Fact Check: Did HYBE compile a K-pop idol ship list? Viral post debunked amid ongoing internal document leak controversy

HYBE Corporation, a leading name in K-pop, is facing scrutiny after alleged internal documents mentioned "ships" between idol group members. A viral post on the social media platform X claims that a list of “ships” associated with various K-pop groups has been found. This reportedly includes names like BTS, SEVENTEEN, and NCT, as part of the viral documents.

However, closer examination suggests that the list of ships may not have come from HYBE’s leaked documents. Instead, the list circulating online seems to originate from a previously ranked list of popular pairings. This list is based on fan-created content posted on Postype, a website for fanfiction and other user-generated material, like Wattpad or AO3.

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National Assembly audit and fan fiction references in HYBE's documents

On October 24, 2024, HYBE faced an audit by South Korea’s Culture, Sports, and Tourism Committee. The audit has been reportedly led by Rep. Min Hyung-bae. It uncovers internal reports that have since caused public backlash.

Some documents of from these leaked documents allegedly discuss fanfiction and its influence on group dynamics. This claims that HYBE has been monitoring fan engagement closely.

They touches on two key points. First, one report suggests that a recent TXT release has inspired by fanfiction. The fanfiction in question claims a romantic connection between members Yeonjun and Beomgyu. Second, the documents note fanfiction involving NCT remains highly popular on platforms like Postype. It reportedly states that adult-rated fan-fics, featuring NCT idols often dominate rankings.

An internal document reportedly reads in part:

"Recently, I came across information that when you search for popular fanfics on Postype, the top rankings are mostly NC (adult-rated) fanfics."

The document further reads:

"In particular, NCT has been holding the number one spot consistently. This kind of excessive immersion, where fandoms are based on pseudo-romantic engagement, feels like an outdated form of fangirling. It seems like this is the core essence of the SM fandom, being stuck in that mindset."

In K-pop culture, “ships” often refers to fan-created romantic pairings, often between members of the same group. The notion of "shipping" reflects a deep emotional investment in K-pop groups, where fans often create elaborate narratives.

The internal documents also allegedly contain a list of "ships" among various groups. Fans have quickly linked this to the viral tweet, which presents a list of popular pairings from groups like aespa, BTS, and SEVENTEEN. The mention of these pairings suggest that HYBE may be monitoring fan activities and sentiments closely.

However, the list itself is believed to have originated from an earlier tweet in August 2024, which ranks the top pairings on Postype based on fanfiction submissions. While the precise contents of the leaked documents are still debated, the rumors surrounding in the music label's interest in the concept of "shipping" raise important questions.

This situation has sparked widespread discussion among fans and raised questions about HYBE's approach to fandom and internal culture. In addition to the internal criticism, some fans have highlighted the broader implications of fan engagement.

If the company is indeed studying these fan-created narratives, it may indicate a nuanced understanding of how fan engagement can influence group popularity. This may lead to strategies that either leverage or mitigate the impact of fan relationships on a group's image and marketability.

The discussions around "shipping" reflect a deep engagement from fans, who often feel a sense of ownership over the narratives involving their favorite idols. This phenomenon might influence how groups are marketed and perceived in the industry, which the company seems to recognize, even if indirectly.

The National Assembly audit, dated October 24, has been prompted by the revelation of internal reports that include allegedly inappropriate and derogatory comments about artists, both from HYBE and other companies. The “Weekly Music Industry Report” highlights various issues, including disparaging remarks regarding the appearances of young idols and controversial marketing tactics.

The reports also question album sales practices and alleged plagiarism by HYBE sublabels. The internal reports that have since caused public backlash. Fans are shocked by harsh comments on idols’ appearances.

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In conclusion, while there are indications that HYBE has taken an interest in fan-created content, the specific claims regarding a leaked list of "ships" appear to be unfounded.