Latest news with #SEVENTEEN
Forbes
17 hours ago
- Business
- Forbes
K-Pop's Live Touring Boom 2025: SEVENTEEN, Stray Kids, BTS, BLACKPINK
Joshua Hong, Mingyu, The8, Seungkwan, Hoshi, Wonwoo, Dino, Woozi, Vernon of Seventeen ... More performs at the 2024 Billboard Music Awards. (Photo by Christopher Polk/Penske Media via Getty Images) K-pop's global momentum isn't just confined to chart-topping hits and massive album sales this year: it's on full display under the bright lights of arenas and stadiums worldwide with new milestones hit by the likes ofSEVENTEEN, Stray Kids, BTS' J-Hope,TVXQ!, BABYMONSTER and more. Following the latest reports on midyear tour figures, the K-pop industry's touring business has surpassed previous milestones with entertainment agencies leaning more heavily on live-performance revenue as we near the second half of 2025. It marks an apparent shift in K-pop, transitioning from being dependent on album sales to concert-fueled growth, with the trend unlikely to swing back as the rest of the year promises more prominent shows on the way. Billboard's midyear Boxscore report revealed that SEVENTEEN firmly established themselves as a world-class live act. Based on the reported touring data from October 1, 2024 through March 31, 2025, the boy band earned a staggering $120.9 million in gross revenue with 842,000 tickets sold during the period. Before celebrating their 10th anniversary in May, the stars secured the Number 3 spot on Billboard Boxscore's all-genre midyear list — only slightly behind Coldplay and Shakira, who are on massive stadium tours of their own with that have grossed a respective $142.1 million and $130 million. Remarkably, SEVENTEEN essentially doubled its midyear gross for the second consecutive year, jumping from $30 million in 2023 to $67.5 million in 2024. SEVENTEEN's third-place finish marks the highest ranking ever achieved by a Korean act in Billboard Boxscore's midyear tally, surpassing BTS' previous Number 4 midyear placement from 2022. But SEVENTEEN wasn't the lone live phenomenon. Five K-pop acts made the all-genre Top 50 ranking for Billboard Boxscore, up from three in 2023 and two in 2022. Fellow boy band ATEEZ, as well as J-Hope of BTS, follow SEVENTEEN with $28.4 million and $28.1 million grossed, respectively, with J-Hope noted as the first K-pop soloist ever to land on the midyear overall Top Tours chart. Rounding out this top five are ENHYPEN and Tomorrow X Together, grossing $25.6 million and $25.1 million, respectively. Overall, K-pop acts on the midyear Top Tours chart generated $228 million while selling 1.6 million tickets from 78 reported shows. Billboard reports that the scene's 2025 showing is a 79% increase over the 2024 total, which had already jumped 93% from 2023. In just two years' time, K-pop's presence on the midyear Boxscore has more than tripled. All artists appear for SMTOWN Live 2025 in Los Angeles, California These touring triumphs highlight a strategic pivot among South Korea's entertainment giants. As the industry's reliably massive album sales have softened, live performances have become the primary driver of growth. Major players, including HYBE, SM Entertainment, and YG Entertainment, reported first-quarter revenue surges, primarily driven by concert earnings. Check out a breakdown of the year-over-year first-quarter numbers for each of the 'big four' Korean-pop agencies below, with data provided by The Chosun Daily. Bang Chan, Lee Know, Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix, Seungmin, and I.N. of Stray Kids perform at the ... More 2024 Billboard Music Awards. (Photo by JYP Entertainment/Penske Media via Getty Images) With still a month to go until July, the remainder of 2025 appears to be shaping up as a landmark period for further live and touring growth. As further evidence, HYBE CEO Park Jiwon noted in a recent earnings call that the conglomerate has more than 150 concerts confirmed for 2025 from its artists, with additional announcements to follow. 'Both the scale and audience size will expand further in the second half,' Park said, per Chosun Daily. Once again, peep the 2025 preview for the four major agencies. With unprecedented midyear grosses and Korean agencies realigning and diverting resources toward lucrative global tours, the K-pop industry's blockbuster second half indicates its revenue mix is likely shifting even more toward live performances and, with that, setting new records around the world.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
SVT's Mingyu and S.Coups attend Sulli's ex Choiza's show, triggering boycott calls amid Kim Soo Hyun–Kim Sae Ron scandal
