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Trigger Warning: There's a lot of diet talk (within the context of being an K-pop idol) throughout this episode. None of it is presented as a negative, but as a fact of K-pop life. That said, I am aware how this might be uncomfortable or even trigger to some folks. Hence the heads' up.



Episode 15 of Suchwita turned out to be as wild as the previews had made it look like. Filmed two days after the D-Day Tour June 25th concert and airing a little over a month later, Jungkook's guest appearance was an exercise in unintentional charm.

Showing up as part of the promo for "SEVEN", his first solo single, Jungkook talked a little, ate a lot (for serious!), and had a grand old time spending time with his Yoongi hyung. And then, there was the singing, heheh.

FTR, the conversation was pretty solid (as expected from this show. Yoongi does his research and, by now, is a pretty seasoned host). I liked seeing Jungkook talk abt being an idol with a 10+ career, the back-and-forth Yoongi and Jungkook had when it came to JK being the group's maknae (youngest) and how that shaped so much of his personality and behavior in life, everything that happened w/r/t Jungkook singing at the 2022 World Cup, and general goofiness. It was such a joy to see Yoongi slip into his old man persona... even though he's only 3 or so years older than Jungkook.

I also really liked that Yoongi understands who Jungkook is (probably down to the molecular level) and so, for the first time ever in the history of the show, he set up a norebang for Jungkook. If only so Jungkook could sing to his heart's content. This meant that we got a prophecy (of sorts) fulfilled: Jungkook and Yoongi performed "That That" together. Shortly after that, Yoongi ended the show...but Jungkook stayed and sang some more, LOL.

(Like, at some point, Yoongi leaves and returns in his street clothes, laughs at Jungkook's rendition of "Daechwita", and leaves again.)

In any case, this ended up being the longest Suchwita episode so far. Clocking at 39 mins and change for the actual!episode with another 15-min and change segment of Jungkook singing to his heart's content.




AND

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ETA: there's an ongoing conversation abt ideal bodies (including dieting as an idol) during the first half of the episode. Adding a soft warning for topics that some folks might find triggery.

Just like with Jin's episode, Hobi's appearance in Suchwita was filmed back in Feb 17, 2023 (or, roughly, a day before Hobi's actual birthday). But, per Hobi's request, it didn't air until July 19, 2023 (or abt 3 months and change after he enlisted.)

This time, Hobi wasn't quite promoting "On The Street" (his collabo with J.Cole)--though he did talked a little abt it.

Instead, the episode was an exploration of Hobi's own history, pre-debut to early post-debut BTS' lives, being the first member to launch a solo album (and do an amazing solo concert that I wrote abt on this post), etc.

There was, as expected, a LOT OF GIGGLING happening from both Hobi and SUGA as well as some good observations on the idol industry and how they both see themselves AND BTS within that world.

One thing that's mentioned but not super delved into is how close to BTS and Big Hit were close to get dissolved. From Sope's perspective is a moment they reminisce abt being told the group had to move out of their dorms cuz the company had run out of money. Rapline stayed put out of, I guess, stubborness. Bang PD was able to raise some additional funds and BTS lived to deliver the true breakthrough of their rookie era: I NEED U.

Fun fact abt that: An investing firm gave BH ₩4 billion (or around $3.6 million US) and held 30% of BH. Which is how BTS was able to try for one last time to reach for actual success. By the time the firm sold the stakes back to BH, the firm had made ₩108 billion (or around $75 million US.)

After the episode's over, we get a LOLARIOUS teaser for the next BTS member to appear (Jungkook) that feels extremely chaotic. :DDDD

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Out of all of the BTS members episodes, watching this one always soothes my heart while also leaving me a bit teary-eyed. In bullet point form:

* This was the second episode filmed and the first one with the current set.

* It was the 12th episode aired.

* Filming was done on December 9, 2022. Or, in other terms, 4 days before Jin's enlistment.

* Per Jin's request, the episode didn't air until June 10 2023 as part of the content for the 2023 FESTA

* It's the second longest episode (clocking at 39 minutes and change.)

Now, technically speaking, everyone had already figured out that there was an upcoming episode featuring Jin because of some eagle-eyed ARMY who'd already seen his signed bottle on the shelf behind Jimin during JM's episode. But no one would've ever imagine that it was going to drop during FESTA.

On top of that, Jin literally showed up to eat, drink, and chit-chat with Yoongi. After all, he had nothing to promote at that point. Go figure!

A big reason as to why this is an incredibly comforting episode is because of Yoongi and Jin's relationship. For starters, Jin is the group's eldest and so he is the only hyung Yoongi has in the group. Which is something that Yoongi has mention as part of why their bond works so well. As the 'parents' of BTS, Yoongi and Jin managed to shoulder the responsibility to look after/take care of the younger members back in the pre-debut days onwards. It was so neat to see them talk abt seeking advice and appreciating their mutual support.

There's also a surprise visit from Hobi! And that added an extra layer of awesome in an already fantastic episode.

Other things I liked abt the talk was Jin's adventures in Argentina, technical stuff abt singing live, his outlook/attitude abt life, what being roommates was like, and some candid points abt the 2018 MAMAs. Oh, this was the episode where everyone finds out that Yoongi and Jin literally live 5 minutes away from each other. Eternal roommates indeed, hehehe.




BONUS CONTENT

* An 18-minute behind-the-scenes Bangtan Episode abt Jin's performance in Argentina




* The actual performance.

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NGL, episode 9 of Suchwita should've been titled "Yoongi's Revenge", hahah. He was in full mischief mode for a good part of the 37 minutes of it.

This time, he appeared as the guest with the intention to promote his first solo album D-Day under his AgustD moniker. Just to add more chaos into the mix, this was the first (and so far only) time in which there's been a guest host. Who else but RM would be chosen to act as host. He did pranked Yoongi a little by renaming the show as R-chwita (including changing the neon sign that hangs in the studio.)

