HYBE Label has found itself embroiled in controversy once again, particularly in the wake of an internal report that sparked widespread criticism on social media. Renowned as one of South Korea's leading entertainment companies, HYBE has produced globally beloved K-pop groups like BTS, Seventeen, and NewJeans. On October 29, CEO Lee Jae-sang issued an official apology addressing the fallout. HYBE facing significant backlash after internal reports emerged online following the National Assembly State Audit. These reports claimed that the company attempted to undermine Kim Taehyung aka V’s solo album, Layover, and orchestrated a negative campaign against BLACKPINK and Lisa. As a result, social media has erupted with trending hashtags like ‘Hybe Apologise To V’, ‘Hybe Apologise To BLACKPINK’, and ‘Jungkook Leave Hybe’, reflecting the growing discontent among fans and the public. HYBE Employees’ Disrespectful Comments on BTS Jungkook’s Support for K-Pop Group NewJeans Sparks Massive ARMY Backlash.
What Did HYBE CEO Lee Jae-Sang Say?
In his statement, Lee apologised to artists, industry stakeholders, and fans for the 'monitoring documents' highlighted by the National Assembly Committee on Culture, Sports, and Tourism during a recent audit. He clarified that the document was merely a compilation of public opinions on industry trends. "We take full responsibility for the inflammatory language directed at K-pop idols," he remarked, expressing regret for the harm caused to innocent artists. He committed to rectifying past errors through self-reflection and pledged to prioritise the rights and interests of K-pop artists while ensuring their fans are respected.
Apology From HYBE
HYBE’s CEO Lee Jae Sang issues apology letter for the ‘Music Industry Report’ document:
— “As CEO of HYBE, I would like to apologize for the HYBE monitoring documents.
I would like to bow my head and apologize to artists, industry officials, and fans for our monitoring document… pic.twitter.com/gHQgscsBsP
— Kpop Charts (@kchartsmaster) October 29, 2024
HYBE is accused of overstocking albums for other artists while failing to provide sufficient stock for V’s album, Layover. The company allegedly neglected to defend BTS members against online hate from DC Gallery, a Korean online forum. NewJeans’ Danielle’s Social Media Update Sparks Controversy Following BTS Jungkook’s Supportive Instagram Post, ARMY Reacts.
Controversies Surrounding V’s Album and Allegations of Negativity From
HYBE INTERNAL AUDIT SO FAR:
HYBE APOLOGIZE TO V#뷔_탈하이브@bts_bighit@BIGHIT_MUSIC@HYBEOFFICIALtwt pic.twitter.com/2jVe1N0WSU
— lexi (@idgafduo) October 28, 2024
Involvement of Bang Sihyuk in Sharing the Music Industry Report at HYBE
Daily Sports shares that Bang Sihyuk was aware and involved in the process of sharing HYBE’s "Music Industry Report" internally.
He reportedly sent the document to C-level executives at HYBE and it’s labels and instructed the new executives to be added as recipients when the… pic.twitter.com/HZFv1R4Jdp
— Kpop Charts (@kchartsmaster) October 29, 2024
Bang Sihyuk was reportedly informed and actively participated in the distribution of HYBE’s "Music Industry Report" within the company.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 29, 2024 07:29 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).