HYBE is at the center of controversy after a thousands of pages-long audit document was leaked on October 24.
The leaked document reveals disturbing practices towards the company’s artists and BTS members especially, V, Jungkook, and Jimin. In addition, HYBE is receiving hate and backlash for mocking other groups, engaging in negative media play, making fun of idols’ appearances, and enabling anti-fan behavior.
Recently, fans of BTS V have demanded an apology from HYBE after the transcript revealed some shocking details to allegedly sabotage his solo career.
The internal audit document uncovered
“Layover” Sales Manipulation
HYBE’s internal audit revealed the agency overstocked albums for select artists while understocking “Layover,” resulting in 800,000+ canceled sales.
After the recent shocking revelations, fans have revisited the controversy surrounding the album’s sales figures on release day.
Fans were excited as the album “Layover” sold over 2.2 million copies on its first day. However, the sales number suddenly dropped by over 500,000. Hanteo Chart explained that it was due to a rule violation.
In addition, they noticed that vinyl copies of “Layover” were hard to find in many stores worldwide.
Fans blamed V’s record labels, HYBE, BIGHIT MUSIC, and Geffen Records, for not restocking vinyls quickly enough.
BTS’ V Target of Smear Campaigns for Not Working with HYBE’s Creative Team
BTS V worked with producers and directors, not affiliated with HYBE, for the production of his debut album. He also collaborated with ADOR’s ex-CEO, Min Hee Jin, who oversaw the production of the album
Hybe reportedly posted over 1,000 negative comments on Theqoo in an attempt to influence public perception of his album. These actions were said to be a response to V’s decision not to collaborate with internal producers and directors.
Protection of Antis
It was also revealed that HYBE did not take legal action against users on DC Gallery who were spreading malicious content targeting the “Love Me Again” singer.
Previously, Jungkook fans criticized the label after the leaked documents showed that the label was aware of the hate campaigns against the “Seven” singer on DC Gallery.
Further, HYBE staff were found to be shielding DC Gallery antis, perpetuating harm against V.
Subscribed to Notorious YouTuber Sojang
Sojang is a YouTuber who repeatedly shared hateful content about K-pop idols including V and Jungkook. After the notorious YouTube shared malicious content regarding JYP Entertainment’s artists, HYBE subscribed to VIP membership.
During 2021-2022, V sued Sojang for spreading lies and malicious content. However, the investigation into Sojang by HYBE was halted at the time; it resumed this year after multiple lawsuits by idols like Wonyoung, Kang Daniel, Jungkook, and V.
After the shocking revelations, fans have been trending various hashtags like “RESPECT V” and “HYBE APOLOGIZE TO V” are currently trending on X.
Lastly, the leaked internal document will be submitted to the National Assembly to investigate the workplace bullying allegations.