xikers Brings Their Unique Energy to the Studio
xikers, known for their dynamic performances and fresh sound, made their third appearance on the “Pick Up Artist” segment. JINSIK, HYUNWOO, and JUNGHOON shared insights into their recent three-day event, reflecting on the joy of connecting with fans. JINSIK expressed his happiness, stating, “It was a wonderful three days enjoying photos and talks,” while JUNGHOON felt invigorated, remarking, “Seeing the fans cheering us on made me want to work even harder.” In a heartwarming moment, HYUNWOO shared an anecdote, stating, “I studied Japanese, but I was surprised when fans spoke to me in Korean,” highlighting the deep connection with their fanbase.
The members also delved into their MINI ALBUM ‘HOUSE OF TRICKY : WRECKING THE HOUSE,’ released last October. They described it as a work that “breaks existing rails, moves forward anew, and breaks through limits.” The track “SUPERPOWER (Peak),” featured on the show, embodies their “will to showcase the energy of all ten members.” Looking ahead, HYUNWOO expressed his aspiration to “appear on many Japanese programs,” JINSIK wished for a “healthy year,” and JUNGHOON hoped to “make a comeback in Japan,” all delivered with infectious enthusiasm.
Cha Eun-woo (ASTRO) Secures First #1 on Weekly Chart
The ‘K-STAR CHART presents POP-K TOP10 Friday’ weekly chart saw a dramatic shift, with Cha Eun-woo (ASTRO)’s “SATURDAY PREACHER” claiming the top spot. This marks a significant jump from its previous #6 position, achieving a new personal best for the artist, surpassing his previous high of #4.
Also making a notable debut at #5 was HA SUNGWOON’s “Tell The World.” The former Wanna One member recently reunited with fans at a two-day fan meeting in Seoul, marking his first such event in approximately 18 months. His vocal prowess, well-regarded since his Wanna One days as a main vocalist, shines through in this track, showcasing his powerful high notes. Meanwhile, the five-member girl group Apink, celebrating their 15th anniversary this year, entered the chart at #8 with “Love Me More,” the title track from their 11th mini-album.
About ‘K-STAR CHART presents POP-K TOP10 Friday’
This music program, broadcast every Friday evening, presents an original K-Pop idol chart determined by listener votes. It operates in conjunction with the K-Pop idol support app ‘IDOL CHAMP,’ allowing fans to directly influence the rankings. The show is hosted by Adachi Yuto, also known as Yuto from PENTAGON, who introduces the latest K-Pop artist information.
Program Details:
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Program Name: ‘K-STAR CHART presents POP-K TOP10 Friday’
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Broadcast Time: Every Friday 18:00-18:25 (JST)
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Broadcasting Station: TOKYO FM (Frequency 80.0MHz)
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Personality: Yuto Adachi (PENTAGON Yuto)
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Official X: https://twitter.com/popktop10friday
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Official Website: https://www.tfm.co.jp/pop-k/
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Official Hashtag: #ポプコン
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radiko (for listening): https://radiko.jp/
- Time-free listening available for one week after broadcast (premium membership required for out-of-area listening).
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After-talk Distribution:
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AuDee: https://audee.jp/
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Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6vuHaiMKhrDJbKWWoau7if
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Amazon Music: https://x.gd/v3wFq
‘IDOL CHAMP’ App: The Power of Fan Voting
‘IDOL CHAMP’ is a smartphone app service linked to the Korean MBC PLUS music program “SHOW CHAMPION.” It allows users to pre-vote for the program, with results reflected in the weekly rankings. Beyond the show, the app hosts various other voting topics. Artists who rank first in these polls receive support advertisements on street visions and station advertising spaces, or donations are made in their name. The app also plays a crucial role in selecting artists for prestigious magazines like ‘Forbes (Korean edition)’ and major music awards, generating significant excitement annually.
How to Vote in the IDOL CHAMP App:
- Tap “Vote” at the bottom of the home screen.
- Tap the “K-STAR CHART presents POP-K TOP10 Friday” vote.
- Tap the heart mark to vote for your favorite song.
IDOL CHAMP & K-STAR Official Links:
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IDOL CHAMP Japan Official Blog: https://idolchamp.jp/
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IDOL CHAMP Japan Official X: https://x.com/idolchamp_jp
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K-STAR Official Site: https://kstar-vote.com/
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K-STAR Official X: https://x.com/kstar_pj
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K-STAR Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kstar_pj/
App Downloads:
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App Store: https://apps.apple.com/jp/app/idolchamp/id1185735018
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Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.nwz.ichampclient&hl=ja&gl=US
The Future of Fan-Driven K-Pop Culture
The continued success of ‘K-STAR CHART presents POP-K TOP10 Friday’ and the ‘IDOL CHAMP’ app highlights a significant trend in the global music industry: the increasing power of fan engagement. These platforms act as a bridge, allowing the passionate energy of K-Pop fans to directly shape the visibility and success of their favorite artists. As K-Pop continues its global expansion, with Japan serving as a crucial hub for its influence, such fan-driven initiatives will undoubtedly play an even larger role in defining the future of idol culture abroad, fostering deeper connections and amplifying diverse voices within the fandom.
