Korea Times K-Culture Reporter
Stay tuned for Pyo Kyung-min's latest K-pop stories, where she digs into the backstories that matter. She’d love to hear from you — share your thoughts at pzzang@koreatimes.co.kr. After all, every article gets better with insights from those who love the scene, just like she does!
Global creators and cultural ambassadors who showcase the beauty and heritage of Korea worldwide expressed their gratitude for being honored at the 2024 K-Wave Festival for their contributions to promoting Korean culture globally, pledging to intensify their efforts to enhance awareness of Korea further.
![[INTERVIEW] Global creators share their love for Korea at 2024 K-Wave Festival](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
Aiming to build on the success of YG icons like BLACKPINK and 2NE1, BABYMONSTER — the label's newest act — is stepping up with its first full-length album, "DRIP." Dropping just three months after its last release, the group is now set to bring YG's signature hip-hop style into a new era with a fresh flair.
For K-pop girl group Kep1er, the recent departure of two members wasn't a setback — it was rather a turning point. What could have signaled uncertainty for the project group, formed through survival show "Girls Planet 999" in 2021, instead brought a new wave of determination and strength, according to its remaining seven members.
Following a comprehensive two-month investigation into the Badminton Korea Association (BKA), the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism announced a series of reforms and called for the dismissal of BKA President Kim Taek-gyu over multiple alleged violations.
Former Ador CEO Min Hee-jin's proposal for reinstatement was rejected during a board meeting, Wednesday. Min, who attended the meeting via video call, was the only one who voted in favor of her reinstatement.
Known for her global hits, Albanian pop star Dua Lipa credits K-pop as one of her musical inspirations. From collaborating with high-profile acts like BLACKPINK and Hwasa from MAMAMOO to exploring Korean culture and cuisine, Lipa's connection to Korea runs deep — a relationship she plans to celebrate with her upcoming concert in Seoul in December.
To commemorate the late singer, a tribute concert was held last weekend for Shin Hae-chul, a pioneering figure in Korea's rock music scene, marking 10 years since his untimely death following a medical accident.
DAMYANG/NAMWON, Jeolla Province — As autumn paints Korea in calmer, demurer hues, Damyang County in South Jeolla Province and Namwon City in North Jeolla Province have emerged as perfect destinations for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Home to numerous K-pop juggernauts, SM Entertainment unveiled plans to celebrate its 30-year anniversary with a major "SMTOWN LIVE" concert in Seoul next January.