What follows is Yoongi doing his best to annoy RM by acting up intersped with good conversations abt creative burnout, how one gets over that mindset, the quest for a work-balance life, being ambitious, and general stories abt BTS in the current timeline. Yoongi's one request before the episode begins was that he didn't want to talk or focus too much on the past.

One of my fave things is watching RM's ep followed by this one since it's a good way to gauge some of the ways that RM and Yoongi connect with one another.

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The Jimin episode of Suchwita is one I've seen almost as many times as the RM one because of the sheer JOY these 36 minutes have brought up in my heart every time I sit down to watch it. Airing in late March (to coincide with the tail end of the promo rollout for Jimin's first solo album FACE), this was one more addition to the 2023 Yoonmin canon.

Yoongi and Jimin's dynamic has leaned into a frenemies area for a large part of their time as BTS members. It's gleefully snarky with some tender moments here and there. Given that they're idols, there has to have been some playing up from both of them (such as in some earlier episodes of "Run BTS", frex.) IMO, starting sometime in 2020, the things they show (vis a vis their bond) have shifted into softer and more supportive moments. With the peak being pretty much ALL of 2023. Which is awesome, NGL.

Moving on, if there's a word to describe this specific episode is spirited. Jimin mock-pouts at Yoongi--who, in turn, retaliates by being a goofball. There's a lot of giggling in between a good conversation abt the vulnerability in the act of creating; what BTS means to both of them; a discussion of each track in the album; some quick memories of past years; doing promo as a solo artist; and a whole lotta cuteness.

My ultimate fave part begins at 18:14 in which Yoongi throws a suggestion at Jimin that he (Jimin) should show up at Yoongi's concert to sing "Tony Montana" with him. FTR, the D-Day Tour was around a month away, so everyone was OJO abt this. The only other time they'd performed that song was back in 2016 for the 3rd Muster. ANYWAYS, Jimin's like "Uh, IDK, we might have to change some lyrics..." to which Yoongi starts to give him different combos of things that Jimin could do. It's a moment that shows how UTTERLY DELIGHTFUL is is to see Jimin and Yoongi interacting.



Everyone had to wait (and I do mean WAIT) until the next-to-last-concert but, finally, seven years later (because, OFC, it's 7), we got to see the PROPHECY BEING FULFILLED. BEHOLD "Tony Montana 2023" onstage:

Trigger warning this is a fancam, so expect a lot of screaming. OTOH, it has English subtitles--which highlights the changes they did for the newer version of the song.

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NB: This post's title is a h/t to SUGA's often repeated trivia of having known RM for "X number of years". At time of this specific Suchwita episode, they'd known each other for 12 yrs/soon to be 13. Although unofficial, the Namgiversary (as it is known in some corners of the fandom) is Nov. 13, 2010.

Am finally (FINALLY!) ready to do individual posts abt the BTS members' guest appearances in this show. \o\ \o/ /o/!

Back in December 5, 2022, the pilot episode dropped with none other than RM as the first guest. And, like, if there's anything to know abt Namgi (RM/Yoongi or RM & Yoongi)'s whole everything is that they're the public core of BTS' music. [FTR, this is both true (cuz they're credited as songwriters of the bulk of BTS' catalog) AND not exactly true(because all of the members do contribute to the discography.] As two of the group's most prolific songwriters (RM currently has 217 songs credited to him; SUGA has 167), theirs is a bond that puts creativity at the forefront.

As such, this 35-min episode dives into the creative process; discussions on what's different of writing for BTS vs. writing for one's own solo work vs. writing for artists outside of BTS; quick anecdotes abt their respective lives before they became trainees; the significance of RM's solo album Indigo, etc.

In between stories, there's a lot of RM being a brat, Yoongi reacting like the long-suffering hyung he is, and some goofy promotion of the show's sponsor. I've genuinely lost count of how many times I've watched this episode. It's funny, comforting, and shows two people whose connection begins with music and becomes something more.

This being the pilot episode, I need to mention that there are 2 things that are unique to it.

1. The set itself.

Unlike the rest of the eps, this set is comfier (possibly alluding to it being someone's living room, maybe?) with the cream sofas and the purple background. OTOH, I do like the interior decoration a lot. OTOH, I can see why Yoongi and his team would want something that is still cozy but also looking less dressed down (if that makes sense.)

2. The chosen song.

At the end of the episode, Yoongi tells RM the song that he thinks best represents RM. And, for whatever reason, this is the only episode that was brought up. It's not as if the song plays in the background, so I don't see any licensing issues. Alas.


One thing I want to give a heads up abt: from 26:56 to 28:51, the conversation focuses on how quickly things changed for them (and everyone else) by late February 2020. They also talk abt their frustration and (to a lesser degree) their fear regarding the pandemic.


Anyways, this is a good episode. Check it out:

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Despite an extensive promo info rollout for V's Layover album, everyone (myself included) was v. happily surprised when IU announced that V would be "Palette"'s next guest. Expectation was tremendously high given that V exudes charm but also a bit of a quirkier-than-expected personality. His interviews can occasionally take left turns that puzzle even the ppl interviewing him, really. Also, he'd be the third BTS member to appear in the show (I wrote abt Hobi and Yoongi's individual "Palette" episodes here.)

Anyways, Episode 24 premiered and WOWWWWWWW



OK, you see that thumbnail? It's a perfect representation of what the whole show was like! XD

Firstly, there was the reveal that V and IU have been good friends FOR A WHILE. To the point that they talk to each other often, message just as much, and (the most !!! thing) V doesn't use honorifics when talking to IU (she's his noona, i.e. older female friend to a younger man).

Secondly, IU is SUPER GOOFY almost from the start. Whether it's V's influence (he can be playful as hell when he's relaxed) or their friendship itself, I can't say. But this is one of my favorite episode of this show.

Finally, there's the singing. Ooooh, sheer heaven, really. I deffo rec watching this episode if you need something chill to watch.


