The accusations of a reporter against HYBE for undermining NewJeans sparked significant controversy. However, ethical issues emerged regarding the reporter’s actions, particularly in how the claims were presented. As the situation developed, HYBE clarified the sales figures for NewJeans’ album in Japan, further complicating the narrative surrounding the reporter’s credibility.
Allegations of HYBE Demeaning NewJeans
On September 25, YouTuber Lee Jin-ho claimed that reporter Jang Hyoung-woo’s report accusing HYBE of demeaning NewJeans was false. Lee released a video titled “A reporter’s Lies… HYBE’s Revival Plan,” revealing significant details. According to Lee, Jang had interviewed CBS’s Kim Hyun-jung on News Show, falsely accusing HYBE of unfair actions. He added that the claims coincided with NewJeans’ members issuing warnings about the company.
Correction of NewJeans’ Album Sales in Japan
Lee detailed that Jang Hyoung-woo had wrongly reported that NewJeans sold 1.02 million albums in Japan. However, HYBE’s PR team clarified that only 38,000 to 50,000 albums were sold in Japan. The majority of the sales, over 900,000 copies, happened in Korea. When faced with the facts, Jang refused to correct his report. Instead, he suggested inflating the figures to benefit HYBE. Lee emphasized the damage this could cause, as Japanese readers could challenge the incorrect sales figures.
Reporter Misinterprets HYBE Remarks on NewJeans
Lee also addressed accusations that HYBE belittled NewJeans. The reporter, Jang, quoted a PR officer’s response to a question about how a 20% stakeholder could take over NewJeans. Lee argued this was not criticism of NewJeans but rather a misunderstanding. According to Lee, the remarks were directed at HYBE’s CEO, Min Heejin, instead of the group. Lee pointed out that Jang’s interpretation of this as criticism against NewJeans was misplaced.
The Timeline Reporter on NewJeans Live Stream Disclosure Conflicts with HYBE
Jang Hyoung-woo claimed his decision to release recorded conversations was triggered by NewJeans’ live broadcast in September. Lee dismissed this claim, revealing that Min Heejin had already brought the recordings to HYBE during a meeting in July. The recordings, made on July 17, were used by Min Heejin to challenge HYBE. Lee stated that HYBE had taken action and sent a formal notice to Seoul Newspaper on July 24.
The Actions of Reporter Raise Ethical Concerns in NewJeans and HYBE Dispute
Lee condemned Jang’s actions as a violation of journalism ethics. Lee emphasized that reporters must remain neutral by gathering information from all parties involved. Instead, Jang handed over confidential details to a conflicting party, which Lee described as unprecedented and unethical. According to Lee, Jang’s behavior sets a bad example for younger reporters and harms the integrity of journalism.
Reporter Resigns Amidst HYBE and NewJeans Controversy
Lee also exposed that Jang Hyoung-woo was no longer a reporter for Seoul Newspaper. A week earlier, Jang had submitted his resignation and was reportedly moving to Kakao Mobility as a director. Kakao and HYBE have a history of competition, especially regarding the acquisition of SM Entertainment. Lee pointed out that CBS News later changed the headline from “Current reporter’s Exposé” to “Former reporter’s Exposé,” reflecting the updated status.
Reactions on theqoo Community Regarding Min Heejin
Lee mentioned the response on the online community theqoo, which is known for having many Min Heejin supporters. Despite the revelations on Lee Jin-ho’s YouTube channel, these fans continued to criticize HYBE. They argued that the core of the recordings was true, making other details irrelevant. Some users questioned Jang’s move to Kakao, suspecting ulterior motives, but these opinions remained in the minority. A rebuttal was released by HYBE, but further clarification on the recordings remained necessary.
Here’s a link to theqoo.
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HYBE is a public company, so they’re legally obligated to disclose accurate information about their profits, losses, and operations. Spreading false information can disrupt the stock market and lead to legal consequences. Isn’t that the same in Korea as in the US?