PHOTOS: All-Chinese K-pop girl group debuts with 'Bubble Gum' SEOUL, February 12 (AJP) - BLINGONE China, a K-pop girl group composed entirely of Chinese members, made its official debut on Feb. 12 at the World K-pop Center in Seoul. The group’s title track, Bubble Gum, blends energetic hip-hop dance beats with bright, synth-driven melodies, embodying the hybridized sound that has become a hallmark of the K-pop genre. With a catchy chorus and classical overture elements, the song is designed to be instantly memorable and easy to sing along to. BLINGONE China was formed through Click the Star Worldwide Project, a global idol audition program spanning 32 countries. The program’s Chinese edition, held in May 2024, drew approximately 260,000 contestants, from which six finalists — Ranee, Katrina, Sandy, Cassie, Junny, and Chloee — were ultimately selected. 2025-02-12 17:39:30

PHOTOS: In Seoul, ice skating offers a winter escape SEOUL, February 10 (AJP) - South Korea's four distinct seasons bring a variety of cultural and sporting activities. Among them, ice skating emerges as a beloved pastime in winter, drawing both locals and visitors to the rinks from December through February. In Seoul, two prominent skating venues offer distinctly different experiences. At the heart of the city, the Seoul Plaza Ice Rink transforms the area in front of City Hall into a lively winter wonderland. For just 1,000 won (about 75 cents) per hour - including skate and helmet rental - skaters glide across the open-air rink, framed by the city's illuminated skyline. The rink, located a short walk from the subway, hums with energy as couples, families, and tourists take to the ice against a backdrop of upbeat music. Operating until 9:30 p.m. on weekdays and 11 p.m. on weekends, the rink provides a romantic nighttime setting before closing for the season in early February. For those seeking a more professional skating experience, Mokdong Ice Rink - Seoul’s largest indoor facility - offers a year-round alternative. The international-standard rink, measuring 30 meters by 61 meters, recently hosted the ISU Short Track World Tour’s fourth competition in December 2024 and will welcome the ISU Four Continents Figure Skating Championships in February 2025. The vast expanse of ice offers an exhilarating sensation, particularly for beginners adjusting to the rhythm of skating. Despite its world-class reputation, Mokdong Ice Rink remains accessible, with admission fees ranging from 3,000 won ($2.25) for children to 4,000 won ($3) for adults. Skate rentals are available for an additional 4,000 won per two-hour session. Unlike its seasonal counterpart, the indoor facility provides a retreat not only from winter’s chill but also from the sweltering heat of summer. Adding to the experience, the on-site cafeteria offers traditional Korean street food, including tteokbokki, ramyeon, and pork cutlet - comforting fare after a session on the ice. Whether seeking a charming winter outing under the stars or a professional-grade rink open year-round, Seoul’s ice skating venues offer something for everyone - an invitation to embrace the season, one glide at a time. Mokdong Ice Rink/ AJP Han Jun-gu 2025-02-10 11:02:49