BigHit Music has announced a comprehensive legal strategy to address harassment, stalking, and online abuse targeting BTS. The agency confirmed that organized and repeated malicious posts on social media and online communities are under close investigation. Real-time monitoring systems have been expanded, and additional staff have been assigned to collect evidence, with the warning that even deleted posts and comments can be used in civil and criminal cases.
BigHit Warns Online Harassment and Stalking Will Face Strict Legal Consequences
The statement emphasized that all actions damaging the artists’ reputations or causing psychological harm will face strict legal consequences. This includes spreading false rumors, creating fake news, and posting defamatory or hateful content about BTS albums, performances, and activities.
Coordinated efforts that mass-produce similar negative content across multiple platforms are also being monitored. BigHit Music clarified that cleverly disguised hate speech, slander, and degrading remarks are subject to legal complaints. The agency stressed that there will be no settlements or leniency and that all perpetrators will be held accountable.
The company also addressed issues with sasaeng fans and stalking behavior. Attempts to approach the artists’ residences are now monitored continuously, and police reports are filed immediately when necessary. Under current stalking and trespassing laws, even a single violation can result in punishment.
In a recent case, an individual who repeatedly engaged in stalking behavior was arrested, indicted, and is awaiting trial. BigHit Music warned that visiting artists’ homes without permission, following them, waiting near residences, filming private spaces, or spreading personal rumors is criminal and causes serious stress to the artists. The agency reinforced its commitment to ensuring severe consequences for such acts.
BigHit Cracks Down on Counterfeit Merchandise While BTS Achieves Global Chart Success
BigHit Music is also continuing its crackdown on intellectual property violations. In collaboration with customs offices and special judicial police, the agency is targeting illegal merchandise suppliers, online sellers, and unauthorized vendors near concert venues. Fans were reminded that counterfeit products not only infringe on BTS’s rights but can also lead to financial loss through low-quality goods, lack of refunds, or delivery scams.
Despite the legal challenges, BTS remains a global phenomenon. Their new album ARIRANG, with the title track SWIM topped domestic and international charts and sold more than four million copies within three days. Following a March 21 performance at Gwanghwamun Square, BTS will begin a world tour on April 9 at Goyang Stadium, covering 34 cities and 82 shows, marking the largest single tour ever by a K-pop act, with additional dates expected.
BigHit Music has sent a clear message that protecting BTS is the highest priority. Online harassment, stalking, and violations of intellectual property will face rigorous legal action, demonstrating that the agency will not tolerate behavior that threatens the safety, reputation, or well-being of its artists.
