BANG SI HYUK
On August 6, HYBE Chairman BANG SI HYUK addressed the company’s staff for the first time regarding various suspicions and controversies surrounding him.
In an internal email sent to HYBE employees, BANG SI HYUK wrote:
“Since last year, a series of events have unfolded, and recently, personal matters involving me have been added to the mix. Both the company’s name and my own have been repeatedly mentioned in unfavorable news stories. I can hardly begin to imagine the confusion, disappointment, and concern that the members of HYBE — who have always taken pride in being part of this organization — must be feeling. As the founder and chairman, I bear a heavy sense of responsibility for the distress I have caused, and above all, I want to sincerely apologize to everyone who may have been affected by this situation.”
He continued:
“This company was founded with a big dream and a mission to advance the music industry. I’ve always tried to act with integrity in everything I’ve done. But with hindsight, I humbly acknowledge that what I saw as confidence may at times have come across as arrogance. I am now taking a hard look at whether, during the company’s growth, I may have made mistakes or neglected certain responsibilities.”
He added:
“Even though I was fully aware of the concern I was causing among our team, the past few months have been difficult for me as well, as I failed to respond more swiftly to the suspicions and controversies. I deeply regret that my personal issues may have caused direct or indirect harm to our artists and team members, who should be free to focus solely on their creative and professional endeavors. As a creator myself, this situation has been especially painful. Given that an official investigation is ongoing, I’ve had to be cautious about making any statements — and I kindly ask for your understanding in that regard.”
Bang also emphasized:
“More than anyone, I understand that I cannot let my personal problems continue to place a burden on the company or the industry. Due to ongoing projects related to artist comebacks and business expansion, I’ve spent a significant amount of time abroad in recent years. However, I intend to pause urgent work and business meetings and return to Korea as soon as possible to fully cooperate with the investigation process. Just as I provided a detailed explanation during the financial authorities’ investigation into our IPO, I will continue to respond sincerely and offer full transparency during any future proceedings. I believe the facts will come to light through this process, and I will humbly await the authorities’ judgment.”
He concluded:
“To ensure that my personal issues do not become a barrier to your talent, your abilities, or your spirit of challenge, I will do my utmost to explain and resolve this situation. I will not forget that it is my role to safeguard an environment where everyone can focus solely on their creative and business work. Like every member of HYBE, I will remain committed to our original mission of contributing to the growth of music and the industry as a whole, and I will continue to reflect on myself without pause.”
Meanwhile, BANG SI HYUK is currently under investigation for fraudulent transactions under capital markets law. He is suspected of having told previous investors, prior to HYBE’s 2019 IPO, that there were no plans for a public offering, while selling shares to a special purpose company (SPC) established by a private equity fund linked to him.
Journaliste : Shawn
Source : SNS Website HYBE
