HYBE Document Scandal: Overview and Recent Developments
HYBE’s internal document, known as the “Weekly Music Industry Report,”has ignited significant controversy within the entertainment sector. This document featured scathing commentary against various celebrities and entertainment companies while overwhelmingly promoting the company’s own idols. Additionally, it outlined strategies for viral marketing that were based on analyzed online content.
Official Apologies and Internal Reforms
On October 29, following intense scrutiny during a parliamentary inspection, HYBE’s CEO, Lee Jae-sang, publicly apologized for the questionable content within the report. He also committed to enhancing internal controls to prevent future incidents. Notably, however, HYBE rejected claims of employing “reverse viral marketing,” a tactic alleged to generate adverse sentiments towards competitors.
Emerging Allegations and Ongoing Public Suspicion
On November 1, a purported HYBE employee disclosed excerpts from the controversial document, amplifying accusations of reverse viral marketing despite the company’s previous denials. Critics have voiced concerns about HYBE’s decision to only demote a single senior staff member connected to the report, perceiving this as insufficient disciplinary action. In light of ongoing scrutiny, HYBE announced it is exploring legal options against those disseminating what it considers false allegations.
Weverse Magazine’s Statement and Media Inquiry
On November 9, the Weverse Magazine team released a statement distancing itself from the contested document while affirming their lack of involvement in its creation—just over a week after the CEO’s apology. This sudden public communication was in response to rising speculation regarding the participation of other team members in the report’s production.
In a recent inquiry by CBS Nocut News, several critical questions were posed to HYBE concerning the series of events surrounding the document:
Q&A Insights from HYBE
Q: Why did Weverse Magazine issue a statement on November 9, following the CEO’s apology on October 29?
A: The statement aimed to clarify suspicions that additional members of Weverse Magazine were involved in the document’s creation, highlighting that it was solely managed by the former editor-in-chief.
Q: Was the report generated by individuals outside the Weverse Magazine team?
A: Yes, it was compiled specifically by personnel designated by the former editor-in-chief, distinct from the magazine’s production team.
Q: What subsequent actions will HYBE undertake regarding the former editor-in-chief?
A: The former editor-in-chief is currently on standby, pending further internal investigations.
Q: How does HYBE respond to claims regarding reverse viral marketing?
A: HYBE firmly asserts these allegations are unfounded and is contemplating necessary actions to address what it views as misinformation.
Q: How has HYBE approached apologies to impacted agencies and artists?
A: CEO Lee Jae-sang has reached out with apologies through phone calls and official letters to the executives of agencies affected by the report.
For more information, refer to the article on Naver.
For additional insights and images, visit Kbizoom.
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