Latest news with #Newtopia
Pink Villa
18-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Jisoo loses 200K followers despite new K-drama and album; will BLACKPINK tour save her? Fans demand change in PR team
Jisoo, the eldest member of BLACKPINK, is currently facing a noticeable drop in her Instagram follower count. This has sparked discussions among her fans. Data from analytics site Social Blade reveals that Jisoo has lost over 162,000 followers in the past month alone. Notably, she has nearly lost 200,000 in total since hitting her highest point in February 2025. She now holds the lowest follower count (79.6 million) among the four BLACKPINK members. In contrast, her fellow groupmate Lisa leads the pack with over 106 million followers. Lisa maintains her status as the most-followed female K-pop idol in the world. Jennie and Rosé also show consistent upward trends in follower growth. This further highlights the shift in Jisoo 's social media engagement. This unexpected decline has led fans to closely analyze potential reasons behind it. One of the most frequently discussed points is the change in the nature of Jisoo's Instagram content. Since the launch of her personal label, BLISSOO, in late 2024, her feed has gradually transitioned from casual, candid snapshots to more polished and commercial posts. Jisoo was once celebrated for sharing behind-the-scenes moments, off-duty selfies, and spontaneous life updates. Now, her account predominantly features promotional materials, branded collaborations, and professionally curated photoshoots. Such a transition is not uncommon for celebrities establishing their own businesses. But some fans feel that this new approach lacks the authenticity that originally drew them in. Many longtime followers have expressed a sense of distance. They noted that the account now feels more like a digital storefront than a personal space. Adding to the speculation is the growing concern among fans that Jisoo's account might be facing algorithmic restrictions. Some have floated the theory that she may be shadow banned due to an increase in sponsored posts. It means her content may not be reaching as wide an audience as before. However, this theory remains speculative. Despite the online chatter, many fans continue to show support for Jisoo. They point out that her recent career priorities could explain the dip in social media activity and the shift in tone. In the past year, Jisoo has immersed herself in solo ventures. Jisoo recently released her debut solo mini-album, Amortage, on February 14, 2025. She also stars in the newly released K-drama Newtopia. With her schedule packed under BLISSOO, it's understandable that her social media strategy may have changed to align with her evolving public image. Nevertheless, fans remain optimistic that the idol will reconnect with her audience in a more personal way in the near future. Many believe that even a single casual update, such as a selfie or spontaneous moment, could reignite interest and bring back the charm that once defined her feed. Meanwhile, anticipation builds for BLACKPINK's highly awaited comeback and their upcoming world tour, DEADLINE. Expectations are high not only for the group's musical return but also for more engaging updates from each member. For Jisoo, this could be the ideal moment to reconnect with fans. Sharing tour content and behind-the-scenes glimpses may help bring back her warm and approachable image on social media.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Newtopia Completes $2 Million Debt Financing, Assignment of Existing Senior Secured Credit Facility and Provides Corporate Update
Existing senior secured credit facility assigned to new investors; added $1.6 million of new senior secured financing, and settled $0.4 million owing to officers and directors for no cash consideration Moving towards cash flow positive status within calendar 2025 Supports Newtopia's ability to facilitate sustainable metabolic health outcomes, proven cost savings and demonstrated positive ROI to GLP-1 sponsors Highly scalable alongside the rise of Health AI: unique and rich longitudinal data sets and capabilities will enrich and accelerate progress of next-gen clinical discovery platforms and predictive health analytics Reports best-ever engagement, weight-loss and A1C reduction outcomes in company's 12-year history with Heartland Whole Health Institute in Arkansas, USA Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 14, 2025) - Newtopia Inc. (TSXV: NEWU) ("Newtopia" or the "Company"), a tech-enabled whole health platform creating economically affordable and sustainable habits that prevent, slow and reverse metabolic disease, today announced the completion of a transaction that included (i) an aggregate $1.6 million in new senior secured debt financing (the "New Secured Funds"), and (ii) the settlement of $0.4 million in amounts owing to certain officers and directors for past services to the Company, for no cash consideration. Prior to advancing the New Secured Funds, B.E.S.T. Venture Opportunities Fund Inc. (the "Lender") purchased the Company's existing senior secured indebtedness, with a current outstanding balance of approximately $5.0 million (the "Assigned Debt") which obligations of the Company under the Assigned Debt has been consolidated with the New Secured Funds and form part of the Company's obligations under a new loan (the "Consolidated Facility"). Concurrently with closing of the Consolidated Facility, participating interests in the Consolidated Facility were sold by the Lender (i) to certain accredited investors, including existing investors in the Company, in return for an aggregate of $400,000 in cash, and (ii) to certain