JUNGKOOK
An unidentified individual hacked into BTS member JUNGKOOK’s bank account and illegally substituted 8.4 billion won ($5.7 million) of HYBE stock he held. These shares were returned to JUNGKOOK by court order, according to the artist’s agency, BigHit Music.
According to entertainment industry sources, the hacker opened an unauthorized stock account in JUNGKOOK‘s name last January, just after his mandatory military service a month earlier.
The hacker transferred 33,000 HYBE shares held by Jungkook to the new account and sold 500 to a third party, according to some sources. HYBE shares were trading at around 250,000 won (approximately €170) at the time.
BigHit Music immediately responded and requested a suspension of the deposit into the new account and the return of JUNGKOOK‘s assets. The singer also filed a lawsuit last March, demanding the third-party purchaser return the shares.
The Seoul Western District Court ruled in JUNGKOOK‘s favor, and the 500 shares were returned to the singer’s original account, according to some sources.
The hacker has not yet been arrested. He reportedly had access to Jungkook’s account number, password, and ID card, suggesting that someone JUNGKOOK knew was involved.
“We have strengthened our security measures regarding artists’ private devices and personal information, in addition to legal measures“, said BigHit Music.
JUNGKOOK began his mandatory military service on December 12, 2023. He is scheduled to be discharged on June 11.
Journalist: Shawn
Translator: Shawn
Source: SNS BTS
