In this episode of the K-Pop cast, hosts Stephanie and Pd-nim discuss various topics in the K-Pop world, including Baek Yerin's new release, Kino's solo debut, and the controversy surrounding X-Love's handling of LGBTQ pride flags. They also react to Babymonster's latest comeback, 'We Go Up', exploring the themes and sounds of the new music while reflecting on the current state of K-Pop and its representation of diverse identities.

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REACTION: BABYMONSTER - We Go Up https://youtu.be/wlHwjkYpSr0?si=e9S3l-HSOIKudUuB

HIT REPLAYS:

• 백예린(Yerin Baek) ‘MIRROR’ M/V https://youtu.be/IydHPao0OIg?si=do9ZGa0Ew9ruQsZs
• KINO - DIRTY BOY (Feat. JAMIE, UWA) [Official Music Video] https://youtu.be/NI9hEnq-yko?si=6TllsqvNRO8J53Wv

Chapters

00:00

K-Pop Comebacks and Solo Highlights

10:49

Exploring Kino's New Release

15:21

XLOV's Flag Controversy and LGBTQ Representation

24:51

Fan Reactions and Activism

29:34

Transitioning to Lighter Topics - Babymonster

30:22

Babymonster's New Release

37:29

Comparing Babymonster to Other Groups

41:26

Wrapping Up and Socials

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Summary

In this episode of the Kpopcast, hosts Stephanie and PD-Nim discuss Seventeen's latest comeback with 'Pretty Woman' and celebrate the Chuseok holiday. They share their hit replays, including Crush's new track Frequency and the boy group POW. The conversation delves into the significance of Chuseok, its traditions, and how K-Pop fans can engage with the holiday. The hosts also do a live reaction to and analyze the themes and production of Seventeen's new release, exploring the meaning behind '5-4-3 Pretty Woman.'

Chapters

00:00

Celebrating Seventeen's Comeback and Chuseok

06:31

Exploring Crush's New Album and Creative Process

12:25

Introducing the New Group Pow and Their Evolution

17:38

Understanding Chuseok: Traditions and Celebrations

21:44

Celebrating Chuseok and Family Connections

22:43

K-Pop Releases During Chuseok

23:44

Reacting to '5-4-3 Pretty Woman'

28:59

Exploring the Music Video's Themes

32:04

The Impact of Nostalgia in K-Pop

34:34

Understanding '5-4-3' in the Song Title

Takeaways

• Seventeen's comeback 'Pretty Woman' coincides with the Chuseok holiday.
• Crush's new EP 'Fang' features nostalgic R&B vibes.
• The group Pow is transitioning from a cute image to a more mature sound.
• Chuseok is a time for family gatherings and honoring ancestors.
• The International Star Athletic Championship is a popular Chuseok special featuring K-Pop idols.
• Seventeen's unit releases are breaking records in K-Pop.
• The collaboration between S. Coops and Min-Kyu showcases their chemistry.
• Lay Bankz adds a fresh element to 'Pretty Woman.'
• The title '5-4-3' may symbolize a countdown to the song's start.
• We discuss whether this release is an example of "recession pop"

Join the Kpopcast Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/kpopcast/shared_invite/zt-93kzxcv6-YNej2QkyY6vaPnhEQJxk0A

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HIT REPLAYS:

• CRUSH (크러쉬) FREQUENCY (Feat. Loco) https://youtu.be/8EdC-6L4C-Y?si=9b1lSEtCEBt8CydI
• POW (파우) 'Wall Flowers' M/V https://youtu.be/UpGEn4SkSY0?si=imMHdac7GAWyHFrf

REACTION TO: Seventeen S.Coups x MinKyu "5, 4, 3 Pretty Woman" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u89aNeJlyg0

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In this episode of the Kpopcast, hosts Stephanie and Pd-nim discuss the latest comebacks in the K-Pop scene, including EXO's anticipated return and Taemin's new single 'Veil'. They explore the monster rookie groups of 2025, and the impact of military service, geo-political tensions between China and Korea, and EXO-CBX's Lawsuit settlement with SM Ent. The conversation also highlights Kai's recent tour and his sexiest stage yet in Mexico City.

Join the Kpopcast Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/kpopcast/shared_invite/zt-93kzxcv6-YNej2QkyY6vaPnhEQJxk0A

Chip in for editing: https://ko-fi.com/thekpopcast

HIT REPLAYS:

• Jo Gwangil - TONGUE https://youtu.be/t7DbgcQAmBo
• HITGS - Aha! https://youtu.be/1XOmTvPWQSs?si

Chapters

00:00

K-Pop Comebacks and Rookies of 2025

04:44

Hit Replays: K-Pop Song Recommendations

07:33

Rookie Groups of 2025: Trends and Insights

15:15

Taemin's Return: Exploring His New Single 'Veil'

18:49

Anticipation for Taemin at Coachella

22:01

EXO's Return from Military Service

25:05

The Lore of EXO and Their Comeback

28:43

Kai's Tour and Performance Highlights

31:42

Rain's Encore Tour Announcement

33:29

Updates on SM Artists and Future Plans

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