SEVENTEEN’s fanbase launches boycott against HYBE after controversial internal document surface

HYBE is currently facing controversy involving SEVENTEEN, one of its most popular groups. Reports indicate that CARATs (SEVENTEEN's fanbase) are demanding better treatment for the group and have begun a boycott against HYBE.

On October 24, 2024, internal documents were released, suggesting the group may have been impacted by alleged malpractices within the company. This news emerged during the National Assembly’s Culture, Sports, and Tourism Committee audit.

Regarding this, fans speculate that HYBE may have prioritized profit at the expense of protecting the group and its members. Allegedly, some practices within the company could be perceived as undermining the group and potentially other groups, viewing them as threats to HYBE’s profit maximization strategy.

This controversy has led to criticism of HYBE for not consistently supporting its artists. Many fans believe the company has inadequately protected SEVENTEEN members from media manipulation and online negativity. Additionally, member Boo Seungkwan recently voiced his frustrations on Instagram, reminding followers that idols are human beings deserving of respect and fair treatment.

As a result, fans calling for more transparency and stronger protection for the group and other artists under the company's label. The movement reflects growing dissatisfaction among fans, who feel that HYBE's management style may not align with the best interests of its artists.

Some fan reactions to this were,

“HYBE literally trying to separate seventeen right in front of our eyes but when we called it out so many times nobody believed carats,” a fan said.

It is also so infuriating how svt has been the center of hate for the past few weeks by fandoms who claims to have said that hybe manipulated the charts for svt to win their daesang award before when clearly, hybe does not care for seventeen nor ALL of its artists. we are TIRED," another fan wrote.

“Can't wait for their contract to end so they can leave this label or pledis should do cut ties if that's impossible, all members should not renew solo contracts with them if they are not available to protect them in the worst,” a fan expressed.

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SEVENTEEN reportedly negatively publicised by HYBE

Leaked internal documents from HYBE have recently stirred significant controversy, revealing that the company was well-aware of negative press coverage surrounding SEVENTEEN in recent years.

These internal documents are perceived by fans as "proof" that HYBE did not offer proper support for SEVENTEEN during pivotal moments.

Instances mentioned include Joshua’s dating scandal, which was left to circulate in the media without company intervention, Mingyu's dating rumors involving Jeon Somi, and Woozi’s plagiarism accusations tied to AI interference, a significant issue given his role of the main songwriter for the group.

Fans feel that in these instances, HYBE remained silent, leaving Woozi to personally address the rumors to defend his work. Additionally, fans were distressed by HYBE's lack of action when death threats were directed at members, particularly S.Coups during his temporary exemption from military enlistment.

The recent revelations suggest that these occurrences may have been part of a calculated marketing strategy, exploiting negative press for publicity. This revelation has ignited a wave of disappointment and anger within the fandom.

As per Koreaboo, in response, CARATs have mobilized a boycott of HYBE, actively canceling orders, refusing to renew fan memberships, and ceasing merchandise purchases. Fans argue that these purchases primarily benefit HYBE rather than SEVENTEEN, and by halting financial support, they hope to convey their dissatisfaction with the company’s handling of the group.

CARATs have instead shifted focus toward supporting the group directly by streaming their music and voting for them in major awards.

Fans are also increasingly advocating for SEVENTEEN to operate independently under Pledis Entertainment, without interference from HYBE. They believe that distancing the group from HYBE could allow it to regain control over its image and receive the protection it deserves.