HYBE Expands Global Influence with Strategic Partnerships

K pop, Kpop, K-pop, Korean pop, HYBE, Big Hit, K pop boys band, Hallyu, K pop idol

HYBE Corporation, formerly Big Hit Entertainment, is a powerhouse in the entertainment industry. Based in South Korea, HYBE has expanded immensely since Sihyuk Bang founded it in 2005.

Known for its comprehensive approach to content creation, HYBE operates as a record label, talent agency, music production company, and more. This multifaceted approach has allowed it to become a global entertainment leader.

The company’s portfolio includes diverse subsidiaries, such as Big Hit Music, Source Music, and Pledis Entertainment. This has enabled HYBE to create a robust ecosystem where different aspects of entertainment are managed under one roof.

It’s not just about music; HYBE is deeply involved in event management, concert production, and music publishing.

These diverse operations highlight its role as a comprehensive content company that continues to innovate and set industry trends.

HYBE: History and Renaming

Big Hit Entertainment, HYBE Corporation, HYBE Labels,

Since its inception, HYBE Corporation has undergone significant changes, growing from a small company into a global entertainment powerhouse.

Origin of Big Hit Entertainment

Big Hit Entertainment was established in 2005 by Sihyuk Bang. Initially, it was a modest company in South Korea, focusing on nurturing talent and producing music. The turning point came with BTS‘s debut in 2013 when they quickly rose to global fame.

The success of BTS brought international attention to Big Hit, leading to rapid expansion. The company diversified its operations, adding talent management, concert production, and music publishing to its portfolio. By the late 2010s, Big Hit had become a significant player in the entertainment industry.

Rebranding to HYBE

In 2021, Big Hit Entertainment announced a major rebranding initiative, changing its name to HYBE Corporation. This change was part of a larger strategy to reflect its diversified business operations beyond music production.

Brand Presentation Video was released, showcasing the company’s new vision and emphasizing its role in innovative entertainment. Sihyuk Bang, the visionary behind the transformation, highlighted the importance of adapting to the evolving entertainment landscape.

The renaming process also included restructuring and aligning its subsidiaries under the HYBE umbrella, making it easier to manage its expanding empire. This strategic rebranding helped HYBE to present a unified global brand image and strengthen its market presence.

Corporate Structure and Subsidiaries

big hit entertainment, hybe corporation, bts, seventeen

HYBE Corporation, a leading South Korean entertainment company, has a complex corporate structure with several subsidiaries. These subsidiaries focus on various aspects of the entertainment industry, from record labels and production to technology and platforms.

HYBE Labels

HYBE Labels is the core of HYBE Corporation, managing some of the most successful K pop artists.

LabelNotable Artists/GroupsSpecial Notes
Big Hit MusicBTS, TXTHome to global stars
Belift LabENHYPENJoint venture with CJ ENM
Source MusicGFRIENDManaging female artists
Pledis EntertainmentSEVENTEEN, NU’EST
KOZ EntertainmentFounded by rapper Zico
ADORFocused on innovative projects

Each label under HYBE Labels operates semi-independently, contributing to the diversity and creativity within the corporation.

HYBE Solutions

HYBE Solutions encompasses various services that support HYBE’s entertainment and content businesses.

ServiceDescription
Event ManagementOrganizing and managing concerts and fan events
Music ProductionProviding high-quality music creation and recording facilities
Talent TrainingOffering training programs for aspiring artists in singing, dancing, and other skills

HYBE Solutions aims to enhance the overall quality of their entertainment offerings. It supports the artists and ensures the company’s ongoing growth in the competitive entertainment industry.

HYBE Platforms

HYBE Platforms focuses on the technological side of the entertainment business.

CompanyDescription
BenxDeveloping innovative fan interaction platforms
SuperbA game development company that enhances fan engagement through interactive experiences

Additionally, HYBE Platforms oversees global expansions and digital transformations. They integrate technology to provide fans with more immersive and personal experiences. Examples include streaming services and mobile apps to connect artists with their global fan base.

