The petition titled ‘Leave MIN HEE JIN HYBE Company’ appeared on the US-based change.org platform on May 27, led by an online user titled ‘Leave MIN HEE JIN HYBE Company’.forever army‘, a nickname that nods to BTS’ global fan base.The movement quickly gained momentum and drew attention to growing tensions in the entertainment industry.
The basis of the petition is a controversial issue regarding the girl group’s producer Min Hee-jin newdenim. HYBE’s decision on April 25 to file a police report against Min for alleged breach of trust and attempted usurpation of control over Ador sparked a contentious standoff between the parties involved. Despite Min’s steadfast denial of the accusations, the resulting feud between him and HYBE quickly escalated, with accusations of plagiarism, embezzlement, and manipulation of media narratives swirling amid the fray.
The ongoing exchange of accusations has had detrimental effects on various artists under the HYBE umbrella, including BTS, who have found themselves in the midst of speculation regarding chart manipulation. In response, ‘ARMY Forever’ mobilized its supporters and rallied behind the petition as a way to send a clear message to HYBE: it is time to take decisive action.
A message accompanying the petition raises concerns about Min Hee-jin’s alleged actions, stating: “Min Hee-jin is alleged to have paid media/reporters and reportedly worked with Maccoll Consulting to spread misinformation about HYBE and its rival HYBE.” According to the Korea Times, groups including BTS, ILLIT and Le Sserafim are trying to terminate their group’s (NewJeans) contract by putting pressure on HYBE through a decrease in value.
Additionally, the message pointed out the repercussions of such actions and said, “This behavior is not only unprofessional, but also harmful and creates irreparable damage by creating a hostile environment for those targeted under the same roof… I ask you to thoroughly investigate these allegations.” and take appropriate action to prevent further harassment and the spread of misinformation.”
Meanwhile, BTS’s loyal fan base has a history of coming together to defend their idol. In May, supporters took a proactive stance by placing fully paid ads in local newspapers. In the ad, HYBE Chairman Bang Si-hyuk and CEO Park Ji-won were urged to refrain from using BTS as a shield to protect the company amid the ongoing dispute with Ador. Fans also called on HYBE to take legal action against people making unfair attacks on BTS.
