Tag: HYBE Labels

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HYBE Employee Song Ju-young Reveals What BTS Is Really Like

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We may think we know our favorite idols because we get glimpses of their personalities when we keep up with their music and other content. But how much of what we see is actually real? We may never know the answer to that. But there are people who do: the staff members who work with idols like BTS. For instance, HYBE employees get to know the members really well because they work behind the scenes.

These individuals, working tirelessly within the idols’ agencies, are privy to moments unseen by fans and media alike. This means they have a unique perspective on whether these celebrated figures are as genuine as they appear. One of them, Song Ju-young, a member of HYBE’s IT department, talked about his encounters with BTS on his YouTube channel. His stories offer a glimpse into what the members are really like without all the glitz and glamor.

가장 많이 받은 질문! BTS 본 적 있어요?

Memorable encounters

One memorable encounter involved Kim Seokjin, better known as Jin. Song Ju-young described BTS’s eldest member as “very  handsome and young-looking.” Recalling a time when he ran into Jin in the HYBE cafeteria, he shared that he went there to get a drink when he saw the idol. “I just nodded, then I realized he’s Jin from BTS!”

Song also shared his admiration for Kim Namjoon aka RM. Song shared that he often sees the BTS leader at the company gym. He praised RM‘s impressive physique, noting, “He’s so tall and his face is so small. He’s so handsome in person. His manly force is so amazing!”

Park Jimin was another member he spoke highly of. Despite Jimin‘s stature, Song said the 95-liner extends so much kindness to HYBE staff. “Among the BTS members, if I had to choose my bias, it’d be Jimin. His body is so pretty! Even with that small body, his body line is too pretty!”

이 노래로 ”입덕“했어요!!

The BTS members are genuine

Beyond their visuals, Song Ju-young was struck by the BTS members’ genuine personalities. He observed that their public image closely aligns with their true selves, a rarity in the entertainment industry. “They’re exactly as you see,” Song said.

ARMYs worldwide were touched by Song Ju-young’s insights. Everything he said about BTS further solidified their admiration for the group. After reading his comments, many were relieved to find that RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook are actually as nice as they make themselves out to be. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Song Ju-young talks about different facets of life as a HYBE employee on his YouTube channel. Source: X/@jupiter_song.

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HYBE’s Girl Group I’LL-IT To Release Debut Album ‘Super Real Me’

I'LL-IT shares photo of the group ahead of its debut. Credit: Twitter/I'LL-IT

Get ready to meet the newest addition to the HYBE family! On Monday, February 26, I’LL-IT, the latest girl group under HYBE LABELS announced that they will be dropping their debut album Super Real Me on March 25.

In addition, BELIFT LAB, HYBE’s subsidiary, also revealed the girl group’s official logo through a 28-second Youtube video. 

Composed of members Yunah, Minju, Moka, Wonhee and Iroha, the group shared their thoughts on finally debuting through the agency. “We are very glad and excited to make the debut we’ve been longing for. Thank you to the fans who have waited patiently for us,” the members expressed.

Moreover, the members also shared that they have grown through the process of recording music and filming music videos. Additionally, the I’LL-IT members asked their fans to give them a lot of interest for their much-anticipated debut.

Additional details about Super Real Me such as its tracklist and title song are yet to be revealed.

Aside from ‘Super Real Me,’ what we know about I’LL-IT

For those who don’t know,  I’LL-IT is a product of the idol survival program R U Next?, which aired from June to September 2023. According to the agency, the group’s name is a combination of the words “I’ll” and “it,” which means that you have the potential to become anything. 

Initially, six contestants were chosen to be part of the debut line up. However, Youngseo, who placed second in the show, left the agency in January 2024 prior to the group’s debut. As per HYBE’s notice, both the company and the artist decided to terminate the exclusive contract. With this, I’LL-IT will continue with five members.

Notably, I’LL-IT will be the latest addition to the growing roster of girl groups under HYBE, following fromis_9, Le Sserafim and NewJeans. Although all under HYBE Label, I’LL-IT is set to be the first girl group and the second artist of the subsidiary BELIFT LAB. Furthermore, the quintet will be the first juniors of K-pop boy group ENHYPEN.

