The 76th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen features Korean artists aespa, ILLIT, and &TEAM, reflecting on past Korean participants.

aespa is set to return with their 2nd full album 'LEMONADE', releasing the pre-release track 'WDA (Whole Different Animal)' featuring G-DRAGON. The song is described as a hip-hop dance track with a grand synth bass and heavy hooks, reflecting aespa's growth. The music video is available on their SMTOWN YouTube channel, with the full album releasing on the 29th.

In a lighthearted YouTube segment, aespa's NINGNING and singer Lee Yong-ji engage in a humorous bet that results in a significant donation of 20 million won to a welfare facility. Despite the competitive spirit, both artists demonstrate their commitment to charity, reflecting on humility and gratitude in their conversations.

KARINA of aespa participated in a beauty shoot for Harper's BAZAAR Korea, captivating with her radiant skin. In a follow-up interview, she addressed fan concerns, providing practical advice on making friends, maintaining a positive attitude, and how to decline requests wisely. aespa will release their 2nd full album 'LEMONADE' on the 29th of this month.

Wonhee from ILLIT is set to debut her first solo variety show titled 'Wonhee is 20' on June 6. The show will feature her tackling a bucket list alongside older female mentors, highlighting her growth and experiences as she turns 20. The program aims to resonate with viewers through shared dreams and heartfelt moments.

A new video featuring Faker and aespa's KARINA has gone viral, showcasing Faker's heartfelt confession to her. The video, titled 'Who did Faker confess to?' shows him walking alone and dramatically taking her hand as he admits his feelings. Fans are buzzing about this unexpected pairing, expressing their surprise and excitement over the romantic vibe of the video.

G-DRAGON is featured in aespa's new song 'WDA (Whole Different Animal)', part of their 2nd full album 'LEMONADE', set to release on May 29. The digital single will be available on May 11. This collaboration marks their second, following G-DRAGON's previous work with aespa's KARINA in 2022.

Yuna from ILLIT disclosed that she obtained her driver's license earlier this year during an appearance on YouTube's 'TEO'. She shared her feelings of adulthood upon receiving her license and recounted her experiences driving, including a practice session with fellow member Minju. The conversation included humorous exchanges about driving and life aspirations.

At Met Gala 2026, BLACKPINK members, including Karina and Ningning from aespa, and actor Ahn Hyo-seop, dazzled in designer outfits. The event, themed 'Costume Art,' featured the group in glamorous dresses from brands like PRADA and GUCCI. This was the first time all BLACKPINK members attended together, creating a buzz with their group photo. Other attendees included model Bhavitha Mandava and actress Jung Ho-yeon.

Moka from ILLIT made her first public appearance since announcing a health-related hiatus at the Seoul Children's Grand Park Festival. She surprised fans with a performance, including the new song 'It's Me,' and showcased her recovery by dancing on stage, receiving a warm welcome from the audience.

On April 4, &TEAM completed their schedule in Korea and departed for Japan through Gimpo International Airport. This article is based on local media coverage. Notably, &TEAM won 1st place on the April 29 broadcast of 'SHOW CHAMPION' and achieved two crowns on the Oricon weekly music rankings with their new album 'We on Fire', setting a record for their highest weekly points.