BTS will release their fifth studio album on March 20, 2026, their first in six years since 'Be', and are teasing a world tour for 2026, following their recent solo projects and activities.
BTS will release a new album on March 20, their first in over three years, followed by a world tour, marking their return after members completed mandatory military service.
The K-pop group NewJeans' former member Danielle is being sued by their label Ador for millions after a dispute involving allegations of mistreatment and contract issues, leading to her departure and ongoing legal battles that highlight broader industry concerns about artists' rights.
Australian K-pop star Danielle Marsh, a member of NewJeans, is being sued by South Korean label ADOR for over $44 million, amid disputes over contract termination, alleged workplace bullying, and family involvement, sparking industry and fan reactions.
The article lists the 40 best K-pop songs of 2025, highlighting a year of transition with a focus on girl groups' success, notable solo projects, and the influence of both traditional and boundary-pushing sounds, culminating in NMIXX's 'Blue Valentine' as the top track.
South Korean label ADOR has terminated its contract with NewJeans member Danielle and plans legal action against her family and former CEO Min Hee Jin, amid ongoing legal disputes and court rulings affirming the group's contracts until 2029. The agency cited difficulties in continuing the partnership and aims to resolve misunderstandings and controversies to restore fan trust.
ADOR, the agency of NewJeans, announced the termination of Danielle's contract following a court ruling confirming the validity of the group's exclusive contracts, while Hanni decided to continue with ADOR after discussions, and Minji is still in talks with the agency. The agency expressed intentions to resolve misunderstandings and support the members' activities.
NewJeans' planned full-group comeback is uncertain after Ador terminated Danielle's contract and announced legal actions, amid ongoing disputes and court rulings requiring the members to honor their contracts until 2029.
NewJeans member Danielle has left the group following the termination of her exclusive contract with ADOR, which cited difficulties in her continuing as a member and plans to address related disputes and misunderstandings. The agency highlighted ongoing discussions with other members and their families, with some members choosing to continue with ADOR after thorough conversations, while Danielle's departure was deemed necessary due to unresolved issues.
South Korea's entertainment industries, particularly cinema and K-pop, are facing significant challenges due to declining domestic revenues, changing consumer behaviors, and increased international competition, prompting government intervention and industry restructuring to sustain their global cultural influence.
Snoop Dogg headlined the NFL's second-ever Christmas Halftime Show on Netflix, featuring a diverse lineup including Lainey Wilson, K-pop performers, and a cameo from Martha Stewart, culminating in a performance of 'White Christmas' with Andrea and Matteo Bocelli, marking a festive and eclectic celebration.
The 2025 Billboard K-Pop Artist 100 ranking highlights SEVENTEEN as the top artist, with notable achievements from groups like BLACKPINK, Stray Kids, and solo activities from artists like BTS's Jimin and BLACKPINK's Rosé, reflecting the genre's global influence and diverse activities over the year.
In 2025, K-pop's live concert industry has reached new heights, with the genre accounting for 7.7% of the top-100 tour grosses, featuring eight K-pop acts in the top 100, and the Dominate World Tour by JYP leading with $185.7 million in gross revenue from 1.3 million tickets sold across multiple continents.
The Korean-U.S. girl group Cats Eye, produced by Hive, revealed they have received multiple death threats and faced racist and sexist criticism since their debut, leading members to speak out about the mental toll and online harassment they endure.
Women K-pop artists and groups, including BLACKPINK's ROSÉ, the fictional group HUNTR/X from 'KPop Demon Hunters,' and the girl group KATSEYE, received major Grammy nominations in 2026, marking a historic moment as no K-pop artist has won a Grammy before. The nominations highlight the global influence of women in K-pop and their potential to make Grammy history.