HYBE is under fire after unprecedented police raids at their Seoul headquarters.
The investigation began on July 24, with authorities granted a warrant allowing a nearly month-long search until August 16—far beyond typical limits.
The warrant had an exceptional clause, letting police operate outside regular hours, including before sunrise and after sunset.
Officers were not restricted to specific departments. They accessed everything from the chairman’s office to legal, accounting, finance, and other areas with relevant materials.
A police official said:
It appears the investigation into Chairman Bang is progressing quickly in line with the new administration’s policy of strict punishment for acts that disrupt the capital market.
Officials note this aggressive approach reflects a hardline stance on financial crime in the stock market under the current administration.
A JTBC reporter added:
It is believed that the police carried out such an aggressive search operation in part to secure control over the investigation.
Though the warrant remains valid until August 16, the raid has reportedly ended.
Stay tuned as the situation develops around HYBE chairman Bang Si Hyuk and the ongoing probe.