KOCCA launches investigation into HYBE

BTS, the K-pop boy band consisting of seven members Jimin, Jin, Suga, Jungkook, RM, Taehyung and J-Hope, has been embroiled in allegations of chart-rigging practices since 2017. HYBE has consistently refuted these claims whenever they have come forward. According to K-media reports, the initial complaints were filed with the Ministry of Culture but were later transferred to the KCCA.

The investigation team will soon contact HYBE to investigate the allegations. However, this news did not sit well with many K-netizens, who consider these claims to be completely false and see it as an attempt to undermine the group’s success. Despite mixed reactions, recent updates suggest that an investigation has begun. A new investigation is reportedly underway into allegations of chart manipulation by BTS’s label in 2017.

ALSO READ: Kim Woo Bin and Bae Suzy team up after 7 years for new Netflix romance, which is completely Goblin style

Investigation into BTS chart manipulation begins

Additionally, the report states that KCCA is considering asking for help from the courts or investigators if necessary. KCCA may also request information from music streaming services, Sports Kyunghyang adds. After the review by a committee is completed, the results will be sent to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

An industry insider familiar with the matter previously said, “The very term ‘music chart manipulation’ is misleading. Whether it is physical albums or digital music, it is clearly ‘music chart manipulation.’ Whether KOCCA and its subordinate agencies will properly investigate music chart manipulation remains questionable, given their close ties with music streaming platforms.”

Also Read: Jennifer Lopez flies solo at Netflix’s Atlas premiere; All eyes on wedding ring as Ben Affleck stays awakeY

What are the allegations against BTS?

Saegi, which refers to the illegal practice of music chart manipulation, is a popular term in K-pop and has claimed the careers of many K-pop groups. Despite BTS coming clean and innocent after addressing the allegations that first surfaced in 2017, the claims continue to surface, requiring thorough investigation. The allegations initially surfaced following a blackmailing incident in 2017. That year, individuals threatened BigHit, claiming they would expose alleged misconduct at the agency that allegedly occurred on albums released by the group in 2015.

“It should be noted that BigHit has consistently dismissed the claims as defamatory. Previously, they had stated, “Chart manipulation, marketing manipulation, concept plagiarism, connection to a cult and tarnishing the reputation of BTS. Other such claims are false. We have repeatedly clarified that there is no such activity.”