BTS member V’s recent vinyl release of his album Layover has become the subject of controversy, as fans express growing frustration with management and promotional support by HYBE and its subsidiary labels BIGHIT MUSIC and Geffen Records. As concerns about limited availability and alleged lack of promotional support circulate, fans have taken to social media to voice their dissatisfaction, demanding equal treatment for V’s album within HYBE’s roster of artists.

Scarcity of Layover Vinyl Album Sparks Outrage

Many fans have reported issues with the availability of Layover’s vinyl album, a highly anticipated physical release that was expected to be readily accessible in multiple markets. In contrast, fans claim that HYBE and BIGHIT MUSIC understocked the vinyl in prominent retail outlets. As a result, some fans found it necessary to purchase digital copies through less conventional channels, like Japanese iTunes, in an effort to support the album’s performance on Billboard charts.

The situation is further exacerbated by reports that fans’ requests for restocking have largely been ignored by HYBE. Many supporters of V have voiced their disappointment, arguing that insufficient stock of the album may impact its sales performance and ultimately restrict its reach to a broader audience. This scarcity, some fans argue, reflects a lack of commitment from HYBE to prioritize V’s solo releases to the same degree as other artists under the label.

Concerns Over Lack of Promotion by HYBE and BIGHIT MUSIC

In addition to issues surrounding album availability, fans are also raising concerns about what they consider to be a significant promotional gap in the vinyl release of Layover. Fans claim that HYBE and BIGHIT MUSIC have yet to release a single social media post to acknowledge or promote the vinyl edition, despite having done so for other artists’ projects. Many supporters have been vocal about their dissatisfaction with this silence, suggesting that this may have impacted the album’s visibility and limited its charting success.

Some fans noted that in the past, other BTS members and HYBE artists received dedicated campaigns and consistent updates for their solo projects, while V’s album rollout has seemed to lack the same intensity. This has led to accusations that HYBE and its associated labels are not treating all artists equally, sparking discussions within the fan community about fair treatment and the perceived disparities in promotion.

Shipping Delays Add to Fans’ Frustrations

Adding to these grievances, reports of delays in shipping the Layover vinyl album have added further dissatisfaction among fans, particularly in major regions. Some fans allege that their orders were delayed from the initial release date, impacting fans’ ability to enjoy the album immediately upon its release. Delays in shipping have raised questions regarding the organization and efficiency of the distribution process managed by HYBE and BIGHIT MUSIC, which, according to fans, has not been as prompt or seamless as expected for such a highly anticipated release.

In response to these issues, fans have been actively addressing HYBE, BIGHIT MUSIC, and Geffen Records on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Weverse. Supporters are urging these companies to take responsibility for these perceived missteps and offer V the same level of support as other artists within the company’s portfolio.

Fans Await HYBE’s Response to Their Demands

As of now, HYBE and BIGHIT MUSIC have not publicly addressed the concerns raised by fans. The lack of response from the company has only fueled further speculation, with many questioning whether HYBE is providing fair and consistent support to all its artists. While some fans are calling for greater transparency and responsiveness from the company, others are continuing to mobilize online, hoping that their complaints will lead to changes in how V’s projects are managed moving forward.

Fans’ demands for equitable treatment and support for V reflect a broader conversation within the entertainment industry about how companies manage artists’ solo projects, particularly within large agencies handling multiple high-profile talents. The outcry around the Layover vinyl release suggests that fans will continue to monitor HYBE’s treatment of its artists closely and demand accountability when they perceive lapses in support.

For more updates on BTS V and the Layover album controversy, tune in to Vviptimes.