They took the courage to finally post it online.
Koreaboo
1 hour ago
Recently, a netizen claiming to be aware of the internal affairs surrounding BTS’s chart manipulation made an online post with alleged evidence.
First, I apologize for the article and comments I wrote without much thought earlier this morning. After much fear and debate, I decided to post this message. I apologize once again for going back and forth while writing while relying on alcohol. I will briefly summarize the facts.
— Netizen
They also revealed the reason for writing this post.
“I am well aware of the internal affairs regarding BTS’s chart manipulation. I recently felt anger at the attitude of the impeachment controversy and the ruling party’s response. Additionally, suspicions of chart manipulation by HYBE were raised again this past April.
The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism and the Korea Creative Content Agency stated they would begin an investigation, but it was not carried out. I cannot remain silent, so I am gathering the courage to write this.”
— Netizen
As for the evidence, they posted a screenshot of an email.
“While the biggest evidence would be a statement from CEO Lee, as he was in charge…from the few documents that employees can access, I am sharing the email requesting the tax invoice that I received from Big Hit at the time.
However, I am worried about what kind of damage this will cause, as the credibility of other email content and evidence depends on who submitted it. I know that one photo is not evidence at all. Please look at it as evidence for the credibility of my post.”
— Netizen
“Request for Issuance of Tax Invoice
File name: BIGHIT Business Registration Certificate
Hello, this is *** from Big Hit Entertainment. I have attached a copy of our company’s business registration, so please send a tax invoice. Thank you.”
As for other evidence, they linked a past post from the Ilbe site from 2017, which revealed KakaoTalk conversation between CEO Lee and a Big Hit Official.
“BH: They say it’ll go until noon tomorrow
CEO: Okay, I’ll try streaming some more
BH: CEO Lee’s team is working hard
CEO: No, it’s all because Big Hit has such great teamwork.
BH: Anyways, let’s chat tomorrow. I’m leaving now ㅜㅜ
CEO: Ok, please rest~~”
“CEO: We entered the chart at number 2. It’s working well. All their songs entered the top 20
BH: Yes. This reminds me of a blockbuster movie.
CEO: It’s always been like that, it’s all a guessing game.”
“BH: Once we finish the physical sales, let’s get a drink together. I feel like this week will be the busiest. I’ll call you once everything is sorted out.
CEO: Ok
CEO: Director, the streaming will gradually phase out tomorrow, but the ranking will not drop dramatically.
BH: Ok.”
It was also reported that this case was also already acknowledged for chart manipulation in the verdict.
Many Korean netizens demanded an explanation regarding the matter.
- “BTS was really created all through manipulation.”
- “From plagiarism to manipulation, there is nothing that they’ve done on their own…they’re even arrogant.”
- “Explain all this…otherwise just leave the industry you scammers.”
- “I saw on another site that the name in the email was really a former Big Hit employee…the evidence is clear.”
- “Wasn’t the verdict decided on in court already?”
- “What do you mean comeback…don’t ever come out.”