While waiting for the release of Super Real Me, fans can catch the latest I’LL-IT content through the group’s own Youtube variety shows I’LL-IT Ready and I’LL LIKE IT!

Featured image: I’LL-IT shares photo of the group ahead of its debut. Credit: Twitter/I’LL-IT

 

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HYBE Reportedly Looking To Acquire SM Entertainment Again

Recent industry rumors have ignited speculation about HYBE Labels, the powerhouse behind BTS and other global K-pop acts, considering another move to acquire SM Entertainment. These rumors have surfaced amid reports suggesting that Kakao, the multimedia giant, may explore selling SM Entertainment, a claim Kakao has officially denied. The K-pop landscape has been buzzing with discussions surrounding potential acquisitions and their potential impact on the industry.

HYBE Labels Possibly Makes A New Move to Acquire SM Entertainment

The speculation gains context from last year’s headline-grabbing attempt by HYBE Labels to acquire SM Entertainment. The proposed deal, had it materialized, could have reshaped the K-pop landscape significantly. However, the deal fell through for various reasons, leading to a return to the drawing board for both companies.

Recent reports indicate that HYBE Labels might be considering a renewed effort to acquire SM Entertainment, potentially in collaboration with founder and former chairman Lee Soo Man. While Kakao has officially denied the rumors of selling SME, industry insiders are closely monitoring the situation, given the ongoing speculations.

Insiders suggest that other companies are also exploring the possibility of acquiring SM Entertainment, even after the reported breakdown of the deal with HYBE Labels last year. Rumors abound that HYBE chairman Bang Si Hyuk is personally approaching private equity funds with a proposal to acquire SM Entertainment. The involvement of key figures and the potential collaboration with Lee Soo Man adds layers to the unfolding narrative.

Further rumors suggest that Lee Soo Man, after selling a portion of his stake in SM Entertainment to HYBE, may seek to return to the label. This potential move raises questions about the dynamics between the founder and the company’s future direction. Additionally, companies like NCSOFT, F&F (a fashion company), and MGM (an American entertainment group) are reportedly exploring the prospect of acquiring SME.

The K-pop industry, known for its dynamism and strategic partnerships, remains in a state of flux as these rumors circulate. The potential acquisition of SM Entertainment by HYBE Labels or other entities could have far-reaching implications for the global music scene. As the situation develops, stakeholders and fans alike eagerly await official announcements that will shape the future of these entertainment powerhouses.

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HYBE Calls for Removal of Unofficial BTS-Themed Sculptures

HYBE, the management company of BTS, has initiated a nationwide removal of BTS-related murals and sculptures. According to a report by TenAsia, Samcheok City took down the BTS photo zone and guide signs at Maengbang Beach earlier this month. This decision followed an official letter from HYBE sent on December 21, 2023, demanding the removal of all BTS-related sculptures.

Many locations in South Korea are famous because BTS’s music videos were filmed there. Fans call these places “pilgrimage sites.” These include Maengbang Beach, the filming location of the “Butter” MV, and the Red Lighthouse in Yeongdeok, Gyeongbuk, known as the “BTS Lighthouse.” BTS murals in Busan’s Gamcheon Culture Village and murals dedicated to SUGA and V in Daegu contribute to their popularity.

However, HYBE is calling for the removal of BTS-related murals and sculptures from these sites. Attempts by Samcheok City to negotiate ultimately failed, leading to the removal of the popular tourist attraction. HYBE also called out the Nam-gu district office in Busan and Goyang City in Gyeonggi Province for using BTS’s logo and a mural of RM, respectively, for promotional purposes.

BTS Tourist Spots To Gradually Disappear

HYBE explains their stance

A company representative explained, “We don’t grant permission for streets, sculptures, and murals. We prohibit such creations as they could negatively influence the image of our artists when damaged or badly managed.”

This displeased some local authorities. They argue that putting up sculptures and murals at public expense for fans interested in visiting BTS’s filming locations serves a public interest. One official from an area featuring BTS-related tourist attractions expressed a desire to continue discussions with the company, hoping to reach a compromise through further talks.

