Controversy Surrounds BigHit Music's Lack of Support for J-Hope's World Tour
As fans eagerly await BTS's J-Hope to kick off his first solo world tour, discontent is brewing over BigHit Music's apparent lack of promotional efforts.
Using social media platform X as their battleground, fans rallied behind hashtags like #HYBE_do_your_job and #Support_your_artists_properly, accusing the company of failing to fulfill its duties in boosting J-Hope's solo career.
Despite the imminent start of j-hope's world tour on February 28th, BigHit Music has primarily focused on posting ticket sale announcements since January 10th, overlooking the necessity for comprehensive promotional materials and updates. This oversight has sparked a call for proper marketing and visibility for J-Hope's upcoming tour.
Issues Highlighted by Fans against BigHit Music
1. Lack of transparent ticketing communication
- Fans expressed dismay over the lack of clarity regarding seating restrictions. - While obstructed-view seats in Seoul were acknowledged, details for five North American cities were conspicuously absent. - Ticketing updates were haphazardly disseminated, with some only appearing on local ticketing platforms rather than through BigHit Music's official channels.
2. Insufficient digital marketing endeavors
- Fans observed that J-Hope took the initiative to open a TikTok account and create countdown content, raising concerns about the agency's passive promotion of the tour. - The HYBE community app, Weverse, was deemed inactive and lacking in engagement.
3. Confusing membership policies for North American shows
- U.S. ticket sales necessitated a distinct American membership purchase, complicating access for existing global members. - Miscommunication from HYBE resulted in widespread bewilderment and dissatisfaction among fans.
4. Live streaming quality concerns
- Fans criticized the streaming quality of j-hope's concert compared to previous events by other BTS members, citing inferior resolution despite unaltered prices. - The 3-day streaming pass at ₩165,000 (approximately $125 USD) raised eyebrows, given the perceived decline in service quality.
5. Silence on J-Hope's upcoming single
- While American rapper Don Toliver confirmed the upcoming song 'LV Bag' featuring J-Hope, Speedy, and Pharrell Williams, BigHit Music remained silent on the matter. - Investor reports from HYBE hinted at J-Hope releasing a new album in March, leaving fans puzzled by the absence of pre-release marketing efforts.
With frustrations mounting over the perceived lack of promotional support, some fans are urging J-Hope to reconsider renewing his contract with BigHit Music.
- "After his military discharge, J-Hope is finally delving into solo activities, and this is the level of support he receives? Unacceptable." - "We can only hope that J-Hope finds a company that truly values and promotes him." - "HYBE's failure to support J-Hope is not only disappointing but also hindering fans' ability to show their support."
As excitement grows for J-Hope's 'HOPE ON THE STAGE' tour, fans are demanding transparency and effective management from BigHit Music to restore faith before it's too late.