The strategic alignment of these platforms under HYBE enables the company to stay at the forefront of the entertainment industry, making it more than just a traditional record label.

Business Strategy and Revenue

HYBE Corporation has grown significantly due to its well-crafted business strategy and strong financial performance. Their tactics for market control and steady revenue growth have firmly positioned them as a leader in the entertainment industry.

Financial Performance

HYBE reported exceptional revenue growth for 2023. Sales revenue increased 6,084% since BTS’ rise to fame in 2016. Revenue also rose 41.6% yearly, reaching USD 1.37 billion in 2022.

Their net profit for 2023 jumped by 288.4%, bringing in approximately USD 139.93 million. This significant rise in profit indicates robust financial health and successful execution of business strategies.

Additionally, HYBE has maintained an annual compound growth rate of 31.7% in revenue and 24.7% in operating profit over the past three years.

Their revenue sources are divided into two segments: Artist Direct Involvement and Artist Indirect Involvement, which contribute significantly to their total revenue.

Key Financial Metrics:

MetricValue (US dollars)
Revenue (2022)$1.37 billion
Net Profit (2023)$139.93 million
Annual Compound Growth Rate
Revenue31.7%
Operating Profit24.7%

Market Control

HYBE’s business strategy focuses on diversifying and localizing music production to cater to various markets. They plan to continuously enhance diversity and quality in their offerings, increasing their market share and strengthening their global presence.

The company’s market control is evident through its innovative business segments. Their Artist Direct Involvement segment showed an 82.6% growth, generating USD 712.4 billion. The Indirect Involvement segment also saw a 9.7% increase.

HYBE’s proactive approach to understanding market demands and integrating artists’ direct involvement has also fueled their market dominance. This strategic focus allows HYBE to maintain its competitive edge in the entertainment industry.

Market Segments (US dollars):

  • Artist Direct Involvement: $706 million
  • Artist Indirect Involvement: $583 million

HYBE Acquires Significant Stake of SM Entertainment

HYBE has announced the acquisition of a substantial stake in SM Entertainment, a prominent South Korean company historically regarded as a rival to HYBE, the home of BTS.

This strategic purchase, amounting to USD 305.6 million for a 14.8% stake, was reported on February 3, 2023. This acquisition positions HYBE as SM Entertainment’s largest shareholder, solidifying its K-pop industry leadership status.

Artistic Endeavors

HYBE is recognized for its exceptional contributions to the music industry, marked by innovative music production techniques and robust talent agency operations. This has positioned the company as a beacon of success within the global entertainment landscape.

Music Production

HYBE’s music production is renowned for its cutting-edge techniques and creative brilliance. The company produces music for some of the biggest K pop acts, including BTS, TXT, Seventeen, and ENHYPEN.

Their production process focuses on high-quality sound, unique concepts, and integration of various music genres.

Notable elements of HYBE’s music production are shown in the table below:

Here is a table based on the provided content:

AspectDescription
CollaborationsCollaborations with international producers to blend different music styles.
Recording TechnologiesAdvanced recording technologies ensure superior sound quality.
Music VideosInnovative music videos that complement the songs and enhance storytelling.

One of the critical successes is BTS’s global impact. Their music has broken several records and redefined the K-pop genre.

Additionally, new groups like NewJeans and Le Sserafim have quickly gained attention for their distinctive sounds and visuals.

Talent Agency Operations

HYBE’s talent agency operations provide extensive support for their artists, ensuring their growth and success. They manage all aspects of an artist’s career, from debut to global promotions.

Key focus areas in talent agency operations are shown in the table below:

CategoryDescription
Training ProgramsComprehensive singing, dancing, and language programs to prepare artists for international stages.
Artist BrandingCreating unique images and identities for each group to stand out in the competitive market.
Global ExpansionStrategic partnerships and promotions in key markets like the U.S., Japan, and Europe.

Groups like Seventeen and ENHYPEN benefit from HYBE’s efficient management and innovative strategies, allowing them to achieve significant milestones quickly. These operations enhance the artists’ careers and solidify HYBE’s standing in the industry.

