Latest news with #KPOP
CBC
13-07-2025
- Entertainment
- CBC
The two hottest new K-pop groups aren't real — but they aren't AI either
The movie KPop Demon Hunters is as wild and fun as it sounds. The new Netflix film from Sony Pictures Animation follows a trio of friends who serve as a world-renowned K-Pop girl group called HUNTR/X by day, but secret demon hunters by night. Their biggest foe yet is Saja Boys, a group of demons who have incarnated as a K-pop boy band determined to steal all of HUNTR/X's fans. Songs from the movie have taken over the music charts. The soundtrack is currently number three on the Billboard 200 album chart, and four songs are in the top 20 on the Billboard Global 200 chart. What's more, Saja Boys' track Your Idol has become the highest-charting track by a K-pop boy group in U.S. Spotify history, beating a record previously held by BTS. Today on Commotion, professor Michelle Cho chats with host Elamin Abdelmahmoud about why the film has been such a big hit, and not just with K-pop fans. WATCH | Today's episode on YouTube (this segment begins at 14:34):
The Sun
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
I tried the new Squid Game experience in the UK – it felt like being in the TV show but there is a downside for families
K-POP chimes loudly as posters are plastered across the walls advertising typical South Korean treats and fictional businesses. Presented like a Seoul high street, Squid Game: The Experience immediately transports you to South Korea. Then the anticipation builds as 'pink guards' lurk around the dark corners, and this is all before you have even been handed your bib. London's Squid Game experience opened last month at ImmerseLDN on the waterfront at the ExCeL and welcomes players into the world of the hit Netflix show... but without actual violence and death. Over the course of five challenges, players can get competitive - playing for points to ultimately win. From the moment I received my numbered bib, I was no longer 'Cyann - travel reporter', I was player '008'. Then after having my mugshot taken, I entered the game. The first room is set out like the sleeping quarters from the show, with bunk beds uniformly lined next to each other. Your host then introduces you to the experience ahead, as you prepare to enter the first challenge. As the doors open and you move into the next room, in front of you lies four rows of glass, next to each other. Mimicking the 'glass stepping stones' from the show, four players simultaneously step in accordance with a pattern memorised a few moments earlier. The glass lights up green as you go if you get it correct. You have 2020 vision and a high IQ if you can spot all five guards with triangle masks in Squid Game brainteaser If you don't, it turns red and you are forced to stay where you are. Players are then awarded different amounts of points depending on how far they reached across their 'bridge'. Whilst the game is one of the most iconic moments from the TV show, in the experience itself there is a lot of waiting around. I was in a group of about 30 people and as one of the first four people to do the challenge, myself and my friend found ourselves waiting around for all the other players to complete the challenge. Whilst watching a few groups attempt the game with some messing it up is entertaining, it wears off quickly and you are left waiting with nothing else in the room to occupy your time. Once everyone is finished crossing the 'glass stepping stones', you enter the next challenge. Arguably the best game for those who are super competitive, in groups of four you stand around a small table, each with a bucket of 10 marbles. The aim of the game is to throw the marbles in the middle of the circle. Those who achieve this, then get to take all the marbles from the table into their hoard. If you run out of marbles, you lose. The game lasts about five minutes or so and it's a great way to meet other people that are in the experience or have some family/group fun. Once this game is complete, again you scan your wristbands depending on whether you won, lost or drew. 8 Then on into a dark room, lit by flickering street lamps, with a singular rope running along the ceiling and dropping down to the floor. For this challenge, you play as a team - with another group of people on the other side of a glass door, doing the same challenge. Essentially a version of tug-of-war, each player has five seconds to pull as hard and fast as they can. Whichever team brings the marker on the ceiling closer to them by the end of the game, wins. For me, this had to be the least thrilling challenge of the experience. Whilst my team had no children, the team we played against had several - giving us a slightly unfair advantage. 8 Whilst families on the other team may have had fun together, there were also groups of friends on the team who may have felt a little disappointed with the inevitable lose. However, the next challenge is where the experience thrives - an icon of the whole Squid Game franchise - 'Red Light, Green Light'. Standing on a red line, with dozens of people either side of me, I keenly wait for the giant girl at the end of the room to close her eyes. On green light, you go. On red light, you do not flinch under any condition. Guards lurk over your shoulder, waiting for you to scratch the itch on your head or even blink. 8 The on green light, you can move freely and as quickly as you can to the other side of the room. This was definitely the most fun game of the experience and makes you feel as if you have stepped into the TV series itself. Again, if you cross the line before the timer ends - you get points added to your player profile. The final game in the last room plays upon the iconic shapes from the series. Stars, umbrellas and squares sit around in a circle and you move clockwise around the circle - kind of like a game of musical chairs. When the music stops, a shape is presented on a screen in the room that you then have to rush to find on the circle. 8 The players that find the shape first, stay in the game. For me this is where my ultimate competitive side came out. I was in this for myself and I'd already not got that many points throughout the other challenges and this was my chance of redemption. As a nimble person, I sprinted to each shape the screen presented and managed to get past the first and second round. With just two players against me, I fell at the third - literally on my face. The final player then goes head to head with the player that has the most points from the experience thus far. 8 The 'Front Man' in a dark black cloak and mask then emerges, to conduct a game of rock, paper, scissors between the final two players. The winner overall then gets to decide whether they want to share their prize or keep it to themselves. Unfortunately, this is the rather anti-climatic end of the experience, as you then leave the maze of rooms and head back to the faux highstreet. However, you can extend your stay by purchasing Korean drinks and snacks from the bar - which is well worth it - and snapping some pics are some set up photo ops. The experience definitely transports you to the series, but the lengthy waits really prevent this experience from being the best it could be. Whilst it cannot be helped if there are children in your booking, it would perhaps be better if the experience separates adult-only sessions and family-friendly ones. It's great for fans but for competitive friends, not so much. The experience costs from £26 per adult and £18 per child. One woman visited the new Paddington immersive experience in London with 'train rides' and street parties. Plus, the 'world's most immersive experience' to open two new UK sites after huge success.
