[Hybe-ADOR Clash] Angry BTS Fans Slams Hybe via Manifesto, Calls for Artist Protection

연합뉴스 / 2024-05-03 09:59:51

▲ The image, captured from the ad section of Korean daily newspaper Joongang Ilbo on May 3, 2024, shows a protesting manifesto by angry ARMY, the official fandom of K-pop superband BTS, regarding the ongoing inside conflict in Hybe and its sublabel ADOR. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

SEOUL, May 3 (Yonhap) -- Angry fans of BTS has slammed Hybe and Big Hit Music, the K-pop superband's management and label, amid the clash between Hybe and Min Hee-jin of ADOR.

The prolonged dispute has gone as far as influencing K-pop superband BTS, the flagship group of Hybe, who deserve protection, claimed ARMY, the official fan association of the band.

According to sources in the music industry on May 3, ARMY has published a full-page advertisement in a vernacular newspapers under the name of "BTS' fan ARMY," demanding immediate and transparent action from Hybe and Big Hit Music. Citing the indiscriminate attacks and smears against BTS, the fandom demanded swift legal action and clear announcements regarding the progress of such measures.

Additionally, they urged Hybe's chairman, Bang Si-hyuk, and CEO Park Ji-won, to cease using BTS as a shield amid negative internal and external issues faced by the agency.

"We support 'BTS,' not Hybe," they stated. "An agency that fails to protect its artists has no reason to exist. We are aware that failure to fulfill the agency's obligations may lead to contract termination."

Some ARMY members dispatched a protest truck bearing slogans such as 'When will the artists be protected?' to Hybe's headquarters in Yongsan, Seoul, the previous day. They also announced plans to send flower wreaths with protest messages to the agency.

Previously, Hybe had filed lawsuits against individuals who spread false information and defamed the agency regarding allegations on various issues, such as manipulation of BTS-related marketing, concept plagiarism, and links to Dahn World.

Since December last year, all BTS members have been serving in the military. The eldest member, Jin, who enlisted first and is currently serving in the Army's 5th Infantry Division, is scheduled to be discharged on May 12.

Jin, in a self-produced content video released before his enlistment, expressed, "This video is nearing its end. It means I'll be coming to see you soon. Remember that I'll be with you soon. See you soon."