“Lies Upon Lies” – Netizens Respond to HYBE Labels’ Quick Reaction to Reports of Alleged Derogatory Remarks About Minor Idols

On Thursday, October 24, internal documents from HYBE Labels were reportedly disclosed during the National Assembly’s Culture, Sports, and Tourism State Audit. This disclosure included purported discussions among HYBE staff, particularly management, which left many internet users stunned.

The content of these alleged discussions included inappropriate and derogatory remarks about artists signed to the label, some of whom are reported to still be minors. This revelation has fueled heightened criticism aimed at HYBE’s executive team from the public.

Following the leak of these internal reports, HYBE Labels promptly issued a response via their official website, although the post was said to have been deleted shortly thereafter.

In their statement, HYBE clarified that the excerpts were simply reflections of fan and netizen reactions aimed at understanding industry trends. They insisted that the content was intended for a limited audience and should not be seen as a reflection of HYBE Labels’ official viewpoint.

HYBE further stated that the report included a mix of both commendations and criticisms related to the organization.

“This document was compiled by aggregating community and social media reactions to provide internal members with insight into industry attributes. It should not be construed as HYBE’s perspective. The report encompasses essential points as an entertainment company that merits attention, along with favorable feedback from fans,”the label explained.

As a result, there was significant backlash at the alleged manipulation of the report’s context. In closing, they indicated their intent to take legal action against the individual responsible for leaking these confidential documents and for misrepresenting the contents to damage the label’s reputation.

Despite their efforts to clarify, criticism from netizens continued unabated. Many expressed dissatisfaction with HYBE’s lack of a formal apology regarding the leaked information:

“Lies upon lies.”

“Now they’re blaming the National Assembly for ‘selectively editing’ their internal report. Isn’t their own tactic the frequent manipulation of context?”commented a user on X.

“Is Hybe the only organization permitted to manipulate media narratives and shape public opinion as they please???”stated a fan on X.

The label’s statement regarding the internal report leak prompted a flurry of reactions from fans and netizens alike:

“No way you’re weaseling out of this one, HYBE. This is all media manipulation,”noted another fan.

“This company should be dismantled, and its leaders deserve to face imprisonment,”added a user.

“I wonder how Hybe will navigate this. Unlike the closed court sessions where distortions and mistranslations occurred, this is all out in the open,”remarked another netizen.

Essential Insights into HYBE Labels’ Report at the National Assembly State Audit

On October 24, HYBE Labels’ COO, Kim Tae-ho, faced scrutiny during the National Assembly State Audit as concerns were raised about the company’s internal communications. Democratic Party representative Min Hyung-bae initiated these inquiries after noticing questionable comments documented within the agency.

Among the numerous issues addressed were remarks about the looks of underage K-pop idols. While the report was claimed to be an analysis of industry trends, a lawyer criticized the harshness of these comments, highlighting the use of derogatory language directed at K-pop artists.

Moreover, the agency was also criticized for making disparaging comments about rival groups like those from SM Entertainment and JYP Entertainment. The internal reports purportedly evaluated performances at events like Coachella, deeming some of the showcases as subpar and unentertaining.

In defense, the HYBE COO asserted that the reports were strictly for internal purposes to monitor audience reactions and trends in the industry. Nonetheless, Yoo In-chan, the minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, stressed that HYBE Labels must acknowledge and uphold ethical business standards.

Despite the official response, online users remain doubtful regarding the legitimacy of HYBE Labels’ denials.

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