Forbes
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
‘KPop Demon Hunters' Director Thought About A Live-Action Version
KPOP DEMON HUNTERS - When they aren't selling out stadiums, Kpop superstars Rumi, Mira and Zoey use ... More their secret identities as badass demon hunters to protect their fans from an ever-present supernatural threat. Together, they must face their biggest enemy yet – an irresistible rival boy band of demons in disguise. ©2025 Netflix Since its release last week, Netflix's KPop Demon Hunters has reached No. 1 in 26 countries and the Top 10 in 93 countries. Critics and fans have praised the animated feature, directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, with a 96% Rotten Tomatoes score. The soundtrack has also generated buzz, hitting No. 1 on the iTunes Top Album and K-Pop Charts, as well as the Apple Music Pop and K-Pop Album Charts. The film centers on Huntrix, a K-pop girl group who are secretly demon hunters sworn to protect their fans from supernatural threats. One of the hunters, Rumi (Arden Cho), has demon blood running in her veins, as we find out that her Hunter mother had a relationship with her Demon father. The circumstances of their relationship are never disclosed. Celine, a former Hunter and Rumi's guardian, avoided talking about Rumi's parentage, disregarding her demon side. Rumi – and the audience – are never given answers about her past. Though Netflix hasn't announced if there will be a sequel, Kang says there's more to the story they wanted to tell – especially when it came to Rumi's heritage as part Hunter and part Demon, and the reason behind Celine's aversion towards demons. KPOP DEMON HUNTERS - Celine (voice by YUNJIN KIM). ©2025 Netflix 'There are different versions [of Rumi's story],' says Kang. Ultimately, we felt like that whole part of the story didn't need to be told here. It was a tricky thing with the story. There are so many questions that are left unanswered.' Some scenes were cut that answered these questions, but it didn't feel like they belonged, as they changed the overall story. There's so much they wanted to add – Rumi's parentage, Celine's background, and the mythology behind Derpy the tiger and Sussie the six-eyed bird. '[Derpy and Sussie] live between these two worlds,' Kang reveals. It's not a Demon. It's not a Hunter, obviously. So, what is it? There's a lot of mysteries and question marks that even I have thought about what that could be. We're definitely thinking about that stuff.' KPOP DEMON HUNTERS - (Right) Rumi (voice by ARDEN CHO). ©2025 Netflix The KPop Demon Hunters creatives, crew, and actors all expressed their interest in a sequel. Kang has many more ideas for her characters and the story. After finishing her film, she did think about a live-action version of the animated film. After watching the new live-action How To Train Your Dragon movie, she mentioned that director Dean DeBlois, who directed the original animated films, did a wonderful job. She thought what it would be like to have a live-action KPop Demon Hunters. She understands that comes with its own challenges. 'I really enjoyed [How To Train Your Dragon],' says Kang. I was sitting in the theater thinking, I wonder if anybody would want to see a live-action KPop Demon Hunters. What would that be like? How would that go?' KPOP DEMON HUNTERS - When they aren't selling out stadiums, Kpop superstars Rumi, Mira and Zoey use ... More their secret identities as badass demon hunters to protect their fans from an ever-present supernatural threat. Together, they must face their biggest enemy yet – an irresistible rival boy band of demons in disguise. ©2025 Netflix For now, everyone seems to be waiting for Netflix's decision to greenlight a second film. Until then, Kang is enjoying the response to the film and the music. She's so proud to see a Korean story resonate with everyone. 'I had so many crew members [and people] tell me how much this movie meant to them – and they weren't even Korean,' says Kang. 'They loved learning about our culture and being part of something different. [People have told me], 'I'm watching more K-dramas,' and 'I'm going to Korea,' or 'I'm taking K-pop dance lessons.' It was just so amazing as a director to see people love this movie and fall in love with the culture. I really appreciated the studios for taking a risk on something that is a full Asian cast, too. I couldn't have believed we could make this. It's very surreal.' KPop Demon Hunters is streaming now on Netflix.