Bonus content that's unrelated to the ep, but that's equally as enjoyable, LOL

Here's an 11-minute episode of "Tiny Desk Korea" that will leave you on the FLOOR. Couldn't rec this any harder if I tried.




My two fave performances of "Slow Dancing" and "Love Me Again" out of everything he's done (and aside to the ones from "Tiny Desk Korea")



Also, yes, Kim Yeontan, V's own doggy, appeared on stage. He even got a special video:



And here's the most eye-popping stage for "Love Me Again" that I've ever seen. <3___<3

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Inspired by Jungkook co-headlining the Global Citizen concert later today, I decided to do a post abt Kpop artists who have performed at Lollapalooza. Something that began in 2022.

Disclaimer: The Lollapalooza I'm referring to in this post is the 4-day festival that's held at Grant Park in Chicago, Illinois, USA. Which is also the one most ppl are familiar with. I'm aware there are 7 other versions of the festival that happen at other places. Those go by "Lollapalooza (Name of the Country)". I'm sure awesome things have occurred at those other Lollas, but I wanted to make it clear which one I'm talking abt here.

So, 2022 was the first year that Lollapalooza had K-pop artists on its schedule. As of right now, all of the artists have been from HYBE and/or Big Hit, but I can see the ppl behind Lollapalooza making deals with other Korean agencies to have their artists appear in future years. Especially given the monumental success for what's considered to be the biggest music festival in the USA.

I'm gonna list the 3 performances, say what I liked abt them, etc in ascending order of "like it fine" to "ZOMG, I LOVE THIS PERFORMANCE SO MUCH I'VE WATCHED IT MANY TIMES!"


Let's go!


3. TXT on Saturday, August 5, 2023

Dubbed TXTPALOOZA by many, this was a solid return to the festival for that group. This time as headliners!! Something that's absolutely deserved. At this point, they were near the end of their "Act: Sweet Mirage" world tour and totally ready to give both festivalgoers and online audiences an amazing show. Which they did! It was a solid hour and a half of a ton of their songs with a live band adding an extra layer of awesomeness to the goings on. At first, I thought my attention was going to be on Soobin and Yeonjun, but I kept zeroing in on Taehyung and Beomgyu. I thought the sets and costume changes were good too.

The ~110k audience was v. enthusiastic, singing along to every song while the guys did their thing onstage.

THAT SAID, I do rank this show in last place due to some technical stuff. So, to reiterate, this isn't abt being so-so abt TXT. On the contrary, they were amazing despite the (again) technical stuff that downgraded the watching experience for me. I watched the set after it got uploaded to TXT's YT channel since I was zzzing when they performed live (as I had to wake up at 4 a.m. to watch Day 2 of my manz's D-Day Tour: The Final, but I digress). My issues with this show were:

1. Yeonjun and Huening Kai's handheld mics were lower than they should've been during the first three songs. IIRC, I'm almost sure that Taehyun's mic was glitching a bit as well. I only noticed this because, all of their voices were way clearer when they switched to the headset mics and then back to their handhelds. Their voices remained steady.

2. Adding to the sound ~issues, the sound editing AND sound mixing for TXT's show were askew. Specifically when it came to the audience. People were yelling from start to end--at times fighting against TXT's singing during some of the slower songs OR whenever the guys said any kind of ment.

3. The camerapeople during the TXT concert kept panning to the audience--oftentimes for ZERO reason while the group was performing onstage. So then, the cameras would be SCRAMBLING to find the TXT member that was singing at that moment. It was v. distracting.


Having said all that, is it still worth it checking the show out? OF FUCKING COURSE IT IS! I just added my gripes so that others can adjust their expectations if they're inclined to do so. Here it is






2. TXT on Saturday July 30, 2022

I swear I don't have any beef with TXT, LOL. Even though it might come across like I do. ANYHOO, this was the first time a Kpop group performed at Lollapalooza.They had a fairly chill spot (8 p.m.) that was right before one of the headliners. Unlike this year, the set was shorter (abt 45 mins.), but the energy was thru the roof!

Per what I know, this performance came at the tail end of the USA leg of their Act: Lovesick world tour. I actually liked this performance over this year's, dunno why. The guys are full of energy and v. sweet with their fans.





1. J-Hope on Sunday, July 31st, 2022

HOBIPALOOZA, Y'ALL!! *Squeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeees*

This was...*dreamy sigh*. So, pretty much like everyone everywhere, I was v. O____o?! when it was announced that Hobi was going to be a HEADLINER for Lollapalooza. The FIRST KOREAN SOLOIST AS A HEADLINER. This was to take place roughly 2 weeks after his first solo album, Jack in the Box, was getting a digital release. (The physical version of the album wouldn't be available until almost a year later.)

As much as I loathe capitalism (especially the late stage we're at), I do have to give kudos to Lollapalooza for understanding ARMY and setting things up in a way that showed respect to both Hobi and the fandom. There was a special section of Hobi merch (including ARMY bombs, i.e. BTS lightsticks). According to those who attended, the merch tents were well-stocked and had a friendly staff. There were a ton of welcoming and sweet messages on social media from official Lollapalooza accounts, etc. Over here in the US, Hulu got in on the YAYS train by announcing a free trial offer to ppl interested in watching any and all of the Lollapalooza shows. Outside of the US, folks could watch it on Weverse and some could watch it on Big Hit's YT channel. All for free-ninety nine.

I snagged that free trial offer and settled in to watch TXT on Saturday and then Hobi on Sunday, LOL

WHAT A FANTASTIC HOUR AND SIXTEEN MINUTE SHOW!!! Hobi performed to a crowd of 105k folks (plus some ridic numbers online. I think Weverse said they had 14-15M viewers. Sadly, I couldn't find the Hulu numbers, but I've got a feeling they were pretty high too, heheh.)

