Latest news with #KCONLA
New York Post
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- New York Post
Walmart rolls out ‘FYP on Wheels' to woo Gen Z shoppers
Walmart is taking its brand on the road in a bid to win over younger shoppers, rolling out a fleet of themed mobile stores designed to merge retail with festival-style experiences. The 'Walmart Delivers' trucks, five in all, will tour the US from August through November, parking at concerts, marathons, and pop-culture events to offer photo ops, free merchandise and shopping tailored to specific youth interests. The project is aimed squarely at Gen Z, part of a broader push to give the world's largest retailer some of the cultural cachet enjoyed by rivals like Target. 4 Walmart will launch a mobile tour from August through November, aiming to attract younger shoppers. jetcityimage – Whether it works may depend on whether Walmart can sell itself as 'cool' without straining too hard for relevance. The company's own promotional language, calling the trucks 'Your FYP on wheels' — a nod to TikTok's 'For You Page' — makes it clear the chain is leaning into online slang, even if many older customers will be left scratching their heads. Walmart's tour kicked off Aug. 1 at KCON LA, a major K-Pop fan gathering. Over the next three months, the mobile stores will pop up at dozens of events, including concerts by country star Lainey Wilson, the Philadelphia Distance Run and marathons in Long Beach, Calif. 4 Walmart's 'Walmart Delivers' truck offers photo ops and free merchandise during a stop on its US tour. Instagram/Walmart Stops are planned for major cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, New York and Tampa, with more dates expected to be added. The company says the goal is to meet younger shoppers where they already are — not just online but at the kinds of events where music, sports, and lifestyle trends intersect. 4 A Walmart-branded delivery truck is part of a five-vehicle fleet visiting concerts, marathons, and pop-culture events. Instagram/Walmart In a press release, Walmart described the trucks as 'head-turning delivery trucks, packed with experiences to level up what you love,' promising 'photo-worthy moments, customizable giveaways, & much more.' Each truck targets a distinct niche. The 'K-Pop Era' truck functions as a personalization studio, where fans can decorate their own photo cards, assemble binders and shop a curated selection of merchandise, with free items for visitors. 4 Walmart's new mobile store concept blends retail with festival-style experiences to court Gen Z customers. Instagram/Walmart 'Lo-fi Play' focuses on gaming, offering throwback video games, a live leaderboard and a hub for board games. 'Rodeo Dream' lets guests try rodeo-themed activities, pose with a personalized leather belt, and collect Western-style accessories. 'Nature Break' is geared toward outdoor enthusiasts, who can put together a customized park kit matched to their style of hiking or exploring. Finally, 'Group Woosah' — using slang for taking a deep breath and relaxing — offers fitness-minded visitors recovery sessions and refreshing drinks.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Military-enlisted Jeonghan's yacht outing with SEVENTEEN & NCT members in Hawaii sparks controversy; CARATs urge removal of photos
After four NCT members unexpectedly didn't return to Korea following KCON LA on August 1, fans launched an intense search, buzzing with questions about their whereabouts. Then, on August 8, a photo surfaced - showing not only NCT's Doyoung, Johnny, Mark, and Jungwoo but also SEVENTEEN's Jeonghan and Seungkwan enjoying a luxurious yacht tour in Hawaii. The surprise sighting sent waves through both fandoms, as CARATs and NCTzens rejoiced to see their favorite idols safe and together. The post quickly exploded with over 1.5 million views, finally giving fans a satisfying update after days of uncertainty. Not all fans welcomed the photos While the image sparked joy, Jeonghan's fans expressed concern. Since he's currently serving in the military, they urged fans to respect his privacy and take down the photos to avoid misunderstandings or controversies. The dedicated fan page @jeonghanprotect posted a heartfelt request: "Kindly refrain from sharing the photos, we do not know the original source or how they were obtained. "While it is completely legal for JH to travel and take personal vacations while currently serving, we ask everyone to be mindful of the photos being circulated online. Such images can easily be taken out of context, especially by those who have intentions to cause harm or stir unnecessary controversy. Most of the time, even harmless posts can be taken out of context just to drag them. "Other fandoms are already requesting their co-fans to take the photos down. We respectfully urge Carats and JJFs who may still have these images posted to kindly delete them as well. Thank you for your understanding." Jeonghan's fans share the message It did not take long for the message to go viral and fans started sharing it on X with many stating how this photo should not have made it to social media in the first place. Their personal time is not for your clout. Please respect their privacy and be considerate of their current status. Hating on ssngs but being so quick to spread a photo from who knows where, even using hashtags for more engagement. Are you here for them or for your hit tweets? This. First time I saw the photo it was very sus like a saesang. Don't all love our Jeonghan and Seungkwan with their friends. But they are entitled to their privacy, too. You all will claim to be against ssngs but will post and spread things from unofficial sources for clout even if it might get your faves in trouble. How about walk the talk and use your brains? If it's personal time, then it should remain private unless they themselves post. About Jeonghan's military service Jeonghan enlisted on September 26, 2024, as SEVENTEEN's first member to begin military service. Due to a previous ankle injury, he serves as a social worker, an alternative to active duty. Before enlisting, he left a warm message reassuring fans that he'd stay healthy and strong during his service. For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here.
