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On September 16, 2024, reports emerged indicating that BTS' Jungkook's public display of support for NewJeans raised internal concerns within HYBE. South Korean media outlet Sports Trends reported that Jungkook had posted a message on Instagram incorporating NewJeans’ iconic colors. This subtle inclusion of an empowering emoji was seen as a show of solidarity with the girl group.
However, Jungkook’s post didn’t go unnoticed by the employees. Conversations on the professional platform Blind, which allows verified employees to discuss work matters anonymously, reflected discontent. Some HYBE staff reportedly voiced frustration, suggesting the post may have deeper implications regarding the company’s direction.
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The response to Jungkook's message was mixed. While some employees allegedly saw it as a supportive gesture towards NewJeans, others speculated that it could be a critique of HYBE’s internal leadership and ongoing issues with former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin.
One anonymous employee dismissed the post as potentially ineffective, casting doubts on its impact, while others expressed concerns about the overall atmosphere at HYBE. Concerns over a possible divide within the company emerged, with one staff member allegedly commenting:
“It feels like the company might really split.”
Another anonymous employee labeled the post as potentially "useless," hinting at concerns about the impact it could have on HYBE's public image.
Jungkook support message for NewJeans creates buzz among netizens
Recently, the BTS member sparked widespread speculation with a post on his dog's Instagram account (@bowwow_bam). The post, which appeared to show support for the K-pop girl group NewJeans, caught attention amid ongoing tensions between HYBE and former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin.
Initially, fans were confused, with some speculating that Jungkook’s account might have been hacked. However, BIGHIT Music, the agency representing BTS, cleared up the situation. According to a report from My Daily, the label confirmed that the post was indeed made by Jungkook. They clarified that he intended to voice that young artists should not be dragged into disputes, seemingly alluding to the ongoing conflict between HYBE and Min Hee-jin.
This clarification helped dispel rumors of a possible hack. Some saw the artist's message as a subtle critique of HYBE's leadership, specifically directed at former CEO Min Hee-jin. Following the controversy, the artist's label clarified his stance in an additional post, urging people not to misuse his message.
BIGHIT Music also stepped in, asserting that the Still With You singer's post was intended to protect younger artists from being drawn into unnecessary conflicts. The situation has fueled further division among employees, revealing tensions over the treatment of artists and the role of leadership within the company.
Meanwhile, the BTS member has been fulfilling his mandatory military service since December 2023. He is expected to complete his duties and return to the public eye in June 2025.
