The K-Pop community was sparked into a heated discussion by a controversial post on the online forum Nate Pann. Posted on April 14, 2024, the post quickly gained popularity, accumulating over 111,000 views overnight.
The author made a bold statement, stating that HYBE, a well-known entertainment company, is going against the core values of K-Pop.
The Decline of Conventional Norms
Historically, K-Pop has been known for its strict standards of quality, with only the most polished and skilled individuals debuting after undergoing years of rigorous training. However, this changed when Wonhee appeared on R U Next? after only a few weeks of practice.
i really didn’t want her to debut in this group but she’s a minor really don’t wanna hate or say bad things about her. let’s not hate and if we don’t like, just ignore. i’m still disappointed about this show but trying hard to stan and love all of them, wishing the best for them
— gullu ☁️ (@usergullu) September 2, 2023
Despite claims that companies like HYBE are prioritizing quantity over quality, the post argues that this tradition is still fading.
going back in time to stop genshin from releasing their kazuha chara before le sserafim’s debut so kazuha isnt the face of bad ig usernames https://t.co/Q5VDgmVlUd
— loraine (@H0NEYW0RKS) January 14, 2023
It focuses on cases where trainees made their debut with notably shorter training durations compared to what has been traditionally expected.
The “post”on the website accuses HYBE of rushing debuts for trainees and heavily relying on its connection with internationally renowned groups such as BTS to enhance the image of its newer idol groups, a practice commonly known as “media play.”
Unanimous Backing and Worries
The post’s sentiment had a strong impact on many netizens, as shown by the overwhelming support it garnered with over 1523 upvotes and numerous concurring comments.
hybe is the reason for kpop industry’s downfall
— haui (@lilacbaekho) February 28, 2022
Beyond just talent quality, there are also other concerns surrounding the commercialization of the K-Pop industry and how it may affect stock values.
HYBE finally destroying kpop for good WE CHEERED! ! https://t.co/7FMjYmRqGg
— Blitz 💓 (CLOSED/MOVED ‼️) (@yoongischoppa) February 28, 2022
Recent developments, such as the backlash against LE SSERAFIM’s performance at Coachella, have heightened the examination of HYBE’s methods.
i was mostly sad at how the coachella stage complimented none of le sserafim’s strengths like creative choreography and set design pic.twitter.com/YZ9OR0u6ZG
— dan (@hagnugu) April 14, 2024
Critics have become even more suspicious due to the perceived decrease in quality and the company’s transformation into a conglomerate.
Fr i was expecting them to have more of a set and more dancing but hybe is a failure
— cat (@deardives) April 14, 2024
The Evolution of K-Pop: Navigating an Ever-Changing Industry
Despite ongoing discussions within the K-Pop community, there are still uncertainties surrounding the industry’s future direction, specifically regarding the impact of large entertainment conglomerates such as HYBE.
y’all were just stupid and jumped to conclusions not bc you were worried but bc you wanted a chance to feed your Hybe destroying kpop narrative. it’s okay to admit it and take your lashings in silence 😭 https://t.co/1s0SmStteC
— 🐻❄️⁷ | semi ia🐢 (@userbfIy) December 31, 2021
It is uncertain whether these criticisms will lead to significant changes or further widen existing divisions. What is certain, however, is that the discussion surrounding the integrity of K-Pop is far from concluded.
“you’re being rude” no you’re just embarrassed LMAOOOO.
— 🐻❄️⁷ | semi ia🐢 (@userbfIy) December 31, 2021
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