HYBE Faces Backlash Over Rumored Launch of Two New Girl Groups: ‘Is This a Factory Model?’

HYBE Faces Backlash Over Rumored Launch of Two New Girl Groups: ‘Is This a Factory Model?’

HYBE Faces Backlash Over Plans for New K-Pop Girl Groups

HYBE has recently come under scrutiny from its fanbase for its announcement concerning the introduction of new girl groups under the labels SOURCE MUSIC and PLEDIS Entertainment. This news has sparked a heated debate within the K-pop community.

Details of the Announcement

On January 1, netizens converged on an online forum with the thread titled, “HYBE Reveals They’ll Release Two Other Girl Groups.” The original poster (OP) included a screenshot from a report by the Korean news outlet Sports Chosun, which outlined plans from the four major K-pop agencies—SM, JYP, YG, and HYBE—for 2025.

Strategic Shifts Within the Agency

The post discussed the impending military enlistment of SEVENTEEN members Jeonghan, Hoshi, Wonwoo, and Woozi, who will transition to unit and solo activities during their hiatus. This change coincides with the ongoing development of popular groups such as TXT, ENHYPEN, BOYNEXTDOOR, TWS, LE SSERAFIM, and ILLIT.

Introduction of New Groups

The announcement included plans for the debut of new K-pop girl groups under both SOURCE MUSIC and PLEDIS. The statement emphasized that this initiative would solidify HYBE’s position as a powerhouse within the Korean entertainment industry, boasting the largest roster of active artists.

Fan Reactions

The reactions from fans, both domestic and international, have been overwhelmingly negative, with many expressing concerns that HYBE may be prioritizing quantity over the quality of its artist roster. Comments in the forum illustrated this sentiment:

  • “Are they a factory?” asked one netizen.
  • “Can’t they let their other groups marinate a bit?” lamented another, highlighting frustration with the frequency of new group debuts.
  • One concerned fan voiced, “PLEDIS is going to ruin another girl group.”

The chorus of discontent suggests that while fans appreciate new music and talent, they also value the time and care needed to nurture existing groups to ensure higher quality productions.

For more details and ongoing updates on this situation, refer to the original source of the discussion here.

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