HYBE Co., a company affiliated with the globally acclaimed idol group BTS, is generating considerable attention as it ventures into the realm of real estate development by planning apartment construction projects.

Recently, the Incheon Free Economic Zone (IFEZ) Songdo International City R2 Block has garnered attention due to allegations of preferential treatment. It is speculated that the area will be transformed into a 'K-contents City' under a developmental proposal. HYBE is involved in this venture as a shareholder, notably contributing to the construction of large-scale residential complexes.

According to the 'Incheon Songdo K-contents City Project Proposal' on August 23 KST, KC Company has earmarked Songdo International City District 8 R2, B1 and B2 Blocks, and Songdo Moonlight Festival Park as the target locations for this project. The aim of the project is to construct a residential complex while also fostering the global culture, art, and tourism industry, under the theme of K-Pop content.

The proposal encompasses plans to build apartments and officetels covering approximately 84.83% of the total development project site. The residential facilities planned for Songdo's R2, B1 and B2 blocks total 7,954 units, comprising of 7,180 apartments and 774 officetels. However, the project has faced controversy due to it being more focused on building an expansive apartment complex and officetels rather than being aimed at K-Pop City development and creation of a K-content hub. In the business proposal, core elements such as the 'K-Pop Dome' and 'K-Contents' facilities account for only 5.09% and 4.52% respectively, leading to less than 10% of the overall project area.

HYBE has submitted a letter of intent to participate as a shareholder. HYBE, which holds a 5% stake in the proposal's PFV shareholder composition, underscores the company's intent to diversify into new business areas like culture and arts businesses, and residential complex development projects.

Thus, HYBE has been spotlighted as it diversifies beyond its traditional role as an entertainment production company, into a real estate development company, thereby reaping 'double benefits' from a single initiative.

A local construction industry official commented, “The fact that HYBE is participating in the large-scale residential complex construction plan, surrounded by controversy, raises interest in the construction industry." He continued, "There’s no law preventing entertainment companies from participating in apartment construction. However, the Songdo R2 block is contentious due to claims of preferential treatment, raising concerns that any missteps could tarnish HYBE's reputation.”