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BIGHIT Takes Legal Action Against BTS Defamatory Activities

BIGHIT MUSIC’s latest announcement to take legal action against defamatory activities underscores the gravity of the situation surrounding the targeted attacks on BTS, also signaling a proactive stance to safeguard the rights and dignity of the group’s members. The surge in organized campaigns aimed at tarnishing BTS’s reputation reflects a disturbing trend in the digital age, where misinformation and malicious intent can spread rapidly and inflict real harm.

BIGHIT To Take Action Against BTS Defamatory Activities

By publicly addressing these issues and taking concrete steps to address them, BIGHIT MUSIC is sending a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated. The decision to enlist the support of an additional law firm also demonstrates the company’s commitment to bolstering its legal defenses and actively combating the proliferation of harmful content.

The company’s emphasis on real-time monitoring also highlights the urgency with which they are approaching this matter, recognizing the need for swift action to counteract malicious activities. By gathering evidence of defamatory postings and rumors, BIGHIT MUSIC is also positioning itself to take decisive measures against those responsible, holding them accountable for their actions.

Crucially, BIGHIT MUSIC’s declaration of a zero-tolerance policy sends a strong signal to perpetrators that there will be consequences for their actions. By refusing to entertain leniency or settlements, the company is also reaffirming its dedication to upholding the integrity and well-being of BTS and its members, prioritizing their rights above all else.

In an industry where artists often face intense scrutiny and relentless public attention, BIGHIT MUSIC’s commitment to protecting BTS also sets a precedent for responsible management and advocacy for artists’ rights. As BTS continues to inspire millions worldwide with their music and message, it is imperative that they are afforded the respect and dignity they deserve, free from unwarranted attacks and defamation.

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BigHit Music Shares Update on Military Enlistment of Remaining BTS Members

BigHit Music, the agency of K-pop juggernaut BTS, has unveiled additional details about the impending military enlistment of RM, V, Jimin, and Jungkook.

In a statement released on Tuesday, December 5, BigHit Music confirmed that the four members would be fulfilling their mandatory military service soon. According to the label, RM and V would follow their respective military enlistment procedures. Meanwhile, Jimin and Jungkook are scheduled to enlist simultaneously. 

Furthermore, the agency announced that there would be no official event on the day of their entry into the military. Additionally, BigHit Music emphasized that entrance ceremonies are private affairs that should only be attended solely by military personnel and the members’ families. With this, fans were strongly advised against visiting the site to prevent any potential issues like crowding. 

“Please convey your warm regards and encouragement in your hearts only,” the agency said. 

Moreover, BigHit Music  also cautioned fans against purchasing any tours or products that unlawfully utilized BTS intellectual property. As such, they also vowed to take necessary legal actions against any commercial activity involving these unauthorized use of IPs. 

At the end of their statement, the agency asked for the fans’ continued love and support for the BTS members until they return from finishing their respective military services. “Our company will also strive to provide all the support they need during this time,” they said. 

BTS to reconvene as a full group in 2025

In November, BigHit Music announced that members—RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook— have already initiated the military enlistment process. 

Notably, the  four are the only remaining members of the seven-piece act who are yet to commence their military service. Earlier enlistments saw Jin, the oldest member, start his enlistment in December 2022. Then, he’s followed by j-hope in April 2023 and Suga in September 2023. 

In their latest post, BigHit Music also didn’t disclose the enlistment dates and sites of the members. Although there are reports from South Korean media outlets that RM and V will enlist on December 11, while Jimin and Jungkook will follow on December 12. On top of that, there’s also speculation as to what divisions and which boot camps the members will enlist. But BigHit Music refused to confirm any reports. 

 

With all the BTS members enlisting before 2023 ends, there’s a high possibility that all seven will have finished their services by 2025. In a previous livestream, RM assured fans that the group will “be back for sure” in 2025.

In September 2023, all seven members of BTS renewed their contract with BIGHIT Music for the second time.