Time of India
03-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Yikes! IZNA's Lip-Sync Slip-Up Steals the Spotlight in Their Golden Cover Chaos
IZNA IZNA 's Whirlwind Journey to the Global Stage Imagine a group of talented teens battling it out on a survival show, emerging as the next big thing in K-pop - that's IZNA in a nutshell. This seven-member girl group, born from the nail-biting competition of I-LAND 2, has been making waves with their infectious energy, sharp dance moves, and youthful charm. Debuting just a few months ago, they've already captured hearts worldwide, blending catchy tunes with visuals that scream star power. But their appearance at KCON LA was supposed to be a triumphant milestone, showcasing a cover of 'Golden,' the upbeat anthem from the animated movie KPop Demon Hunters. Instead, it became a viral talking point, not for the right reasons. Fans noticed something amiss right away - the performance had all the flair, but the sync between vocals and moves felt oddly disjointed, like a remix that lost its beat. It's the kind of mishap that reminds us of those awkward moments in our own talent shows, where enthusiasm overshadows execution, leaving everyone buzzing with opinions. Unpacking the Lip-Sync Backlash and Performance Pitfalls In the high-stakes world of K-pop, where every note and step is scrutinized, lip-syncing accusations can hit like a thunderclap. Online sleuths dissected fan-captured videos from the event, pointing out how the audio track appeared perfectly polished - no heavy breathing, no off-key slips, just seamless delivery that screamed pre-recorded. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like If you have a mouse, play this game for 1 minute Navy Quest Undo Critics argued it was a full mime act, with one witty netizen comparing it to "puppets on strings without the real strings attached. " Adding fuel to the fire was the choreography mismatch; IZNA's intense, high-octane dances clashed with 'Golden's' lively rhythm, creating a visual-audio disconnect that felt jarring. This isn't new in the industry - think of how global acts sometimes rely on backing tracks for complex routines - but for rookies like IZNA, it amplifies the pressure to prove their mettle. Drawing parallels to our scene, it's similar to Bollywood award nights where lip-syncing is a staple for elaborate numbers, yet fans crave that raw, live edge. The debate extends to whether agencies push new groups too fast, prioritizing spectacle over skill-building, especially when most members are still in their teens navigating fame's rollercoaster. How Fans Are Reacting: Cheers, Jeers, and Everything In Between The online frenzy erupted quicker than a flash mob, with social media platforms lighting up in a mix of support and shade. Loyal stans rallied behind IZNA, attributing the flub to first-time jitters on an international stage or possible tech hiccups - "They're diamonds in the rough, cut them some slack!" one fan posted, echoing the empathy many feel for young artists. On the flip side, detractors vented frustration over what they saw as a "manufactured" show, lamenting the loss of genuine vocals in an era where idols like TWICE or SEVENTEEN deliver powerhouse lives. This incident has ignited broader discussions on K-pop's perfectionist culture, where even minor slip-ups can morph into major scandals, much like the relentless trolling our social media stars face after a viral fail. Interestingly, data from fan forums shows a spike in engagement - according to industry trackers like Sacnilk, similar controversies have boosted streaming numbers by up to 15% for affected groups in the past, turning negativity into unexpected promo. For IZNA, with members averaging 18 years old, it adds a humanizing touch, reminding us that growth comes with growing pains, akin to young cricketers bouncing back from a debut duck.
Economic Times
01-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Economic Times
KCON LA 2025: From Jackson Wang to NCT 127, have a look at the starry performer lineup; where to stream the concert?
