Tag: HYBE

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Illustrator Accuses HYBE of Referencing Her Artwork for SYNDI8

An illustrator has publicly accused HYBE of using her artwork as a reference for their new virtual idol group SYNDI8 without proper permission. The artist revealed that although the company initially contacted her for the project, they had since cut communication with her.

Illustrator Claims SYNDI8 References Her Artwork

According to the illustrator, an official from HYBE initially reached out via social media to discuss a potential collaboration for the group’s artwork. However, the communication abruptly ceased, leaving the collaboration unresolved.

The illustrator only became aware of the similarities between her work and the artwork for HYBE’s SYNDI8 when her fans began inquiring if she had collaborated with the label. Noticing the striking resemblances, she realized her work had likely been used without her consent.

Taking to her Instagram page, the artist shared her grievances, posting a capture of the direct message she received from the HYBE official. In her post, she detailed how the discussion had started with potential collaboration plans but ended abruptly without any explanation. She expressed her disappointment and frustration, highlighting the striking similarities between her original work and the SYNDI8 artwork, which fans had brought to her attention.

“This year, I received an inquiry from a subsidiary of H Corporation regarding designs for a virtual girl group. When I provided a detailed quote and additional information, the designer cut off all communication without any response, which I found very unpleasant.”

“Today, HYBE announced their new virtual group, and many people around me assumed I had worked on it, sending me images. It felt strange. If you look at the third image, the original unique sketch style they had shown me is completely gone, and the art style has changed entirely. But my fans thought I collaborated on this project.”

“They showed me their concept but never commissioned me. The final result is completely different from the original sketches and strangely similar to my style. This must be a coincidence, right? Did they work hard to trace and use the eyedropper tool, or did they heavily reference my work?”

The artist’s accusations have sparked a conversation about the importance of respecting intellectual property and the ethical considerations of using an artist’s work without permission. Fans and fellow artists have shown their support for the illustrator, calling for transparency and accountability from HYBE. The incident underscores the need for proper communication and consent in artistic collaborations, especially in an industry as influential as K-pop.

For now, HYBE has not yet responded to the illustrator’s accusations about referencing her artwork for SYNDI8. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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HYBE Shares Update On Legal Proceedings For NewJeans Against Malicious Activities

HYBE has provided updates on the legal proceedings for NewJeans and their other artists against those who engage in malicious actions.

HYBE’s Latest Statement Shares Update on Legal Proceedings for NewJeans Against Ill-Natured Activities

On June 28, HYBE provided a comprehensive update on the ongoing legal proceedings aimed at protecting their artists, including NewJeans, from malicious actions.

In their statement, HYBE also highlighted the progress of these legal actions against activities that infringe upon the rights of NewJeans members. These activities encompass a wide range of offenses such as defamation, personal attacks, sexual harassment, spreading false information, ill-intentioned criticism, and the use of pejorative names. HYBE also emphasized their unwavering stance, stating that “there will be no leniency or settlement under any circumstances in the legal proceedings regarding the artist’s rights.”

This robust approach underscores HYBE’s commitment to safeguarding their artists from harmful and damaging behavior. They aim to set a precedent that such actions will not be tolerated and will be met with serious legal consequences.

NewJeans is not the only group under HYBE’s protection in these matters. Other HYBE artists, including BTS, TXT, SEVENTEEN, fromis_9, Hwang Minhyun, Baekho, TWS, and BOYNEXTDOOR, have also issued statements about the ongoing legal measures against those who engage in similar malicious activities. Each artist has expressed their determination to ensure their rights and well-being are protected.

HYBE’s proactive stance in addressing these issues also reflects their broader commitment to fostering a safe and respectful environment for their artists. By taking legal action, they aim to deter future offenses and support the mental and emotional health of their artists, ensuring they can continue their careers without being subjected to harmful and unwarranted behavior. This update also serves as a reminder to the public and fans alike that HYBE will continue to prioritize the safety and rights of their artists, maintaining zero tolerance for any form of malicious activity.

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Fair Trade Commission Launches Official Investigation Against HYBE

It looks like the Fair Trade Commission has its eye on HYBE Labels. The FTC has decided to launch an official investigation into whether the company falsified important documents.

Fair Trade Commission Suspects HYBE of Submitting False Data

On June 24, 2024, Korean media reported that the FTC has launched an official investigation into HYBE. The investigation aims to scrutinize the company for potentially omitting or falsifying data regarding the relatives of its founder and chairman, Bang Si Hyuk.