SEVENTEEN members and Mingyu are facing intense backlash following the announcement of their upcoming appearance on Choiza ROAD, a YouTube variety series hosted by rapper Choiza of Dynamic Duo. What was intended as a light-hearted promotional feature has instead sparked controversy, largely due to Choiza's past relationship with the late singer and actress Sulli. Her tragic death has resurfaced in public discourse—especially in light of the recent controversy involving Kim Soo Hyun and the passing of his ex-girlfriend Kim Sae Ron. Both Sulli and Kim Sae Ron have been linked to troubling allegations of exploitation and grooming within the entertainment industry, reigniting conversations about the darker realities faced by young stars. [17'S] 250530 #최자로드#SEVENTEEN #세븐틴 Choiza under fire amid Kim Soo Hyun-Kim Sae Ron scandal Choiza dated Sulli from 2013 to 2017, during which their relationship was often in the media spotlight. While some reported the duo knew each other since she was 15 years old. Some say they only started dating once she became of legal age and was 19-years-old. In particular, he faced criticism in 2015 for the sexually suggestive lyrics in the Dynamic Duo song Eat Do It Sleep from the album Grand Carnival. As someone who still cries every time she talks about her favorite girl, Sulli, I'm sorry, but I cannot support that matter how much I love SEVENTEEN, I will never support any collaboration involving problematic artists. Though never confirmed to be directed at Sulli, many interpreted the lyrics as disrespectful, especially when the actress was facing intense public scrutiny. Allegations of emotional manipulation and inappropriate public commentary during their relationship had further fueled negative sentiment toward Choiza over the years. Now, years later, SEVENTEEN's planned appearance on Choiza's show has reopened old wounds, with fans questioning the appropriateness of idols associating with a figure still linked to unresolved controversies. Why are Mingyu and are facing backlash The backlash has been amplified by the ongoing Kim Soo Hyun–Kim Sae Ron scandal, which has heightened public sensitivity toward celebrity behavior and accountability. Though Sulli and Kim Sae Ron were not known to be personally close, both were linked to actor Kim Soo Hyun through the film Real (2017). Recently, Sulli's brother, Choi Da Hee, made a cryptic social media post naming Kim Sae Ron among others, leading to renewed speculation and drawing further attention to the network of relationships tied to Sulli's tragic story. In this emotionally charged environment, fans argue that SEVENTEEN's appearance on Choiza ROAD is ill-timed and insensitive. Carats call for action The backlash from SEVENTEEN's fandom, known as Carats, has been swift and vocal. While the group recently made a successful return with their album HAPPY BURSTDAY and title track Thunder, fans say the promotional effort is being overshadowed by what they see as a tone-deaf decision. Many have taken to social media to call for a boycott of the episode and are urging PLEDIS Entertainment to cancel the appearance altogether. Critics stress that idols—especially those with large, young fanbases—should not be associated with controversial figures whose past actions remain a source of pain and division in the K-pop community. We do not support the horrible doings that Choiza did to Sulli. Both admins are women before will not be posting MG and SC on that show. As women, it hurts to see that our fave artists are making content with someone who did awful things to a you. I always love you but not by coming to an event where men who are mean to women are still living well without guilty I strongly urge everyone NOT TO WATCH nor SUPPORT THIS! We can love SEVENTEEN and still speak up when something feels wrong. Support them, but say no to working with problematic figures. Stay informed, respectful, and firm.#Protect_SEVENTEEN #Boycott_Choiza_Road PROTECT SEVENTEEN AT ALL COST, CANCEL THE COLLABORATION WITH CHOIZA#SVT #MINGYU #SCOUPS #protectthemhybeandpledis While Choiza and Dynamic Duo remain veterans of the Korean music industry, fans believe that entertainment companies must exercise greater caution and cultural awareness when arranging public appearances. For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
SEVENTEEN's Jeonghan's military photo released; fans stunned at idol's transformation
Recently, a new photo of SEVENTEEN's Jeonghan has been making the rounds online. The photo has quickly gone viral online as fans and netizens alike went into a frenzy over the idol's abrupt transformation. SEVENTEEN's Jeonghan military photo goes viral SEVENTEEN's Jeonghan's photo recently went viral online after being leaked. The idol was sporting a typical military haircut with his official uniform. The idol's new and different look shocked fans and netizens alike as the idol sported a more mature and grown up look for his enlistment. Fans and netizens react to the photo The photo was widely shared online on various social media platforms and fan forums as well. Many praised the idol for maintaining his looks even in such an environment, while some even commented on how he could easily just walk off base and into a fashion show. One fan shared, 'This just looks like a teaser photo. Lol, while another commented, 'What the... he's so dang handsome. I knew he was good-looking, but…' More love and praise poured in from fans and netizens alike. One shared that 'He's so dang good-looking,' while another shared, 'It's so true how idols just naturally look good in these I.D. photos.' Many were also shocked to find out that the idol was in the military serving his mandatory service in the first place. 