logo
Labubus: Small dolls with big impact

Labubus: Small dolls with big impact

CBC6 days ago
Storybook characters turned toys and popularized by K-pop stars, Labubus have become the latest big thing partly because the buyer doesn't know what they're going to get until they open the box.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

BTS agency HYBE raided over alleged fraud trading
BTS agency HYBE raided over alleged fraud trading

CTV News

time4 days ago

  • CTV News

BTS agency HYBE raided over alleged fraud trading

A fan of K-pop band BTS poses with a group photo of BTS during the annual 2025 BTS Festa celebrating the BTS' debut anniversary in Goyang, South Korea, Friday, June 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man) Seoul, South Korea -- HYBE, the agency behind K-pop superstars BTS, was raided by police on Thursday in connection with alleged fraudulent trading involving its founder Bang Si-hyuk, investigators said. 'We are conducting a search and seizure at HYBE's headquarters in Yongsan District,' the Financial Crimes Investigation Unit of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency said in a brief statement. Bang, the mastermind behind BTS, is under investigation over allegations that he misled early investors to reap illicit profits from the company's 2020 initial public offering. He is accused of gaining around 200 billion won (US$146 million) through the process, according to local reports. HYBE has denied Bang committed any wrongdoing. 'We will dutifully clarify that the listing at the time was carried out in compliance with all relevant laws and regulations,' the company said in a statement in early July, pledging 'active cooperation' with authorities to get to the bottom of the case. The investigation comes as all seven BTS members complete their mandatory military service and prepare for a comeback next year. HYBE announced earlier this month that a new album and world tour were scheduled for 2026. BTS, known for championing progressive causes, holds the record as the most-streamed group on Spotify and became the first K-pop act to top both the Billboard 200 and Billboard Artist 100 charts in the United States. Before their military service, BTS generated more than 5.5 trillion won ($4 billion) in yearly economic impact, according to the Korea Culture and Tourism Institute. That accounts for roughly 0.2 per cent of South Korea's total GDP, according to official data.

Boryeong Mud Festival 2025 Features K-pop Power and Korea's Leading Music Show on August 7
Boryeong Mud Festival 2025 Features K-pop Power and Korea's Leading Music Show on August 7

Globe and Mail

time4 days ago

  • Globe and Mail

Boryeong Mud Festival 2025 Features K-pop Power and Korea's Leading Music Show on August 7

One of Asia's most beloved summer events, the Boryeong Mud Festival, returns in 2025 with even bigger thrills, deeper cultural immersion, and star-studded performances, including the highly anticipated Mnet M Countdown concert on Thursday, August 7th, hosted at the iconic Mud Expo Square on Daecheon Beach. Running from July 25 to August 10, 2025, the festival transforms the picturesque coastline of Daecheon Beach into a lively, mud-soaked wonderland filled with fun for all ages. Since its inception in 1998, the Boryeong Mud Festival has attracted millions of international visitors with its signature mineral-rich mud and electrifying summer energy. This year's edition promises an unforgettable blend of entertainment, wellness, adventure, and K-pop excitement. Mnet M Countdown: A Star-Studded Night on August 7 The undeniable highlight of this year's entertainment lineup is the M COUNTDOWN concert, Korea's leading K-POP chart show broadcast live by Mnet, set to dazzle audiences on Thursday, August 7. Taking place at the Mud Expo Square, this live event will showcase performances from top K-pop artists, delivering a spectacular evening that combines the energy of a music festival with the glamor of a television broadcast. As part of the festival's final week celebrations, K-POP Super Live, presented by KBS2, will follow on Saturday, August 9, featuring fresh hits, artist collaborations, and surprise performances sure to thrill K-pop fans worldwide. Festival Highlights: Mud, Music, and More This year's Boryeong Mud Festival is anchored by the Mud Experience Zone, where visitors can dive into giant mud pools, race down thrilling mudslides, and join friendly mud-based competitions. Whether you're enjoying the chaos of the Mud Mob Scene, indulging in a mud beauty treatment, or splashing in the Mud Water Park, there's something for every kind of traveler. Dedicated zones for kids and pets ensure the entire family can get in on the fun, while adrenaline seekers can explore the Jeep Track, Sky Bike, and more. Beach, Culture, and Aerial Spectacle Set against the scenic backdrop of Daecheon Beach, famed for its wide white sands and gentle waters, the festival also celebrates Korean heritage and local entrepreneurship. Attendees can browse the Boryeong Specialties Market and shop from the Youth Booths, run by local business owners under 45. One of the most thrilling moments of the festival is the Black Eagles Air Show, where South Korea's elite aerobatic team takes to the skies for a gravity-defying performance above the beach. Wellness and Rejuvenation The festival isn't just about getting dirty; it's also a haven for wellness enthusiasts. The Boryeong Mud Theme Park offers government-certified spa treatments and mud massages, using mineral-rich mud sourced from the region's pristine waters. It's the perfect place to unwind after a day of muddy fun. Travel Made Easy To enhance accessibility for domestic and international guests, a special 'Seoul–Boryeong Mud Train' will run on July 26, August 1, and August 8, offering 400 seats per trip (1,200 in total). The all-in-one day-trip package includes round-trip KTX tickets, shuttle service, admission to Gaehwa Art Park, access to the Boryeong Mud Festival, and a 10,000 KRW Onnuri gift certificate. Tickets to the Mud Experience Zone start at just 14,000 KRW for adults on weekends, with early bird discounts (11,200 KRW) available until June 25. For travel packages, visit the official Korail Tourism Development website: For festival information, visit the official site: A Must-See Global Festival Recognized as one of Asia's top three festivals, the Boryeong Mud Festival blends nature, music, community, and adventure into one unforgettable summer celebration. From exhilarating mud experiences to jaw-dropping performances like Mnet's M COUNTDOWN on August 7, the 2025 edition promises a dynamic escape into the heart of South Korea's cultural charm. Whether you're a thrill-seeker, a music lover, or simply looking for a unique way to celebrate summer, Boryeong Mud Festival 2025 invites you to dive in, get messy, and make memories. Stay connected and share the experience using #BoryeongMudFestival. For any inquiry, contact J.Y Lee at mudyaho@ For the latest updates, follow on Social Media.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store