A recent surge of sarcastic comments in a HYBE stock discussion forum reveals the growing frustration among shareholders, as the company’s stock price has nearly halved since June of last year.
The anger has been further fueled by recent controversies. BTS member Suga was caught driving under the influence while serving his alternative military duty, and HYBE Chairman Bang Si-hyuk was seen with an adult content broadcaster, which caused a stir.
Even in the usually discreet world of K-pop 커뮤니티 agencies, some are questioning whether HYBE, Korea’s leading entertainment company, has a crisis management problem.
HYBE’s stock price has remained weak, affected by a wave of negative news.
Shareholders’ frustration has been directed primarily at Bang and the company’s management.
HYBE faced backlash after issuing a statement on Wednesday apologizing for Suga’s DUI. Critics accused the company of downplaying the incident by referring to his vehicle as an “electric kickboard” rather than an “electric scooter.”