Digital Platforms and Technology

BTS, LE SSERAFIM, K pop, K-pop, BIG HIT, HYBE

HYBE uses advanced digital platforms and technology to enhance fan engagement, analyze data, and distribute content. This strategic utilization of technology enables the company to maintain a strong connection with its global audience.

Fan Engagement

HYBE has developed Weverse, a dedicated platform for fan interaction. Weverse allows fans to connect with their favorite artists through posts, videos, and live streams. This platform fosters a strong sense of community among fans.

The content produced by HYBE 360, including both online and offline events, is also shared on Weverse.

Additionally, Weverse Shop, integrated within the platform, offers exclusive merchandise and albums. This integration ensures a seamless experience for fans.

By using Weverse, HYBE improves its ability to communicate directly with fans. The platform’s user-friendly interface and comprehensive interactive features create an engaging environment. This direct connection helps build and maintain a loyal fanbase.

Data Utilization

Data plays a crucial role in HYBE’s strategy. The company collects and analyzes data from various sources, including streaming platforms and Weverse. This data helps the company understand fan preferences and behavior.

HYBE uses data to tailor content and marketing strategies. For example, analyzing streaming data helps identify popular songs and trends, which guides the planning and production of new content.

Moreover, data insights enhance the personal experience offered to fans on Weverse.

The investment in AI technologies, like that seen with Supertone, further enhances data utilization. AI enables advanced data analysis and predictions, providing deeper insights into fan engagement patterns.

Content Distribution

HYBE ensures its content reaches a global audience through effective distribution channels. The company uses multiple streaming platforms, such as YouTube and Spotify, to distribute music and videos. This multi-platform approach increases the accessibility of their content.

Weverse also plays a significant role in content distribution. Exclusive artist content, including behind-the-scenes footage and live concerts, is shared on Weverse. This exclusive access keeps the fans engaged and coming back to the platform.

Additionally, HYBE leverages its intellectual property (HYBE IP) for various content forms, including webtoons, games, and merchandise. By diversifying content types, the company reaches a broader audience and enhances brand value.

Investments and Collaborations

HYBE has expanded its global presence through strategic investments and collaborations with major industry players. These moves have solidified its position in the global music landscape and fostered growth opportunities.

Acquisitions

HYBE’s acquisition strategy has been crucial to its expansion. In a notable move, HYBE acquired Ithaca Holdings, which includes Scooter Braun’s SB Projects and Big Machine Label Group.

This acquisition, valued at $1 billion, gave HYBE access to a diverse roster of artists, such as Justin Bieber and Ariana Grande. The deal also aimed to leverage SB Projects’ management expertise to enhance HYBE’s artist management capabilities.

Additionally, NAVER announced a $371 million investment in Weverse Company Inc., which included merging the VLIVE platform with Weverse. This merger aimed to create a more robust fan engagement platform, enhancing communication between artists and their fans.

Partnerships

HYBE has also expanded its reach through significant partnerships. A notable collaboration is with Universal Music Group. The relationship has evolved since starting in 2017 with a distribution agreement for BTS in Japan. In 2021, HYBE and UMG signed a global strategic agreement, which includes collaborations on various projects and leveraging Weverse to improve artist-to-fan interactions.

Further cementing this partnership, HYBE and UMG’s Geffen Records announced a joint venture to launch The Debut: Dream Academy to discover and nurture new talent. This initiative underscores their commitment to developing the next generation of global superstars.

HYBE K-pop Groups

HYBE, previously known as Big Hit Entertainment, has become a powerhouse in the K pop industry, managing some of the most influential and popular acts. From the global sensation BTS to rising stars like LE SSERAFIM, HYBE’s artists consistently dominate charts and captivate audiences worldwide.