The 20-song setlist covered all of the new and old solo songs by Hobi plus a few snippets of rapline and BTS group songs and a special performance too. In short, it's the kind of awesomecakes show that gave Hobi the opportunity to display his artistry, charm, and amazing talent at dancing and rapping. The live band was fantastic too. Oh, and the dancers (yet another collaboration with The Lab) were great as well. NGL, I still get goosebumps during some of the key moments as it almost feels like a dream..

Here is the entire show:




Finally, as a bonus, here's a 22-minute behind-the-scenes BTS Episode of Hobi getting ready for his groundbreaking show. Featuring bonus!Jimin (who flew to the US to give Hobi much needed emotional support) and TXT. :D


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I know. I KNOW! Not even a week ago has gone by and here I am restarting Boramonth posts, hahaha.

In my defense, not even three days had gone by after I said I was gonna pause Boramonth posts when I got the notification abt V's guest appearance in Suchwita NEXT MONDAY!!! O___O! Since that's deffo going to hapen (in addition to all of the content around V's upcoming solo album "LayoVer"), I decided to do a catch-up post of the latest three non-BTS members' episodes of the show.

NGL, this is an extremely random group of ppl. They run the gamut from total strangers to actual friends of Yoongi's.




Episode 13 was one that some folks weren't too keen abt. The guest was Jo Seho. Who is quite popular in Korean entertainment...but was also involved in what's know in ARMY circles as "the Hamburger Scandal" (not spoiler: it wasn't, like, A SCANDAL, but it was still pretty messy all the same?)

Cut text for longish explanation
It's summer 2016. BTS has become a popular group. They're in the middle of the HYYH/Youth trilogy era.

Jungkook joins actor Kim Minsuk, Jo Seho, and a couple of other guys in a travel variety show called Flower Crew for the 2-part pilot episode (which aired on Vlive and SBS network.) The premise of the show is to have one group do luxury travel while the other group will be on the struggle bus (so to speak).

Before he shows up, Jungkook decides to go buy burgers for the cast. Between one thing and another, he ends up arriving late. Now, for some gorram reason, Jo Seho starts to go off on Jungkook for his lateness. Jungkook apologizes, then tries to talk abt how he'd brought up food for everyone. But Jo Seho isn't having it and not only dismisses the gesture but turns hella rude. At one point, he snarks that the hamburgers were probably leftovers.

The next scene is Jungkook talking to the crew, looking v. sad, and saying something along the lines of not understanding why the cast wouldn't want the burgers. Another scene is shown of Kim Minsuk and another cast member eating the burgers and Jo Seho scolding the two of them for stuffing their faces with those things (kinda implying the burgers are not good? IDK.)

Ppl (especially ARMY) were rightfully pissed off. Although things seemed OK, both Jungkook and Kim Minsuk ended up leaving the show for work reasons. Things got so intense that I guess TPTB forced Jo Seho to make an on-the-air apology... that wasn't that good. Basically, Jo Seho said that, in his effort to appear cool/get along with Jungkook and Kim Minsuk, he behaved in a way that might've made some viewers uncomfortable (🙄), but it wasn't his intention to come across that way. Also that there's a lot that gets edited out of the show. WHATEVER, BRO, THERE'S NO REASON WHY YOU SHOULD'VE BEEN SUCH A JACKASS TO JUNGKOOK AND KIM MINSUK.

Fast-forward to 2021. By now, BTS is, well, BTS. They get invited to appear in Yoo Quiz on the Block, a talk show co-hosted by Yoo Jaesuk and Jo Seho. The long and the short of it is that there was no animosity between Jungkook and Jo Seho. With the latter being a lot more respectful, almost subdued. Jungkook and Jo Seho even hugged at some point, so there's no bad blood between them.


Now, I'm not sure if it'd been mentioned before (I'm almost sure it wasn't known), but it turns out that Jo Seho is friends with both Jimin and Yoongi. They've had dinner and drinks at each other's homes, frex. I'm not sure if they're besties, but it's more than just a casual acquaintance. So, from that point, it makes sense that Yoongi would invite Jo Seho to the show.

FTR, I've only been able to sit thru this episode once, LOL. Jo Seho is a TALKER. He has the most long-winded stories I've ever seen in a talk show--which is tiresome on its own. Even worse is the fact that most of his stories are so mundane you're left wondering why he took so long to tell them, XD.

On top of that, one of the main topics being brought up throughout the episode is weight loss/dieting. FTR, this isn't triggering to me, but it might be triggering to others so, okay, let me

cut-text again cuz ooof!
SO, Jo Seho has always been a fat guy. A lot of his comedy (specifically that of the physical kind) included 'jokes' abt him breaking small, foldable chairs. Jo Seho tell Yoongi that, by 2007, he used to spend all of his free time binge eating and binge drinking. He also got to his heaviest weight. Although he didn't say the word, it's fucking obvious he was in the middle of a heavy depressive episode.

After a rather intense moment with his mother that made him realize he was fucking himself up, he decided to stop drinking, start working out, etc.


For his part, Yoongi mentions the time after MOTS tour got cancelled as a moment that he got so low he cried in front of his parents for the first time, like ever.

In the end, I don't know what I expected from this episode, but it's not one that has anything I'd find remotely interesting. Also, Jo Seho practically monopolizing the convo. It's a world of No, Thank You for me.


LET'S MOVE ON




Episode 17 has Lee Kangin as the guest. He's a 22-y.o. South Korean professional footballer who is being heralded as one of the future best players. Yoongi invited him kinda of on a whim? He IS a jock (whether or not ppl want to accept that, IDK, but he sure loves basketball, frex.)

There was just a TON of convos abt soccer. OTOH, it was interesting to see the parallels between being a professional athlete and being a Kpop idol (the discipline involved, the mundanity of routine--even while traveling internationally, the ups and downs of a career, etc). BUT Lee Kangin is abt 95% focused on soccer; he's been playing since he was v. young (I think 11 y.o?) I was v. bored at some parts cuz his side of the conversation was rote "I'm an athlete, soccer is the best, etc."

I've only watched this episode once. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯




Episode 16's guest was Hwang Minhyun. He's a Korean actor and current soloist. Had previously been in NU'EST and Wanna One.

