K-netizens Mock HYBE’s Decision to Hire Former SM President, Mention Min Hee-jin

On August 1, a post titled “HYBE recruits former SM President Kim Young-min” was shared on the Korean forum “theqoo” , gaining significant attention.

The subject of the discussion was the comparison between previous statements made by Kim Young-min and Yoon Seok-joon, the CEO of HYBE, regarding the ideal formula for producing a flawless idol group.

Yoon Seok-joon emphasized, “Lately, we have come to the realization that we have discovered the perfect formula and language. We are confident that we have grasped the most effective approach to connect with our fans and cultivate a dedicated following. We are also excited to explore the possibility of applying this formula to future debuts, including TXT.”

In the past, Kim Young-min shared his thoughts on the potential disbandment of Girls’ Generation by stating that another group will eventually replace them. This has led to a shift in perspective, where artists such as BoA and TVXQ, who were once seen as individuals, are now viewed as belonging to the SM brand. As a result, the SM brand has become a highly valuable asset.

The speaker of the topic contends that both HYBE and Kim Young-min share the belief that they can replicate the success of groups like BTS or Girls’ Generation by utilizing their “perfect formula”, which is further justified by the reasoning behind their hiring decision.

Despite this, there are netizens who ridicule this viewpoint, going as far as claiming that HYBE lacks the ability to recognize talent. Here are a few comments:

Wow, HYBE even recruited Kim Young Min. They really have no eye for talent
It is incredibly arrogant of them to believe that they can replicate the success of groups like Girls’ Generation or BTS.
Is there really a formula for success? Sure, it’s possible to form a moderately successful group with a formula, but artists like BTS and Girls’ Generation just happen to work randomly after they tried everything
If their company formula is truly effective, then why haven’t they replicated it with other groups like Girls’ Generation or BTS?
Wow, that is fantastic news! Even Bang Si-hyuk, who was unsure of why BTS gained popularity, mentioned that they discovered the formula?
Min Hee-jin who created New Jeans was kicked out, yet Kim Young-min who didn’t create Girls’ Generation was chosen
The group that Kim Young-min created in the first place… is not even Girls’ Generation…

The source is theqoo.