Internet Response: Alleged HYBE Promotion of Dating Rumors between SEVENTEEN’s Mingyu and Somi Sparks Controversy

On October 29, 2024, Koreaboo, a South Korean news platform, disclosed information regarding internal documents from HYBE that reportedly included insights into dating rumors tied to SEVENTEEN’s Mingyu and the solo artist Jeon Somi. The major entertainment corporation seems to have actively tracked and strategically utilized these rumors in their media approach.

The purportedly leaked information, which formed part of an extensive report revealed during a National Assembly audit on October 24, comprised thousands of pages that evaluated the organization’s internal teams and its competitors. Included were discussions about a range of dating rumors, notably surrounding SEVENTEEN’s Joshua, whose rumored romantic involvement ignited debate online.

Reports indicate that during a live stream, Mingyu casually mentioned fellow SEVENTEEN member Wonwoo’s presence, which was then leveraged by the label to assure fans that the members lived together, indirectly dismissing speculations about Joshua potentially moving in with a romantic partner.

This livestream inadvertently shifted attention away from the circulating Mingyu-Somi dating rumors. Consequently, many netizens voiced their frustration towards the label’s handling of the situation.

Fans react to HYBE's leaked internal reports (Image via X/@midnight7melody) — Fans react to HYBE’s leaked internal reports (Image via X/@midnight7melody)

“So HYBE is behind the dating rumors of Somi and Mingyu?!,”someone questioned.

“Oh, the rumor originated from DCInside, a Korean forum—HYBE might have intended to promote the dating gossip, but it backfired since many found it absurd, especially when Mingyu coincidentally went live at the same time, I can’t even imagine if their plan had succeeded!,”a user elaborated.

“They belong in a special place in hell! How dare they do this to Somi and SEVENTEEN?!,”an X user shared their outrage.

“Damn, they even tried to target Somi; they need to face consequences right now. I learn something more disturbing about HYBE every day—are only weirdos working there or what?,”a netizen commented.

Mingyu and Somi are known to share a close friendship, often showing support for one another publicly, such as during Mingyu’s attendance at her album launch event. HYBE appears to be closely monitoring any incidents that could affect its idols’ reputations.

“What does this mean??? They were about to promote the Mingyu-Somi rumor, but it didn’t pan out because Mingyu accidentally went live with Wonwoo?????????,”another user remarked.

“Did they actually include in a report that Mingyu thwarted a dating rumor with Somi by using Wonwoo?, a netizen questioned.

Insights from HYBE’s Internal Report Revealed at National Assembly

The audit led by South Korea’s Culture, Sports, and Tourism Committee unveiled the “Weekly Music Industry Report” from the label. This document provided commentary on rival idols’ appearances, skills, and fan engagement strategies, raising alarms among followers and industry analysts.

Outrage ensued from fans who were disturbed by the insinuations that the company might have sought to manipulate public perception or fabricate rumors for its own benefit. The reactions were intense, with many criticizing HYBE for seemingly neglecting their idols’ well-being, igniting a heated conversation regarding the ethics of media influence.

This scandal coincides with other contentious details found in the report, including allegations of the label developing strategies to enhance LE SSERAFIM’s standing against major groups like BLACKPINK and TWICE. The documents also reportedly examined voting tendencies attributed to Lisa’s international fanbase, raising suspicions of attempts to undercut certain fandoms.

HYBE’s CEO and COO are currently facing scrutiny regarding these alleged leaked documents, as public and fan calls for accountability continue to mount, placing the company under considerable pressure.

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