Featured image: RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook for the group’s 2022 Festa photos. Credit: Facebook/BTS

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BTS Dance Trainer Fired by HYBE Over Massive Fraud Allegations

A dance trainer affiliated with HYBE, recognized for working with BTS, has been abruptly terminated amid allegations of fraud exceeding 5 billion KRW (approximately 3.9 million USD). In addition to the massive fraud allegations, the former HYBE employee is facing criminal charges for the deceit.

Former BTS Dance Trainer Faces Massive Fraud Allegations

The individual, associated with HYBE’s label, BigHit Music, faced dismissal on November 20, following accusations of involvement in fraudulent activities totaling tens of billions of KRW, resulting in criminal charges. The allegations suggest that the dance trainer, posing as an investment opportunity, collected significant sums from victims but failed to return the funds, leading to their termination and legal consequences.

Since then, HYBE issued a statement about the former employee. “As soon as we became aware of our member’s misconduct and the damage it caused to the company, we promptly initiated an impartial investigation through an external law firm. After undergoing the dismissal process by the Disciplinary and Personnel Committee, we terminated the individual’s employment,” it read.

“This case involves the individual’s misconduct, which violated internal rules, regulations, and employment rules,” the statement continued. “We strictly prohibit members from exploiting internal information, positions, etc., for personal gain and engaging in illegal and unfair activities.”

“To prevent fraudulent actions, such as leveraging connections with the company or its artists for personal gain, and to mitigate the likelihood of future incidents, we are committed to offering external guidance on fraud prevention. Additionally, we will strengthen our governance system for ethics education and fair trade for all our members, taking substantial steps to enhance our internal control systems,” the statement added.

The incident has garnered widespread public attention due to the individual’s association with HYBE and their prominent role in the entertainment industry. For now, the agency has confirmed that they will proceed with proper legal procedures.

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BTS V’s Sasaeng Stalker Faces Legal Prosecution

V’s sasaeng stalker is facing the consequences of her actions. The so-called fan is the latest individual who will need to face legal prosecution for stalking the BTS member.

V’s Sasaeng Stalker Slapped with Legal Prosecution

The BTS members have recently faced distressing situations caused by sasaeng fans, with some members publicly expressing their distress due to various forms of harassment. On November 17, the Seoul Gangnam Police Station issued a non-arrest summon to a woman in her 20s, identified as ‘A,’ who is suspected of violating the Stalking Prevention Act and trespassing.

The alleged incidents involve ‘A’ engaging in stalking behavior, such as waiting in front of V’s house on October 28, taking the elevator, conversing with him, and even asking him to sign a marriage registration form. ‘A’ left the scene, but the police initiated an investigation after receiving a report from a security guard, revealing that ‘A’ had visited V’s residence on multiple occasions before.

In response to these incidents, the police decided to impose an ’emergency restraining order’ on the sasaeng stalker prohibiting her from approaching within 100 meters of V’s vicinity and using phone calls or messages to contact him.

BIGHIT Music Moves to Protect Its Artists

BTS’s label, BIGHIT Music, has consistently issued strong responses to such incidents. They have submitted numerous complaints to law enforcement agencies, providing evidence gathered through reports and monitoring. The complaints focus on defamation, slander, and violations of the Stalking Prevention Act that infringe upon the artists’ rights.

BIGHIT Music mentioned their ongoing efforts in collecting evidence of individuals sending mail and parcels to the artists’ homes, causing harm to their families. In the second quarter of 2022, some suspects among the overall complainants received decisions to suspend investigations and non-indictments. In response, BIGHIT Music lodged objections and requested a re-investigation to address the concerning issue of sasaeng fans’ harassment.

Although the new policy is certainly strict, BTS fans are happy to know that their idols will no longer have to deal with harassment and abuse. With that in mind, BIGHIT Music is doing the right thing to protect its artists.

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BTS Fans React to BIGHIT Music’s ‘No Settlement’ Policy Against Stalkers

BIGHIT Music is taking extra steps to protect its artists. The agency has issued a notice informing the public about legal actions they are taking to protect BTS. It’s a strict new policy that would probably shock anyone. However, BTS fans are praising BIGHIT for doing what is necessary to keep their idols safe.