Korean netizens largely agreed with HYBE’s decision to remove such installations. This consensus was especially strong after it was discovered that local authorities didn’t obtain permission first. HYBE’s stance highlights the importance of respecting intellectual property rights in the entertainment industry. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This sculpture in Samcheok City has already been removed. Source: Naver.

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How HYBE Will Handle BTS’s Absence in 2024

HYBE redefined the K-pop landscape when it solidified its position in the ‘Big Four’—the four largest and most influential entertainment companies in the South Korean music industry. All eyes are on HYBE now as it’s getting ready to navigate a year without BTS, its top-selling act.

In 2023, BTS‘s album sales, including the members’ solo projects, constituted 22% of HYBE’s total album sales, underscoring the group’s pivotal role in the company’s revenue stream. With all BTS members in the military, Yuanta Securities is projecting a 0.4% decrease in HYBE’s annual sales for 2024. To mitigate this, HYBE is diversifying its focus to other artists in its stable.

On-point: How will 2024 K-pop scene look without BTS?

Among these artists, SEVENTEEN is set to embark on a stadium tour in January 2024. Meanwhile, ENHYPEN, fromis_9, and &TEAM are preparing for both domestic and international concerts. Other groups such as LE SSERAFIM, NewJeans, and TXT are expected to maintain their active presence in the music scene both domestically and internationally. Fans are also eagerly anticipating the return of BTS members Jin and j-hope to the music industry after they’re discharged from the military.

This month, PLEDIS Entertainment, a label under the HYBE umbrella, will debut TWS. This highly-anticipated group marks PLEDIS’s first new boy group since the debut of SEVENTEEN. TWS‘s first EP is scheduled for release on January 22. Additionally, two more groups are set to make their debut in the first half of the year: I’LL-IT, formed through JTBC’s show R U NEXT?, and KATSEYE, created through The Debut: Dream Academy.

HYBE is poised for success in 2024

HYBE is also focusing on its fan community platform and intellectual property (IP). Weverse, which serves as a space for fans to connect with artists, is undergoing functional improvements. It’s also looking to add more artists from Japan, Korea, and the US. The company is also planning to continue its foray into webtoons with new releases, such as the sequel to ENHYPEN’s Dark Moon: The Altar of the Moon. HYBE IPX plans to expand with pop-up stores and continue its urban concert play park project, “The City.”

Binary Korea, a HYBE subsidiary, is teaming up with Sandbox Network to launch a creator-centric fan community platform soon. Additionally, HYBE IM, with a focus on gaming, is poised to release the full version of ASTRA: Knights of Veda in the first quarter. Superton, an AI audio company under HYBE, is developing advanced AI voice solutions for gaming. This indicates HYBE’s ambition to establish a strong foothold in the AI audio industry.

[ASTRA: Knights of Veda] The beginning of the journey.

In line with global market trends, HYBE is adopting more international strategies. Bang Si-hyuk, HYBE’s Chairman, has emphasized the need for K-pop to evolve beyond its traditional boundaries. This evolution is reflected in the recent releases from HYBE artists like Jungkook, LE SSERAFIM, and NewJeans. They had more English lyrics and introduced creative variations to classic K-pop elements, such as intricate choreography.

With a focus on nurturing new groups, enhancing digital platforms, and developing innovative content, HYBE is poised for success in 2024 and beyond. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: HYBE is pulling out all the stops to ensure its continued success despite BTS’s absence. Source: HYBE, PEOPLE.

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TWS Introduces Members Through Pre-debut Single ‘Oh Mymy: 7s’

TWS releases their pre-debut single 'Oh Mymy: 7s.' Credit: Twitter/TWS

PLEDIS Entertainment has officially revealed its latest boy group, TWS!

Ahead of their official debut on January 22, TWS surprised fans with a pre-release single titled “Oh Mymy: 7s” on Tuesday, January 2. 

Through this video, the group also officially introduced its six members. Pronounced as “two-us,” TWS consists of Dohoon, Kyungmin, Youngjae, Shinyu, Hanjin, and Jihoon. Additional details about each member have yet to be provided. 

According to a press release, the song “Oh Mymy: 7s” aims to showcase the group’s confidence in their color. Accordingly, it’s meant to feature their essence in just seven seconds. 