This episode was (at least to me) interesting enough to watch twice? For one thing, Hwang debuted a year earlier than BTS, but he's also 2 yrs younger than Yoongi. So, despite all of his experiences, he was still a bit nervous talking to Yoongi at first.

This was also the episode in which Yoongi was like "this guy is handsome, tall, and fit". Also commenting on how, during a gym sesh at the HYBE gym, he noticed that Hwang has a "great bod". There were a few moments of Yoongi suggesting hanging out, etc. XD

Hwang was v. calm and potentially interested on getting to hang out with Yoongi in the future. Who knows.

One of the things I liked abt this specific episode was seeing how great Yoongi's at networking both inside AND outside the music business. Just something to keep in mind. :P
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Despite being only 30-years old, Yoongi does have a higher-than-expected amount of experience w/r/t the K-pop business. Which is something he enjoys using to help his juniors navigate that world. And so, the next three episodes are all centered around Yoongi in his business elder role.




Kicking things off is episode 4 with SEVENTEEN's Hoshi as the guest. His 'excuse' is that he's promoting BSS' hit "Fighting" (BSS is a SEVENTEEN subunit that did a comeback after 5 yrs).

FWIW, the thumbnail gives you a good idea of how AWESOMECAKES this episode is. Yoongi is v. tender as he gives Hoshi advice. Meanwhile, Hoshi is disarmingly sweet. They go over things such as the mundane aspects of dorm life, enlistment anxieties, and what makes a team (i.e. K-pop group) last. It's deffo one of the non-BTS episodes I've watched a lot of times cuz it's such a DELIGHT from start to finish. I do recommend watching it even if you're not a fan of either group. :P

One important point that Hoshi brings up is BTS' influence in the K-pop world.

Here are some things (off the top of my head) that BTS has either made trendy/commonplace in K-pop OR created themselves.
Things that BTS has made trendy (meaning that there were other K-pop artists who were doing these things before, but the Tannies deffo made them popular)

- Having a large (over 15 dancers) background group for performances;
- Adding English subtitles to their content (including music videos);
- Using YouTube 's premiere feature AND doing MV reactions of their own videos;
- Having a presence in social media (NB: after they won a Social Media award in 2017, a ton of artists who had debuted 2+ yrs BEFORE BTS DID started using their Twitter accts. This happened within 1 to 2 months after BTS' win, btw.)
- Releasing music on Fridays (to lure the Western market);


Things that BTS created (that ALSO became things that other K-pop artists do)

- Upload photos after performances with messages to their fandom;
- Give their fandom an official logo;
- Halloween dance practices (in which artists are wearing costumes);
- Making in-house behind-the-scenes, making of music videos, and variety content that's NOT produced/filmed by Korean TV networks. And then using platforms such as YouTube, Vlive (rip), and Weverse (or its Weverse equivalent) to air the content.






Episode 8 is a bit more lulzy (imo) but just as lovely as the Hoshi ep. This time, TXT's Taehyun and Yeonjun only showed up to hang out, hahah. This episode was filmed after they finished promotions for their latest mini but before they went on their world tour.

The conversations range from trainee life to keeping your ambition in check. Unlike Hoshi or Woozi below, Yoongi (as well as the rest of BTS) and TXT do have a shared history. Like Yoongi mentions, TXT (and Lee Hyun) are the only artists who practiced at the old, pre-HYBE building. Another thing I liked is that there's enough trust and friendly bonds for them to discuss (however lightly) the BTS-and-TXT comparisons. Especially since TXT is (arguably) seen as the one HYBE group that is poised to follow in BTS' steps and success. Which is deeply unfair because, regarding of their resources and the huge amount of talent in both groups, they ARE different ppl.

All that said, I do have to give a warning abt this episode:, Yoongi's introduction points out that both Yeonjun and Taehyun are ppl who can hold their liquor. Unfortch for Yeonjun, he does get quite drunk. It begins to be noticeable around the halfway mark and then gets progressively more intense. The overall tone of the episode presents Yeonjun's drunkness as funny-cute (if that makes sense?). Yoongi mocks him in a verrrrrrrrrrrry gentle way.

In any case, the warning is for folks who might find Yeonjun's intoxication uncomfortable to watch and/or might feel secondhand embarrassment. FTR, Yeonjun slurrs his words and (by the end of the episode) is falling asleep. Finally, Yeonjun did post abt it when the episode aired and MOAs (the TXT fandom) asked him how he felt. The basic gist is that he didn't remember much, if any thing at all, but he was grateful for his hyung (a.k.a Yoongi) for being such a sweet host.




Episode 10 was a meeting of worlds, ngl. Ever since Suchwita premieered, folks had been wanting to see SEVENTEEN's Woozi and SUGA have a convo. This is something that makes a lot of sense as they have a lot in common. Starting with how they're aaaaalmost each other's dopplegangers (as BOTH of them mention at different moments in the episode) to both of them being so hardcore when it comes to songwriting and producing. Woozi was promoting SEVENTEEN's latest mini FML

My one (1) sort-of-regret abt this episode is that Woozi keeps things focused on the music business and producing to the point of not loosening up (IMO) until the last 10 or so minutes of the episode. OTOH, I liked seeing both him and Yoongi ride the same wavelength in terms of creatung music. OTOH, Woozi had an almost excessive formality that some might find off-putting, IDK. As a first impression (for ppl who have never 'met' Woozi before), there's a strong possibility that Woozi comes across as a tad too dry. YMMV.

Which, in turn, means that this is another episode who I haven't really watched more than 2 times. :(
glitteryv: (Default)
This next batch of Suchwita episodes' main theme have to do with Yoongi chit-chatting with older celebs.

The first of these convos was in Episode 2 in which the guest was Shin Dongyup, a popular comedian and MC. Per what I know, one of the prior interactions happened during the Let's Talk BTS special that aired late March 2021. Dongyup was the MC.