BIGHIT Music Takes Legal Action To Protect BTS

On September 27, BIGHIT MUSIC issued an official statement, making it abundantly clear that they are taking robust legal measures against individuals who have committed various malicious online activities directed at BTS. These actions range from defamation and sexual harassment to disseminating false information and posting hate comments. The label has made it unequivocal that they will not tolerate any violations of the group’s artistic and personal rights.

The notice further mentioned a specific individual who had been persistently engaging in posting violent and highly abusive comments across multiple platforms. In response, BIGHIT MUSIC has compiled substantial evidence and initiated a criminal complaint against this person. This bold stance by the label underscores their unwavering commitment to protecting their artists and pursuing justice in the face of online harassment.

BIGHIT Music Extends Its Protection to BTS Members’ Family

In addition to online harassment, the label has been resolute in addressing physical stalking as well. The notice revealed that some individuals have repeatedly sent mail and packages to the artists’ residences, even causing harm to their families. In response, BIGHIT MUSIC has taken legal action, filing criminal complaints based on the Act on Punishment of Crime of Stalking. Notably, they have successfully secured an interim restraining order as the prosecution continues its investigation into these charges.

https://twitter.com/JKJeonEuphoria/status/1706951064677749027

BTS fans, known as ARMYs, have expressed their appreciation for BIGHIT MUSIC’s unwavering efforts to safeguard the group from online harassment and stalking. They also recognize that stalking is not always viewed as a severe crime under South Korean law and believe that these stern actions will serve as a deterrent to potential offenders, thereby contributing to the safety and well-being of the artists they admire.

Although the new policy is certainly strict, BTS fans are happy to know that their idols will no longer have to deal with harassment and abuse. With that in mind, BIGHIT Music is doing the right thing to protect its artists.

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RM Confirms BTS Contract Renewal With BIGHIT MUSIC

It’s official: all seven members of BTS have renewed their contracts with BIGHIT Music. Several news outlets were quick to print the news but ARMYs had a more reliable source. RM announced the BTS contract renewal on his official social media accounts and it further confirmed the group’s love for their fans.

RM Confirms BTS Contract Renewal on Instagram

In a surprising turn of events, all seven members of the globally renowned K-Pop sensation, BTS, have officially renewed their exclusive artist contracts with BIGHIT MUSIC, as reported on September 20, KST. This announcement has come as a pleasant shock to devoted ARMYs, as the group’s previous contract was still in effect. However, the BTS members have a history of opting for early renewals, highlighting their commitment to their future together.

In a heartwarming gesture, RM, the group’s leader, took the initiative to share the news directly with ARMYs. He posted a photo of the contract document on his Instagram, followed by another story dedicated to their devoted fanbase. RM’s actions not only revealed the unexpected contract renewal but also provided ARMYs with the assurance they may not have even realized they needed.

BTS initially signed their first contract with BIGHIT in 2013, which was set to last until 2020. Remarkably, in 2018, they chose to renew their contract well ahead of its expiration date, showcasing their strong bond and determination to continue their remarkable journey. Their second contract, originally set to conclude in 2025, coinciding with the year when all BTS members are expected to complete their mandatory military service, has been extended by two years, ensuring their continued presence as a group.

This announcement has brought immense joy and relief to fans, as it guarantees the group’s unity and the highly anticipated reunion expected in 2025. The early renewal reaffirms the enduring commitment and enduring bond shared by BTS and their dedicated supporters worldwide.

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‘Treat Soobin Better’: Fans Call Out Bighit for Alleged Mistreatment of TXT’s Leader

Despite TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s first VMAs win and collaborative track with Brazilian singer Anitta, several fans have called out BIGHIT MUSIC for the label’s alleged “unfair”  treatment towards the group’s leader Soobin.

Using the hashtag #BigHitTreatSoobinBetter, MOAs, TXT’s fandom, have expressed their frustration against the label. For these fans, Soobin has been receiving inadequate lines and reduced screen time for their music videos.

