This is BigHit Music.
Our company regularly pursues legal proceedings against perpetrators of malicious activities targeting BTS, including defamation, personal attacks, sexual harassment, dissemination of unfounded information, and malicious criticism. We would like to provide an update on these ongoing efforts.
This quarter, we continued to collect evidence of several malicious posts published on various online forums, including Ilgan Best, DC Inside, theqoo, FMKorea, and instiz, through fan reports and internal monitoring. We submit reports to the competent investigative authorities in relation to this material.
As mentioned in our previous notice, the first trial for damages caused by defamation and other illegal activities of Taldeok Camp (탈덕수용소) has begun, and follow-up procedures are being carried out diligently. Additionally, we are actively coordinating with law enforcement and government agencies to ensure that individuals who illegally acquired and disclosed artists’ personal information are appropriately punished.
Some people from previous complaints, referred to the Public Prosecutor’s Office due to accusations of defamation and personal attacks, were sentenced to fines. These individuals were identified as users of online forums such as NAVER, Ilgan Best, Nate Pann, and FMKorea. Some of them posted malicious content repeatedly over a long period of time and were fined the maximum amount for each charge. We are also awaiting the results of additional suspects recently referred to the Public Prosecutor’s Office following police investigations, and we remain committed to ensuring they face rigorous penalties.
We will continue to collect, report, and take legal action against malicious posts targeting BTS members, who are currently serving their mandatory military service. Our legal efforts will persist during this period, and we will take strong action against violators. There will be no complacency or compromise under any circumstances.
Finally, as mentioned in a previous notice, BigHit Music has revamped the ‘Protect’ hotline into the new ‘HYBE Artist Rights Infringement Reporting System’ (protect.hybecorp.com) to provide faster and more efficient responses to complaints. We kindly ask that any violations of artists’ rights be reported via this new webpage instead of the previous hotline.
We sincerely appreciate the unwavering support and dedication of BTS fans.
BigHit Music will remain dedicated to protecting the rights of our artists.
Thanks”.
Source: Recreio
