Zico has set the record straight on his involvement in HYBE’s controversial internal monitoring report.
On October 30, the 32-year-old rapper took to Instagram to clarify, saying, “What is going on…. Article published today. I thought I’d check it out, and write to you directly. I have never seen the document, and have never opened the email itself…”
He added, “I only found out that I was added to the recipients lists from today’s article, and I do not want to create more misunderstandings.
I also asked KOZ Entertainment directly to confirm that I had not opened all the emails and documents before making the statement. I hope everyone who was worried is having a good day today.”
The internal monitoring report, written by Mr. Kang, containing an assessment of K-pop idols, was submitted to the National Assembly. Since the 18000-page long document was briefly made public, the content of the monitoring reports has shocked and angered K-pop fans.
K-pop groups are mercilessly mocked for their appearances and skills in the report, highlighting negative media portrayals and other concerning practices.
On October 29, Lee Jae Sang, the new HYBE CEO, issued an apology to K-pop idols and industry professionals after the criticism grew. SEVENTEEN member Seungkwan also criticized the agency for ridiculing K-pop idols.
Later, it was reported by Daily Sports that HYBE chairman Bang Si Hyuk was directly involved in the distribution of the report. He reportedly ordered the list to be sent to executives of affiliated labels.
Zico, the founder of KOZ Entertainment (a HYBE subsidiary), clarifies he had no prior knowledge of the disputed document.