Allegations Surface from HYBE Employee About Internal Document and Marketing Tactics
In a surprising development, an individual claiming to be associated with HYBE has shared new revelations regarding an internal document that allegedly outlines reverse viral marketing strategies. On November 2, 2024, Sports Kyunghyang broke the story, highlighting statements made by Mr. K, who asserts his employment at the entertainment conglomerate.
New Evidence and Claims of Internal Marketing Schemes
Mr. K’s accusations stem from a recently disclosed document titled the “Weekly Music Industry Report,”which he shared on a popular online forum. To substantiate his claims, he included a screenshot of an email from HYBE’s Chairman Bang Si-hyuk, dated July 2023, as well as a photograph of his company-issued business card. Additionally, he uploaded a comprehensive document exceeding 900 pages in length.
In his posts, Mr. K expressed his frustration and desire to clear the air, stating:
“I held it in for a long time and finally mustered up the courage to post this. I wanted to let people know that, contrary to many claims about us not engaging in reverse virality, the report contains numerous instances of planned and executed strategies. It’s filled with gossip not just about artists but also industry insiders.”
Responses to Internal Document Leak
The fallout from these allegations is significant, especially in light of an earlier revelation by Democratic Party representative Min Hyung-bae at the National Assembly audit on October 24, where a different internal document from HYBE was presented. This earlier document had also been criticized for containing disparaging remarks about various K-pop artists associated with the agency and its affiliates.
In response to public outrage, HYBE’s COO Kim Tae-ho defended the organization during the audit, stating that the opinions reflected in the document were not representative of the company’s official stance, but rather opinions gathered from social media.
Wider Implications and Industry Concerns
According to Mr. K’s latest revelations, the controversial evaluations did not focus exclusively on K-pop artists but extended to evaluating reality shows, television producers, broadcasting networks, and more. This broad reach has raised additional concerns about the ethical implications of such internal communications.
HYBE operates as a multi-label entertainment entity, featuring subsidiaries such as BIGHIT MUSIC, Source Music, PLEDIS Entertainment, ADOR, and KOZ Entertainment. Mr. K alleged that executives within these labels have either chosen to ignore the document or are downplaying its significance. He remarked:
“I’ve heard that executives from the related labels are organizing their thoughts to present it as if they’ve never seen it. There were directives given with intent, and some chose to comply without question, even after having access to this report for over two years.”
HYBE’s Official Apology and Consequences
In response to these growing concerns, HYBE CEO Lee Jae-sang issued a formal apology on October 29, addressing fans and artists who were negatively impacted by the leaked document. Further developments included the dismissal of Mr. Kang, who allegedly oversaw the creation of this document, and a commitment from HYBE to cease its production.
As this situation unfolds, it raises critical questions regarding transparency and accountability within major entertainment corporations. The reactions of fans and the industry at large will be pivotal in shaping the future actions of HYBE.
For more detailed information, refer to the original source: Sports Keeda.
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