National Assembly Audit reveals HYBE’s alleged use of derogatory comments toward underage idols in internal reports

On October 24, 2024, a report from South Korean media outlet Yonhap News highlighted a controversy involving HYBE during a National Assembly audit. Democratic Party lawmaker Min Hyung-bae raised concerns over the company's internal trend data, which reportedly included derogatory comments about the physical appearance of young idols, some of whom are minors.

The controversy emerged during the Culture, Sports, and Tourism Committee's audit, where HYBE COO Kim Tae-ho was questioned about the company’s internal reports. According to the data presented by Rep. Min, HYBE's "Industry Trend Review" included harsh critiques of idols' appearances.

Some stated that the members debuted during an awkward stage, which left them lacking the typical facial features of idols. Additionally, it was noted that some idols had undergone excessively severe plastic surgery.

Although the specific idols or groups mentioned were not disclosed, Rep. Min criticized the reports for objectifying minors and promoting a harmful attitude toward their appearance.

In response, COO Kim Tae-ho explained that these reports were not reflective of the label’s official views. He stated that the comments were merely a summary of online posts and fan opinions, rather than the company’s stance. He added that the music label closely monitors public sentiment about K-pop and its artists.

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More about HYBE's report from the National Assembly Audit

It was further revealed during a National Assembly audit that the music label's internal reports, intended for executive use, contained critical and disparaging remarks about other idols. These weekly "Music Industry Reports" included harsh evaluations of idols’ appearances, personal controversies, and skill assessments, particularly targeting idols from other entertainment agencies.

The reports, written by a former music critic now serving as editor-in-chief of Weverse Magazine, also made comments about idols from major agencies like SM Entertainment and JYP, even critiquing an upcoming girl group from SM for their appearance.

Additionally, the document assessed the performance of idols at major events like Coachella, where the music label noted that fan support had shifted due to perceived poor performances. The label responded to the controversy by stating that the reports are intended for internal monitoring of fan and industry opinions and do not reflect the company’s official stance.

This response came after former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin previously raised concerns about the subjective nature of these reports. Legal experts also expressed concerns that the content could be seen as defamatory, especially since it was leaked outside of executive circles.

During the audit, Kim Tae-ho, CEO of Belift Lab, explained that the reports are used to monitor public opinion, but reiterated that they are not HYBE’s formal evaluations of artists. HYBE clarified that the disclosed material had been edited and included a variety of industry information, beyond the negative comments that were highlighted.

Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Yoo In-chon also expressed concern, noting that HYBE is now an international company representing South Korea, and he emphasized the importance of ethical business practices.

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The audit also touched on the broader issue of tampering in the music industry, particularly in light of controversies surrounding former members of girl group Fifty Fifty. Minister Yoo called for stronger self-regulation within the industry, noting the challenges of implementing legal frameworks to address such concerns.