Leading Korean entertainment company HYBE’s CEO Jason Jaesang Lee has issued an apology over the company’s monitoring report that mentioned and disparaged other K-pop artists. 

“I wish to express my sincerest apologies regarding HYBE’s internal monitoring report as the CEO,” said Lee in a statement provided to Manila Bulletin.

Last Oct. 24, lawmaker Min Hyung-bae revealed parts of the monitoring report during a parliamentary hearing by the National Assembly Committee on Culture, Sports and Tourism. 

The HYBE monitoring report contained disparaging remarks about the looks of other K-pop artists among others. 

HYBE’s CEO Jason Jaesang Lee  (HYBE)

HYBE building in Seoul (Photo from HYBE's website)

“It is with regret that I extend my deepest apologies for the content of this document, which was brought to light during the audit inspection by the National Assembly’s Culture, Sports, and Tourism Committee on October 24, 2024,” said Lee. 

He explained that “the document was created as part of our assessment of industry trends, recent topics and public sentiment, incorporating reactions from media, fans, and other parties. It was shared with a small, select group of leaders as a means of understanding market and fandom reactions, but regretfully, the content of the document was highly inappropriate.” 

“It contained provocative and distasteful expressions, as well as subjective opinions and judgements that should never have been documented. I fully acknowledge and accept responsibility on this matter as the CEO. I am particularly disheartened to see that this document has led to groundless speculation about HYBE engaging in negative campaigning, which has unfortunately impacted our artists and employees,” he said. 

Lee apologized to other K-pop artists and said he will contact other agencies and meet with HYBE’s artists who are facing backlash because of the report. 

“I extend a formal apology to all external artists mentioned in the document. I am also in the process of contacting each label directly to apologize, and meeting with all of the HYBE music group’s artists, who are now facing criticisms for actions taken solely by the company,” he said. 

He said the monitoring report has been stopped. 

“Recognizing the lack of sensitivity and awareness in leadership, I have ceased all updates to the document in question. Moving forward, we will implement stricter protocols and reinforce our internal controls and oversight to prevent similar issues from occurring,” according to Lee. 

He added, “Once again, I apologize to the artists, industry professionals, fans, and everyone who supports and cares about K-pop. As the leader of HYBE, I am committed to extensive introspection to ensure our past wrongs are corrected, and will prioritize the rights and dignity of all artists and fans as we work toward a healthier and more supportive K-pop industry.”