HYBE sparked backlash after an internal document targeting several K-pop idols was leaked. The revelation also led to a series of reactions from fans, as well as an apology from HYBE’s CEO and a new statement from Weverse.

The document was a tracking file, which contained malicious comments regarding K-pop idols, including those from pioneering K-pop companies SM Entertainment, JYP Entertainment, and YG Entertainment.

According to CEO Lee Jae Sang on October 29, the document was created to gather public reactions and opinions on current trends. Sharing with selected officials was also expected, and despite the intention to analyze public behavior, the CEO made it clear that the dossier still contained inadequate observations.

On November 10, the Weverse platform, owned by HYBE, shared an article from its magazine featuring a statement regarding the controversial dossier. It reported that the paper was “handled as a separate task by the former editor-in-chief” and that members of the magazine’s team were unaware of its existence.

“Other than the former editor-in-chief, no staff members were involved in the production of Weverse Magazine, nor did any outside collaborators participate in the creation of the tracking file.”

He also shared that the former editor-in-chief involved in the paper has now been removed from his position and banned from participating in activities related to Weverse Magazine. The statement also shows that the former editor’s staff has now stopped their monitoring duties.

Weverse Magazine added: “We apologize once again for the unpleasant comments and inconvenience caused (by this incident).”

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Written by Israel Monte