BTS’s HYBE Chairman Bang Si-hyuk to Be Prosecuted for Alleged IPO Fraud
Financial authorities in South Korea are preparing to file a criminal complaint against Bang Si-hyuk, chairman of HYBE and the mastermind behind BTS, over alleged fraudulent activity tied to HYBE’s IPO. According to investigators, Bang misled early investors, funneled shares to a private equity fund (PEF), and personally profited without disclosure. The implications go far beyond K-pop — this is a financial scandal with major market consequences. Table of Contents 1. What’s Going On 2. What Are the Allegations 3. Legal Implications 4. Why This Matters Now 5. HYBE’s Response 6. What’s Next 7. Final Thoughts 8. FAQ 1. What’s Going On On July 7, 2025, South Korea’s Capital Market Investigation Committee voted to recommend criminal prosecution against Bang Si-hyuk and others at HYBE. The formal decision is expected on July 16, when the Securities and Futures Commission meets. If finalized, this will mark one of the highest levels of enforcement the finan...