BTS

K pop, Kpop, K-pop, Korean pop, HYBE, Big Hit, K pop boys band, Hallyu, K pop idol
BTS in the White House

BTS, known as Bangtan Boys, is perhaps the most well-known group under HYBE. Formed in 2013, the seven-member boy band quickly became famous with hit songs like “Dynamite” and “Butter.” They have won numerous awards, including Billboard and American Music Awards. BTS’ music addresses themes of mental health, self-love, and social commentary.

The group’s international success is unprecedented for a K-pop band, making them global ambassadors for Korean culture. Their albums regularly top the Billboard 200 chart, and they are the first band since The Beatles to earn three No. 1 albums in one year. BTS members also engage in solo projects, expanding their influence further.

LE SSERAFIM

Korean pop, K pop, K-pop, Kpop, HYBE, Source Music, Kim Chaewon, Sakura, Huh Yunjin, Kazuha, Hong Eunchae, Kim Garam, FEARNOT

LE SSERAFIM, one of HYBE’s newer girl groups, debuted in 2022. They quickly gained a fanbase because of their unique concept and strong performances.

The group often explores themes of empowerment and individuality in their music. Their debut single “Fearless” showcased their dynamic abilities and strong stage presence.

The group is set apart by their distinct blend of genres and styles, creating a fresh and unique sound in the K-pop scene. LE SSERAFIM’s quick rise in popularity demonstrates HYBE’s effectiveness in nurturing new talent. Despite being new, they have already earned numerous rookie awards and are considered one of the top emerging groups in K pop.

NewJeans

K pop, K-pop, Korean pop, Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, Haein, Attention, Hype boy

NewJeans is another girl group under HYBE, debuting in 2022. Their music often incorporates retro and contemporary sounds, appealing to a broad audience. The group quickly gained attention with debut tracks like “OMG” and “Attention.” They are known for their youthful and energetic style, which resonates with younger fans.

Managed by HYBE’s independent label ADOR, NewJeans stands out for their distinct identity and polished performances. Their visuals, choreography, and music videos are meticulously crafted, reflecting HYBE’s high standards. NewJeans is rapidly becoming a major player in the K-pop industry with their innovative approach.

Seventeen

K pop, K-pop, Kpop, Korean pop, Pledis Entertainment, Woozi, Jeonghan, Joshua, DK, Seungkwan, .Coups, Wonwoo, Mingyu, Vernon, Hoshi, Jun, The8, Dino

Seventeen, formed in 2015, is a boy group known for their incredible synchronization and self-producing capabilities. They comprise 13 members divided into three sub-units specializing in hip-hop, vocal, and performance. Hits like “Very Nice” and “Don’t Wanna Cry” have cemented their status as top-tier performers.

Seventeen is celebrated for their input in songwriting, producing, and choreography, setting them apart from many other groups. Their fanbase, known as Carats, is extremely dedicated, supporting them in multiple successful concert tours globally. The group’s versatility and talent have earned them numerous awards and high positions on music charts.

ENHYPEN

K pop, Kpop, K-pop, Korean pop, HYBE, Big Hit, K pop boys group

ENHYPEN, formed through the reality show I-LAND in 2020, is one of the newest additions to HYBE. With their debut track, “Given-Taken,” they showed immense potential and talent. The group’s concept explores various themes, including growth, connection, and transformation.

These themes are reflected in their music videos and lyrics. Despite their recent debut, ENHYPEN has made significant achievements, including high-charting albums and international awards. Their rapid success underscores HYBE’s ability to develop and promote new groups effectively. Fans eagerly follow their musical journey and evolution.

TOMORROW X TOGETHER

K pop, Kpop, K-pop, Korean pop, HYBE, Big Hit, K pop boys group

TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT) debuted in 2019, and is HYBE’s second boy group after BTS. Known for their youthful and fresh image, TXT’s music explores themes of youth, dreams, and personal growth. Chart-topping songs like “Crown” and “Blue Hour” demonstrate their broad appeal.

