Tag: HYBE Labels

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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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SEVENTEEN’s Hoshi Shares Cute Interaction with NewJeans

The famed HYBE building certainly has its perks. SEVENTEEN’s Hoshi recently gave fans an intriguing look behind the scenes at HYBE, including details about the company’s artist-only elevator that led to a cute interaction with a younger group.

Hoshi Reveals How HYBE Building Led to Cute Interaction With NewJeans

In a recent episode of “Salon Drip”, Hoshi began discussing the various perks and features at HYBE, such as the impressive standards for ramen at the company. Host Jang Do Yeon asked about the elevators in their office, specifically mentioning the existence of an artist-exclusive elevator.

Hoshi explained that HYBE has just one elevator designated for artists, even though the company houses numerous renowned stars. This often results in a bit of a wait, given the demand.

The SEVENTEEN member delved further into the layout of the building, sharing that there is a separate floor dedicated to artist parking. When artists reach the elevator, it only stops at certain floors, including the artist lounge and recording areas. Due to the limited options and the sheer number of idols using the elevator, it can sometimes mean a substantial wait to get to the main parking area.

Hoshi humorously recounted an unexpected encounter he had due to these elevator logistics. On one occasion, while waiting for the elevator, the doors opened to reveal the members of NewJeans inside. Despite Hoshi’s confident reputation, he described himself as an “introvert” and admitted to feeling quite shy in this situation. Even when the NewJeans members reassured him that it was alright, he decided to wait rather than joining them in the elevator.

Adding a dash of humor to his story, Hoshi playfully pleaded with HYBE’s founder Bang Si Hyuk for an additional elevator to ease the wait times. This amusing anecdote provides fans with a delightful peek into the everyday experiences of K-Pop idols working under one of the industry’s most prominent entertainment companies, HYBE.

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Lexie Withdraws From HYBE’s ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’

Lexie in a behind-the-scene photo for 'The Debut: Dream Academy.' Credit: Dream Academy's Instagram

With how talent reality shows have taken the entertainment industry by storm, it’s no surprise that The Debut: Dream Academy is gaining buzz worldwide. However, it left viewers surprised as one of the contestants, Lexie, announced her withdrawal from the show. 

In a Weverse post on Friday, October 21,  HYBE x Geffen Records confirmed Lexie’s departure from the show. “Lexie believes that while this process has been immensely beneficial on her journey of self-discovery, pursuing a place in the final girl group no longer aligns with her professional aspirations,” the statement read.

Lexie on her journey in ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’ 

In a touching behind-the-scenes video shared by HYBE Labels, Lexie opened up about the main reason for her departure. According to the 19-year-old contestant from Sweden, she realized that “this path is not just meant for [her].” 

Despite the decision to part ways with the competition, Lexie remained grateful for the life-changing opportunity she had been granted. Moreover, she spoke candidly about her growth throughout The Debut: Dream Academy.  “All the people I’ve met and all the things I’ve learned. I’ve just grown so much. Obviously, it’s a hard decision, but I’m honestly truly happy and at peace with it. And I’m really excited to see what the future has in store for me,” she said. 

Additionally, she also had nothing but sweet words to her fellow contestants, saying that they’re her “sisters” and “family.” “Without you guys, I wouldn’t have made it this far. You guys are just like my rock. And how you guys from day one took care of me, I was really scared. But you guys just welcomed me with my open arms,” she said.  

With Lexie’s exit, the competition now proceeds with 13 remaining contestants. The remaining 13 will embark on the third mission, slated to kick off on October 25. After the third and final mission concludes, only 10 girls will have the chance to perform at the show’s live finale, which is scheduled for November 17.

HYBE x Geffen Records’ global girl group

Created by South Korean entertainment giant HYBE and American record label Geffen Records, the reality series aims to discover and cultivate the next global girl group. Only 20 talented contestants from different corners of the world were chosen in a pool of 120,000 applicants. 

According to earlier reports, the group that will be formed through The Debut: Dream Academy will debut with an English song. In addition to their debut track, the girl group’s journey will be immortalized in a Netflix documentary series scheduled for release in 2024. 

As HYBE is known to be home to K-pop powerhouse acts BTS, SEVENTEEN, TOMORROW X TOGETHER, and more, fans have set high expectations for the upcoming girl group.

Featured image: Lexie in a behind-the-scene photo for ‘The Debut: Dream Academy.’ Credit: Dream Academy’s Instagram

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HYBE Boss Bang Si Hyuk Insists on Letting Trainees ‘EAT and DATE What They Wanted’

Dating continues to be a major issue in K-pop but Bang Si Hyuk is determined to change that. The HYBE boss recently addressed the idea of giving trainees more freedom. This includes allowing the teenagers to “DATE and EAT what they wanted” while preparing for their debut.

Many artists channel their emotions, beliefs, joys, and tribulations into their artwork, encapsulating them in songs that feel more genuine when drawn from personal experiences. In the realm of K-Pop, where love and romance are frequent lyrical themes, personal dating experiences can enrich an artist’s performance, infusing it with authenticity.

HYBE Boss Insists on Giving Trainees More Freedom in Their Personal Life

Bang Si Hyuk, chairman of HYBE Corporation, formerly known as Big Hit Entertainment, shares this perspective. In a recent interview with Bloomberg Live, he underscored the importance of trainees having well-rounded life experiences. The HYBE boss stated, “Let the trainees DATE and EAT what they wanted.”

HYBE’s approach is distinct in that they permit their idols to date, a practice that sets them apart from many other entertainment agencies. While it’s possible that some HYBE artists may be in relationships, none have publicly confirmed or announced romantic involvement.

This contrast becomes evident when compared to artists from other leading entertainment agencies, where public announcements of relationships are more common. HYBE’s approach suggests a preference for maintaining the personal lives of their artists as private matters, keeping them away from intense media scrutiny.