As HYBE recently achieved conglomerate status, it is legally obligated to disclose information about the family members and their associated companies of its executives. The FTC’s concerns center on whether HYBE failed to accurately report the scope of Bang Si Hyuk’s relatives, the companies they own, and other affiliates. An official from the FTC stated that discrepancies were noted when comparing publicly available data on the HYBE shares held by these relatives.

The FTC’s investigation will delve into the accuracy and completeness of the information submitted by HYBE. The omission or falsification of such data is considered a serious offense, particularly for conglomerates, as it can obscure the true financial and operational scope of the company. The scrutiny includes a detailed examination of the familial connections and business interests of Bang Si Hyuk’s relatives to ensure full compliance with regulatory requirements.

HYBE’s designation as a conglomerate in May 2024 underscores its substantial influence and reach within the entertainment industry. This status also brings increased regulatory oversight, aimed at maintaining transparency and fair competition. The investigation by the FTC highlights the importance of accountability and accurate reporting for large corporations.

As the investigation progresses, HYBE will need to cooperate fully with the authorities to clarify any misunderstandings or inaccuracies. The outcome of this probe could also have significant implications for the company’s governance practices and its public image. Observers within the industry and the financial sector will also be closely monitoring developments, given HYBE’s prominent position and the potential repercussions of the investigation’s findings.

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aespa and NewJeans Collaborate in ‘How Sweet’ and ‘Armageddon’ Dance Challenges

The members of aespa and NewJeans delighted fans with an exciting collaboration that showcased their camaraderie and mutual respect. The idol groups just showed off their undeniable talent in new dance challenges!

aespa and NewJeans Delight Fans in New Dance Challenges

In a surprising and heartwarming display of unity, NewJeans members Danielle and Hanni teamed up with aespa’s Ningning and Winter to perform the ‘How Sweet’ dance challenge. Simultaneously, Karina and Giselle from aespa joined forces with Minji and Haerin from NewJeans for the ‘Armageddon’ challenge.

This collaboration has garnered significant attention, not only because it features two of the most popular girl groups in the K-pop industry today but also due to the underlying narrative that preceded it. There had been a wave of speculation and rumors among fans suggesting a possible rivalry between aespa and NewJeans. This speculation was fueled by leaked messages from Bang Si Hyuk, the chairman of HYBE Corporation, who had reportedly urged Min Hee Jin, CEO of ADOR (the label managing NewJeans), to use NewJeans to “step on aespa.”

Such messages led to widespread discussions among fans, with some expressing concerns about potential animosity between the two groups. However, the recent collaboration effectively dispelled these rumors and demonstrated that aespa and NewJeans maintain a friendly and supportive relationship despite any external pressures or industry competition.

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

The ‘How Sweet’ and ‘Armageddon’ dance challenges allowed fans to witness a blend of talents from both groups, creating a memorable and joyous experience. Danielle, Hanni, Ningning, and Winter’s performance was filled with energy and synchronization, highlighting their shared love for dance and performance. Similarly, Karina, Giselle, Minji, and Haerin showcased their charisma and chemistry, proving that collaboration between the two groups is not only possible but also highly successful.

This joint effort signifies more than just a fun dance challenge; it represents a broader message of solidarity and camaraderie within the K-pop industry. By coming together, aespa and NewJeans have shown that unity and mutual respect can thrive amidst competitive environments. Their collaboration serves as an example of how artists can support and uplift each other, setting a positive precedent for future interactions among K-pop groups.

The response from fans has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing joy and relief at seeing their favorite idols interact harmoniously. This collaboration has also opened up new possibilities for future projects and partnerships between aespa and NewJeans, further exciting their fanbases.

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Min Hee Jin Wins Injunction Vs HYBE, Retains ADOR CEO Position

The Seoul Central District Court has ruled in favor of Min Hee Jin concerning HYBE’s voting rights regarding her dismissal. On May 30, the court granted Min Hee Jin’s request for an injunction that prohibits HYBE from exercising its voting rights to remove her from her ADOR CEO position.

Min Hee Jin To Continue ADOR CEO Position

The court’s decision was based on the lack of substantial evidence provided by HYBE to support the reasons for Min Hee Jin’s dismissal or resignation. The court remarked, “The reasons for Min Hee Jin’s dismissal or resignation claimed by HYBE have not been sufficiently substantiated,” further noting, “While Min Hee Jin’s actions may be considered betrayal to HYBE, it is difficult to say that they constitute actions of breach of trust in regards to ADOR.”