KCON LA 2025 is set to deliver a vibrant mix of K-pop nostalgia and innovation, featuring iconic third-generation groups like MONSTA X and NCT 127 alongside rising stars such as ZEROBASEONE and RIIZE. Scheduled for August 1-3 in Los Angeles, the event will offer live performances, fan engagements, and exclusive content streamed on Amazon Music for global viewers. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads An Exciting Blend of Legends and Rising Stars When and Where the Event Will Take Place How to Watch KCON LA 2025 From Home Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Special Collaborative Performances on the Dream Stage Lineup Changes: Two Stars Exit Due to Health Concerns About Kang Yuchan and His Musical Journey Sejun's Solo Debut and VICTON's Evolution KCON LA 2025: A Celebration of K-pop's Past, Present, and Future More than ten years after the global K-pop wave began sweeping through the United States, KCON LA is making a grand return—this time with even more energy and star power. The upcoming three-day music festival promises to be a thrilling mix of nostalgia and innovation, bringing together iconic names from K-pop's third generation alongside the brightest talents from today's scene. Scheduled for the first weekend of August, this much-awaited event is expected to be one of the biggest showcases in K-pop history. KCON LA 2025 is uniting some of the most beloved figures from the golden era of third-generation K-pop with artists who are currently dominating the global charts. The roster features fan favorites like MONSTA X , SEVENTEEN's Hoshi and Woozi, NCT 127 , and GOT7's Jackson Wang. Alongside them, emerging talents such as ZEROBASEONE, RIIZE, CRAVITY, etc., are set to bring a fresh wave of energy to the stage. This impressive lineup aims to celebrate K-pop's evolution by offering performances that reflect its journey—both past and present. Fans can expect a unique mix of memory-laden throwbacks and groundbreaking acts never seen 2025 edition of KCON LA is scheduled to unfold from Friday, August 1, to Sunday, August 3. The festival will be held at two iconic venues in Los Angeles: the Los Angeles Convention Center and the Arena. These three days will be packed with performances, interactive fan engagements, and exclusive artist content. KCON, which first launched in 2012, has grown exponentially in its cultural reach, and this year's event promises to be the biggest one fans who aren't able to attend the event in person, there's still a chance to catch all the action live. Billboard has confirmed that the festival will be exclusively streamed on Amazon Music. K-pop enthusiasts from North America, Europe, and Latin America can watch the performances through Prime Video and Twitch, making it easier than ever to join in from anywhere within these will begin at 8:00 PM PT on all three days—August 1, 2, and 3. Amazon Music's coverage will include exclusive live content from the biggest K-pop stars, directly broadcast from the Arena. However, this stream will not be available in Asia-Pacific countries. In those territories, including India, streaming rights belong solely to CJ ENM. Indian fans can access the livestream through of the festival's biggest highlights will be the Dream Stage collaborations. This year, fans can look forward to exciting joint performances featuring NCT 127's Mark and Haechan, ZEROBASEONE's Seok Matthew and Park Gunwook, as well as singer Roy Kim teaming up with CHOIHOJONG. These pairings are expected to deliver one-of-a-kind performances that blend individual artistry with innovative stage two previously confirmed artists—VICTON's Lim Sejun and A.C.E's Kang Yuchan—will no longer be participating in this year's KCON LA due to medical issues. As reported by Soompi, both performers have stepped back from the event after consultations with their agencies. Despite their eagerness and rigorous preparations, a recent decline in their health has led their management to prioritize their an official statement, their agencies expressed regret over this sudden change and emphasized the importance of rest and recuperation for the two idols. Other artists from their respective agencies, including 20 and HELLO GLOOM, will still go ahead with their performances as the youngest member of A.C.E, first drew widespread attention with the group's breakout debut single, 'Cactus.' The group quickly established a strong presence in the K-pop world with their striking visuals and innovative choreography. Most recently, Yuchan embarked on a solo career, launching his debut track, 'Champagne Poppin,' on July 10, which received both critical acclaim and fan appreciation for its vibrant has been active in the K-pop scene since 2016 and is known for hits like 'To Be Gone' and 'The Enemy.' Over time, the group has built a devoted fan base while also allowing its members to explore solo ventures. Member Han Seungwoo was the first to debut as a soloist, followed by Lim Sejun, who made his solo debut this May with 'You're My Summer.' His new direction was praised for its emotional depth and artistic expression, further solidifying his place in the groundbreaking debuts to iconic returns, KCON LA 2025 offers something for every K-pop fan. Whether you're reliving memories with legendary artists or discovering new voices, this festival is a full-scale celebration of music, culture, and connection. As the countdown begins, excitement is reaching new heights for what promises to be an unforgettable weekend in Los Angeles.