In some ways, this was the beginning of Yoongi's (recurring) commentary abt how to have a long career in the entertainment business. Dongyup, whose career is at 31 yrs and counting, was quite open w/r/t remaining engaged with one's work. One of the sweetest moments, imo, was when Dongyup told Yoongi abt music being a kind of emotional time machine. Fans (regardless of how old they might be) will connect to their fave artists' discography regardless of how old they (either the artists or the fans) might be. This is a point that Yoongi will bring up in other episodes. It's pretty clear that Dongyup's words left a mark in Yoongi's brain. This was a rare episode in which Dongyup solely showed up cuz Yoongi asked him to appear in there. He had nothing to promote, go figure!





Episode 6's guest was Lee Sungmin, one of Yoongi's favorite actors. The "reason" was part of the promo rollout for a new movie called The Devil's Deal. HOWEVAH, in reality, he too had been asked by Suchwita's team to appear. The 'trade' was that Yoongi would have to attend the movie's premier (which he did, hahah.)

Although Sungmin was not born in Daegu, he did grow up in that city. So SUGA was delighted to talk abt life in Daegu from an artist's perspective. Surprisingly, this was one of my fave episodes. SUGA was v. animated, Sungmin had a good dry humor-type of personality, and (at least to me) the episode flew by.

I really liked that their conversation focused on the sacrifices that artists (singers, actors, dancers, etc) make in order to 'make it', how (sometimes) ppl might try and still fail, being a workaholic, etc.




The final episode in this group is number 12 with Lee Nayoung, a v. popular Korean actress and the show's first female guest.

Supposedly, she appeared to promote her web series Park Hakyung's Travel Journal. Realistically, though, she didn't seem as concerned abt doing much promo?

FTR, this is among my least-watched episodes (just 2x, i.e., same as with the Taeyang ep). OTOH, I liked the moments when Nayoung and Yoongi talk abt the song "People" as well as abt ppl. Also the nature of others' expectations vs. one's own perception of one's self. OTOH, the first ten or so minutes are extremely awkward. In the sense that Yoongi asks Nayoung a few questions and, if she answers one is too many. THANKFULLY, they did eventually got into a conversation flow that, though odd at times, kept me from bouncing. IDK, maybe it's me who needs to get over my first (moderately) bad impression and my second (still not charmed) viewing.

It's not so much like Yoongi seeks out counsel from Nayoung and, though she's someone with a long career, I'm not exactly sure she would give the advice that Yoongi would need? #UNSURE That said, she does talk a little abt her career, and that's why I included her episode here.

I'll let it be for a while in hopes that I'll have a better time next (potential) time.

glitteryv: (Default)
Have decided to close out Boramonth by reccing Suchwita episodes, heheh.

For those who might not know, Suchwita is a web talk show hosted by SUGA. The title means "Drinks with SUGA". He invites all kinds of Korean celebs (mostly K-pop idols, occasionally actors and TV personalities) to spend some time talking abt whatever the guests are promoting while having some drinks and foods. The episodes vary in length; some are abt 30 mins, others go over to the 45-min mark.

As a host, SUGA has a combination of charm and curiosity that helps even the most introverted person have a good time.

My first instinct was to rank the episodes (so far 12 have aired. There was an announcement just this morning for an upcoming episode featuring SeHo, a male comedian.) BUT I wanted to keep things as fair as possible. Instead, I've opted to group episodes by theme.\o?

This post's theme is all abt two v. significant episodes in which SUGA had conversations with two of his favorite artists of all time.

First up was BIGBANG's Taeyang



OK, full disclosure: with the exception of SHINee and Epik High, 2nd generation K-pop artists aren't my cuppa. Intellectually, I am v. aware that BIGBANG is a group that's reached legendary status. That said, the only song by them I can recognize is "Bang Bang Bang". Also, unfortch for me, the main reason I ever learned abt them was from the many scandals during their long career (with the worst one being the Burning Sun one, so...there's that.)

Now, there are some corners of ARMY that 100% believe SUGA is an aloof guy who drops the angriest raps, etc. I definitely wish those folks could watch this episode because--even within the limits of having a v. public persona--SUGA displays facets of himself that contrast with certain public perceptions of him. Behold 30 minutes of a giggly, shiny-eyed SUGA who tells one of his longtime faves how NERVOUS HE IS to be seated across him. He is 200% in awe (though, eventually, manages to calm down a little and steer the convo without any stumbles.)

Overall, this is one of those episodes I've watched the least number of times (I think only 2x?). In part because, as adorable as it is to see SUGA be blushy and thrilled of (formally?) meeting Taeyang, I also have a neutral reaction to Taeyang's status. The other thing is that Taeyang (who was there to promote his single VIBE (featuring Jimin)) is polite in a way that remains at a superficial level for most of the episode. He doesn't really loosen up until around the last ten minutes of the show.

OTOH, I did liked the parts of the conversation abt having a long career in K-pop, the struggles every artist goes thru when they want to do solo stuff without breaking up the group they are a member of, what life is like when you've reached the top, etc.

In some ways, BIGBANG and BTS are on the same level--with each one being considered a representative of their respective generations (2nd and 3rd). So, despite the difference in their lives (Taeyang is 35, married, and a parent while SUGA is 30, single, and child-free), there are a few spaces both of them do connect.

Funnily enough, the guest two episodes later ALSO is one of SUGA's favorite artists: Epik High's Tablo



Tablo was kinda there to promote Strawberry (Epik High's latest album). HOWEVAH, in all truth, SUGA and Tablo are actual!friends. Like, early in the episode, Taboo says that he showed up to hangout with his friend. The mood in this episode is 200% more casual. IMO, even if you might not know who Epik High is, this is fun episode. Frex, it so happens that both SUGA and RM were HIGH SKOOL, i.e. part of the Epik High fandom from way back in the day.

Just like with Taeyang, the conversation includes topics such as longevity in the music business, finding one's truth as an artist while trying to survive/make a living, what it means to be older in K-pop (Tablo is 42) while raising a kid, etc.