This legal battle began on May 7, when Min Hee Jin filed for an injunction to prevent HYBE from using its voting rights to dismiss her at the ADOR extraordinary meeting of shareholders scheduled for May 31. With the court’s acceptance of this request, HYBE is now barred from voting on her dismissal during the upcoming meeting, ensuring that Min Hee Jin will remain in her role as the CEO of ADOR.

Min Hee Jin vs HYBE

Had the court denied the injunction, Min Hee Jin’s dismissal would have been almost certain, given that HYBE holds a significant 80 percent of ADOR’s shares. The court’s ruling is thus a significant victory for Min Hee Jin, allowing her to continue her leadership of ADOR without the immediate threat of removal.

This ruling also highlights the complexities and legal intricacies involved in corporate governance within the entertainment industry. Min Hee Jin’s continued role as CEO suggests her importance and influence in the direction and operations of ADOR. It also underscores the court’s stance that sufficient evidence and just cause are paramount when attempting to remove an executive from their position, even in cases where a majority shareholder seeks such action.

For now, Min Hee Jin can continue her work with ADOR, while HYBE must reassess its approach if it intends to challenge her position further. This decision not only preserves the stability within ADOR but also reinforces the need for concrete justification in corporate governance disputes.

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HYBE Responds to NewJeans ‘How Sweet’ MV Age and Country Restrictions

On May 27, HYBE addressed allegations regarding the age restriction imposed on NewJeans‘ latest music video for their track “How Sweet.” There had been accusations circulating that HYBE had deliberately placed age and country restrictions on the music video, which sparked significant controversy among fans and the general public.

HYBE’s Response to Age and Country Restrictions on NewJeans’ “How Sweet” Music Video

In response, HYBE clarified their position through a statement to Ilgan Sports, asserting that they were not responsible for the restrictions on the video. The statement aimed to dispel the misunderstandings and reassure fans that the limitations were not a decision made by the agency.

Despite the surrounding controversy, NewJeans continue to demonstrate their resilience and potential in the music industry. The girl group has shown impressive growth and success, as evidenced by their swift ascent on the Melon TOP 100 chart with their latest releases, “How Sweet” and “Bubble Gum.”

Achievements on the Melon TOP 100 Chart

On May 24, NewJeans achieved a significant milestone when their new tracks, “How Sweet” and “Bubble Gum,” entered the Melon Top 100 chart at positions 7 and 14, respectively. This accomplishment highlights the group’s rapidly growing popularity and the strong support they receive from their fanbase. The impressive debut of these tracks on such a prestigious chart underscores the group’s musical talent and the effective promotion strategies employed by their management.

The group’s ability to secure high-ranking positions on the Melon chart, even amid controversies, showcases their resilience and the unwavering support of their fans. It also reflects the quality and appeal of their music, which resonates with a wide audience.

The journey of NewJeans in the highly competitive K-pop industry has not been without challenges. Yet, their continuous rise on music charts and the positive reception of their releases indicate a promising future. The group’s achievements on the Melon TOP 100 chart serve as a testament to their hard work, talent, and the strategic efforts of their agency.

The Road Ahead for NewJeans

HYBE’s swift response to the allegations and their efforts to clarify the situation demonstrate their commitment to protecting and promoting their artists effectively. Moving forward, it will be crucial for both the agency and the group to navigate controversies carefully and continue to focus on producing high-quality music that resonates with their audience.

In conclusion, despite the age-restriction controversy, NewJeans have proven their mettle by climbing the music charts and maintaining a strong fanbase. Their success story is a reminder of the dynamic nature of the music industry and the importance of resilience and adaptability in achieving long-term success.

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LE SSERAFIM Eunchae Criticized For Talking About ‘Pressure to Perform Well’

LE SSERAFIM Eunchae has recently faced renewed interest and criticism over a statement she made during the group’s Weverse magazine interview for their “EASY” album. The scrutiny comes amid heightened public attention and criticism towards the group.

LE SSERAFIM Eunchae Faces Criticism For Honest Statement

In the interview, Eunchae candidly expressed the pressure she feels to perform well because they come from HYBE Labels, a company known for its massive success and influence in the K-pop industry. She admitted that it can be frustrating when the results don’t always seem to match the hard work the group puts in.