TXT is also recognized for their powerful performances and intricate choreography. They have won several rookie awards and continue to grow their international fanbase, known as MOAs (Moments of Alwaysness). The group’s creative concepts and visual storytelling in their music videos have set high standards in the industry.

fromis_9

K pop, Kpop, K-pop, Korean pop, HYBE, Big Hit, K pop boys group

fromis_9, managed by HYBE’s subsidiary Pledis Entertainment, debuted in 2018. This girl group gained attention through the survival show “Idol School.” Known for their bright and bubbly image, their music includes catchy hits like “Love Bomb” and “Feel Good (SECRET CODE).”

The group combines solid vocals and impressive dance routines, appealing to a broad audience. fromis_9 has built a dedicated fanbase, known as Flover, and continually garners attention with their releases. Their consistent improvement and charming stage presence make them an exciting group in HYBE’s lineup.

Social Impact and Culture

HYBE has become a significant force in shaping cultural norms and contributing economically to the global entertainment industry. Their influence can be seen in their artists’ musical achievements and their societal initiatives.

Cultural Influence

HYBE’s impact on culture is immense, particularly within the Kpop industry. By educating trainees on cultural diversity and social topics, the company ensures that its artists are well-rounded and sensitive to global issues. This progressive approach helps to foster a more inclusive environment and promotes a better understanding between different cultures.

The popularity of HYBE’s artists, including BTS, has significantly influenced global pop culture. Their music, fashion, and social media presence have transcended South Korean borders, making waves across various continents. This phenomenon not only boosts the visibility of K pop but also introduces South Korean culture to a broader audience.

Furthermore, HYBE’s commitment to cultural exchange is evident through their international collaborations and tours, which bring diverse musical styles and customs to the forefront. This strategy entertains and educates global audiences, bridging cultural gaps.

Economic Contribution

Regarding economic impact, HYBE is crucial in South Korea’s entertainment sector. The success of their artists, including global sensations like BTS, has contributed significantly to the country’s GDP. Their influence is notable in tourism, with fans traveling worldwide to attend concerts and visit locations associated with their favorite artists.

Additionally, HYBE is expanding its reach through global partnerships and acquisitions. This strategic move solidifies its position in the international market and brings substantial foreign investment into South Korea. HYBE’s efforts towards global expansion aim to ensure sustainable growth beyond the K-pop genre.

Through these economic activities, HYBE enhances its brand and contributes to the local economy by creating jobs and fostering related industries such as merchandise, tourism, and media production.

HYBE Audition

HYBE offers global auditions to find talented individuals. These auditions are part of their initiative to discover and nurture the next generation of artists.

Age Requirements

  • She/Her/Them: Ages 15-19 (16-19 for EU residents)

Categories

  1. Vocal: Display singing abilities.
  2. Dance: Show choreography skills.
  3. Rap: Demonstrate rapping talent.
  4. Producing: Available only for online auditions, focusing on music production skills.

Global Reach

The HYBE x Geffen Records Global Girl Group Audition is a prominent example. This audition attracted submissions from over 120,000 individuals, highlighting the company’s far-reaching influence.

Submission Process

  • Online: Submit videos showcasing talent.
  • In-Person: Attend scheduled audition events.

Training and Development

Selected candidates undergo comprehensive training. This includes:

  • Vocal Training
  • Dance Practice
  • Language Classes
  • Media Training

This holistic approach aims to develop well-rounded artists capable of performing on global stages.

Candidates can visit the HYBE Labels Japan Audition page for more information and to apply. The process is designed to be accessible, encouraging a diverse range of talented individuals to pursue their dreams with HYBE.

Are BigHit and HYBE the same?

BigHit and HYBE are not the same, though they are related.

BigHit Entertainment is a South Korean entertainment company primarily known for managing K-pop groups like BTS and Tomorrow X Together.

After a rebranding, HYBE Corporation was formed. This change included splitting BigHit into smaller, specialized entities.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • HYBE Corporation:
    • HYBE Labels: Includes BigHit Music, BELIFT LAB, Source Music, Pledis Entertainment, KOZ Entertainment, and HYBE Labels Japan. Each of these labels has its management but gets support from HYBE.
    • HYBE Solutions: Provides various business solutions, including tech innovations and production services across the entertainment industry.
    • HYBE Platforms: Manages digital services and platforms related to music and entertainment.

