In a recent development, Bang Si-hyuk, Chairman of HYBE, has come under scrutiny following revelations that he was involved in the distribution of an internal document containing derogatory evaluations of K-pop idols. Despite an official apology from HYBE CEO Lee Jae-sang, who took responsibility for the document's inappropriate content, the incident is expected to have lasting repercussions for HYBE's leadership.
According to Daily Sports, Bang was directly involved in the process by which this report was circulated to HYBE’s C-level executives. Reportedly, Bang instructed that a new executive be added as a recipient when the report was initially distributed. While it is not clear if Bang personally directed the creation of this controversial report, his role in ensuring its circulation among high-level executives implicates him in the unfolding scandal.
The document, part of HYBE's weekly "Music Industry Report," was initially designed to track trends and market sentiments. However, during a National Assembly audit on October 24, Representative Min Hyung-bae of the Democratic Party referenced portions of the report, sparking backlash. The report contained disparaging comments about idols' appearances, suggesting that some idols "lacked typical idol looks," had “overdone plastic surgeries,” and describing specific members as “surprisingly unattractive.” The publication of these remarks prompted public outrage and forced HYBE to address the controversy.
CEO Lee Jae-sang issued an apology on HYBE's website, acknowledging that the report included “provocative and unfiltered language directed at K-pop idols” and admitted that the document reflected personal viewpoints of its author. As part of its damage control, HYBE dismissed Kang, the official responsible for compiling the report, and pledged to end its circulation. However, Bang's involvement in the document’s distribution has led to accusations of scapegoating lower-level staff.
HYBE initially defended the report, claiming it aggregated responses from online communities and social media for internal reference, rather than reflecting the company’s own stance. Nevertheless, this explanation has failed to quell criticism. The report’s content has since spread across online platforms, stirring intense discussion among fans and industry observers alike.
The controversy intensified when SEVENTEEN’s Seungkwan, a member of a group under HYBE Labels, spoke out on social media. In a pointed message, he warned critics not to belittle idols, stating, “We are not commodities for casual judgment.” His response was widely praised by fans, highlighting a growing sentiment among artists who feel disrespected by the industry’s treatment of their image and talent.
As calls for accountability mount, Bang Si-hyuk's role in HYBE’s internal dynamics faces heightened scrutiny.
Source [1]