BTS is facing a serious privacy breach controversy after an airline employee allegedly sold the group’s flight information to brokers.
HYBE announced the employee is now indicted. The Seoul Metropolitan Police’s cybercrime unit caught three suspects earlier this year, including one airline crew member, for violating the Personal Information Protection Act.
HYBE confirmed BTS wasn’t the only target. Other HYBE artists and idols from various agencies were affected. One fan reportedly bought a seat next to an idol group member using leaked info and stalked them mid-flight. Another fan even tried physical contact onboard.
HYBE has been working closely with police for years. In September 2023, HYBE created a dedicated task force to handle privacy breaches. They’ve been gathering evidence from social media and handing it over to authorities.
“We will respond firmly and hold those responsible fully accountable, with zero tolerance and without offering any settlements or leniency.”
— HYBE Official Statement
Privacy violations involving K-pop idols are gaining traction as HYBE steps up efforts to clamp down on sasaeng behavior tied to flight data leaks. The company treats the issue as a top priority.
