Fans Express Discontent Over HYBE’s Internal Reports and Alleged Role in Former RIIZE Seunghan Controversies

Recently, controversial revelations have surfaced concerning HYBE’s alleged role in the issues surrounding former RIIZE member, Seunghan. On October 24, representatives from HYBE attended a state audit at the National Assembly, where they voiced concerns regarding internal reports. During this session, numerous disparaging and potentially harmful remarks made by employees about various K-pop idols came to light.

Translation of HYBE's internal reports (Image via X/@dkrehrehRl) — Translation of HYBE’s internal reports (Image via X/@dkrehrehRl)

Among the K-pop artists purportedly mentioned in these negative comments are aespa, RIIZE, ZEROBASEONE, and others. A recent leak from an internal report highlighted a particular point related to RIIZE focusing on past photos, which caught the attention of netizens who linked it to Seunghan’s ongoing controversies.

Although the internal reports did not clarify HYBE’s connection to the issues surrounding RIIZE, speculation has arisen among fans suggesting that the label may have orchestrated the leak of Seunghan’s past photos, which resulted in a surge of negative attention. This situation eventually escalated, leading to the idol’s hiatus in November 2023 and subsequent exit from RIIZE in October 2024.

This situation has ignited significant backlash from fans and internet users alike. Here are a few notable reactions from X:

“HYBE truly is one of the most pitiful companies around, true or not. This level of insecurity from a corporation is unreal.”

“Does this imply that HYBE is responsible for the exposure of Seunghan’s past?”asked a fan.

“Does this not just mean HYBE was behind the surge of Seunghan’s photos everywhere???”added another user.

“All the bad karma coming back to that company is well-deserved; they’ve tormented several groups in the industry, and now it’s their turn to face the consequences,”remarked a netizen.

Many more fans and netizens theorized that the entertainment giant likely played a role in the controversies facing the former RIIZE member.

“HYBE is the mastermind behind every smear campaign aimed especially at SM artists, and now we’re witnessing their well-deserved downfall!”proclaimed an X user.

“Wait, are you saying HYBE was behind all these RIIZE past photos??? Including Seunghan’s?”inquired another user.

“HYBE is nothing but a corrupt entity that exploits their power to undermine other groups, particularly those under SM, to gain an advantage for their own artists,”noted a netizen.

“So, Seunghan had to endure all of this because of HYBE’s obsession with outdoing SM?”asked another fan on X.

Key Facts about the Controversies Surrounding Former RIIZE Member Seunghan

In 2023, Seunghan faced a wave of controversies that exploded on social media. The initial incident occurred in August when photos allegedly depicting the idol with his former girlfriend surfaced. While he faced harsh criticism for his actions prior to his debut, additional compromising images were disclosed shortly thereafter.

These included images and clips of him with a lit cigarette. As more disturbing claims emerged, an anonymous netizen shared information online regarding Seunghan’s alleged behavior, asserting that he had been rude to them and fellow trainees before his debut.

Following these incidents, SM Entertainment announced his hiatus in November 2023. As a result, Seunghan withdrew from all scheduled activities with RIIZE and notably minimized his public appearances. On October 11, SM Entertainment and its affiliate hinted at his gradual reintegration into the group.

However, just under 48 hours after this news, another announcement indicated that he would be leaving RIIZE permanently due to the adverse public reactions.

Despite this, numerous fans have expressed dissatisfaction regarding his exit, actively advocating for his return in various ways.

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