The South Korean government has announced its decision to launch an investigation into the chart-rigging scandal involving BTS’ agency, HYBE. According to reports from Korea JoongAng Daily, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism received a petition requesting an inquiry into allegations that HYBE engaged in chart manipulation practices and paid off blackmailers in 2017.
The case will be overseen by the Korea Creative Content Agency (Kocca), a state-run institution responsible for various aspects of popular culture in Korea. The investigation aims to uncover the truth behind the accusations and demand accountability from HYBE regarding the alleged chart rigging.
One of the petitions also calls for the revocation of the Order of Cultural Merit awarded to BTS if the allegations are proven true. This honor, bestowed by the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, is now under scrutiny amidst the unfolding controversy.
The origins of the scandal date back to 2017 when HYBE, formerly known as BigHit Entertainment, faced blackmail from an individual named Lee and three accomplices. They accused HYBE of employing “expedient marketing strategies” during the promotion of BTS’ album in 2015, a practice commonly referred to as “sajaegi marketing.” Lee was sentenced to a year in prison, while the others received fines. The court’s ruling highlighted the involvement of “sajaegi marketing” and Lee’s threats against the company based on this arrangement.
This development follows recent statements from BigHit Music regarding legal actions against infringements on BTS’ rights. The agency expressed concerns over malicious attempts to defame and spread groundless information about the group, noting an escalation in such activities in recent weeks.
BTS, a globally renowned K-pop group formed in 2013, has achieved immense success with hit albums like “Wings,” “Love Yourself: Tear,” and “Map of the Soul: 7.” Currently, all members are fulfilling their military service obligations, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing scrutiny surrounding their agency’s practices.
Sources By Agencies
