
aespa's NINGNING and singer Lee Yong-ji beautifully completed a humorous bet that started in a YouTube variety project, delivering a warm and touching donation. In the recently released 36th episode of Lee Yong-ji's YouTube channel 'It's More Boring,' NINGNING appeared as a guest. In the middle of the video, Lee Yong-ji asked NINGNING, 'Do you like donations?' and proposed a big bet. When NINGNING readily accepted, Lee Yong-ji suggested that the loser of a tongue twister game should donate, to which NINGNING shockingly proposed '20 million won' (about 200,000 yen). The century's tongue twister showdown between Chinese national NINGNING and Korean Lee Yong-ji surprisingly ended with NINGNING as the winner. During the game, Lee Yong-ji complained about unfavorable conditions like double pronunciation (Korean pronunciation rules), but ultimately had to bow to NINGNING's Korean language skills. Two weeks after filming, based on the broadcast date, Lee Yong-ji shared a certificate of her 20 million won donation to a senior welfare facility in Yangcheon District, stating, 'No one spends 20 million won on a single drinking party. I did it because I really like it.' However, the story was hidden at the end of the video. The production team revealed, 'We received a notice a few days ago,' and it was disclosed that NINGNING also donated 20 million won to the Korean Red Cross. Despite not being obligated to face a penalty as the winner of the tongue twister, she willingly agreed to donate, spreading a positive influence. Not only the donation but also the serious conversation between the two captured the viewers' attention. NINGNING expressed, 'I feel disappointed when I see people who act superior just because they have gained honor. We are all just human beings,' revealing her effort to view herself objectively as an artist. Lee Yong-ji also empathized, saying, 'We must live healthily and sincerely, and be grateful for small happiness,' showcasing the mature inner selves of the two stars who have reached their seventh year since debut.
On the morning of the 2nd, aespa departed for São Paulo, Brazil, via Incheon International Airport for the “2026-27 aespa LIVE TOUR - SYNK : COMPLaeXITY.” Separately, GISELLE appears on the cover of the October issue of CLASSY. for the first time, and WINTER sings on the newly released “Speed of Summer,” with a special clip also unveiled.
SHINee’s Minho presents a deep narrative of love and farewell through his 2nd mini album, Make it hot. The album includes the sensual yet refreshing pop dance track “Liquid (Feat. BELLE of KISS OF LIFE),” the medium-tempo R&B song “Ending Scene,” and the Afro-house-based “Love Me Now.” The teaser image, released on the 27th, shows him creating a unique mood against a sunset-lit island backdrop. The album will be released on September 7 at 6 p.m. through music streaming sites.
aespa’s GISELLE appears on the cover of CLASSY.’s October 2026 regular edition, on sale August 28. It is her first appearance in the magazine and the first cover by an aespa member in a Japanese magazine in about three years. The issue includes an eight-page fashion shoot and long interview.
aespa’s WINTER transforms into a refreshing rock star through the project song “Speed of Summer,” released with dingo. The alternative punk rock track blends energetic band sounds and a lively rhythm, expressing youthful freedom and release. Mastering by Abbey Road’s Geoff Pesche enhances its dynamic texture, and fans are excited about WINTER’s new appeal.
On the morning of the 24th, a photo call event for the brand Hourglass’s pop-up store was held at The Hyundai Seoul in Yeouido, Seoul, and Park Gyu-young attended. Related articles mention her stylish spring outdoor look and fresh smile, as well as other stars attending a Gucci fashion show.
On the 18th, aespa members KARINA, WINTER, and NINGNING departed through Gimpo International Airport for promotional activities in Japan. They will feature in Japan's first exclusive variety show 'ShitteLL? aespa' on ABEMA starting August 22, and they recently had a successful first performance at Gocheok Sky Dome, marking the start of their world tour.
aespa will appear in their first Japan-exclusive variety special, “Shittell? aespa,” streaming free on ABEMA on August 22, 2026. The show celebrates their Japanese first mini album, “KISS N TELL,” with talk about the songs and behind-the-scenes stories, plus prank and challenge segments with MC Kazutoyo Koyabu and guest Wada Manjū.
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