The Korean music industry is in shock as HYBE idols face a widespread boycott, stemming from allegations related to leaked reports criticizing other companies’ artists. This information was reported by Sports Seoul, revealing that the reactions from other artists and industry companies were “shocking” and “unacceptable.”
According to multiple sources, instead of focusing on developing its own artists, HYBE has distributed materials that harshly criticize third-party artists. A representative from another company expressed disappointment, stating: “It’s frustrating to think that the entire industry receives such reports. Even if they analyze, they should do so for their in-house artists, not third-party artists.”
These documents not only caused outrage, but also created a dilemma for the idols, especially since they may have to promote together in the future. “The members of the idol groups are quite close. During overlapping promotions, there are many factors that can improve an artist’s visibility, such as collaboration stages or challenge clips. HYBE will encounter difficulties in executing such projects,” a representative noted.
Not only the companies but also the criticized artists are unhappy. An artist who collaborated with HYBE commented, “I wonder if it’s really a trend in the industry to criticize so rudely. It is too childish to criticize appearance instead of talent.” This feeling may lead many artists to refuse participation in future collaborative activities with HYBE.
The reaction from the fan community was also strong. Many fans expressed their outrage and called for a boycott of HYBE. “Of course, idols will no longer compete with them,“said one fan. “No one wants to be involved with HYBE anymore,” Another shared opinion.
In particular, criticism of other idols’ appearances was seen as mean-spirited and disrespectful. Comments like “XX seems really stupid” in internal reports left many offended. One fan pleaded: “My bias is to host a music show and I’m just begging them to stay away from HYBE.”
This crisis not only reflects HYBE’s tarnished image, but also shows the strong negative reaction from both the music industry and fans. With negative accusations and inadequate strategies in managing artists’ images, it seems that HYBE will have to bear the consequences of their actions.
Source: Pannchoa
