HYBE Insider Exposes Shocking Insights into Employee Overwork and Audit Findings Related to Death

Insights from HYBE’s Audit: Overwork-Related Death Under Scrutiny

On October 15, 2024, during an audit conducted by HYBE, CEO Kim Ju-young faced inquiries concerning a tragic incident from 2022, now officially recognized as related to overwork within the company. The auditing process suggested that HYBE may have engaged in efforts to minimize the severity of this unfortunate event. Kim Ju-young commented, “In September 2022, an employee sought refuge in the break room but sadly collapsed. After being taken to the hospital, they succumbed to a personal illness days later.”

Revelations from a Confidential Sources

On November 8, 2024 (KST), Bizhankook released an interview featuring a HYBE insider; this long-serving employee chose to remain anonymous to protect their privacy. Their insights shed light on the workplace atmosphere at HYBE during the time of the incident, providing a deeper understanding of the factors related to the overwork-rooted tragedy.

Interview Highlights: Employee Experiences and Company Culture

Q: During the National Assembly audit on October 15, allegations arose that HYBE attempted to cover up an overwork-related death. Can you provide context regarding this situation?

A: Yes, there were circulating rumors. While I did not know the individual personally, I distinctly remember a company-wide announcement regarding their death — a rarity within our organization. Discussions ensued, suggesting that the cause was work-related stress. I recall seeing an article about it that was subsequently taken down. Considering the ongoing conversations, I found the theory plausible.

Q: What led you to find these rumors believable?

A: I experienced exhaustion myself. During the pandemic, while part of BIGHIT MUSIC, my colleagues and I would jokingly express a preference for contracting COVID-19 over enduring our workload. It was overwhelming.

Q: Could you describe the intensity of the work environment during that time?

A: Burnout was rampant even before the incident took place. Our production sessions would often begin late at night, stretching into the dawn hours. After completing tasks around 5 or 6 AM, we were frequently asked to remain on standby for edits, sometimes leading to a series of sleepless nights. This cycle became inefficient and exhausting.

Q: What regulations governed working hours during that period?

A: At that time, the 52-hour workweek had not yet been established, leading each label to formulate its own guidelines. While some labels compensated for overtime, others did not.

Q: Were production schedules typically aligned with album releases?

A: Yes, but delays often stemmed from management approvals. Many deadlines were missed, with delays occurring for reasons that were rarely explained. At times, we reverted back to initial drafts after extensive revisions, which was a draining process — I personally lost 10 kg in my first month.

Q: Has the working environment at HYBE improved recently?

A: There have been some changes to the system. While I can’t confirm whether Bang Si Hyuk was aware of past issues, I have observed noticeable differences between the labels he directly oversees and those he does not.

HYBE’s Response to the Controversy

In response to the serious concerns raised during the interview, HYBE affirmed its commitment to adhering to existing labor laws. The company has implemented policies such as unlimited paid leave and flexible working hours to foster a healthier, self-regulated environment for its employees.

Source: KoreaBoo

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