officers and directors of the Company in return for such individuals forgiving and releasing the Company from an aggregate of $400,000 in amounts owing for past services. Summary terms of the Consolidated Facility include: 2-year term with 15% p.a. accruing interest (no cash payment during the term) Senior secured obligation of the Company Includes participation by existing investors in the Company Previous senior secured credit facility assigned to the Lender Covenants, including in respect to adherence to budgetary goals and optimizing the business sizing, along with other conditions consistent for a financing of this type, are included in the terms of the Consolidated Facility. "We are proud that over 175,000 participants have benefited from Newtopia's integrated tech-enabled offering as we continue to drive industry-leading patient engagement and to cultivate healthy habits that can prevent, slow and reverse chronic metabolic disease with a proven value-based model," said Jeff Ruby, Newtopia Founder and CEO. "Furthering this achievement, earlier this month we reported one-year outcomes from our ongoing trial with Arkansas-based Heartland Whole Health Institute, that produced Newtopia's best-ever outcomes in our 12-year history, including our highest engagement rates, greatest weight loss outcomes, and most significant A1C reduction outcomes. Importantly, we achieved this in both provider and employer environments." "Now, on the strength of this new financing, Newtopia will leverage our core capabilities and strengths to drive even greater value to stakeholders by combining our proven habit change platform with GLP-1 drugs for obesity and type 2 diabetes management, and by partnering with health AI and clinical discovery innovators to improve our collective ability to prevent, reverse and slow chronic disease," Ruby added. Ruby concluded, "Newtopia has spent the past 12 years partnering with the most sophisticated market innovators to deliver proven habit change solutions that are sustainable and affordable. These core competencies, together with our unparalleled experience, are now wonderfully complementary to the remarkable GLP-1 class of drugs that require engaging and effective habit change to sustain their positive outcomes and deliver a return on investment over time. Newtopia stands in a unique position to enable this progress, given our attractive value-based unit economics, our tech-enabled and scalable offering, and our current, cash flow break-even operating mode." The Consolidated Facility is secured against all of the Company's present and after-acquired property and bears interest at a rate of 15% per annum and matures on the earlier of (i) any change of control or sale or disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company, and (ii) May 13, 2027 (the "Maturity Date"). The Consolidated Facility does not contemplate any principal or interest payments until the Maturity Date when all principal and accrued and unpaid interest becomes due. Certain finders acting in connection with the sale of the participating interests received a finder's fee in the aggregate total amount of $10,325. The Company will use the net proceeds of the Consolidated Facility for corporate and general working capital purposes. The Consolidated Facility has been conditionally approved by the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV"). Failure to File Cease Trade Order Newtopia has had a delay in filing its annual financial statements, management's discussion and analysis, related officers' certifications for the financial year ended December 31, 2024 (collectively, the "Annual Filings"), which are required to be filed on or before April 30, 2025. The delay in filing the Annual Filings is primarily a result of the Company's resource limitations, combined with recent downsizing of key Company personnel. The Company intends to complete the Annual Filings as soon as possible. As a result of that delay, the Company has been noted in default by applicable securities regulatory authorities in Canada and that the Ontario Securities Commission, as principal regulator, has issued a 'failure-to-file' cease trade order ("FFCTO") in accordance with the principles and guidance set out in National Policy 11-207 Failure-to-File Cease Trade Orders and Revocations in Multiple Jurisdictions of the Canadian Securities Administrators. The FFCTO prohibits any trading in securities of the Company for so long as it remains in effect, in all Canadian jurisdictions in which the Company is a reporting issuer as well as certain other Canadian jurisdictions based on the provisions of local securities legislation and is anticipated to remain in effect until after the Annual Filings have been filed. The FFCTO is also expected to result in a suspension of the Company's shares from trading on the TSXV, which will continue until the FFCTO is revoked and all TSXV requirements are satisfied. The Company is working towards getting the Annual Filings filed and intends to provide updates if and when necessary in accordance with applicable securities laws. The Company anticipates that the FFCTO will remain in place until such time as the Annual Filings are filed. If the Annual Filings are filed within 90 days of the date of the FFCTO, such filings will constitute the Company's application to have the FFCTO revoked. There can be no assurance that the FFCTO will be revoked on the timeline contemplated by the Company. About Newtopia Newtopia is a personalized whole health platform helping people create positive lifelong habits that prevent, slow, or reverse metabolic disease while reducing healthcare costs. The platform leverages genetic, social and behavioral