A New Type Of Dating Reality With TREASURE's "Shining SOLO"
"Shining SOLO" is a brand new approach at dating reality programs, featuring one of the hottest idols in the industry, TREASURE.
Dyllan Mykel, Kpopmap Editor 3 min to read ·
Published : Mar 28, 2024
YG Entertainment
One of the hottest types of programs to come out of Korean entertainment are dating shows. From programs like Netflix produced "Single's Inferno" to one of the first to pioneer the scene, "Heart Signal", there's just something about people falling in love that plucks at viewers' heartstrings and holds onto their interest. And while we've seen celebrities like former girl group members Lee Coco and Song DaHye attempt to find love, it is almost unheard of to think of idols in relationships until later into their career.
But this is where TREASURE's "Shining SOLO" comes in, a new type of "dating" reality program centered around the idol members themselves. At first, netizens were sent into a frenzy at news of this brand new program. The very thought of idols dating, so openly on a reality program, is a foreign concept and not particularly welcomed by everyone.
However, it seems YG Entertainment has put in the right amount of twists and spins, making it a must watch for both dating show lovers and TREASURE fans.
Core Foundations Of A Dating Show
YG Entertainment
While presented in a different way or spun around various themes, the many Korean dating programs contain the same core foundations. Centered around a house of strangers (or in the case of "Transit Love", ex-lovers), these participants make great effort to find love by the end of the show.
While living together, they learn about each other's various habits and lifestyles, while provided with ample opportunities to date and become closer with one another. And it's in these core components that continue to bring viewers from not only South Korea, but across the entire globe.
Although "Shining SOLO" does include idol members, the program builds up from the foundation left behind by dating programs of the past. There's TREASURE CASTLE, the house where all contestants gather together, themed dates, and even the addition of brand new participants, leaving everyone in a chaotic panic. These moments, and so much more, are typical for dating shows, however, when idols are put in the mix, it brings about a new layer of fun and excitement.
A Different Approach
Despite sharing many similarities and having the core foundations as previous dating programs, "Shining SOLO" takes a different approach. Starting off, the program is split up into two parts. Due to having 10 members, it makes things easier for TREASURE to enter TREASURE CASTLE in two separate groups, in order for all members to receive proper spotlight and attention from the female participants.
There's also the fast paced nature of it all. What usually occurs over the course of several weeks, happens in just a few days. From awkward first introductions to the deciding final conversations, "Shining SOLO" springs through the process, keeping the key moments that contribute to the overall allure of the program.
Then instead of walking away with love, the TREASURE members aim to become "Mr. TREASURE" — the person who receives the most jewels from the female participants. These qualities, and so much more, make "Shining SOLO" such a joy to watch, even if you're not an avid fan of the boy group. By the end, you'll be smitten by their charms and ability to tackle such nerve-wracking situations.
Setting A Precedent For The Immediate Future
There's no denying that "Shining SOLO" has created heaps of buzz from its pre-release until now. Its final episode for part 1 is just on the horizon and fans are excited to sit down and watch the show's conclusion. Aside from providing entertainment, it also shows what could happen in the immediate future.
The success and virality of "Shining SOLO" could spur other companies to jump into the boon of dating programs like YG and create a program of their own. However, as these types of programs are usually planned months in advance, the earliest we could see another idol group in a "dating" program could be late 2024 to early 2025.
But despite its immediate success, "Shining SOLO" could also become a one-off occurrence, going down in K-Pop history as a one-of-a-kind venture. At the end of the day, the dating program is breaking barriers and creating a new type of experience for K-Pop fans to ultimately fall into and enjoy.
Are you currently watching "Shining SOLO"? What do you think of the program?
Ahead Of The "Asia Star Entertainer Awards 2024", Final Voting Begins On IDOLCHAMP
Final voting on IDOLCHAMP has started for the "Asia Star Entertainer Awards 2024", which will be head at Yokohama, Japan in April.
Dyllan Mykel, Kpopmap Editor 2 min to read ·
Published : Mar 21, 2024
"ASEA 2024" Official
Ahead of the 1st "Asia Star Entertainer Awards 2024" ("ASEA"), the final voting to determine the winners has begun on IDOLCHAMP, starting from 10AM on March 15th. The glamorous event looks to become a place where music, stars, and fans become one.
【ASEA2024日本開催決定!!】
アジアを代表するトップアーティストが出演し、世界中のファンと音楽で一つになる授賞式「ASIA STAR ENTERTAINER AWARDS 2024(ASEA 2024)」、その記念すべき第1回目が2024年4月10日に日本で開催される事が決定!!!#ASEA2024pic.twitter.com/O0T8APQVVu
In the ASEA final voting categories, a large number of internationally loved K-Pop artists are nominated for the following categories: 'Best Male/Female Group Award', 'Best Male/Female Soloist Award', 'Trot', 'Virtual', 'Rookie Award', and 'Popularity Award'.
Check out the artists you can vote for down below.
