Korean government to investigate BTS' agency Hybe on chart-rigging claim, fans go ballistic, demand apology

A fan takes photos as she visits a pop-up store that will be open until May 12 of South Korean K-pop sensation BTS entitled 'Monochrome' in Seoul on April 26, 2024. Photo: AFP

Protest trucks and flower wreaths from outraged fans of K-pop group BTS have dominated the street in front of Hybe’s headquarters building in Yongsan, Seoul, amid an ongoing feud over the agency’s management system. The rage against the agency will likely continue, as an old allegation over chart manipulation surrounding the company has resurfaced.

According to local media, a petition demanding an investigation into allegations that Big Hit Music, the sublabel of K-pop powerhouse Hybe that manages BTS, manipulated music charts was submitted to the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism on Thursday. The ministry plans to send the petition to its affiliated agency, the Korea Creative Content Agency, a Kocca official told The Korea Herald on Monday.