SOUTH KOREAN POLICE SEEK ARREST WARRANT FOR HYBE CHAIRMAN BANG SI-HYUK OVER ALLEGED $100 MILLION INVESTOR FRAUD SCHEME. (PHOTO).

 South Korean police seek arrest warrant for Hybe chairman Bang Si-Hyuk over alleged $100 million investor fraud scheme

   South Korean police are seeking an arrest warrant for Bang Si-Hyuk, the billionaire music executive behind K-pop powerhouse Hybe and BTS, as part of an expanding investigation into allegations that he improperly benefited from an investor scheme involving more than $100 million.

Authorities said they have asked prosecutors to pursue a court warrant for Bang’s arrest as they continue probing claims that he misled investors in 2019. Investigators allege he told investors that Hybe had no plans for an initial public offering, leading them to sell shares to a private equity fund. The company later went public, and police suspect a separate arrangement may have resulted in Bang receiving a substantial payout tied to post-IPO stock profits.

Bang’s legal team has not directly addressed the specific allegations but said he has cooperated with investigators and will continue to engage with legal proceedings while working to clarify his position. Hybe officials say Bang denies any wrongdoing.

He has been under a travel ban since August while the investigation continues.

The case comes at a sensitive moment for Hybe, as BTS has recently returned to global touring following a multi-year hiatus during which its members completed mandatory military service in South Korea. The group has resumed major performances in Asia and is preparing for additional international shows.

Bang founded Hybe in 2005, transforming it into one of South Korea’s most influential entertainment companies and expanding its reach globally. Under his leadership, the company has grown beyond K-pop, investing heavily in international talent and partnerships.

In recent years, Hybe has also faced internal disputes and leadership conflicts involving subsidiaries and artists, adding to broader challenges within the company.

The investigation into Bang marks one of the most significant legal challenges yet for the executive, whose role has been central to the global rise of K-pop.