HYBE faces backlash over Jungkook’s Super Bowl no-show

Image: @AboutMusicYT/X

“We have nothing to say.”

This five-word statement from Korean entertainment label HYBE regarding BTS member Jungkook’s absence from the 2024 Super Bowl has left fans less than satisfied. The BTS ARMY, known for their passionate support, expressed their disappointment and frustration in response.

HYBE’s response on Jungkook not being able to perform at the Superbowl due to military service:

– “We have nothing to say”. pic.twitter.com/oqbA5fdwEu

— About Music (@AboutMusicYT) October 9, 2024

Originally, Jungkook was set to join pop star Usher for a highly anticipated remix during the Super Bowl Halftime Show, one of the most coveted platforms for any artist. 

Football – NFL – Super Bowl LVIII – Half-Time Show – Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, Nevada, United States – February 11, 2024 Alicia Keys and Usher perform during the halftime show REUTERS/Brian Snyder

Unfortunately, due to his mandatory military enlistment, he had to turn down the invitation.

This decision has cast a shadow over what could have been a spectacular collaboration between two music icons, underscoring the challenges of fulfilling military obligations, which all South Korean men must face.

HYBE’s terse response did not sit well with fans, who quickly took to social media to voice their discontent.

Many blamed the management company for not finding a way to postpone Jungkook’s enlistment, allowing him to seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. 

The outrage was palpable, culminating in the trending hashtag “#Jungkook_leaveHYBE” on X (formerly Twitter), showcasing the collective frustration of the fandom.

In an attempt to address the backlash, HYBE issued a statement to Ilgan Sports on Oct. 9, but their clarification failed to pacify the growing unrest among ARMY members.

Fans feel that their concerns regarding Jungkook’s career path and how his public engagements are managed are being disregarded, further fueling their discontent.

On a brighter note, Jungkook recently celebrated the release of a vinyl version of his solo album, “Golden.”

Following the lead of fellow BTS members J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V and Suga, who have all launched their own solo vinyls, Jungkook’s album is now available for fans worldwide, including in South Korea, Japan, the United States and Europe.

The pre-order period for the vinyl began on Oct. 2 at 11 AM KST, giving fans an opportunity to secure their copies ahead of the official release.

The global rollout will occur in phases, with the first shipments in South Korea set for Nov. 8, followed by Japan on Nov. 18 and finally in the US and Europe on Dec. 13.