Ralph Lauren's 'Holiday Experience' event in Seoul featured NCT's Mark, aespa's WINTER, ENHYPEN's Jay, and f(x)'s Krystal.

WINTER from aespa celebrated her birthday on January 1, sharing adorable photos on social media with a cake and a red ribbon. Fans sent her warm birthday wishes, expressing happiness at seeing her cute side at the start of the new year. aespa recently performed their hit song "Whiplash" at the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen on December 31.

The 2025 MBC歌謡大祭典 opened the New Year with top K-POP artists showcasing diverse performances and collaborations. Highlights included ATEEZ's impactful start, special stages featuring ILLIT and TOMORROW X TOGETHER, and a nostalgic medley celebrating the show's 20th anniversary, culminating in a grand finale with all performers singing together.

On the afternoon of the 1st, aespa returned to Korea via Incheon International Airport after their debut performance at the 76th NHK Red and White Song Festival, where they showcased their popular song 'Whiplash.' This article is based on local media coverage, and there may be variations in the photos provided.

This year's NHK紅白歌合戦 featured a variety of artists like ILLIT, &TEAM, and aespa, delivering captivating performances. Highlights included ILLIT's 'Almond Chocolate' and &TEAM's 'FIREWORK.' A Guinness World Record was set during a special segment, bringing excitement to the event.

In December, K-pop news was dominated by SHINee's Key announcing a hiatus due to a scandal, PSY's police investigation over prescription drugs, and the wedding of Kim Woo-bin and Shin Mina after 10 years of dating. Other highlights included dating rumors between BTS's Jungkook and aespa's Winter, and NewJeans' contract issues with member Daniel.

K-POP artists, especially Stray Kids, have dominated global concert scenes, achieving top Billboard rankings and breaking records. Stray Kids ranked 10th on the Billboard Top Tours 2025 chart, while other groups like SEVENTEEN and BTS also made significant impacts. Their tours attracted millions, showcasing K-POP's global influence.

The 76th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen will air tomorrow, featuring Korean artists aespa, ILLIT, and &TEAM. ILLIT and &TEAM will participate in a special medley, while Iroha and Maki will attempt a kendama world record. The event also reflects on the history of Korean artists at Kohaku.

Actor Gong Myung has been hospitalized for sudden deafness while filming tvN's 'Secret Audit.' His agency confirmed he is recovering and plans to return to filming this week. The exact cause of his condition remains private. Gong Myung is set to star in 'Secret Audit' and 'Your Ground,' both scheduled for release next year.

On the afternoon of the 30th, aespa departed for Japan via Gimpo International Airport to participate in the 76th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen. They announced that they would perform as a trio since NINGNING is infected with influenza. This information comes from local media coverage. Please note that there may be variations in the photos provided.

ENHYPEN embraces a modern cowboy theme in their upcoming mini-album 'THE SIN: VANISH,' blending dark fantasy with romance. They released visuals for the second chapter 'Big Girls Don't Cry,' depicting lovers escaping from vampire pursuers in a cinematic style. Fans are excited about the album's narrative and the group's performance, with the album set to release on January 16, featuring interconnected tracks and lyrics.