After a Year-long Hiatus, the Girly Kitsch Girl Group Returns with a New Album, Amidst Rumors and Allegations

Yes Im Entertainment

In an exciting development for K-pop enthusiasts worldwide, Mimiirose, the trailblazing girl group nurtured under the wing of famed singer and actor Im Chang-jung, is set to make its eagerly awaited comeback next month. Hailing from the stables of Yes Im Entertainment, the group's home label, the announcement came on Monday, revealing a highly anticipated album release scheduled for September 14.

This impending resurgence marks a year since Mimiirose's debut, which was heralded by the release of their inaugural single album, titled "Awesome," in the preceding September. Teasing fans with a vivid poster showcasing a mask, flower, phone case, lipstick, and a baseball bat, all set against a rosy pink backdrop, the group is clearly signaling a return with a feminine, kitschy aesthetic.

The comeback, originally intended for earlier this year in July, was regrettably postponed, and rumors have swirled that the delay might be linked to investigations involving the agency's CEO, Im Chang-jung. Allegations have emerged of his purported involvement in a stock price manipulation case, where he is said to have invested significant sums through individuals believed to be behind stock market turbulence.

Reportedly divesting a portion of his stake in Yes Im Entertainment for 5 billion won (equivalent to $3.7 million), Im is alleged to have directed 3 billion won towards the contentious investment project. The scheme saw Im creating fresh securities accounts, one registered in his own name where 1.5 billion won was deposited, and the other under his spouse's name to cover the remaining funds. Intriguingly, both Im and his wife reportedly entrusted their personal identification information to the alleged stock manipulators to manage these accounts.

Im Chang-jung, facing the accusations head-on, contends that he is not only embroiled in the controversy but also a victim of the alleged stock price manipulation. Meanwhile, the spotlight remains firmly on Mimiirose, consisting of five accomplished members: Inn Hyori, Choi Yeonjae, Han Yewon, Yoon Jia, and Seo Yunju.

Throughout the year following the quintet's debut last September, Im has actively championed Mimiirose through his participation in numerous TV variety shows. However, despite his fervent efforts, the group faced challenges in securing a place on local music charts with their titular debut track, "Rose."

As anticipation builds and speculations swirl, all eyes are on Mimiirose's upcoming comeback, with fans eagerly awaiting the new album and the artistic direction the group will take under the guiding hand of Im Chang-jung.

Sayart.net 

Blue YIM, yimyoungseo1010@naver.com