Given that BTS has reached their 10th year as a group, it makes sense that SUGA wanted to connect with his elders in the business. BIGBANG has been around for 17 years while Epik High will celebrate its 20th year in October of this year. Although I did liked Tablo's episode more than Taeyang's, watching both of them back-to-back offers a good perspective on where SUGA is nowadays.
glitteryv: (Default)
Legendary K-pop singer-songwriter and actor IU has her own YouTube channel in which she tends to post vlogs and music videos. IIRC, sometime in 2020, she also started uploading episodes of a talk show called IU's Palette--which she hosts herself.

The show has a casual vibe. It doesn't have a set release schedule (which makes sense cuz IU is BOOKED AND HELLA BUSY), but each episode is (at the v. least) incredibly watchable. The format includes IU and whoever her guests are (sometimes it's solo members, sometimes a full group) chatting abt anything, then a bit of promo talk, and (in between) the guest will sing an IU song, IU will sing a song from the guest(s)'s discography, and there will usually be a duet of sorts as well. Most of the episodes tend to run a tad longer than expected (the average length being around 40-mins.)

As a talk show host, IU radiates a friendly and warm persona that relaxes even the most nervous of the guests. It's pretty lulzy at times (especially when the guest are her peers (in age).)

ANYWAYS, back in July 28, 2022, Hobi appeared as a guest. And, wow, talk abt a DELIGHTFUL EPISODE!!!



IU is really good at being playful in a way that never comes across as pushy. In this episode, frex, she chided Hobi for not inviting her to his listening party. And Hobi had one of those O___O moments that was disarmingly charming. I also liked the moment he tried to teach v. simple steps to IU. Cuz IU's talents do not extend to dancing. Which is fine! She's a great singer, songwriter, and actor! But she does not have sense of rhythm. At least of the type that would make her a decent dancer, frex.

ANYWAYS, it's just a cute interview all in all.

Fast-forward to April 10 of this year...and we get an episode featuring Yoongi!!!!!



One thing that was v. clear from the start was how casual Yoongi was from the get go. He volleyed a lot of the sweetly mischievous vibe IU had back to her. It helps that not only are they the same age (so they address each other w/o honorifics OR have to keep in mind to be more respectful than usual, frex), but that they've been friends for years.

Yoongi was also more candid than even I expected abt his solo album's songs, the way he saw himself as a solo artist vs. a member of BTS, etc. It's an insightful episode for sure.
glitteryv: (Default)
Nothing Prepared is a webshow hosted by Lee Youngjin. It has an interesting format: all kinds of guests (mainly K-pop idols, but I know that actors have been in some episodes) show up at Lee Youngjin's apartment. In between some degree of drinking, the guest will promote XYZ and Lee Youngjin will throw quips at them.

FTR, I like that Lee Youngjin has carved a space in Korean entertainment. Women always have to work extra-hard when it comes to being a rapper. She's pretty good; has done features in all of kinds of songs (most recently BSS' "Fighting"). That said, Lee Youngjin has the kind of loud personality that I'm super hot-and-cold abt. Sometimes, I roll along with her comedy skills. Other times, I find her tremendously obnoxious. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

In any case, fast-forwasrd to October 7th of last year when this dropped:



There was A LOT OF JOYFUL TABLE-FLIPPING among ARMYs, hehehe.


Thirteen days later, the episode was uploaded to YT.

Among the things that made this a v. enjoyable episode was the power imbalance. Clarifying: there wasn't ANY impropriety from either Jin or Youngjin. However, the fact that Jin is not only an A-lister but also 10 yrs older than Youngjin is something that's acknowledged without much fanfare. For Western fandom fans, imagine if Beyonce showed up at your home to be filmed with drinking and talking with you. Yes, both of you are human (etc, etc, etc.), but there will inevitably be some degree of star-struck coming from you no matter what.

IN ANY CASE, Youngjin was a bit OTT--which was false bravado--at the beginning, but Jin's casually warm personality calmed Youngjin down a little? They do get tipsy and, after the first 5-10 mins, both get a bit more relaxed.

Trigger Warnings: This is a drinking show. Also, at the end, someone ends up falling asleep (due to excessive drinking.) The fact that happened is mentioned with a mildly lulzy tone but the person is NOT shown passed out.

glitteryv: (Default)
Last November, a surprise interview featuring RM dropped. Rolling Stone magazine did an article (it was on the cover, even!).

Now, for those who might not know, RM and Pharrell had met a few years ago. It had happened during one of those "BTS and other celebs backstage at a USian music award show" type of things. From what I remember, RM (as well as the rest of BTS) were starstruck and had casually mentioned that they would love to do a collabo with him.

Fast forwards to 11/1/22 and a 23-minute interview-turned-full-conversation between RM and Pharrell. FTR, I would've sat thru an hourlong video. An introspective conversation between two people who are extremely creative, this is deffo worth watching.

glitteryv: (Default)
One year ago (April 29, 2022 to be exact), PSY dropped the song AND music video for "That That", a song that not only featured SUGA but was also produced by him. The song was a hit everywhere; the MV reached iconique status as well.

Although the video below isn't a conversation (since both PSY and SUGA are interviewed separately), I did enjoyed watching it. In part cuz PSY's public persona is big yet not obnoxious and it's delightful to hear the story of him reeling Yoongi in until he ended up in the MV, heheh.

On top of that, it's a quick look at how Yoongi works outside of BTS: his style, mindset, etc. There's even a bit shown of him practicing with PSY and the dancers! For an almost 10-min video, it gives the viewers a lot, imo.



And, for funsies, here's the only live performance (to date) of PSY and SUGA at a summer festival last year.

Trigger warnings: fast cuts and random camera angles, flashing lights, the crowd screaming (with happiness), and (at 2:20) a lot of water shoots up in the air.

glitteryv: (Default)
RM didn't do a lot of promo for his solo album Indigo. Which, in turn, made the few appearances he did even more precious.