insights to create individualized prevention programs with a focus on metabolic disease, diabetes, mental health challenges, hypertension, weight management and musculoskeletal disorders. With a person-centered approach that combines virtual care, digital tools, connected devices and actionable data science, Newtopia delivers sustainable clinical and financial outcomes. Newtopia serves some of the largest nationwide employers and health plans and is currently listed in Canada on the Toronto Venture Exchange (TSXV: NEWU). To learn more, visit LinkedIn or X. For further information: Chief Executive Officer:Jeffrey Ruby, jruby@ 888-639-8181 Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation, and forward looking statements, within the meaning of applicable United States securities legislation (collectively, "forward-looking statements"), which reflects management's expectations regarding Newtopia's future growth, results from operations (including, without limitation, future production and capital expenditures), performance (both operational and financial) and business prospects and opportunities. Wherever possible, words such as "predicts", "projects", "targets", "plans", "expects", "does not expect", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "anticipate" or "does not anticipate", "believe", "intend" and similar expressions or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative or grammatical variation thereof or other variations thereof, or comparable terminology have been used to identify forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking information. Such statements reflect Newtopia's current views and intentions with respect to future events, based on information available to Newtopia, and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties, and assumptions. Material factors or assumptions were applied in providing forward-looking information. While forward-looking statements are based on data, assumptions and analyses that Newtopia believes are reasonable under the circumstances, whether actual results, performance or developments will meet Newtopia's expectations and predictions depends on a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results, performance and financial condition of Newtopia to differ materially from its expectations. These forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements with respect to the Consolidated Facility, the use of proceeds and the timing, and the anticipated timing of filing the Annual Filings. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee and are based on a number of estimates and assumptions management believes to be relevant and reasonable, whether actual results, performance or developments will meet Newtopia's expectations and predictions depends on a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results, performance and financial condition of Newtopia to differ materially from its expectations. Certain of the "risk factors" that could cause actual results to differ materially from Newtopia's forward-looking statements in this press release include, without limitation: the termination of contracts by clients, , including the risk factors discussed or referred to in Newtopia's disclosure documents, filed with the securities regulatory authorities in certain provinces of Canada and available at including Newtopia's final long form prospectus dated March 30, 2020. Should any factor affect Newtopia in an unexpected manner, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking information prove incorrect, the actual results or events may differ materially from the results or events predicted. Any such forward-looking information is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement. Moreover, Newtopia does not assume responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of such forward-looking information. The forward-looking information included in this news release is made as of the date of this news release, and Newtopia undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information, other than as required by applicable law. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. 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Korea Herald
08-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Jisoo of Blackpink moves quietly, but makes it count
While fellow Blackpink members have frequently made headlines with high-profile solo ventures, Jisoo has been steadily building her own empire behind the scenes. Concerns were raised earlier this year following reviews critical of her performance in the TV series "Newtopia" and the lukewarm global response to her solo debut EP "Amortage" in February. Her limited public appearances outside of official engagements have also fueled perceptions that she is less active than Jennie, Lisa and Rose. Beneath her quiet exterior, however, Jisoo has emerged as a top performer, both commercially and artistically, often outpacing her peers in less visible yet impactful ways. As of April, Jisoo is the best-selling female K-pop soloist on the Circle Chart, with cumulative solo album sales exceeding 2 million. Her debut physical single "Me" sold over 1.5 million copies, while her latest EP "Amortage" added another 462,057. "Me" holds the record for the best-selling album by a female soloist on the chart as of December. Jisoo has released just six solo tracks — including her 2023 debut single "Flower" and the 2025 lead single "Earthquake" — but their sales surpass even those of veteran artists. IU, one of Korea's most prominent female singer-songwriters who debuted in 2008, ranks No. 2 with approximately 1.84 million in cumulative album sales. Among Blackpink members, Rose and Lisa follow