“As it is a song that introduces TWS to the world, its splendid performance and fantastic melody shows why they are the ‘highest expectations of 2024,’” agency PLEDIS Entertainment said. 

In the six-minute video, the members were seen preparing for their debut and sharing their thoughts about their training experiences. “The process of practicing for the final evaluations was very difficult. But it’s thanks to the other five members cheering me on and encouraging me that I am able to be where I am now,” Dohoon said. 

After the footage, the group skillfully delivered a powerful, synchronized dance performance of their pre-debut track. Notably, TWS highlighted their talent and charisma in front of a panel composed by HYBE and PLEDIS Entertainment executives, as well as all SEVENTEEN members. 

What we know about TWS 

After their pre-release single, the group also plans to release various video content. Among these are behind-the-scenes stories and individual trailers for each member. Additionally, they’ll also be releasing official photos, track lists, teasers, and highlight medley for the group’s debut mini-album Spring Blue. 

Meanwhile, the official music video and album will be released on January 22. In relation to that, the group will also host a debut showcase on the same day. 

To build excitement for their debut, TWS will also open a pop-up store in Seoul from January 18 to 31, 2024. 

Short for “Twenty-Four Seven With Us,” TWS is meant to signify the group’s desire to be a constant companion to listeners.

Notably, the sextet will be PLEDIS Entertainment’s first boy group in more than eight years, following the debut of SEVENTEEN in 2015. Furthermore, they’re also the first act under HYBE Labels to make a debut in 2024. 

Featured image: TWS releases their pre-debut single ‘Oh Mymy: 7s.’ Credit: YouTube/PLEDIS Entertainment

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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 Members Reportedly Sells All HYBE Labels Stocks

The members of BTS have recently made a surprising decision about their future. A new report reveals that Jin, Suga, RM, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook have sold all their HYBE Labels stocks.

All 7 Members of BTS Have Reportedly Sold All Their HYBE Labels Stocks

In a recent report on November 17, it was revealed that all seven members of BTS have decided to sell their HYBE Labels stocks. The information, accessible through South Korea’s DART (Data Analysis, Retrieval, and Transfer System), detailed that the BTS members placed their HYBE Labels stocks on the market in September of this year.

The reported selling amounts, calculated based on the closing price on September 20 (243,000 KRW), are as follows: Jin sold approximately 12.7 billion KRW (52,385 shares), j-hope sold approximately 15.3 billion KRW (62,784 shares), RM also sold approximately 14.1 billion KRW (58,000 shares), SUGA sold approximately 16.6 billion KRW (68,385 shares), Jimin sold approximately 16.6 billion KRW (68,385 shares), V sold approximately 16.6 billion KRW (68,385 shares), and Jungkook sold approximately 16.6 billion KRW (68,385 shares).

Additionally, a shareholder report on stocks and other securities disclosed by HYBE on November 14 revealed that the label’s chairman, Bang Si Hyuk, has also chosen to decrease his ownership stake from 24,322,584 shares (58.07%) to 21,429,024 shares (51.42%), marking a decrease of 2,893,560 shares (6.65%).

As of now, HYBE Labels has not issued an official statement in response to the report.

Bang Si Hyuk Reflects on the Future

In related news, HYBE had announced its second re-signing with BTS last month. Reflecting on this with Bloomberg, Bang Si-hyuk emphasized the bond between the septet and the company, saying, “The relationship between BTS and HYBE is good, but there were difficulties during the negotiation process, and we became closer while resolving them. It was the greatest happiness in my life as a manager, which is filled with hardships.”

Bang Si-hyuk also revealed that he’s been thinking globally. “We needed to expand externally and internally to enhance the influence of K-pop in the global music market and secure many global fans. We will continue to pursue experimental attempts for the sustainable growth path of K-pop, regardless of success or failure,” he added.

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SEVENTEEN’s Hoshi Reveals Hilarious Reason for Renewing HYBE Contract

Hoshi from SEVENTEEN has captured the spotlight for a relatable and comical reason behind his decision to renew his contract with HYBE Labels. The SEVENTEEN BSS member admitted he was mainly motivated by good food when it was time to decide on renewing his HYBE contract!

