Fans Disappointed by Latest Weverse Update Removing Iconic BTS Symbols: “We Want Our Army Bombs Back”

Recent modifications to the Weverse app by HYBE Corporation have brought about notable changes, including the introduction of a dark mode, a shift from the ARMY bomb like button to a heart symbol, and more enhancements. As of October 22, 2024, Weverse has officially ceased support for Android versions older than 9 and iOS earlier than 16 to promote better functionality.

In alignment with its objectives for Q4 expansion, the platform will unveil a new subscription service distinct from existing fan club memberships. This premium option will provide features such as ad-free browsing, offline access to video-on-demand content, and exclusive digital items.

The latest update has garnered a mix of reactions. While many fans are thrilled about the improved content, there are those who express dissatisfaction, raising issues regarding app moderation and usability. Additionally, the app’s logo transition from cyan and white to black and white has not gone unnoticed.

Many members of the BTS ARMY expressed their frustration over the elimination of the ARMY bomb like button in favor of a standard heart icon. One fan voiced their concerns about the removal of beloved features like the ARMY bomb and “purple quote messages,”stating:

“They should keep the ARMY bomb and purple quote messages just for the BTS community. Other communities are not our concern; we just want our ARMY bombs back.”

Disheartened by the recent app modifications, several fans indicated they would refrain from updating the app on their devices.

“Absolutely not! I won’t update until I’m forced to. I’ll hang on to that ARMY bomb,”one fan expressed.

“At least keep the ARMY bomb for the BTS community. What’s wrong with them? I liked the old Weverse, and I’m never updating,”another user remarked.

“I just logged in, and suddenly, an update? Weverse should focus on improving their live streaming, not just changing the appearance,”another fan shared.

Some opted to disable the “Auto-update”feature in the app settings so they could avoid this latest upgrade.

“I disabled auto-update for Weverse. If I managed to survive this long without dark mode, I can continue without it,”one fan noted.

“I woke up to find Weverse updated automatically against my wishes,”another user lamented.

“I rushed to my settings to turn off automatic updates for apps. Seriously?”another fan added.

Weverse Criticized for Profiting from Fans and Partner Labels

According to Music Business Worldwide, Weverse generates over $24 million annually from fan subscriptions as of October 17, 2024. The platform has plans to increase subscription fees from $2 to $4 monthly. Furthermore, Weverse has communicated its new strategy to over 130 labels, indicating an intention to retain between 30% and 60% of revenue from membership plans, while the remainder would be distributed to the partner labels.

However, The Korea Times reported that several smaller agencies find the revenue sharing arrangement unfavorable. Industry insiders suggest that Weverse has established a monopoly in the K-pop market, making it challenging for other labels to engage in fan marketing without reliance on the platform.

While many supporters recognize that HYBE, the parent company of Weverse, must achieve financial viability, numerous fans feel that the new membership offerings deliver benefits that are redundant or too closely aligned with the current features.

On October 26, 2024, The Korea Times highlighted comments from Democratic Party of Korea representative Lee Jung-mun, who stated that the app is allegedly exploiting both fans and partner labels for profit.

In related news, concerns mount among employees regarding HYBE’s declining stock value. CEO Lee Jae-sang convened a meeting where he reassured staff that the company’s cash flow and overall financial health remain robust, stating that HYBE possesses over 1.2 trillion KRW (approximately $867 million) in cash and convertible bonds.

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