Business Wire
31-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Wire
August 1, 2025 Designated as KCON Day by the City of Los Angeles
LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The City of Los Angeles has officially designated August 1, 2025, as 'KCON Day,' in recognition of the world's largest K-POP Fan and Artist festival for its cultural, social, and economic contributions since its debut in 2012. The City of Los Angeles has officially designated August 1, 2025, as 'KCON Day,' in recognition of the world's largest K-POP Fan and Artist festival for its cultural, social, and economic contributions since its debut in 2012. This marks the first official city-level recognition of KCON LA, which returns August 1–3 to the LA Convention Center and Arena. KCON LA 2025 features top acts, including NCT 127, MONSTA X, ZEROBASEONE, izna, and HxW (SEVENTEEN), along with fan-favorite programs such as MEET & GREET sessions with artists, the signature world-class K-pop show M COUNTDOWN, and the beloved DREAM STAGE, where fans perform live on stage with their favorite K-pop stars. City Councilmembers John Lee, Katy Yaroslavsky, Curren Price, and Heather Hutt co-sponsored the resolution, citing KCON's decade-long impact on Los Angeles' culture, landscape, tourism, and economy. 'KCON has played a pivotal role in elevating pop culture worldwide,' said Councilmember Lee. 'Its immersive multi-day convention format gives Angelenos and visitors a unique opportunity to explore the depth of Korean music, food, fashion, and technology.' 'The Korean American community and Korean culture are at the heart of what make Los Angeles one of the most creative, influential, and dynamic cities in the world,' said Councilmember Yaroslavsky, who represents western Koreatown. 'KCON reflects that impact and brings global attention to Korean culture in the city that's been central to its global rise. About 40 percent of attendees travel from outside California, generating significant tourism revenue and supporting jobs in hospitality, retail, and entertainment.' From 10,000 attendees in 2012, KCON LA has grown into a major cultural phenomenon, attracting over 100,000 fans annually to the flagship event in Los Angeles. KCON LA 2024, broadcast live on The CW Network, reached a record 5.9 million fans across the festival and digital platforms. This year, fans can access KCON LA 2025 live via the Amazon Music channel on Prime Video and Twitch. 'Events like KCON LA not only bring international visibility to Los Angeles, but also deliver a direct boost to local businesses,' said Stephen Cheung, President and CEO of the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC). 'From restaurants and hotels to transportation and retail, the economic ripple effects are substantial.' In addition to city-level recognition, California State Assemblymember Mark González issued a state resolution on July 25 honoring KCON as a premier cultural event and key driver in the global rise of K-pop. "The history of KCON is rooted in the vibrant celebration of Korean culture — a culture bursting with creativity, global influence, and passionate artistry,' said Assemblymember González. 'What began as a gathering of fans seeking community in Los Angeles has grown into a cultural sensation, economic powerhouse, and has become a vital stage for rising artists, visionary performers, and innovative businesses to share their talents for generations to come." As KCON LA 2025 kicks off, the event will continue to reinforce Los Angeles' status as a global hub for Korean pop culture and entertainment innovation. About KCON KCON is the world's No.1 K-POP Fan & Artist festival celebrating Korean culture and music. Since launching in 2012, it has been leading the expansion of K-culture across the globe for 13 years. KCON has established its footing as a flagship event, holding events across Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Latin America and has been providing the largest forum for fans to directly connect with each other, artists and professionals from the Korean entertainment industry. About CJ ENM CJ ENM is a leading entertainment company founded in Korea in 1995. Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2025, CJ ENM's entertainment division has been continuously shaping the next chapter of K-culture within the global entertainment industry, spanning media content, music, film, and performing arts. CJ ENM has created, produced and distributed globally-acclaimed content, including Oscar-winning film Parasite and Tony Award-winning musicals such as Kinky Boots. CJ ENM operates major production and distribution studios, including U.S.-based Fifth Season, the producer of critically acclaimed series like Severance, nominated for 27 Emmy Awards. In Korea, it runs the country's top streaming platform, TVING. The company also leads global K-pop experiences through signature events such as KCON, the world's largest K-pop Fan & Artist Festival, and the MAMA AWARDS, the premier K-pop awards show worldwide. To learn more about CJ ENM, please visit .