By fostering a holistic life experience for their trainees, HYBE may be cultivating well-rounded artists who draw from a wider range of emotions and experiences, ultimately enhancing their musical performances. The discretion around romantic relationships allows artists to maintain their privacy, ensuring that their art remains the central focus for their fans. HYBE’s unique approach prioritizes the emotional depth and authenticity of their artists’ work, enabling fans to connect with their music on a more profound level.

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SEVENTEEN Breaks Personal Record for Pre-orders With ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN’

SEVENTEEN poses for their concept photo in 'SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN.' Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

SEVENTEEN has still a week before they officially release their upcoming 11th mini-album SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN but it’s already making new personal records for the K-pop boy group. 

On Thursday, October 12, album distributor YG PLUS announced that SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN has already recorded a total of 4,673,069 stock pre-orders so far. 

For those unfamiliar, stock pre-orders refer to the number of albums that were ordered by fans before its actual release. As a result, said album has set a new career high in SEVENTEEN’s discography. And what makes this achievement even more remarkable is it came just six months after their previous milestone. 

Previously, the group’s 10th mini-album FML, which was released in May, recorded 4.64 million copies in pre-orders. 

With this feat of SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN, it now ranked second among the top 20 albums with the highest stock pre-orders in K-pop history. In the first place is Stray Kids’ 5-Star album with 5,130,000 pre-orders. 

Since there’s still roughly 10 days before the official release of SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN, fans of SEVENTEEN are hopeful that they’ll rank higher once the pre-order season ends. 

Given the pre-order records from SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN, charts are declaring that SEVENTEEN is about to surpass 30 million album sales on Circle Chart. 

In fact, SEVENTEEN already surpasses 10 million album sales for 2023 even without the count from SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN. According to PLEDIS Entertainment, the “Super” hitmakers have already sold an unprecedented record of 11,043, 625 physical albums, from January to September of 2023 alone.

 

Impressive year for SEVENTEEN

2023 really appeared to be pivotal for SEVENTEEN.  

In terms of group album releases, their two comebacks for 2023, FML and SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN, were both setting records. Aside from group albums, the comeback of SEVENTEEN’s subunit BSS also topped local and international charts. 

According to streaming platform, BSS and SEVENTEEN dominated the 2023 charts. 

Apart from music, the group also proved their entertainment skills through a number of variety shows.

As of writing,  Jeonghan and Dino are part of the travel program Magic Lamp. Meanwhile,  Seungkwan participated in the Netflix survival show The Devil’s Plan and Joshua and Hoshi participated in Bro Marble. 

Moreover, Jun also starred in the Chinese drama Exclusive Fairytale. To which he won a “Rising Star of the Year” award. 

Additionally, SEVENTEEN has also finished shooting Nana’s Tour, the group’s version of Youth Over Flowers with PD Na Yeong Seok. Details about the show’s release are yet to be announced.

Featured image: SEVENTEEN poses for their concept photo in ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN.’ Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

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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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BIGHIT Music Opens Global Audition for Producers

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

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 Entertainment, which 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: HYBE’s Girl Group I’LL-IT Reveals Profile Photos

BE:LIFT LAB releases individual profile photos for I'LL-IT members. Credit: Twitter/I'LL-IT

I’LL-IT, HYBE’s new girl group formed through the survival show “R U Next?”, finally reveals their first profile photos.

Posted on the group’s official social media account,  the six members showcased their unique and alluring charms. The photos came days after Yunah, Minju, Moka, Youngseo, Wonhee, and Iroh were announced to be in the debut lineup. 

The oldest member Yunah is seen flaunting her visuals with a mix-match coordination of a frill-decorated dress and a jacket.

Second is Minju, who also gave a glimpse of her distinct style wearing her knitwear outfit and headset.

On the other hand, Moka showed a hip and cute look in a white dress accentuated by a black beanie.

Next is Youngseo, who is characterized by a cat-like figure, chicly posing in her pink dress.

Meanwhile, Wonhee shows a different aura as exhibits her playful personality with her cute expressions in the photos.

Meanwhile, Iroha, the youngest member in the group, also shined with her stunning visuals. 

Dream to debut of I’LL-IT members

In R U Next, 22 female trainees were assessed through seven rounds, with only six officially debuting. Following the conclusion of the survival show, the ILL-IT members looked back on their journey.  

The oldest member Yunah mentioned that overwhelming emotions rushed over her when her name was called in the final episode of ‘R U Next?’.“I will prepare for my debut with the same mindset as when I first started as a trainee. I will continue to show growth even after debut,” she said with determination.

Meanwhile, Wonhee, who ranked first in the survival show, admitted that she found it difficult to become one of the final members. “I was surprised when my name was called, and it didn’t feel real. My trainee life isn’t long, but I’ll do my best to show you a cool side of me,” she exclaimed.

Additionally, Iroha, the group’s youngest member, mentioned that she always felt a mixture of joy, excitement, anxiety, and worry while doing ‘R U Next?’ Committed to giving her best as part of the debuting lineup, she thanked her fans and family. “I just think that I should work harder and become a cool idol in the future,” she said. 

As of writing, BE:LIFT LAB has yet to announce the details for ILL-IT’s official debut. However, fans can communicate with the girl group through their Weverse community. 

Interestingly, they’ll be the agency’s first girl group. In August BE:LIFE LAB, who manages boy group ENHYPEN, was acquired by HYBE.  

Meanwhile, in other news, HYBE has also launched another survival reality show The Debut: Dream Academy. This time, in partnership with Geffen Records, they’re aiming for a global girl group.

Featured image: BE:LIFT LAB releases individual profile photos for I’LL-IT members. Credit: Twitter/I’LL-IT

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