“We’re literally a team that came out of HYBE, and we’re working in a good environment, with good staff, so we feel like we should perform really well, and sometimes it’s overwhelming, because people only see the finished product, and if it’s not good, I feel guilty, and it’s hard to keep up. So I think the message in ‘EASY’ is the one I’m most confident about and the one I love the most, because it’s something I’ve wanted to say for a while, and I think there were a lot of times when my team worked hard and the results didn’t match up to the hard work we put in, and that makes me sad and frustrated, but now I’m thinking, ‘It’ll be cool if it works out later.’ So I’m trying to tell myself, ‘It’s no fun if it’s good from the beginning!’” – Hong Eunchae

The honest reflection resonated with many but also drew considerable criticism from netizens. The comments from netizens were notably harsh, with a significant portion of the feedback aligning with the criticism Eunchae and her groupmates have been receiving. A major point of contention has been LE SSERAFIM’s vocal performances, particularly during encore stages and their appearance at Coachella. Fans and critics alike have been vocal about their disappointment, suggesting that the group’s live singing did not meet the high standards expected from a HYBE-affiliated group.

LE SSERAFIM’s Previous Controversies

Adding fuel to the fire, reactions from other LE SSERAFIM members to the criticism have also been under scrutiny. For instance, Sakura’s response to negative comments about their Coachella performance has sparked further debate and dissatisfaction among fans and critics. Some felt that the group’s responses to the criticism lacked accountability or understanding of the fans’ concerns.

Eunchae’s statement about the disparity between their efforts and outcomes highlights the intense pressure and high expectations placed on K-pop idols, especially those from prominent labels like HYBE. While some fans empathize with the group’s struggles, others are less forgiving, expecting immediate perfection from such high-profile artists. The incident underscores the precarious nature of public perception in the K-pop industry, where artists are often subjected to rigorous standards and relentless scrutiny.

As LE SSERAFIM continues to navigate their career, they face the challenge of meeting these high expectations while staying true to their artistic journey. The situation highlights the broader issue of mental health and well-being in the entertainment industry, where the pressure to succeed can often overshadow the personal and collective growth of the artists. Going forward, how the group and their management address these criticisms and the expectations of their fanbase will be crucial in shaping their public image and career trajectory.

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NewJeans Voice Their Support for ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin

NewJeans may have chosen a side. All five members of the group have reportedly voice their support for ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin during her first trial against HYBE Labels.

NewJeans Voice Their Support for Min Hee Jin

On May 18, 2024, Yonhap News reported that the five members of NewJeans allegedly submitted a petition to the court the day before, during the first trial between HYBE and ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin. The court trial was initiated due to HYBE’s request for a provisional injunction against Min Hee Jin, specifically targeting her voting rights regarding the management of ADOR. This petition marks the first official action taken by the NewJeans members in this ongoing legal conflict. Until this point, they had not publicly addressed the issue nor provided any personal statements.

The specifics of the petition remain undisclosed. However, the strong bond between the NewJeans members and their CEO, Min Hee Jin, has been evident since their debut. On May 17, 2024, during the court session, Min Hee Jin’s legal representative stated, “NewJeans want to be with Min Hee Jin,” indicating the members’ preference to continue their professional relationship with her.

Min Hee Jin Vs HYBE

The hearing for Min Hee Jin’s injunction against HYBE occurred at Seoul’s Central District Court on May 17. The injunction was filed by Min Hee Jin to prevent HYBE from terminating her position. During the hearing, Min Hee Jin’s legal team accused HYBE of attempting to sabotage, threaten, and mistreat the members of NewJeans. Additionally, they revealed that HYBE had plans to place NewJeans on an 18-month hiatus, a move that reportedly frightened the members.

The situation has garnered significant attention due to the high stakes involved. NewJeans is one of the most promising new acts under ADOR, which itself operates as a subsidiary of HYBE. Min Hee Jin, renowned for her creative direction and successful management, has played a pivotal role in shaping the group’s identity and success. Her potential ousting by HYBE has therefore raised concerns about the future of the group and the direction of ADOR.

The legal battle reflects broader tensions within the entertainment industry, where creative control and managerial decisions often clash. For NewJeans, the prospect of an 18-month hiatus could severely impact their momentum and growth in the highly competitive K-pop landscape. Their apparent support for Min Hee Jin underscores their trust in her leadership and their desire to maintain stability within their professional environment.

