Bang Si Hyuk, the chairman of HYBE, delivered a keynote address at the Kwanhun Forum in Seoul, where he reflected on the remarkable achievements of K-pop icons like BTS and BLACKPINK while cautioning against complacency in the industry.

During his speech, Bang Si Hyuk acknowledged the unprecedented success of BTS and BLACKPINK, describing them as super IPs that have

propelled Korean content to new heights globally. He highlighted how K-content has influenced music and extended its reach into fashion, consumer goods, and education sectors, contributing significantly to the economy.

Despite these accomplishments, Bang Si Hyuk stressed the importance of maintaining a sense of crisis in the industry. He pointed out the dominance of major labels like Universal, Sony, and Warner Music in global album sales share, emphasizing the need for continuous innovation and strategic approaches to expand K-pop’s global presence further.

Addressing challenges in key markets like the United States, Bang Si Hyuk noted a decline in chart performance and music market exports since 2020. He underscored the significance of nurturing exceptional K-pop companies to sustain growth and competitiveness internationally.

In related news, netizens have been buzzing about revelations regarding HYBE’s chairman amid an ongoing feud between HYBE and ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin. Photos surfaced showing Bang Si Hyuk with all HYBE groups except for NewJeans, sparking discussions on company dynamics and artist treatment in HYBE.

While some interpret this as evidence of favoritism towards certain groups, others argue it reflects broader company dynamics. The situation continues to generate debate online about the treatment of artists in HYBE and the industry’s future direction.