SEVENTEEN’s Hoshi Reveals The Real Reason for Renewing HYBE Contract

During a recent appearance on the YouTube show ‘Salon Drip’, hosted by Jang Do Yeon, Hoshi candidly shared he was impressed with the HYBE building.

“I am so thankful that we are a part of HYBE now,” he said. “The company building is so tall, it’s so cool inside when the weather is warm, it’s warm inside when the weather is cold, we can enter with face recognition, they give us transportation wherever we go… it used to be during our debut days that we were always dying of heat when the weather was warm, we were freezing to death when the weather was cold, and we were always cramped with so many people in a small space.”

When asked what is the best thing about being with HYBE, Hoshi pointed out that SEVENTEEN members can now enjoy good food regularly.

“To be honest, there are so many great things about HYBE… but I guess for me, the essentials are important,” he said. “So I ordered ramyeon at the company cafeteria. I was expecting the regular ramyeon, but what I got was ramyeon was topped with abalone and octopus.”

This was clearly an eye-opener for Hoshi. “Right at that moment, I knew that I had to renew with the company,” he declared.

Is SEVENTEEN Signed with HYBE?

While SEVENTEEN is still signed with PLEDIS Entertainment, HYBE Corporation acquired the majority of shares in the label on May 25, 2020, with PLEDIS remaining an independent entity. As a result, technically, SEVENTEEN is signed to both PLEDIS Entertainment and HYBE. In July 2021, all SEVENTEEN members, including Hoshi, renewed their HYBE contract.

Hoshi’s humorous anecdote about escalating meal costs offers a glimpse into the more relatable aspects of being a successful K-pop idol. His decision to continue his journey with HYBE reinforces the strong bond between the members of SEVENTEEN and their commitment to continue creating music together under the label’s banner.

SEVENTEEN recently released the new single “God of Music” from the album ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN’.

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HYBE And MBC Finally Resolve Four-Year Conflict

It has been a long time but HYBE and MBC have finally resolved their four-year conflict. The renowned record label and the broadcasting company have settled their differences in a recent meeting.

Four-Year Conflict Between HYBE and MBC Finally Resolved

On October 30, HYBE Label’s chairman Bang Si Hyuk made a visit to MBC for an open and candid discussion with MBC president Ahn Hyeong Joon. The meeting was made possible after Ahn extended an invitation as a gesture of regret. During this meeting, Ahn expressed his regret for MBC’s past wrong and outdated practices that had caused harm and hurt to HYBE’s artists.

Ahn also issued a statement regarding their meeting. “We firmly agree that there’s a need to establish a relationship between artists and broadcasting companies that befits the respectable status of K-pop,” he said. “Additionally, we also agreed to improve the long-standing flawed production culture between broadcasting and entertainment companies and to create an environment for content production with mutual respect and consideration.”

Bang’s statement reflected his appreciation for the gesture. “I’d like to express my deep gratitude to MBC for their sincere apology and their commitment to improving the rights of K-pop artists,” he said. “I hope this meeting will serve as a starting point for a new era where a healthy content production environment is established across the entire domestic entertainment industry, transcending the boundaries of our two companies.”

HYBE’s Plans for the Future

During the meeting, Bang Si Hyuk underscored the paramount importance of prioritizing artists’ rights to ensure the sustainable growth of K-pop. He highlighted specific areas requiring improvement, such as the practice where artists have to endure prolonged waiting times to interact with the production team even after a program has concluded. HYBE further revealed that both parties expressed their intention to engage in further discussions aimed at establishing a healthy content production environment and striving for tangible outcomes in the near future.

The four-year conflict between HYBE and MBC originated in 2019 when BTS performed at a significant year-end music show in the United States, resulting in their inability to participate in MBC’s annual year-end event, “MBC Music Festival,” on the same day. Consequently, all artists affiliated with HYBE have been restricted from appearing on MBC’s “Music Core” since that incident. This protracted dispute has been a source of contention in the K-pop industry, and the recent meeting signifies a potential turning point in resolving these issues and fostering a more collaborative and artist-friendly environment.

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