BTS Documentary Sparks Debate, Heeseung: “I Feel Sorry for Members”, Keeho Discourages Mass Streaming

Keeho of P1Harmony Speaks Out on Fan Streaming Culture

On March 25, Keeho, leader of fourth-generation K-pop group P1Harmony, addressed fan-driven streaming culture while discussing the group’s latest mini album “UNIQUE.”

“Obviously we would love if you guys stream, but it's not something that should be forced,” he said, adding, “It’s our job as idols to release music that you want to listen to on repeat, not because you have to.”

While organized streaming goals are not exclusive to K-pop, they have become particularly embedded in the genre’s promotional cycles. Fanbases often coordinate mass streaming during comeback periods to boost chart performance, music show wins, and year-end awards at major ceremonies such as Mnet Asian Music Awards, Golden Disc Awards, and Melon Music Awards.

Though rooted in support, the practice has increasingly drawn criticism for contributing to fandom fatigue and shifting focus away from organic music consumption. While idols rarely encourage mass streaming outright, Keeho’s comments mark a notable instance of an active idol discouraging the behavior.

Heeseung Addresses Exit From ENHYPEN in a Fancall

Heeseung has spoken publicly for the first time following his departure from ENHYPEN. During a recent fan call, the artist reassured fans, saying, “I’m sure the news came as a surprise, but I’m fine,” while also expressing regret toward his former groupmates “I feel sorry for the members.”

Heeseung, who remains under the group’s agency, hinted at an upcoming solo release, signaling a transition into a new phase of his career.

ENHYPEN leader Jungwon also addressed the situation during a recent Weverse livestream, pushing back against fan discourse centered on the group’s lineup. “Can you stop with the number game?” he said, referring to repeated “ENHYPEN is 7” comments. “I’d appreciate it if only ENGENEs join the live.”

When a fan suggested he might be struggling emotionally, Jungwon dismissed the assumption, stating he had not been dealing with anything particularly difficult.

As of now, Heeseung’s profile has been removed from ENHYPEN’s official Weverse community, and BE:LIFT Lab lists him solely as a solo artist.

ICYMI:

• Second-generation girl group KARA teased a full-group 2026 reunion in a recent interview with Hominis.

• “Only” singer LeeHi confirmed her relationship with South Korean rapper and producer Dok2. The couple is also set to launch their independent label, “808 Hi Recordings.”

• Kato Kokoro (formerly of ME:I and Cherry Bullet) has joined Ebisu Pro.

• Big Ocean, the first K-pop group composed entirely of members with hearing impairments, performed on Show Champion alongside wheelchair dancers, highlighting inclusivity.

• XngHan&Xoul (formerly of RIIZE) officially revealed his fandom name: XngHan&Mate.

BTS Documentary Fuels Debate Over Label’s Input To “ARIRANG” Creative Direction

BTS released their 10th studio album “ARIRANG” on March 21, achieving the 12th-biggest album debut in Spotify history with 110 million streams. Despite commercial success and critical attention from outlets including Rolling Stone, the album has sparked debate among critics.

Listeners have questioned the album’s heavy use of English despite its title referencing “Arirang,” a traditional Korean folk song with centuries-old cultural significance.

The 93-minute "BTS: THE RETURN" offers insight into the creative process behind the project. In one scene, when a concept inspired by early Korean cultural figures is proposed, RM humbly expresses hesitation, saying he feels uncomfortable drawing comparisons to “heroes and legends.”

In another scene of the documentary, Suga raises concerns about the volume of English lyrics and suggests incorporating more Korean, particularly in rap sections.

An executive responds by acknowledging the importance of authenticity while emphasizing the need to maintain global market appeal.

These behind-the-scenes moments have led to speculation that label input may have played a significant role in shaping the album’s final direction, contributing to what some critics perceive as a less cohesive project compared to the group’s earlier releases.

Upcoming Tours & Performances

• BTS announced the Latin America leg of their “BTS World Tour ARIRANG,” including five dates across multiple cities and venues.

• NMIXX added five additional dates to their first world tour, “EPISODE 1: ZERO FRONTIER.”

• KCON LA 2026 unveiled its Artist Stage lineup, including KickFlip, SANTOS BRAVOS, TREASURE, &TEAM, ILLIT, izna, P1Harmony, Yeonjun of TXT, ALLDAY PROJECT, ALPHA DRIVE ONE, JO1, and MEOVV.

• IVE announced their second world tour, “SHOW WHAT I AM,” featuring 20 dates, with more to be added.

• Weverse Con revealed its second lineup, including Apink, BOYNEXTDOOR, LUCY, TWS, and Yoon Sanha of ASTRO.

• JUST B announced their 14-stop 2026 “SNOW ANGEL” tour across North America.

Favorite New Music This Week

Kangmin delivers a quietly compelling debut with “Free Falling,” a track that leans into vulnerability.

Built on airy production and subtle rhythmic shifts, the song mirrors the emotional push-and-pull of a relationship caught between love and conflict. Its lyrics trace late-night arguments, lingering attachment, and the uneasy feeling of losing balance while still holding on, capturing a state of emotional free fall.

As a first solo step, especially one co-written by him, “Free Falling” feels introspective and cohesive.

NEXT WEEK’S COMEBACK SCHEDULE

• Monday, March 30, 2026

  • Irene (Red Velvet): 1st Album “Biggest Fan”

  • Wonpil (Day6): 1st Mini Album “Unpiltered”

  • Jang Haneum: 2nd EP “Daydream”

• Tuesday, March 31, 2026

  • Kep1er: 8th Mini Album “Crack Code”

  • Jeong Sewoon: EP “Love in the Margins”

• Wednesday, April 1, 2026

  • fromis_9: 1st Japanese EP “Like You Better”

  • Kino (Pentagon): 3rd EP “Lost and Found”

• Thursday, April 2, 2026

  • N/A

• Friday, April 3, 2026

  • T.O.P: 1st Studio Album “Another Dimension”

  • MONSTA X: English Album “Unfold”

• Saturday, April 4, 2026

  • N/A

• Sunday, March 5, 2026

  • N/A

— Javeria Yousuf

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