One of the few shows he appeared in was PSICK SHOW back in December 14. This is a sort of variety show led by three Korean comedians. Many Korean celebrities (mainly Kpop idols) appear. To date, RM is the only member of BTS that has appeared (so far.) The sweetest "twist" is that RM turned out to be a really big fan of the show (enough to mention rare things that have aired in past episodes.)

glitteryv: (Default)
So there's a web talk show called LeeMujin Service in which singer-songwriter Lee Mujin invites all kinds of singers (a large majority being Kpop artists) to appear. I've only watched 9 of the 62 episodes that have already aired since February of last year.

The April's Fools Day episode had an extra special guest: Jimin!

This episode deviated a little from the show's regular format. Usually, Lee Mujin will start by singing a song from the guest's discography, then the guest will sing whichever song they're promoting and another fave song of theirs from any artist. Lee Mujin and the guest(s) will have short convos in between and the show will end with a duet from Lee Mujin and the guest(s).

However, after a short version of BTS' Fake Love (and two other songs from other artists), Lee Mujin opted to have longer conversations with Jimin (who sang a beautiful acoustic version of "Like Crazy" in English). They also had a balance (choose this or that) game.

Another thing is that, despite being only 22 years old, Lee Mujin tends to offer some positive commentary abt his guests' techniques, skills, etc after the guests sing a song or two. This time, however, you can tell that Lee Mujin was genuinely starstruck by Jimin. Speaking of, Jimin was adorable: v. giggly and mellow. If you're a fan of Jimin's and, for whatever reason, you've yet to watch this, head on over to YT. :P

All in all, this was a really soft and fun episode. And, even though it's Boramonth (etc), IF Jimin's not your cuppa, feel free to check out Lee Mujin's page cuz, again, SIXTY-TWO episodes have aired, so I'm sure y'all will find someone(s) whose singing will ping you. This is a show of SINGERS WHO CAN SIIIIIIING.

Trigger Warning: There is a part s/(starting at 27:00 and that lasts less than 5 minutes) in which Jimin and Lee Mujin talk abt dieting.

glitteryv: (Default)
Let me add some context first: there are tons of Kpop artists (both groups and soloists) debuting every year. IF the debut comes from one of the big companies (SM Entertainment, JYP, YGE, and (arguably circa 2020-ish or so) HYBE/Big Hit), THEN the artists will appear in a lot of variety shows as part of the promo rollout.

However, back in 2013 (when BTS debuted), Big Hit Music (as it was known at the time) was a v. small (allegedly only had around 10-15 employees) company. There wasn't enough of an incentive (especially when compared to the prestige and coins from JYP, YGE, etc.) for BTS to be invited to appear in shows aside from the weekly music ones. (ETA: and even then, like most rookie groups (especially those from smaller companies), BTS would often have to either perform shorter versions of their songs (at best) or be completely bumped off the schedule (at worst).)

One way BTS worked around this was to do vlogs on YouTube (they're not the first group to do this but they deffo established a small-yet-growing presence on that platform at a time when a lot of Kpop artists didn't for whatever reason). They also worked in their own variety content (Run BTS, Bon Voyage, BTS Gayo, etc).

Fast-forward to BTS' rise to the top and still not be able to participate in a lot of variety shows. This time because their schedules were PACKED. So, once they put group activities on hold in June 2022, they began to pop up in all kinds of shows when they began releasing solo work. Jin was the first one to do this while promoting The Astronaut.

FTR, I did avoided watching this specific episode because Myungsoo has a rather mean face (Hahahah.) In all truth, I'm not really familiar with him (he's a DJ, comedian, and singer that co-hosted the v. popular Infinite Challenge variety show.) But, thankfully, a good friend nudged me to give it a chance and I'm tremendously happy I did.

The gist is that Jin and Myungsoo meet and spend some time together hanging out. I had to pause several times cuz my stomach ached from laughing so hard. And that's all I'll say. It's 25 mins of Myungsoo's dry comedy and Jin being his usual charming self.



IDEK how many times I've rewatched this whole thing. Total mood lifter. FTR, Myungsoo has episodes with a lot of other Kpop artists. Another fave episode is this one featuring Seventeen's super fan!Vernon and skeptic/mundane!Minghao (The 8).
glitteryv: (Default)
Given that, like most ARMYs, I see this month as an extended FESTA (or, you know, as a Boramonth), I knew I wanted to do at least 10 posts abt BTS. So, the theme for June will be BTS Interviews. FTR, I don't exactly mean the guys sitting down with a journalist to answer some of the same questions they've been given through their now TEN YEAR CAREER (🥳). Instead, I'm going to place the spotlight on several instances where the group or an individual member engage in conversations of all kinds. FTR, v. few of them will be serious in nature. So I doubt there will be any deep analysis and/or assumptions and/or interpretations of stuff they say.

So, Lee Hyun is the oldest active idol in HYBE's roster (signing with BigHit in 2007.) FTR, I don't really follow his careet (don't know anything abt it other than he started as part of a duet but has been a solo artist for a few years now.). He has his own YouTube channel in which he uploads all kinds of videos.

Back in 2021, he did a 2-part video in which he is the newest manager in charge of BTS for a whole day, LOL. This is a v. fun episode. For starters, BTS and Lee Hyun have a close friendship AND BTS also loves to roleplay. In addition, there's a bit of behind-the-curtain aspect to the episode. The day begins with Lee Hyun and the senior manager picking BTS members up, getting ready for interviews, and (in part 2) helping them with a recording for a TV show.



My fave part here is around 6:07, when they're getting ready to do interviews. We find out that all bottles get numbered (cuz each member has an assigned number based on age. So, Jin will always be no.1 and Jungkook will always be no.7).


The second part



The loveliest moment (imo) is around 8:50. Lee Hyun has to go wake up Taehyung to get ready for the second recording. Their friendship is palpable and cute. :D

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