So, BigHit Music operates under the umbrella of HYBE Labels, which makes it part of the giant HYBE Corporation.

Key Differences:

  • BigHit Music focuses on creating and managing music and artists.
  • HYBE Corporation oversees multiple labels and offers various services within the entertainment sector.

Understanding the link between the two can help fans and industry followers track how one company has evolved and expanded its reach in the entertainment world.

What Entertainment is Under HYBE Labels?

HYBE Labels is a powerhouse in the entertainment industry that manages diverse talents and projects.

They started as Big Hit Entertainment, founded in 2005 by Bang Si Hyuk. Today, they have expanded their influence across various entertainment sectors.

Music Groups and Artists

HYBE’s strength lies in its impressive roster of music groups and solo artists.

  • BTS: Debuted in 2013 with hits like “We Are Bulletproof: pt. 2”. This 7-member group includes RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook. Learn more about BTS.
  • BOYNEXTDOOR: This group from KOZ Entertainment gained popularity with tracks such as “One and Only“. They quickly became one of the top debuted groups of 2023.

Subsidiaries and Partnerships

HYBE is involved in multiple collaborations and has multiple subsidiaries.

  • Universal Music Group (UMG): They have a strategic partnership with UMG to form a K-pop boy group in the U.S. This move marks a significant expansion in K pop’s global reach. Explore the partnership.

HYBE’s subsidiaries also include:

  • Big Hit Music
  • Source Music
  • Pledis Entertainment

These subsidiaries work on music production, talent management, and concert planning, enhancing HYBE’s footprint in the entertainment industry.

HYBE remains a key player in the entertainment world as it manages these various groups and forms strategic partnerships.

How many bands are under HYBE?

HYBE is a major South Korean entertainment company known for managing several successful K-pop groups. Initially founded in 2005 as Big Hit Entertainment, the company rebranded to HYBE in 2021 to reflect its expanded scope.

HYBE has numerous artists under its label, from boy to girl groups.

Boy Groups:

Girl Groups:

Notable Solo Artists:

  • Minhyun
  • Baekho
  • Bumzu

These artists cover diverse musical styles and genres, showing HYBE’s broad impact on the global music scene. HYBE continues to expand, adding new talents and creating new groups regularly.

What Girl Group is Under HYBE Labels?

HYBE Labels, known for managing some of the biggest Kpop acts, oversees several popular girl groups.

Fromis_9 is one of the well-known girl groups under HYBE Labels. They were formed in 2018 through the survival program Idol School. After the disbandment of GFRIEND, Fromis_9 became a significant focal point for HYBE.

Another noteworthy group is LE SSERAFIM. They debuted on May 2, 2022, under Source Music, an affiliate of HYBE Labels. They are known for their dynamic performances and engaging music. The group was HYBE’s first all-female act, quickly gaining popularity in K-pop.

Key Points:

  • Fromis_9
    • Debut Year: 2018
    • Formed through: Idol School
  • LE SSERAFIM
    • Debut Year: 2022
    • Managed by: Source Music (affiliate of HYBE)

For more information on LE SSERAFIM, visit this article about HYBE’s first girl group.

HYBE’s Impact: HYBE’s girl groups are celebrated for their talent and unique styles. The company has successfully launched and managed these groups, ensuring they stay relevant and famous in the competitive K-pop scene.

Overall, HYBE continues to expand its influence in the industry by nurturing and promoting these girl groups effectively.

Why did BigHit change to HYBE?

Big Hit Entertainment, known for managing popular K pop groups like BTS, officially rebranded to HYBE Corporation.

The company wanted to diversify and expand beyond music production to stay ahead in the ever-evolving entertainment industry.

