Some of the issues that have emerged among fans revolve around how HYBE Corporation has dealt with BTS member Kim Taehyung, also known as V, in relation to his solo album Layover. Fans have accused the company of sabotaging Kim Taehyung’s career through a series of actions perceived as inattentive and disrespectful to the artist.
Major Concerns About V
1. Understocking of Vinyl Copies
One of the most persistent criticisms is that HYBE allegedly understocked vinyl versions of V’s album Layover. Reports suggest that numerous fans did not receive their orders on time when pre-orders began, leading to frustration and disappointment. It became evident that the copies were inadequately stocked at major retail centers as the release date approached, forcing fans to look elsewhere for the album.
These issues mirrored problems encountered during the initial launch of Layover, where similar stock issues recurred.
2. Lack of Promotion
Fans also blamed HYBE for insufficiently promoting V’s album. For example, while Layover did not receive much publicity, other BTS members’ solo projects were widely promoted. Moreover, no official social media account of HYBE announced the vinyl release of Layover. Some fans even felt that V was being singled out, receiving less attention compared to his fellow group members.
3. Shipping Delays
Shipping delays for the vinyl stock added to fans’ complaints, particularly after pre-ordering. The issue was widely voiced on social media, with hashtags like #HYBESTOPSABOTAGINGTAEHYUNG trending. These delays, coupled with HYBE’s silence, were perceived as provocative and disrespectful to both V and his fanbase.
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4. Incoherent Smears
Allegations of HYBE engaging in negative marketing against V further fueled the controversy. Fans accused the company of failing to protect him from online hate and defamatory comments circulating on platforms like the DC Gallery. Speculation also arose that HYBE might have influenced public opinion against V after he reportedly decided not to work with certain internal producers at BigHit Music.
5. Comparison with Other Members
Fans highlighted that other BTS members received significant publicity for their solo projects, while V’s work appeared sidelined. For instance, other members’ albums were prominently displayed on official pages and promotional banners, but V’s Layover lacked similar visibility. This perceived favoritism angered many supporters.
What Happened: The HYBE Controversy and Its Impact on K-Pop Artists
The controversy surrounding HYBE Corporation escalated after an internal document titled Weekly Music Industry Report was confirmed to exist during a National Assembly audit on October 24, 2024. This document contained derogatory remarks about K-pop idols from other agencies, including comments such as:
- “This agency debuted the members at an age when they all looked ugly.”
- “Their plastic surgery was overdone.”
These remarks sparked widespread concern about HYBE’s corporate culture and its approach to talent management.
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The leaked documents ignited social media outrage, with hashtags like #HYBEApologizeToV and #HYBEApologizeToBLACKPINK trending across fandoms. Fans demanded accountability for the offensive comments about their idols.
CEO Lee Jae-sang’s Apology
Amid the controversies, HYBE CEO Lee Jae-sang issued a formal apology on October 29, 2024. He addressed concerns raised during the National Assembly audit about inappropriate comments targeting K-pop idols in the leaked document. Lee acknowledged the content was unacceptable and expressed regret for the harm caused to artists like V.
In his statement, he said:
“We are truly sorry to all artists, staff, and fans we have harmed through this scandal. We will learn thoroughly from our past mistakes through self-reflection and introspection.”
The CEO assured fans that HYBE would improve its management practices and treat all its artists with greater respect.
Denial of Reverse Viral Marketing
Despite these criticisms, some speculated that HYBE might be engaging in reverse-viral marketing, leveraging adverse publicity to create buzz around its artists. However, CEO Lee Jae-sang denied these claims, asserting that HYBE is committed to protecting its artists and does not endorse such tactics.
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Fan Response
While Lee Jae-sang’s apology was meant to address fan concerns, many felt it was inadequate. Some viewed it as an excuse rather than a genuine acknowledgment of wrongdoing. Fans flooded social media with criticism and even called for boycotts of HYBE.
This incident shed light on deeper issues in the K-pop industry, particularly regarding how management companies handle public relations and artist well-being.
Broader Revelations
In addition to the controversy surrounding V, other leaked documents raised serious concerns about HYBE’s treatment of its artists:
- LE SSERAFIM: Accused of lip-syncing during live performances.
- BLACKPINK: Targeted by rumors aimed at tarnishing their reputation.
- ENHYPEN: Members reportedly suffered from fatigue and mental health issues.
These revelations have disappointed fans across multiple fandoms, further eroding trust in HYBE’s management.
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Conclusion
The outrage from BTS ARMY over HYBE’s treatment of V highlights serious concerns about artist management in the K-pop industry. Fans believe that all artists deserve equal respect, appreciation, and support.
The lack of promotion for Layover and the derogatory remarks in the leaked documents underscore the need for urgent changes in how HYBE treats its artists. Moving forward, the company must prioritize fair treatment, open communication, and genuine efforts to address fan concerns to rebuild trust.
