Unearthed HYBE Document Reveals Negative Views on SM’s New Girl Group Hearts2Hearts

Controversy Surrounds SM Entertainment’s Upcoming Girl Group Hearts2Hearts

Excitement is building around SM Entertainment’s much-anticipated K-pop girl group, Hearts2Hearts. However, recent revelations from a controversial internal document associated with HYBE have stirred up discussions regarding the members’ visuals.

Internal Document Sparks Debate

On January 13, a vibrant community thread drew the attention of netizens with the provocative title, “The SM Rookies Must’ve Been Freaking Taken Aback When They Read HYBE’s Internal Report.” Here, an excerpt from the outcry-inducing document was shared, featuring evaluations of the SMNGG (SM New Girl Group) members during their trainee days.

Visuals Under Scrutiny

This internal report highlighted the potential members of Hearts2Hearts in contrast to HYBE’s rookie team showcased in their survival show “R U NEXT?”The report claimed, “SM’s new girl group was attracting attention, likely due to discussions surrounding HYBE’s team.” Surprisingly, it continued with criticisms regarding the attractiveness of the shortlisted candidates.

Knets bring back HYBE’s internal report calling SM’s new girl group members “unpretty”https://t.co/7chEkbNODv pic.twitter.com/PcZ3B3GvDt

— pannchoa (@pannchoa) January 14, 2025

The document remarked, “Apparently, around eight candidates have been shortlisted. However, none stand out for their physical appeal.” Furthermore, it speculated whether SM Entertainment is opting for a trainee roster lacking in experience, or if they are simply shifting their focus away from conventional visual standards due to past criticisms.

Response from Fans and Creators

In response to the document’s disparaging remarks, the original poster (OP) shared a collage of the Hearts2Hearts members, asserting, “There’s not one ugly kid here,” standing firmly against the narrative presented by HYBE.

SM Entertainment’s new girl group will reportedly be called ‘Hearts2Hearts.’ pic.twitter.com/0ho8G3q7Pt

— Pop Base (@PopBase) January 12, 2025

HYBE’s Apology and Future Implications

The conversation surrounding visual standards was further fueled when HYBE Labels CEO Lee Jae Sang issued an apology on October 29, 2024, for the problematic monitoring file that singled out multiple artists from notable agencies such as SM, JYP, and YG. He emphasized that the document’s purpose was to analyze market trends and public reception, but admitted that its phrasing and content were inappropriate.

The ongoing discussions around the internal report illustrate the complex dynamics of K-pop’s visual culture and the pressure artists face regarding their appearances. As anticipation grows for Hearts2Hearts, the implications of these comments may ripple throughout the industry.

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