Hybe, the K-pop powerhouse behind BTS, is at risk of losing its designation as a "Top Job Creation Company” by the Ministry of Employment and Labor, following a public petition filed Thursday with the National Assembly. As of Tuesday, just six days after the petition launched, the National Assembly’s online petition site showed over 41,500 signatures supporting the revocation of Hybe’s recognition. With a threshold of 50,000 signatures needed for an official review and 24 days remaining, the petition is likely to reach the required number, prompting a reevaluation of Hybe’s designation.
The petitioner stated, “The aim of this petition is to uphold the integrity and sustainability of the system established to foster talent and a collaborative labor-management culture by revoking Hybe’s designation due to recent workplace harassment allegations against the company.” On Oct. 15, NewJeans member Hanni testified as a reference witness at a National Assembly audit of the Environment and Labor Committee, alleging ostracism by a manager at a Hybe subsidiary amid ongoing conflict between Hybe and former Ador CEO Min Hee-jin.
Rep. Park Hong-bae of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea also called for the revocation of Hybe’s status as a "Top Job Creation Company" due to these allegations, during the audit. The Ministry of Employment and Labor responded that Hybe’s selection was “decided fairly,” while noting that a complaint has been filed and an investiga.