“What a joke”- Internet reacts as HYBE retains 'Top Company Certification' despite workplace bullying and accident cover-up allegations

On December 30, 2024, a South Korean media outlet, Yonhap News, reported that the Ministry of Employment and Labor confirmed that HYBE would retain its "Top Company" certification. This decision came despite allegations of workplace bullying and the concealment of industrial accidents.

The decision, made during a review committee meeting held on December 27, 2024, followed an in-depth investigation that found no legal violations by the company. For context, the music giant was awarded the certification in September 2024 as part of an annual program recognizing 100 companies for job creation and workplace improvements.

The accreditation provides benefits like tax incentives and preferential credit evaluations, highlighting the company’s contributions to employment standards

The decision, however, sparked an online debate by netizens. Some took to social media to voice their disappointment over the label receiving recognition despite the recent allegations against it. An X user wrote:

"Excellent company? what a joke."

Others also joined in to share similar sentiments and call out the decision.

"this was a good joke! South Korean govt does have a sense of humor," an X user wrote.

"Ah yes let's ignore overworking their artists since they're not considered usual workers due to having contracts.. ignore how an employee tried to reporting bullying and harassment cuz she's a woman.. having a CEO who is infamously known for stealing masters from an artist.. etc," another netizen remarked.

"No company in kpop deserves this award. Especially not hybe," an X user wrote.

On the other hand, others supported the recognition, arguing that the alleged smear campaign against the company throughout the year was unwarranted.

"Trainees under HYBE don't have any trainee debt . One of the reasons why it is well deserved," a fan commented.

"Let’s be honest HYBE is the only entertainment conglomerate in SK that truly deserves the top company certification! It’s policies for employees, maternity, growth of artists, equal opportunities based on talent, constant excellence in their field, salaries. It is truly excellent," another person mentioned.

"Malicious actors tried to use national power to prove HYBE is bad but all they ended up doing was reaffirming that the company is actually clean. Bless our Bang-nim," an X user wrote.

---

Everything you need to know about the latest updates on HYBE's controversies

The controversy began when NewJeans (under HYBE's subsidiary ADOR) member Hanni accused HYBE of workplace bullying. She recounted an incident at the company’s office where another group was instructed to ignore her by a manager.

This claim, coupled with accusations of an employee’s death due to overwork being concealed as a non-industrial accident, fueled widespread public criticism. A petition calling for the revocation of the company's certification gained over 50,000 signatures, amplifying calls for accountability.

However, the Ministry ruled that Hanni, as a contracted artist, did not meet the legal definition of a worker under the Labor Standards Act, thus exempting her claims from workplace harassment protections.

Similarly, the alleged workplace fatality was not classified as an industrial accident, with the label citing the employee’s pre-existing health conditions and the family’s request for privacy as reasons for the lack of further investigation.

The Ministry also emphasized that to revoke a company’s certification, there must be clear evidence of violations, such as falsified public records, breaches of labor laws, or actions causing significant social controversy. In this case, the review committee found no grounds to withdraw the designation.

Allegations of mistreatment toward subcontractors were also dismissed as insufficient for such a decision.

---

As of recently, the label continues to hold its “Top Company” title amidst ongoing debates over corporate responsibility in the entertainment industry.