Final Nominees
Best Male Group Award
Stray Kids
TXT
EXO
TREASURE
SEVENTEEN
Best Female Group Award
NiziU
VIVIZ
TWICE
OH MY GIRL
Kep1er
Best Male Soloist Award
Lim YoungWoong
SHINee's TaeMin
BTS' JungKook
Kang Daniel
BTS' Suga
Best Female Soloist Award
TWICE's JiHyo
BLACKPINK's JiSoo
MAMAMOO's HwaSa
SunMi
Red Velvet's SeulGi
Trot Award
YoungTak
Lee ChanWon
Jung DongWon
Kim HeeJae
Hong JiYoon
Virtual Award
PLAVE
SUPERKIND
MAVE
ISEGYE IDOL
RE:Revolution
Rookie Award
JD1's Jung DongWon
ZEROBASEONE
PLAVE
TWS
POW
Popularity Award
Lim YongWoong
BTS' JiMin
BTS' V
Stray Kids
Kang Daniel
EXO
SHINee's TaeMin
BTS' Suga
BTS' JungKook
NiziU
You can participate in the "ASEA" final voting through the mobile fandom apps, IDOLCHAMP and PODOAL. Once the final voting period ends, the results will be announced at "ASEA", which will be held at K-Arena Yokohama in Yokohama, Japan on April 10th.
"ASEA 2024" is hosted by Newsen, Korea's leading entertainment and sports media outlet which boasts 19 long years of valued tradition. They are also joined by '앳스타일' (@star1), an online entertainment media outlet that has been steadily publishing Star & Style Magazine for 12 years. The prestigious event is organized by ASEA Organizing Committee and Japan's ZOZOTOWN.
Additionally, "ASEA 2024" will have world renowned K-Pop artists and Asian singers who've accomplished several significant achievements over the past year take the stage. They will create an extraordinary experience, mesmerizing fans in the audience and watching from home.
Kpopmap Exclusive IDOLCHAMP Coupon Sale
Kpopmap
For those looking to support their favorite artist via IDOLCHAMP, Kpopmap is here to help! In partnership with the mobile fandom app, Kpopmap users are able to purchase IDOLCHAMP coupons at a Kpopmap exclusive discount price!
You can head here to purchase IDOLCHAMP coupons today and help your favorite K-Pop artist win "ASEA 2024"!
BTS' V Is A Heartwarming Vocalist That's Able To Top Every Playlist
Let's take a look at BTS V's vocal journey and marvel at his wonderful singing voice.
Dyllan Mykel, Kpopmap Editor 3 min to read ·
Published : Mar 20, 2024
BIGHIT MUSIC
BTS have become a world-renowned idol group, recognized all across the globe. Their star presence is second to none, effectively leading K-Pop to newer heights with every step of their career. Despite all members currently carrying out their mandatory military service, they've filmed and recorded enough content so ARMY will be unable to feel their absence during the time apart.
Just recently, BTS V's newest single, 'FRI(END)S', dropped to the excitement of fans everywhere. It's a love song at its core, raising question marks over undefined relationships but also reveling in the heartwarming feelings that come with it.
One of the things millions can agree on is that V's voice is absolutely heaven-sent, dripping with a tantalizing sweetness that you quickly become addicted to. Although he's so deeply tied to being a member of BTS, the idol has his own vocal color that screams unique and original.
V has come a long way and is now recognized as one of the world's most loveliest vocalists.
Discovering A Master Vocalist
BIGHIT MUSIC
The start of BTS' career was explosive with a hip-hop focused title track that may surprise some newer fans. During this period there were small snippets of V's vocals, but nowhere near as much as we hear it today. Even looking at his debut concept photo, you would never expect that the idol carried such a refreshing vocal tone.
But as time would go on, fans and netizens alike would start to discover V's tender vocals. This is highlighted most especially in his cover of 'Someone Like You'.
The cinematography screams homemade video for the family as V broodingly walks down a random alleyway. However, accompanied by his amazing voice in the background, your heart begins to melt a million times over. For those discovering the idol's voice for the first time with this cover, it's a revolutionary moment that they surely have not forgotten.
Cover Songs Galore With A Sprinkle Of OSTs
Luckily for fans, V did not stop there. From that point onward, he began to create even more opportunities for ARMY to hear his voice outside of BTS recordings. At first, he simply uploaded covers onto his group's official YouTube channel. His renditions of songs like 'Hug Me' put millions in a state of shock and awe.
Then, there's also K-Drama soundtrack V. While his first OST appearance was for a series he was starring in, due to his strong bond with the Wooga Squad he gladly lent his voice for his dear friends. This gave way to heartwarming hits in 'Sweet Night' and 'Christmas Tree'.
Hearing V's voice in the background of such moving dramas elevated numerous scenes to the next level, with a growing appreciation towards the drama and the BTS member himself. Even after these series concluded, fans continued to listen to V's wonderful OST soundtracks.
Original Music
Even while focusing on group promotions, V continued to remain passionate about his own music. While standing on stage as a member of BTS, he simultaneously released original songs like 'Scenery' and 'Winter Bear'. Through these tracks he continued to showcase himself as a sentimental vocalist, much different from the energetic idol that fans often witnessed dancing on stage.
It wasn't until 2023 that V finally came out with his solo debut album, "Layover". It was a true testament of V as an artist and the type of unforgettable vocalist he's become over the years. The entire album tugged on fans' heartstrings, making them vulnerable and softhearted right until the very last note.
Now there's no doubt in anyone's mind that V's angelic vocals deserves so much praise and more. He's come a long way as both a group member of BTS and as an established soloist. While he's fulfilling his military service, fans are sure to listen to V's voice a million times over, waiting patiently until he's able to join ARMY once again.
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