India.com
21-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- India.com
Winter in Style: 4 Must-Have Overcoats on Myntra This Season
Myntra has emerged as the fashion destination of choice of millions of Indians seeking quality, style and pocket-friendly prices. Just when the winter season approaches, Myntra counters in with a well-edited assortment of outerwear that is as comfortable as it is fashionable. A perfect overcoat is your ally in case you are going to work, to brunch, or even to walk out in the cold. StyleCast x Revolte – Women Solid Notched Lapel Overcoat Image source - Order Now The StyleCast x Revolte overcoat is classic, clean, and confidently stylish. With a sharp notched lapel and solid color, it gives you that structured winter look that's both versatile and timeless. Ideal for office days or elegant outings. Key Features Structured design with a notched lapel Solid, versatile color Tailored finish for a formal edge Warm yet lightweight Goes with both jeans and trousers May feel a bit formal for super casual outfits Trendyol – Shawl Collar Double-Breasted Overcoat Image source - Order Now This Trendyol double-breasted overcoat is all about chic and cozy. The shawl collar makes it soft and graceful and the double-breasted buttons make it bold and classic. An ideal winter basic in case you are a fan of easy layering. Key Features Soft shawl collar design Double-breasted front for warmth and style Medium-weight material for comfort Great layering piece Elegant fit for smart-casual wear May not suit petite frames due to bulkier collar All about you – Regular Fit Overcoat with Waist Tie-Up Image source - Order Now This all about you overcoat is a warm piece with a bit of the feminine touch. The waist tie up gives your figure a good shape and the regular fit can be layered with something underneath. It is the most appropriate coat when one desires to be elegant and still be comfortable. Key Features Belted waist tie-up for flattering shape Regular fit allows layering Soft fabric for daily wear Feminine, elegant aesthetic Great for casual and semi-formal occasions Not the warmest option for extremely cold climates KPOP – Single-Breasted Longline Overcoat Image source - Order Now KPOP longline overcoat by KPOP features a bold modern fit which is sleek and powerful. It has a single-breasted closure and a slim design, which makes it look polished and minimal and matches any winter ensemble. Key Features Longline cut for added coverage Single-breasted design for simplicity Clean, structured silhouette Lightweight yet cozy Ideal for urban or professional wear Longline length may overwhelm shorter heights The thing about a great winter overcoat is that it is never really about keeping warm it is about how you continue to wear your style into the winter. Myntra offers you an outerwear combination which is versatile and fits all your requirements, be it office wear, weekend brunch or a casual outing. Myntra has a great selection so you can bet that there is something there that will fit your body, your style and your plans this winter. Whether it is reliable brands, quick delivery, and seasonal offers, shopping on Myntra is convenient and pleasing. And hence do not merely layer, layer with style. Make this winter your most stylish one yet. Disclaimer: At IDPL, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. It should not be construed as an endorsement to buy. IDPL may make a very small commission from its sale if one chooses to buy the product from any of the links in this article.
Yahoo
15-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
KPOP ETF Shuts Down as Music Sales Slow
An exchange-traded fund that aimed to track the fortunes of the South Korean K-Pop industry and its artists, including BTS and Blackpink, is closing after failing to generate the enthusiasm that's typically associated with the globally popular music. The Jakota KPOP & Korean Entertainment ETF (KPOP), which launched in August 2022, has lost over 40% of its value since hitting its all-time high in February 2023. It currently holds $1.4 million in assets and, since its launch, has net inflows of $2.3 million. Trading in KPOP ends April 1, according to an SEC filing dated March 13. Aimed at a niche and potentially fleeting consumer taste—not to mention one that many American investors don't know much about—KPOP was launched into the corner of the ETF industry that gambles on trends at risk of flaming out or not catching on. In that regard, it's similar to the so-called thematic funds that tracked meme stocks and the metaverse, many of which closed over the past few years. While the Korean entertainment industry that Exchange Traded Concepts sought to tap with KPOP has generated billions of dollars in music and other media sales over the past decade or so, sales are slowing. Album sales fell 19% last year, the first year of declines after nine straight years of growth, according to Music Business Worldwide, citing South Korea's Circle Chart. U.S. consumers bought $291.8 million of K-Pop records, the outlet said, citing the Korea Customs Service. Source: KPOP's biggest holding was a nearly 12% allocation to SM Entertainment Co., whose roster includes KANGTA and Red Velvet. Its stock gained 21% over the past year in South Korea. Another ETF aimed at the music industry, the Clouty Tune ETF (TUNE) closed in November 2023, 10 months after it was issued. KPOP's issuer, Exchange Traded Concepts, holds $4.4 billion in 38 ETFs, including the $22.4 million MUSQ Global Music Industry Index ETF (MUSQ). That fund's price is little-changed over the past three | © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved
