BTS's management company, Big Hit Music, has filed a lawsuit against individuals spreading various rumors, including chart manipulation marketing, concept plagiarism, Dahnworld association, and cult suspicions.
Big Hit Music Files Lawsuit Against Individuals Spreading Malicious Rumors
On May 2nd, Big Hit Music released a statement through BTS's fan communication platform, Weverse, stating, "We clearly state that the recent chart manipulation marketing, concept plagiarism, Dahnworld association, and cult suspicions that attempt to tarnish and defame BTS's reputation are not true." They added, "We have determined that the malicious rumor-mongering behavior through the spread of false information related to our artist has reached a level that can no longer be overlooked, and as previously announced, we have appointed a separate law firm to take strict measures."
The company stated, "Accordingly, we have compiled numerous posts that constitute the spread of false information and defamation and have filed the first complaint with the investigative agency today (May 2nd). Posts that have been systematically written and deleted, as well as posts from accounts that have been exploded, have been included in the complaint without exception. We will continue to monitor and collect evidence and plan to file additional complaints."
They further explained, "We will take civil and criminal legal action against malicious rumors that undermine the artist's reputation with a zero-tolerance policy, and we plan to respond strongly until the end, without any settlement or leniency, so that the perpetrators who have committed illegal acts can be punished."
The company also apologized, saying, "We sincerely apologize for causing concern to our fans in relation to this matter. We will continue to take all measures to protect the rights and interests of our artists. We are always grateful for the love and dedication of our fans towards BTS, and we ask for your active reporting through Big Hit Music's legal response account in the future."
BTS has been at the center of groundless rumors related to illegal marketing (chart manipulation) and Dahnworld involvement suspicions amidst the ongoing dispute between HYBE and ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin.
In response, Dahnworld stated, "While the truth battle between entertainment company HYBE and ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin continues, the controversy surrounding the involvement of meditation company Dahnworld has suddenly erupted." They added, "Dahnworld clearly states that these controversies are groundless."
Dahnworld emphasized, "We sincerely hope that BTS members who have graduated from Global Cyber University will not suffer any damage due to false information," and stressed, "BTS and Dahnworld have no relation." The president of Global Cyber University is known to be the founder of Dahnworld.
Currently, all BTS members are serving in the military. In June, member Jin will be the first to be discharged.