KPOPWORLD #5

KPOPWORLD #4

KPOPWORLD #3

KPOPWORLD #2 (Poster Version)

Set to Take Over Alamodome Oct. 28–31, 2026

KPOPWORLD Festival & Worldwide Dance Competition

idntt (아이덴티티; read as identity) is an upcoming 24-member boy group under MODHAUS. They are set to make their debut sometime in 2026. The group consists of members divided into 3 rotational sub-units consisting of 8 members each - uneverm8t, yesw8are and itsnotov8r.

idntt

For their new album &lt;itsnotover&gt;, idntt sat down with KPOPWORLD to talk about where they've been, what this group has demanded of them, and what they refuse to let go of

idntt: The KPOPWORLD Digital Cover

EPEX [‘i:peks] (이펙스), formerly known as C9ROOKIES (C9루키즈) is a 7-member South Korean boy group under C9 Entertainment, consisting of Wish, MU, A-Min, Baekseung, Ayden, Yewang, and Jeff. On November 21, 2025, it was announced that Keum had left the group. They debuted on June 8, 2021, with their first EP album, BIPOLAR Pt.1 : 불안의 서 (Prelude of Anxiety)

EPEX

Closing a trilogy is easy. Closing it by handing the story back to the people who lived it is something else. EPEX's Youth: Epilogue wraps up two years and three albums of coming-of-age storytelling

EPEX Talks Youth Epilogue, Ownership and Growth

XLOV is a South Korean boy group formed by 257 Entertainment and currently managed by [WM Entertainment]. The group consists of four members: Wumuti, Rui, Hyun, and Haru. They debuted on January 7, 2025, with the single album I&#x27;mma Be. XLOV gained attention for promoting a genderless concept, incorporating androgynous styling and performances that challenge traditional gender norms in Kpop. The group&#x27;s name combines &quot;X,&quot; representing the unknown and negation, with &quot;LOV,&quot; symbolizing incomplete love, while their fandom name, EVOL, represents the completion of that concept. Several members were previously known through survival programs before debut. Wumuti, Rui, and Haru participated in Boys Planet, while Wumuti was also active in the project group WATERFIRE before helping form XLOV. The group is particularly noted for Wumuti&#x27;s involvement in songwriting and production, including contributions to their debut release. Since debuting, XLOV has released music including I&#x27;mma Be and I ONE, earning recognition for their distinctive concept, performance style, and growing international fanbase. In 2026, the group&#x27;s management structure changed following the acquisition of 257 Entertainment by WM Entertainment through RBW. Their music primarily incorporates elements of hip-hop, R&amp;B, and pop, while their visual identity and performances have distinguished them as one of the more unconventional rookie acts of the fifth generation of Kpop.

XLOV

On July 14, inner beauty brand LifePharm announced that genderless group XLOV will become their newest Global Ambassadors. The brand is known for their viral dietary Mood Change Alpha Plus range, described as self-care for K-pop idols

XLOV Announced as Ambassadors for Inner Beauty Brand LifePharm

K-pop’s contract system has undergone many changes since the industry’s inception in the 1990s. From 13-year slave contracts to a reduced term of seven years — with options for renegotiation

K-pop’s Contract System, Explained – And Why So Many Artists Are Leaving Big Labels

Did you know that K-pop superstars BTS and British BRAT sensation Charli XCX have a track together?

Collab Corner: BTS X Charli XCX

Happy Birthday! You share a special day with Sohee from Rocket Punch.

Is your birthday August 14? See which K-pop idol shares your birthday!

Yoon Mi-rae, born Natasha Shanta Reid, is a trailblazer in the Korean music scene, known for her unique contributions as a rapper, singer, and producer. Raised in a multicultural household, Yoon faced early challenges due to her mixed African-American and Korean heritage, which became a driving force in her music and advocacy work. Discovered by chance at 16, she joined the pioneering Korean hip-hop group Uptown, marking the beginning of her significant impact on the industry. Her career blossomed further with the formation of the duo Tashannie and later as a solo artist under the moniker "T," where she released a series of successful albums.Yoon’s music, characterized by its raw emotion and honest reflection of her experiences, resonated with many, particularly her 2007 hit “Black Happiness,” which spoke to the struggles of being biracial in South Korea. Her involvement in the hip-hop trio MFBTY, alongside her husband Tiger JK and rapper Bizzy, showcased her versatility, blending various genres to create a unique sound that stood out in the Korean music landscape.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1DK-MPh7vKkThroughout her career, Yoon has remained committed to her roots, both musically and personally. She and Tiger JK founded Feel Ghood Music, an independent label that supports emerging artists and allows them to experiment creatively. Their commitment to family is evident, with their son Jordan playing a crucial role in their creative process, further emphasizing the close-knit and collaborative nature of their work.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aE0eV2YR51kIn recent years, Yoon and Tiger JK have been recognized not only for their musical achievements but also for their social contributions. They were honored with the 2024 Trailblazer Award of Achievement by the Korean American Community Foundation, underscoring their influence in promoting Korean culture globally. Their appearance at Coachella as part of the 88rising Futures lineup highlighted their continued relevance and ability to inspire new generations.Yoon Mi-rae’s journey is a testament to her resilience and passion. From overcoming discrimination to becoming one of Korea’s most respected artists, she has continuously broken barriers and inspired others to embrace their unique identities. Her influence extends beyond music, as she uses her platform to advocate for multiculturalism and social justice, making her a true pioneer in the industry.

Yoon Mirae: Elevating Voices and Rocking the World

Nam Woo-hyun, known as Woohyun, is a South Korean singer, songwriter, and actor best recognized as a main vocalist of the boy group INFINITE. He began his solo career in 2016 with the release of his EP Write.., which achieved significant success, charting at number two on the Gaon Album Chart and number nine on the Billboard World Albums chart.

Woohyun: INFINITE Potential

aespa is further solidifying its presence in the fashion industry by landing a coveted spot on the cover of VOGUE Korea's September issue. The group's influence continues to expand beyond music, as they make a significant impact in the world of high fashion.

aespa Shines on the Cover of VOGUE Korea's September Issue

Pledis Entertainment recently announced that Jeonghan, member of the popular K-pop group SEVENTEEN, is set to begin his mandatory military service in the latter half of 2024.&nbsp;

Jeonghan to Fulfill Military Obligation, Will Miss Upcoming SEVENTEEN Promotions

BTS member Suga is expected to be summoned by police for questioning following allegations of riding an electric scooter while intoxicated.

BTS's Suga to Face Police Questioning Over Electric Scooter DUI Incident

Every now and then you encounter a song where you know – you just KNOW – the bassist doesn’t get enough recognition.&nbsp;

Daily Non-K-pop Spotlight: “Your word” by Shin In Ryu

In July this year, BTS' Jimin made a comeback with his second solo album, MUSE, featuring the title track "Who."

BTS’ Jimin channels his inner Michael Jackson in “Who” MV

Featured MV of the Day: “PARTY ROCK” by CRAVITY

ZEROBASEONE is far from just another rookie group; these guys are the real deal.

ZEROBASEONE’s CINEMA PARADISE Teaser

Though it's been three years since BTS released their iconic chart-topping summer hit, "Butter," it's never too late to revisit some of the most memorable fan covers.

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