at No. 4 and No. 6, with 1.5 million and 1 million albums sold, respectively. Jisoo also completed her first solo tour last month. From March 14 to 30, she held "2025 Fan Edition: Jisoo Asia Tour – Lights, Love, Action!" in seven Asian cities -- Manila, Bangkok, Tokyo, Macao, Taipei, Hong Kong and Hanoi. While the tour consisted of fan-meeting-style events rather than full concert performances, it marked the highest number of solo appearances among the Blackpink members since their 2023 departure from YG Entertainment. Jennie and Lisa have each held five solo concerts so far, while Rose has yet to launch an official tour. Jisoo is also the most active actor of the group — even though her acting continues to draw mixed reactions. She recently starred in the original series "Newtopia," which aired on Coupang Play and Amazon Prime Video from Feb. 7 to March 21. While reviews of her performance were divided — with praise for her on-screen charm and criticism of the lack of emotional depth — the show was a commercial success. Within 10 days of its premiere, it became the most-watched series on Coupang Play and entered Amazon Prime Video's Top 10 rankings in 54 countries. Jisoo's star power continues to carry weight in the acting world. Jisoo is confirmed to appear in the fantasy action film "The Prophet: Omniscient Reader," set to premiere in July, as well as in Netflix's upcoming romantic comedy series "Boyfriend on Demand." By contrast, Jennie and Lisa have taken on single supporting roles in HBO's "The Idol" (2023) and "The White Lotus Season 3" (2025), respectively. Rose has not appeared in a drama or film. In the world of fashion, Jisoo is recognized as a global ambassador for the French luxury houses Dior and Cartier. She also endorses a range of international brands, including Dyson, Alo Yoga and Tommy Hilfiger. In February, she launched her official fan platform app, Jisoo, which offers exclusive content, including personal photos, videos and an activity calendar. Within two months, the app recorded over 100,000 downloads on the Google Play Store. 'Compared to other Blackpink members, she may appear quieter and less visible in the public eye — but Jisoo is one of the most hardworking and successful artists today,' said an entertainment official on Tuesday.
South China Morning Post
25-03-2025
- Entertainment
- South China Morning Post
Amazon Prime K-drama Newtopia review: zombie romcom with Blackpink's Jisoo misses the mark
2.5/5 stars Advertisement Lead cast: Jisoo, Park Jung-min Blackpink's Jisoo and Park Jung-min juggle love and the undead in downtown Seoul in Newtopia, a horror comedy that is the latest event series to tap into the Korean zombie craze. Despite its big budget, big stars and global streaming distribution on Amazon Prime Video, this Coupang Play original series has had a tepid response, which makes us wonder what the problem is. Is there something off about the show itself, or have people finally grown tired of the K-zombie wave? The truth is probably somewhere in between. A middling series might have ridden on the coattails of a popular genre, but if viewer fatigue sets in for that genre only a strong show could prevail.
Yahoo
19-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Newtopia Episode 8 Release Date, Time, Where to Watch
Newtopia Episode 8 release date and time is right around the corner, and fans are eager to know its streaming details. In the previous episode, Young-joo, stranded at the Express Bus Terminal Station, heads to the metro staff office to gather supplies. Using her engineering expertise, she repairs a defective chainsaw to fend off a swarm of zombies. Meanwhile, Jae-yoon and his group arrive at the Eden Hotel, where they encounter a lone survivor, Arron Park. However, their situation quickly turns dire when another zombie attack forces them to scatter into different hotel rooms. As they search for escape routes, they face mounting challenges at every turn. In the next episode, Kwak Gye-young and Soo Jeong make a heartfelt promise to go on a date once the zombie crisis is over. However, their hopes are soon overshadowed by an even greater threat. Meanwhile, Young Soo and Lee Jae-yun grow increasingly desperate to reunite, reminiscing about the cherished moments they've shared. But with danger closing in from all sides, the question remains — will they survive the outbreak and find their way back to each other? Here's all you need to know about the next episode. The episode's release date is March 21, and its release time is 10 PM KST, 3 AM PT, 6 AM ET. Check out its release times in the U.S. below: Timezone Release Date Release Time Eastern Time March 21, 2025 06:00 AM Pacific Time March 21, 2025 03:00 AM Find out how many episodes will be available to watch in Newtopia. You can watch Newtopia Episode 8 via Amazon Prime Video. Amazon Prime Video is a digital streaming service that offers a variety of original programming, such as Reacher, The Boys, Maxton Hall — The World Between Us, and others. Newtopia is a drama series that centers around a couple, who part ways and long to reunite during a zombie outbreak. The official synopsis for Newtopia is as follows: 'Jae-yoon, a late military enlistee, and his girlfriend, Young-joo, break up over the phone over growing misunderstandings. But a zombie outbreak rocks the world. A national emergency is declared, a plane crashes in the city center, and Jae-yoon and his unit get trapped on top of a Seoul skyscraper. Young-joo risks the zombie-filled streets to find him. Can their love survive the apocalypse?' The post Newtopia Episode 8 Release Date, Time, Where to Watch appeared first on - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More.
