On September 30, 2024, BIGHIT MUSIC issued an update on the legal steps they are taking to protect BTS members from malicious online activity. The company emphasized their ongoing legal proceedings against defamation, personal attacks, and the spread of false information targeting the group.
BIGHIT highlighted that they have gathered evidence from various online forums including various media outlets like theqoo, FMKorea, and instiz, and submitted complaints to authorities, aiming to bring offenders to justice. The notice read:
"Hello. This is BIGHIT MUSIC. This quarter, we have continued to collect evidence of numerous malicious posts uploaded across various online forums, including Ilgan Best, DC Inside, theqoo, FMKorea, and instiz, through fan reports and internal monitoring. We have submitted complaints to the relevant investigative authorities regarding these materials."
The label further reported that some individuals have already been fined for their malicious actions, while others are still under investigation. The company reaffirmed that it will continue to take strong legal measures without any leniency.
"Some individuals from previous complaints, forwarded to the prosecutor’s office on charges of defamation and personal attacks, have been sentenced to fines. Some of them had repeatedly posted malicious content over an extended period, and were fined the maximum amount for each charge."
BIGHIT MUSIC protects BTS' rights, proceeds against defamation and illegal activities by Taldeok Camp
Additionally, the statement also addressed the first trial related to the damages caused by defamation, particularly concerning a YouTuber known as "Taldeok Camp" or Sojang, which had been involved in spreading defamatory content. The notice read,
"As noted in our previous notice, the first trial for damages incurred by defamation and other illegal activities by Taldeok Camp (탈덕수용소) has begun, and follow-up procedures are being diligently pursued. Additionally, we are actively coordinating with law enforcement and government agencies to ensure that individuals who illegally acquired and spread the artists’ personal information are appropriately punished."
For those unaware, BTS members Jungkook and Taehyung recently joined the list of K-pop idols taking legal action against the same controversial YouTuber. Before this, other well-known K-pop figures, including IVE's Wonyoung, all members of aespa, and EXO's Suho, have also filed lawsuits against Sojang for similar reasons.
Additionally, BIGHIT recently introduced a new system, the "HYBE Artist Rights Infringement Report System," to improve the process of reporting violations. They expressed gratitude to the fans for their continued support and reiterated their commitment to safeguarding BTS, especially while the members are serving their mandatory military duties.
The company further made it clear that it will remain vigilant in its efforts to protect BTS from harmful behavior online.