Key Reasons for the Change:

  • Innovative Identity: The name HYBE reflects a broader vision. It stands for “Harmony, Innovation, Balance, and Enjoy,” indicating a shift towards creating a multi-dimensional entertainment lifestyle.
  • Global Expansion: The rebranding aligns with their goal to grow internationally. By changing the name, they emphasize their global reach and intent to connect more deeply with a broader audience.
  • Organizational Structure: HYBE consists of:
    • HYBE HQ and HYBE America
    • Three main parts: HYBE Labels, HYBE Solutions, and HYBE Platforms

Transitioning to HYBE allows for better alignment of their subsidiaries and businesses, fostering synergy across different operations.

This rebranding marks a strategic move to reinvent and position the company as a leader in diverse entertainment industry segments.

Are BTS Shareholders of HYBE?

BTS members are shareholders of HYBE, the entertainment company that manages them. When HYBE went public, each of the seven BTS members received an equal share of 478,695 stocks allocated to them by company founder Bang Si-hyuk.

According to recent reports, each member held the following number of shares:

  • Suga, Jimin, V, Jungkook: 68,385 shares each
  • J-Hope: 62,784 shares
  • RM: USD 8.25 million worth of shares
  • Jin: USD 7.45 million worth of shares

While their special designation as shareholders has ended, and they no longer have unique voting rights, they continue to hold significant portions of the company. HYBE clarified this change to prevent confusion among fans and investors. The company stated that although their special status had ended, the members did not sell their stocks.

Previously, three of the members sold some of their shares in 2021, making millions from the transaction.

Bang Si-hyuk remains the largest shareholder, with 31.65% ownership, followed by Netmarble. The members’ ownership ensures they still have a significant stake in HYBE’s future.

Are Seventeen and BTS under the same company?

BTS and Seventeen are both part of HYBE Corporation but operate through different channels within the company.

BTS is managed by Big Hit Music, the original label founded by Bang Si-hyuk. This label initially launched the success of BTS and continues to manage their activities.

On the other hand, Seventeen is managed by Pledis Entertainment, a separate entity but a subsidiary of HYBE Corporation. This means HYBE provides support and oversees its operations but allows Pledis to function independently.

Here is a simple breakdown to clarify:

GroupManagementRelationship to HYBE
BTSBig Hit MusicManaged directly by HYBE
SeventeenPledis EntertainmentSubsidiary of HYBE

Despite being under the same corporate umbrella, each label has its unique management style and operational approaches.

Transitioning between the two: The close relationship between these entities allows for synergy in promotional activities and strategic planning. However, each group maintains its distinct identity and management team to cater to their artistic directions and career paths.

This structure ensures that fans of both BTS and Seventeen receive tailored content and experiences specific to each group’s style while benefiting from the resources and support of a more giant, influential entertainment conglomerate like HYBE.

Who owns HYBE labels now?

HYBE Corporation, formerly Big Hit Entertainment, has grown significantly in the entertainment industry.

Founded by Bang Si-hyuk in 2005, it has expanded its operations globally.

Ownership Structure:

  • Bang Si-hyuk: He owns around 31.57% of HYBE’s shares. As the founder and chairman, he is crucial in steering the company’s direction.
  • Institutional Investors: Various institutional investors hold significant portions of the company’s shares.
  • Public Shareholders: The company is publicly traded, meaning individual investors can own shares.

Subsidiaries and Acquisitions:

  • In 2021, HYBE acquired Ithaca Holdings, enhancing its presence in the U.S. market.
  • In a notable deal, HYBE also acquired Quality Control, a hip-hop label known for artists like Lil Baby, Migos, and City Girls.

Management and Key Figures:

  • Scooter Braun: Joined HYBE as a significant executive after the Ithaca Holdings acquisition.
  • Scott Borchetta: CEO of Big Machine Label Group, which is under Ithaca Holdings.

Assets and Market Position:

  • As of May 15, 2024, HYBE’s assets total over 5 trillion KRW (approximately USD 3.70 billion). This impressive figure establishes HYBE as a significant player in the entertainment sector. The company also achieved the title of a “publicly-disclosed corporate group” by the Fair Trade Commission.

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