Petition Gains Over 60% Support for Revoking HYBE’s Title

A petition demanding that HYBE Corporation be stripped of its prestigious “Top Enterprise” status has surged in popularity, gathering over 30,000 signatures—more than 60% of the necessary support. Directed at South Korea’s Ministry of Employment and Labor, the petition calls for the removal of the title due to alleged workplace misconduct and harassment within the company.

The demand follows recent controversy over leaked documents, which allegedly reveal that some HYBE employees engaged in monitoring and disparaging other artists. These documents, leaked online, have sparked significant public criticism, with many questioning HYBE’s workplace ethics and calling for accountability.

Calls for Accountability Rise as New Details Emerge

On October 15, 2024, during an audit led by the National Assembly’s Environment and Labor Committee, Representative Park Hong Bae raised concerns over the leaked information. He urged the Ministry of Employment and Labor to act swiftly, specifically by rescinding HYBE’s “Top Company” title—a distinction awarded to companies deemed exemplary in promoting a positive work culture. Park highlighted the need for a thorough review in light of the harassment allegations, asserting that action should be taken if HYBE is found to have violated workplace standards.

The Ministry, however, has been tight-lipped regarding the progress of its investigation, citing that the inquiries are still ongoing and that they’re being conducted across regional branches. This lack of transparency has only added fuel to the debate, with many netizens voicing frustration at what they perceive as a delay in holding HYBE accountable.

Online Outrage and Netizens’ Push for Workplace Reform

The call for HYBE’s accountability has sparked an extensive online discussion, with supporters of the petition emphasizing the need for reform. Critics argue that any delay in addressing the claims against HYBE could diminish public trust in the “Top Company” designation, which is meant to recognize businesses with high standards for employee welfare. The online movement highlights the belief that granting such a status should come with accountability, especially for major corporations in influential sectors like entertainment.

Netizens point to a similar precedent from April 2022, when another company had its “Top Company” title rescinded due to workplace issues, advocating that HYBE should face similar consequences if found in violation. The petition’s supporters are pushing for the Ministry to prioritize transparency and take a firm stand on the matter.

Growing Movement Aims to Set an Industry Example

The momentum surrounding the petition reflects a broader demand for change within the entertainment industry, with supporters calling for transparency, respect, and responsibility. Many believe that how the Ministry handles HYBE’s case could set an example for other major corporations, reinforcing the importance of maintaining ethical workplace practices.

For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to Vviptimes.

Sources: National Assembly Petition, Koreaboo