The dispute between Bang Si-Hyuk of HYBE and Min Hee Jin of ADOR has escalated, involving severe allegations and public disputes. This conflict has drawn in fans and even affected other K-pop groups.
Background of the Dispute
Min Hee Jin, CEO of ADOR, and Bang Si-Hyuk, chairperson of HYBE, are at the centre of a heated controversy. Issues began with accusations against BTS, HYBE's leading group, alleging that they had unfairly won awards. Fans defended BTS, highlighting their hard-earned success since their debut in 2013.
Fan Reaction to Accusations
So, apparently #HybePaid to have people in the audience not to cheer for the other artists. pic.twitter.com/wZ7oZDKAnp
— Strong Power, Thank You! ⁷ (@KakePop7) April 26, 2024
Not jin pushing jhope !!? he knew exactly what he was doing! pic.twitter.com/4knY0g2oMz
— Kellyⓥ (@frevrbts7) January 22, 2024
It was revealed that Hybe paid Jyp to perform this song and Hybe also paid the audience to react in that manner #HybePaid pic.twitter.com/zSbn1XbDon
— Kadi luvs jungkook⁷⁼¹ (@yoongiloverthv) April 26, 2024
#HybePaid for an interview to start without the BTS members knowing… pic.twitter.com/rzpJxgCtxP
— AJP12 ʷᶦᵗʰ ᵇᵗˢ ⁷⁼¹ (@AJP126) April 26, 2024
Cute interaction ? ~ so show me, I show you ~ #ARMY when everyone's happy, no negativity ? #BTS @BTS_twt pic.twitter.com/LI1BO993ep
— Meli⁷/BTS (@MeliW_bts) June 5, 2019
As accusations of misconduct surfaced in 2016 and 2017, BTS fans, known as ARMY, rallied on social media under the trending hashtag 'HYBE Paid'. They shared supportive messages and content, standing by the group amidst the turmoil.
The Core of the Conflict
The conflict intensified on April 22, when HYBE called for a shareholder meeting, suggesting a power struggle with Min Hee Jin. Allegations of leaking sensitive information added to the tension.
Min Hee Jin's Response
On April 25, Min Hee Jin publicly addressed the accusations at a press conference. She claimed that Bang Si-Hyuk planned to create a new girl group under a different label, involving the acquisition of Source Music. Initially reluctant, Min Hee Jin agreed to the plan, citing her new role within the company as a factor.
Impact on K-Pop and the Music Industry
This dispute not only affects the reputations involved but also highlights the intense dynamics within the K-pop industry. Fans and industry watchers are keenly observing how this situation will unfold, affecting future collaborations and business strategies within the global music scene.