Zico personally addressed his alleged link to the controversial HYBE internal documents.
As previously reported, HYBE is currently under fire for internal reports that reveal defamatory remarks about idol groups. Though earlier statements suggested the internal reports labeled 'Music Industry Weekly Trend Reports' were of online comments, it was later revealed some content in the reports were in fact written by employees. The 'Music Industry Weekly Trend Reports' were also found to have stated the apparent intent to "dispose of NewJeans."
Recent e-mail leaks also revealed HYBE founder Bang Si Hyuk had shared the 'Music Industry Weekly Trend Reports' with KOZ Entertainment CEO Zico in January of 2022, which is causing backlash for the rapper. KOZ Entertainment was acquired by HYBE in 2020, and it seems Zico was included as a recipient of the document.
Zico has now addressed the issue on his Instagram Story. He wrote as follows:
"What on earth is going on...
Regarding the article published today,
I thought it would be better to leave a message and clarify directly.
I have never seen the document,
and I have not even opened the email itself.
I only learned today through the article that I was added as a recipient,
and I'm concerned that if it's clarified this way,
it might lead to more misunderstandings.
Before stating my position, I directly requested KOZ
to confirm that I have not opened any emails or documents.
I hope everyone who may be worried has a peaceful day today."
SEE ALSO: "He was Handsome in his 70kg Era," Bang Si Hyuk’s Past Photos stir reactions online