'I'm shocked that he went to the military, but I'm more shocked about how good his face looks,' a netizen shared online. About SEVENTEEN Recently, on May 26, SEVENTEEN made their official comeback with their fifth album titled 'Happy Burstday'. The title plays on the group's tenth anniversary and is a way to celebrate a decade as a group with an 'explosive birth'. The album consists of 16 songs in total, with solo songs from each member as well as their title song, 'Thunder'. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
Pink Villa
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
'We'll meet again': SEVENTEEN's Seungkwan pens emotional note for ASTRO's Moonbin on old Instagram birthday post
SEVENTEEN's Seungkwan recently paid a deeply emotional tribute to his late friend Bini, aka ASTRO's Moonbin, for his birthday. Moonbin's birthday is celebrated on January 26, but Seungkwan shared a post a couple of days back. Though from different groups, their friendship stayed strong. Moonbin's sudden passing on April 19, 2023, deeply affected Seungkwan. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Seungkwan wrote, 'It's already been two years. How are you, my friend? I'm so late, sorry…' He confessed that he had written the message earlier but hesitated to post. Seungkwan shared the news of his latest solo release, 'You monitored it, right? Listen to it well.' He expressed regret that they never filmed fun challenges together, especially for his song Thunder. The K-pop singer said, 'It's a shame.. If we hadn't kept postponing things because we were tired." He continues, "We could've had so many precious videos left behind.' Reflecting on the love Moonbin left behind, Seungkwan shared that he found comfort in the heartfelt words the late idol said. The THUNDER singer said that due to Moonbin's words and behavior, their friendship was formed. Seungkwan shared that he often pauses to capture moments when the moon shines or dandelions bloom, feeling he's become more romantic. Seungkwan Talks About Memories Of The Moon Track He also thanked the ASTRO members for their work on the tribute song Memory of the Moon. He hoped Moonbin listened to it and found it touching. Seungkwan mentioned Eunwoo, Jinjin, Myungjun, Sanha and Rocky. He appreciated how hard they all worked. He was grateful to everyone who helped make the song. He hoped Moonbin would receive the tribute with the same warmth he always showed. Seungkwan's tribute closed with a simple but powerful message: 'I love you, Bin-ah.' Previously, Seungkwan shared a lengthy post with several snaps with Moonbin. Check below. ASTRO's Moonbin Sad Passing Moonbin, a member of the K-pop group ASTRO, passed away on April 19, 2023. He was 25 years old. His manager found him unresponsive at his apartment in Seoul. Police found no signs of foul play. It was ruled a suspected suicide. His sudden death shocked the K-pop industry and fans worldwide. Moonbin was known for his talent, kindness, and strong friendships. His passing left a deep impact on friends, fellow idols, and fans.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
BTS management company raided, founder under investigation as insider trading probe deepens
The company behind K-pop sensation BTS is facing serious trouble. Known for managing global acts like BTS, SEVENTEEN, and LE SSERAFIM, the firm is currently under investigation for insider trading. Authorities recently carried out a planned raid on its headquarters to look into allegations that one of its officials made illegal profits from trading stocks using confidential information. Prosecutors raid BTS' management company According to The Korea Times, the Seoul Southern District Prosecutors' Office raided the headquarters of BTS' management company. The search was reportedly conducted as part of an investigation into an unnamed executive who is suspected of using insider information to make about 240 million KRW through stock trading. Reports suggest this executive became aware that the company was planning to invest in another firm. After learning this, they allegedly bought shares in that company to benefit financially. Company's founder also under investigation Bang Si Hyuk, the founder and chairperson of the company, is also under investigation. He is being probed by the Financial Supervisory Service for suspected fraudulent activity. According to reports, Bang Si Hyuk may have misled investors by providing false information about the company's value. He is also accused of keeping around 400 billion KRW for himself during the company's initial public offering (IPO) in 2020. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
