In a dramatic turn of events, the South Korean government has initiated an investigation into the alleged chart-rigging practices, known as “sajaegi,” involving BTS’ agency HYBE. According to reports from Korea JoongAng Daily, the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has confirmed receiving a petition urging an inquiry into HYBE’s involvement in chart manipulation and subsequent payment to blackmailers back in 2017.
The case has been referred to the Korea Creative Content Agency (Kocca), the state-run institution responsible for overseeing all facets of popular culture in Korea. Kocca will spearhead the investigation, demanding answers from HYBE regarding the allegations.
Furthermore, another petition has surfaced, calling for the revocation of the Order of Cultural Merit bestowed upon BTS if the accusations are substantiated. This prestigious honor, conferred by the Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, hangs in the balance pending the outcome of the inquiry.
The controversy stems from claims that in 2017, HYBE (then known as BigHit Entertainment) was targeted by a blackmailer named Lee and three cohorts. Allegations suggest that the group engaged in “expedient marketing strategies” during the promotion of BTS’ album in 2015. Lee was subsequently sentenced to a year in prison, while the accomplices received fines. The court ruling referenced “sajaegi marketing,” implying a dubious deal between Lee and BigHit Entertainment, leading to threats against the company.
As the saga unfolds, online platforms buzz with speculation and intrigue, underscoring the gravity of the situation and its potential ramifications for one of South Korea’s most prominent cultural exports.