BIGHIT Music’s alleged behavior towards TXT’s Soobin

According to MOAs, Soobin only got two lines in their recent track “Back for More” featuring Anitta. Additionally, they pointed out that the leader only had 16 seconds in total. While this might be normal for other idol groups, MOAs claim that this division isn’t fair for a group that only has five members. 

Soobin is a singer, a dancer, and an extremely talented person. He literally shines on stage. And he has such an incredible voice and falsetto.. It’s time to stop underestimating him and give him more lines,” one fan demanded.

https://twitter.com/dailysoobtonin/status/1702365030275228109

 

As per fans, this alleged mistreatment has been evident even in the group’s earlier releases. Even listing down previous tracks “Good Boy Gone Badand “Sugar Rush Ride.”  

Moreover, MOAs are enraged with how BIGHIT highlights Soobin’s part in the trailer, usually featuring it for teasers. But they’ll later find out that the leader only has a few lines in the official music video. To make matters worse, MOAs are claiming that Soobin barely sang and appeared in their “Do It Like That” collaboration with the Jonas Brothers.

https://twitter.com/dailysoobtonin/status/1702368040879530088

 

Aside from that, MOAs are also upset with how BIGHIT continues to disregard Soobin’s plans to drop a cover. Since 2021, the idol has been expressing his plans to release a cover as a gift for the fans. But even now in 2023, he has not had the opportunity to record one. Which made him the only TXT member without a solo cover, as of writing. 

https://twitter.com/bl5sty/status/1702204801138778377

 

MOAs on raising their concert about TXT

Some fans also clarified that demanding for more Soobin lines and screen time does not equate to hating the other members. As MOAs have said, they are simply appealing their disappointment towards the management and hope their clamors would be heard.

Others also explained that airing their grievances against the management doesn’t make them less of a fan. Instead, it’s a way of showing more solidarity to the actual artists. 

With the unreasonable exposure BIGHIT has been giving the multi-talented leader, MOAs can’t help but express their anger with how the label handles the boy group. While MOAs urge the BIGHIT to treat Soobin better, the label has yet to release a statement on the issue.

Currently, TXT is gearing up for the release of their third full-length album The Name Chapter: FREEFALL. It will be released on October 13.

Featured image: Soobin in a teaser of ‘Season of TXT: Midsummer.’ Credit: Facebook/TXT

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BTS’ Jungkook, Tomorrow X Together Celebrate VMAs Win With Bang PD

It’s the time to have fun, ARMYs and MOAs as BTSJungkook and TOMORROW X TOGETHER celebrated their first VMAs wins, as well as Yeonjun’s birthday with Bang PD! 

In a series of Instagram Stories uploaded by BIGHIT and HYBE Founder Bang Si Hyuk, the artists are seen having dinner together after the awards show with “Hitman Bang” himself.  

“They tore up the stage tonight,” Bang PD wrote, referring to TXT’s debut performance at the MTV VMAs. 

Aside from the awards, the BIGHIT family also celebrated Yeonjun’s 24th birthday. In another video, the singer is seen blowing out candles on his cake. In the caption, Bang PD wrote: “Happy Birthday, Yeonjun.” 

https://twitter.com/TXTSYBTHK/status/1701877414782202050

Moreover, Bang PD also shared videos of him with BTS’ Jungkook. As seen in his Instagram story, the two were throwing up random hand signs. Interestingly, Bang PD hinted that “There’s a spoiler! A big one,” in the said video. Which left fans guessing what it possibly meant, with many thinking that it’s for another solo release. 

https://twitter.com/_RapperJK/status/1701902427237097797

Prior to this video with Bang PD, Jungkook has already expressed his plans to release his first mini album in November. Additionally, in the Suchwita episode where Jungkook appeared as a guest, he also revealed that he is gearing up to drop new music later this year.

TXT and Jungkook’s VMA wins

With the recently concluded MTV VMAs, TXT made history as they became the first fourth generation group to win at the awards show. There, the group took home the Push Performance of the Year award for their track “Sugar Rush Ride.”

