On July 24, police raided the Seoul headquarters of HYBE — the South Korean agency behind acts such as BTS, Tomorrow x Together, and KATSEYE — as part of an investigation into alleged stock manipulation by chairman Bang Si-Hyuk. The Korea Herald reported that the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency conducted the raid in connection with claims that Bang misled investors and gained hundreds of billions of won in profits ahead of HYBE’s initial public offering. The country’s financial regulator has since referred Bang’s case to prosecutors. If charges are filed, he could face jail time.
HYBE’s ongoing legal troubles have sparked concern among fans and observers, particularly regarding the company’s capacity to maintain its global operations. BTS, whose comeback is scheduled for spring of 2026, remains a central pillar of the agency’s business. With legal matters now drawing executive attention, questions have surfaced over how these developments might affect the company’s rollout plans and artist schedules.
The agency has continued to pursue projects like its Cine Fest initiative, but public scrutiny following internal disputes — such as the widely covered conflict with ADOR and NewJeans — has increased pressure on HYBE’s leadership. Industry reporters and fans have noted how reputational issues can influence artist branding and commercial viability. As the investigation unfolds, stakeholders are closely monitoring how HYBE will address governance concerns and stabilize its operations moving forward.
