HUENINGKAI also serenaded MOAs with a beautiful cover of ‘Cruel Summer’, where his powerful voice and vocal nuances blended perfectly with the song's essence.

3. Back For More

During the closing comments, the boys of TXT expressed their great desires to come back to Singapore next year and even to hold multiple shows.

[#TXT_IN_SINGAPORE 🇸🇬]#YEONJUN: Firstly, I am so surprised by your cheers here. I think I’ve fallen in love with you again. The only regret is that we only have one show this time, hopefully we can have more shows next time. Thank you so much for your birthday surprise, one of… pic.twitter.com/YQx0vFgplT
— GOKPOP (@goKPOP) September 7, 2024

TXT captivated MOAs with their world-class visuals, accompanied by their undeniable talents. Following the 3-hour exhilarating show, TXT’s enthusiasm to return to Singapore was certainly not a surprise at all.

Given the excitement from last night’s show, I'm sure of us are experiencing slight ‘Tinnitus’ (both literally and figuratively). This only underscores the overwhelming excitement MOAs feel for the boys of TXT.

TXT and MOAs enjoyed a concert of ‘MAGIC’ and unforgettable 'Moments of Alwaysness' in Singapore!

We would like to extend our gratitude to LiveNation for the media invite!

Written by: Amanda

Photo Credits: Courtesy of BIGHIT MUSIC

K-music

MEOVV Makes Thunderous Debut with MEOW - A New Era for THEBLACKLABEL

Friday, September 06, 2024

Today, the fierce new K-Pop girl group MEOVV release their feverishly anticipated debut single “MEOW”. Listen HERE via THEBLACKLABEL / Capitol Records. The booming track delivers a razor-sharp mesmerizing introduction to the globally minded idol five-piece. “MEOW” comes with a stunning visual highlighting the group’s dynamic performances. Watch it HERE.

MEOVV (pronounced “meow”) are the first ever girl group launched by THEBLACKLABEL and represents the vision of label founder and mega-producer Teddy Park (a.k.a. TEDDY). TEDDY who has played an integral role in shaping the overall direction and creative for BIGBANG, G-Dragon, 2NE1 and BLACKPINK, hand-picked the members of MEOVV and directed all facets of the creative and production. Under his vision, MEOVV put the world on notice as this is his first girl group in 8 years after debuting BLACKPINK.

The track kicks off with an enchanting loop that speeds up as the powerful bass drops and sends a dozen percussive bits flying. It showcases MEOVV’s confident vocal prowess as they slide effortlessly between languages, notes, and styles. “MEOW” was written by TEDDY, Claudia Valentina, Zikai, Billy Walsh, Vince and was produced by 24, and Jumpa.

The distinct and always inventive production is a hallmark of THEBLACKLABEL and further affirms that MEOVV aims to break from the conventional K-Pop mold. MEOVV is a multidimensional group who bring powerful charisma and energy to every mood, whether singing or rapping, serving up smooth allure or fierce attitude.

The group’s name was announced on August 15, and K-Pop fans and press have been devouring every morsel of information and speculation since. In addition to the early reveal of an animated image of a pierced and charmed cat paw (HERE),THEBLACKLABEL shared a visual (HERE) of their sleek new Seoul HQ being overtaken by five giant felines. Those same black cats were recently spotted in Hollywood, roaming the iconic Capitol Records Tower (HERE).

With rumors swirling, MEOVV’s members were revealed one at a time over the past week and a half. Each was announced with an “EYES OF MEOVV” close-up teaser, then a mysterious short film. Watch the trailers for idols ELLA (HERE), GAWON (HERE), SOOIN (HERE), ANNA (HERE), and NARIN (HERE). Combined views of those clips have already surpassed 94 million — all before the group released a single song.

With the ascension story continuing to unfold, the MEOVV takeover has only just begun.

GROWTH THEORY

YOUNHA Marks 20th Anniversary with a Journey of Growth in New Album GROWTH THEORY

Friday, September 06, 2024

K-music

Spotify Fuels the Hype - Stray Kids dominATE World Tour Seoul Concert Experience

Friday, September 06, 2024

Spotify - the world’s most popular audio streaming subscription service - is fueling the excitement for Stray Kids' World Tour ‘dominATE’ with a series of initiatives made just for STAY (Stray Kids’ fandom).

To start, Spotify launched the ‘Stray Kids WORLD TOUR [dominATE SEOUL]' playlist. On top of Stray Kids' most beloved hits, the playlist also features audio messages from the members to hype fans up for their concerts. In addition, to celebrate the kick-off of the World Tour ‘dominATE’, Spotify has also teamed up with Stray Kids to bring further delight to fans attending the opening shows. On the concert grounds at KSPO DOME, fans can head to the Spotify booth to redeem exclusive Stray Kids merchandise and snap pictures at a special zone to commemorate their concert experience.

After their shows in Seoul, Spotify is set to launch the ‘Stray Kids WORLD TOUR [dominATE SEOUL] Live Set Playlist this September. Perfect for STAY looking to relive the magic of the concert, the playlist will include select tracks from the performance setlist and live audio recordings from the featured shows. From opening greetings by members to fan interactions between sets, - Spotify’s Live Set playlists let listeners feel, or relive the energy and excitement of watching their favorite artists live.

Spotify has supported Stray Kids throughout their record-breaking rise to global superstardom. In addition to spotlighting their music on global playlists such as K-Pop ON! (온) and Pop Rising, Spotify has also brought listeners a variety of experiences to fuel their discovery and deepen connections with Stray Kids.

In Stray Kids’ rookie year, Spotify brought the group to ‘Spotify on Stage 2018’ in Jakarta, Indonesia, to introduce their unique colors to listeners. Since then, Stray Kids has been featured on a number of unique audio experiences, including 'Idol Lounge’, a limited-time playlist showcasing music enjoyed by the members, and Stray Kids Blend, a personalized playlist that merges a user’s musical tastes with the group. Fans can also head to the official K-Pop ON! YouTube channel for a host of bonus content featuring Stray Kids, or tune into “what a moment”, a Spotify pop culture playlist which now pays tribute to the long awaited collab between Stray Kids x Deadpool & Wolverine.

In the years since their debut in 2018, Stray Kids have amassed more than 8 billion Spotify streams, tracking an average year-on-year growth of 108%. Testament to the power of Spotify in moving music across borders, their top streaming markets in 2024 go beyond Asia, spanning the USA, Japan, Mexico, Brazil, and Germany. Today, they have over 11 million monthly listeners on Spotify, and are the second-most streamed K-Pop boy group of 2023 Spotify Wrapped.

On the platform, there are over 6,000 listener-generated Stray Kids concert playlist and the most-streamed tracks in the month leading up to their ‘dominATE’ World Tour are “Chk Chk Boom”, “SLASH (From "Deadpool & Wolverine")”, and “I Like It”.