Moreover, TXT also wowed the crowd with the premiere performance of their pre-release single “Back for More”, featuring Brazilian singer Anitta. With this team up, TXT became the first K-Pop group to showcase a genre-fusing collaboration at the VMAs.

On the other hand, their fellow BIGHIT artist, BTSJungkook also bagged his first VMAs win. Though he did not attend the event, the all-rounder singer took home the Song of the Summer title with his viral hit “Seven”, featuring Latto. With this, Jungkook became the first Korean solo artist to win in the category. 

Featured image: Bang PD hangs out with BTS’ Jungkook and TOMORROW X Together. Credit: Instagram/Bang PD

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BIGHIT Music Opens Global Audition for Producers

Gear up aspiring producers! BIGHIT MUSIC announced on Monday, September 11, that they are looking for the next new creator to join the label.

Titled 2023 Next New Creator with BIGHIT MUSIC, the record label under HYBE hopes to see producers “who are looking for opportunities to showcase their boundless potential and talent”.

As per the announcement, the auditions are open to applicants above 14 years old. Both individual and team submissions are welcome as well. 

 

Additionally, Interested applicants must submit two to five demos of sole tracks or tracks with completed melody. 

Moreover, BIGHIT encourages applicants to submit music with fresh sounds and trendy beats that would be sufficiently competitive in the global music market.

On top of that, a promising reward of 5,000,000 Korean won awaits the new in-house producer.

The preliminary application period will be on September 18 until October 23. More details can be found via HYBE Audition’s official website

The selected winners will have the opportunity to work with BIGHIT Music’s renowned producers including founder “Hitman Bang” Bang Si-Hyuk, PDogg, Slow Rabbit, and many more.

BIGHIT Music and HYBE Labels expands

Interestingly, BIGHIT’s global search for producers has started in 2016. In 2021, the agency said that through this kind of audition, they have discovered producers worldwide and have “provided opportunities for them to present their musical prowess.”  

In other news, BIGHIT has also opened auditions for the agency’s next superstars. Currently, BIGHIT is home to only two groups: worldwide sensation BTS who debuted in 2013, and the Lollapalooza 2023 headliners TOMORROW X TOGETHER, who debuted in 2019. The auditions are still open until September 22. 

Aside from BIGHIT Music, other subsidiaries from HYBE Labels are also searching for their next K-pop trainees. KOZ Entertainment, home to rookie boy group BOYNEXTDOOR, is holding auditions until November 18. Meanwhile, PLEDIS Entertainmentwhich manages boy group SEVENTEEN and girl group fromis_9, also has an ongoing “Wonder Teens” global audition.

Featured image: BIGHIT announces audition details for aspiring producers. Credit: Twitter/BIGHIT Music

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Look: Bighit Music Opens Global Auditions

Dreaming of becoming labelmates with K-pop powerhouses BTS and TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT)? Well, this might be your chance! 

BIGHIT MUSIC announced on Friday, August 11, that they are opening global auditions for their next boy group. 

The auditions are open to male candidates of any nationality born from 2005 and after. 

Additionally, interested applicants can choose to audition among several categories: vocal, rap, dancing, acting, modeling, and producing. 

Applications are open from August 11 to September 22 via the Big Hit Audition website. 

Previously in February to April 2023, BIGHIT MUSIC also held an audition for aspiring idols. Only male applicants born between 2005 and 2013 were eligible. 

During this set of auditions, the label also held in-person auditions in Korea and Japan aside from the online ones. 

 

 

Besides these series of global auditions, BIGHIT MUSIC remains mum about their next act. Their latest group to debut was TXT in 2019. Before that was BTS, who debuted in 2013. 

Moreover, BIGHIT MUSIC is one of the many record labels housed under HYBE. Recently, HYBE acquired BELIFT LAB, ENHYPEN’s agency. 

Featured image: K-pop groups BTS and TXT are under BIGHIT Music. Credit: Twitter/BIGHIT Music Audition

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