Korean PM Kim Min-seok visited HYBE, highlighting BTS's comeback at Gwanghwamun and the importance of freedom in K-pop culture.
January/22/2026 15:44
Prime Minister Kim Min-seok visited HYBE and mentioned BTS's comeback performance at Gwanghwamun. The Prime Minister visited HYBE's headquarters in Yongsan, Seoul, yesterday afternoon and held a town hall meeting with executives and employees. On this day, he touched on the penlight culture that attracted attention at the candlelight rally demanding the resignation of former President Yoon Seok-youl in 2024, emphasizing, 'Because we defended freedom, today's Hallyu exists. The foundation of Hallyu is liberal democracy.' He continued, 'The fact that BTS will showcase their comeback stage at Gwanghwamun Square, protected by penlights, holds great significance.' He also stated, 'The core of the K-POP system is “people,”' and revealed that they will consider multifaceted policy support and improvements, such as creating an environment where creators can focus on their work safely and nurturing young talent. Prior to the town hall meeting, he met with HYBE's CEO Lee Jae-sang and BELIFT LAB's CEO Kim Tae-ho, as well as ENHYPEN. Recently, HYBE applied to the Cultural Heritage Administration for permission to use and film in areas including Gwanghwamun Square, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Sungnyemun ahead of BTS's comeback. On the 20th, the Cultural Heritage Administration deliberated on the use and filming permissions in the Gyeongbokgung and Sungnyemun areas and approved them conditionally. Discussions regarding the performance are ongoing with related ministries such as the Seoul City government. - BTS, Cultural Heritage Administration conditionally approves filming and use in Gyeongbokgung area... Free performance under consideration - BTS, will they hold a free comeback celebration at Gwanghwamun Square? BIGHIT comments on reports.
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ENHYPEN's video content 'EN-O' CLOCK' has been announced to be on hiatus. This follows the recent departure of member Heeseung, who expressed his heartfelt sentiments in a letter, stating his decision was made to better support the group. ENHYPEN will continue as a six-member group, with Heeseung focusing on his solo career.
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ENHYPEN's Heeseung has announced his unexpected departure from the group, citing personal musical aspirations. The agency BELIFT LAB confirmed the decision, stating the group will continue as a six-member unit. Fans are shocked, especially after recent health issues and a canceled event. Heeseung expressed his desire to prepare for solo activities while respecting his former bandmates.
The Ministry of Culture has requested police investigations into suspected ticket scalping for BTS's comeback concert. They found numerous illegal resale postings and emphasized that tickets bought from unofficial sources may not allow entry. The ministry aims to ensure fair ticketing practices and has warned fans against purchasing from scalpers.
After Heeseung's departure, ENHYPEN sent a heartfelt message to fans, ENGENE, expressing their concern for their feelings and promising to grow and create happiness for them. They emphasized the importance of their time together and their respect for Heeseung's decision, vowing to remain strong and grateful for ENGENE's support.
Seoul City is launching major safety measures for BTS's concert at Gwanghwamun Square on the 21st, anticipating up to 260,000 attendees. This includes temporary toilets, traffic restrictions, and the cancellation of nearby events. Authorities will ensure safety and order for all participants, with a focus on preventing crowd accidents.
ENHYPEN has restructured to a six-member group with Heeseung leaving to focus on his solo career. BELIFT LAB stated this decision respects Heeseung's musical aspirations while allowing both the group and Heeseung to grow. Heeseung expressed gratitude to fans and promised to prepare for future engagements.
ENHYPEN's Heeseung has officially announced his departure from the group to focus on his individual musical goals. BELIFT LAB confirmed that the group will continue as a six-member unit and expressed gratitude to fans for their support. Heeseung will release a solo album as part of BELIFT LAB.
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