Previously, on January 15, ATEEZ member Hongjoong released the song “SMB” – a collaboration with Palestinian-American rapper Odetari.
The lyrics of “SMB”, which include both Korean and English, show an attitude of not caring what others think. However, upon closer examination, many believe that Hongjoong’s lyrics in Korean may actually be disparaging HYBE and its founder, Bang Si-hyuk.
In particular, they are believed to be referring to HYBE’s internal documents, which record vicious reactions and comments that humiliate many K-pop idols, both those from HYBE and those from other companies. ATEEZ was also mentioned in those documents.
Meanwhile, Hongjoong’s lyrics include parts like: “Do you think you’re worth something, hitman? / If you have time to look at others / you better watch your back / Du-du-du, bang”, including “hitman” and “bang” form the name of Bang Si-hyuk’s producer: Hitman Bang.
It also included lines suspected of defaming HYBE documents, such as: “Jealousy and envy rule your life. Blinded, you talk nonsense while insulting”, “Act your age, lazy slacker”, AND “Poor, old-fashioned and grumpy.”
While speculation that “SMB” is a diss track targeting HYBE and Bang Si-hyuk continues to gain attention, agency ATEEZ released a response, simply stating, “We have no official comments.”
