“HYBE’s Strategy to Reduce Revenue Dependency on BTS Divides Internet Opinions”

HYBE Announces BTS Reunion Plans Amid Growing Expectations

BTS fans recently turned their attention to HYBE, the conglomerate behind the global K-pop sensation, after the company shared updates on the future of the seven-member group following their military service. During a conference on November 5, 2024, where the company presented its third-quarter performance, CFO Lee Kyung-jun revealed that BTS is anticipated to resume group activities in 2026, signaling a shift from earlier projections.

“We are currently discussing with the members about a full group activity in 2026. BTS’s return is expected to generate significant revenue, but as our new ventures and other artists develop, we anticipate that BTS’s contribution will be less relied upon going forward,” Lee stated.

HYBE executives forecast a positive revenue boost with the return of the “Dynamite”artists. They plan to alleviate some of the financial pressure traditionally placed on BTS by diversifying their revenue streams.

Netizen Reactions: Concerns and Celebrations

Responses from the online community have been mixed regarding HYBE’s strategy. Some fans expressed skepticism, fearing this approach might lead to diminished focus on BTS.

“They want to create the next BTS by giving other groups privileges while sidelining the original members. It’s frustrating,” one fan remarked.

“The issue is that despite their statements, they continue to depend heavily on BTS, even with their solo endeavors and merchandise,” another fan noted.

Conversely, some members of the fandom saw this decision as a potential liberation for BTS.

“I’m really happy with this direction. BTS should no longer carry the weight of the entire company. They deserve it after all their hard work,” a supportive user commented.

“Less pressure means BTS can make bolder artistic decisions. It’s freeing for them,” another noted.

Earnings Report Highlights from HYBE’s Q3 Conference

During the same conference, CEO Lee Jae-sang discussed HYBE’s financial performance, praising the contributions of the agency’s diverse roster of artists—notably how they helped achieve significant sales milestones.

“Thanks to the balanced output from our artists, cumulative sales in Q3 surpassed 1.5 trillion won. This positions us well to reach 2 trillion won in annual sales for a second consecutive year,” he commented.

Despite this optimistic outlook, the company did report declines in key financial metrics. Operating profit for the third quarter was 54.2 billion KRW, reflecting a 25.4 percent decrease compared to the same quarter last year. Additionally, sales fell by 1.9 percent to 527.8 billion KRW, with net profit plummeting to a mere 1.4 billion KRW, a striking 98.6 percent drop.

As HYBE navigates these challenges and contemplates its future without an overwhelming reliance on BTS, fans continue to monitor the situation closely, navigating a complex emotional landscape as they consider the future of their beloved group.

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