As the court proceedings continue, the outcome will be closely watched by fans, industry insiders, and stakeholders. The resolution of this dispute will not only affect the future of NewJeans but could also set a precedent for how similar conflicts are handled within the industry. The dedication of the NewJeans members to their CEO highlights the importance of leadership and mutual respect in achieving success and navigating challenges in the dynamic world of K-pop.

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HYBE Addresses NewJeans Parents’ Email

HYBE, the powerhouse behind numerous K-pop sensations, has responded to the recent controversy stirred by NewJeans parents’ email. The saga began when Ilgan Sports disclosed an email from Min Hee Jin, who forwarded a letter allegedly authored by the concerned parents to HYBE in April.

HYBE Responds to NewJeans Parents’ Email

In the email, the parents articulated grievances regarding the resemblance between BELIFT LAB’s girl group ILLIT and NewJeans, highlighting concerns about Bang Si Hyuk’s handling of NewJeans and related matters.

In response, HYBE has also issued a statement, expressing gratitude for the feedback from the parents. They emphasized their commitment to fostering an environment where artists can thrive creatively while respecting intellectual property rights. HYBE reiterated their dedication to addressing any concerns raised by stakeholders and promised to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.

“We also want to state that the claim that the start of the ADOR incident was due to ‘neglect such as not responding to greetings’ is a one-sided argument and not true,” the statement read.

“We find it very unfortunate that Min Hee Jin is using an old-fashioned practice as she drags in artists and their families in her own battles for her personal greed,” it added.

Furthermore, HYBE assured the public of their unwavering support for both ILLIT and NewJeans, stressing their belief in the unique potential of each group to captivate audiences worldwide. They emphasized their belief in fair competition and vowed to uphold transparency and integrity in all their endeavors.

The response from HYBE seeks to reassure fans and stakeholders alike, conveying their dedication to resolving the issue amicably and upholding the values of creativity and respect within the K-pop industry. As the situation unfolds, all eyes remain on HYBE’s actions as they navigate through this challenging chapter in their storied journey.

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Taeyeon Supports NewJeans Amidst HYBE/ADOR Controversy

The tension between HYBE Labels and its subsidiary ADOR has not only rattled the K-pop industry but also sparked widespread debate and speculation. As the HYBE/ADOR controversy continues to unfold, tensions between the two entities have escalated, with accusations and counter-accusations flying back and forth. In the midst of this turmoil, Taeyeon, one of K-pop’s most prominent figures, has made her voice heard in support of a group caught in the middle.

Taeyeon Picks a Side in The HYBE/ADOR Controversy

On May 11th, Taeyeon took to her Instagram story to express her support for NewJeans, a move that caught the attention of fans and industry insiders alike. Sharing a screenshot of her streaming NewJeans’ track “Cool With You,” which was released in July 2023, Taeyeon sent a clear message of solidarity to the embattled group amidst the turbulent times facing the music industry.

While Taeyeon’s show of support for NewJeans may seem unrelated to the ongoing controversy between HYBE and ADOR, it underscores the interconnected nature of the K-pop community and the importance of standing by fellow artists during challenging times. In a landscape where alliances and allegiances can shape the trajectory of an artist’s career, Taeyeon’s gesture serves as a reminder of the power of solidarity in an industry often fraught with competition and conflict.

What’s Going On With HYBE and ADOR?

Meanwhile, the dispute between HYBE and ADOR continues to escalate, with both sides issuing statements and accusations against each other. The revelation of an illegal audit conducted by HYBE has only added fuel to the fire, further complicating an already contentious situation. With both parties digging in their heels, the future remains uncertain, leaving fans and industry observers on edge as they await further developments.

Amidst the chaos, Taeyeon’s involvement in the upcoming season of ‘Zombieverse 2’ offers a welcome distraction for fans eagerly anticipating the release of the popular series. Taeyeon’s confirmation to join the cast and her completion of filming her part add to the mounting excitement surrounding the new season, providing a glimmer of positivity in an otherwise turbulent time for the industry.

As the controversy between HYBE and ADOR continues to unfold, Taeyeon’s support for NewJeans serves as a beacon of solidarity, reminding fans and artists alike of the importance of standing together in the face of adversity. In an industry characterized by its highs and lows, unity and support are more important than ever, offering hope for a brighter future amidst the storm.

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