'HYBE STOP SABOTAGING TAEHYUNG': BTS V fans, ARMY demand better treatment of artist amid Layover vinyl release
In addition to the shipping issues, fans criticized HYBE for their lack of promotional efforts for the vinyl release, raising concerns about Taehyung's treatment by the label.
BTS V
One of the main reasons BTS has a huge fan following can be credited to Kim Taehyung, aka V—the second youngest member of the global phenomenon Bangtan Sonyeondan. From his amazing visuals and soothing voice to his charming quirks, the singer has captivated many, drawing numerous fans into the fandom.
While he is certainly receiving the attention he deserves, it appears that his label, HYBE—which is already dealing with issues related to its conflict with former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin—may be "sabotaging" his solo album, intentionally or unintentionally. BTS' V's solo album LAYOVER vinyl was set to be released in South Korea through the HYBE label on Friday, September 20. Pre-orders for the vinyl edition began on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at 11 AM KST.
As the release date approached, fans expressed frustration that their vinyl pre-orders had not yet been shipped. This delay sparked a wave of reactions online, with many fans taking to social media to voice their concerns. The hashtag "HYBE STOP SABOTAGING TAEHYUNG" quickly trended globally on X (formerly known as Twitter).
Numerous comments from V's fans and ARMY highlighted their dissatisfaction, particularly from those who had placed orders as well as those trying to do so. Many expressed annoyance over understocking and shipping delays, reminiscent of issues they faced during the initial launch of the LAYOVER album.
In addition to the shipping issues, fans criticized HYBE for their lack of promotional efforts for the vinyl release, raising concerns about Taehyung's treatment by the label. While it seems every member got the tweets needed about their album vinyl, there have been no such posts about Taehyung's vinyl.
In fact, on August 21, 2024, V drew significant attention online as fans rallied behind the hashtag "ADD TAEHYUNG'S MUSIC," making it a global trend.
BIGHIT MUSIC (now HYBE Labels) faced backlash over a website banner on the BTS UK Shop that showcased album covers of all members’ solo projects—except for Taehyung's. The banner featured covers for Jimin's MUSE, Jungkook's GOLDEN, Jin's The Astronaut, Agust D's D-DAY, RM's Indigo, and J-Hope's HOPE ON THE STREET. Fans pointed out the absence of his solo album LAYOVER and his single "FRI(END)S," prompting them to direct their criticism at the HYBE label.
About LAYOVER:
Kim Taehyung's first solo album, LAYOVER, was released on September 8, 2023, featuring R&B and jazz tracks like "Love Me Again," "Rainy Days," "For Us," "Blue," and "Slow Dancing (Piano Ver.)." The tracklist for the vinyl edition remains unchanged.
According to the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) Global Music Report for 2023, LAYOVER was the tenth best-selling album worldwide, with 2.2 million units sold.
Where is V?
Taehyung is currently undergoing rigorous military training as part of the Special Task Force. V, along with fellow members Suga, RM, Jungkook, and Jimin, is set to complete his military service by June 2025. The eldest member, Kim Seokjin was already discharged in June 2024 and J-Hope is expected to be released by October.
Updated: September 21, 2024 09:03 AM IST
Please Subscribe us OnGoogle News
