Fans believe he is referring to HYBE’s internal document leak scandal.
Koreaboo
ATEEZ Hongjoong‘s recent lyrics have attracted attention online.
Not long ago, it was announced that Hongjoong and Odetaria Palestinian-American rapper, would release a collaborative track. “SMB (w/ Hongjoong of ATEEZ)” was released on January 15, much to the excitement of fans.
“SMB” is performed in a mix of English and Korean and has lyrics that express a lack of concern for what others think. Hongjoong’s lyrics in Korean convey a similar message, but many believe they are specifically referring MOVESinternal documents scandal.
In late 2024, documents from HYBE leaked online, revealing thoughts about idols under the label and otherwise.
The many K-Pop groups insulted in HYBE’s internal documents
The lyrics in Hongjoon’s verses seem to reference this and are believed to be a nod to HYBE’s president Bang Si Hyukalso known as “Hitman” Bang. The lyrics call for the subject to “act” their age and watch their back, rather than pay attention to and hate others.
Should I be angry?
It’s not funny at all
Act your age, you lazy bum.
Just nod, clap.
Why are you angry?
Do you think you’re worth something, hitman?
If you have time to look at others,
better watch your back.
Du-du-du, bang.
Jealousy and envy rule your life.
Blinded, you talk trash while saying names.
A lifetime of playing mind games,
avoid work and then throw a tantrum at the end of the game.
Oh, it’s hot, how’s it going?
I will fan the flames until there is no trace of your home left.
Cheap, outdated grumpy.
I know it’s unfair.— Hongjoong in “PMI”
Fans interpreted the lyrics as a callout and reacted in various ways, including mentioning the criticism HYBE has faced for its association with Zionism.
“what do you know, HITMAN”
“you-you-you, BANG”THIS IS MY GOAT, TAKE HER ASS HJ pic.twitter.com/J7wVzK6rLJ
— butters 🦋 (@dreamingslight) January 15, 2025
he dragged a power-hungry Zionist company into a collaboration with a Palestinian artist pic.twitter.com/RNpZvFQYPQ https://t.co/JwO4tV7vwF
— ʚ♡ɞ (@sinbadismo) January 15, 2025
Ok but calling him out for a collaboration with a Palestinian artist is so iconic https://t.co/cj2AlFeezC
— Dee Dee (@strxwberrydee) January 15, 2025
