This week, BTS fans asked HYBE to address “fake news and rumors” surrounding the group, voicing their concerns through various actions. Wreaths, usually a symbol of mourning, were delivered to HYBE’s headquarters in Yongsan District, Seoul, on Thursday, along with protest trucks carrying messages condemning the company. In addition, ARMY published a full-page advertisement in a Korean newspaper, declaring “We support BTS, not HYBE.” Many fans claimed that HYBE’s leadership, including chairman Bang Si-hyuk and CEO Park Ji-won, used the group as a “shield” amid growing criticism. They asked HYBE to avoid media manipulation and take legal measures to defend BTS from defamation.
