BTS is once again facing scrutiny as the Korean Creative Content Agency (KCCA) has initiated an investigation into allegations of chart manipulation, commonly referred to as Sajaegi. The KCCA, which operates under the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, confirmed receiving an official complaint regarding the matter.
The allegations initially reached the Ministry of Culture before being delegated to the KCCA for a more focused investigation. Reports indicate that the KCCA will be contacting HYBE, BTS's management company, to investigate these claims further.
The news has sparked a wave of reactions from netizens, many of whom expressed skepticism about the thoroughness of the investigation. Some doubted the ministry's commitment to a comprehensive inquiry, while others recalled a similar situation in 2017 when BTS was previously investigated and subsequently proclaimed innocent of the same charges.
BTS, one of the world's most popular and influential music groups, has faced numerous accusations of chart manipulation over the years, but none have been substantiated. The group's massive fanbase and global impact have often placed them under intense scrutiny.
"If the Ministry Of Culture is investigating them, of course, it’s going to result in an innocent verdict. They couldn’t find evidence of sajaegi before.”
“Won’t get my hopes 8.”
“Why are they only investigating BTS. They should investigate other singers to see if they are even able to (find evidence of any chart manipulation).”
“They aren’t an investigative agency, so this investigation is pretty useless.”
“They said that the Ministry Of Culture recommended that BTS be stripped of their award. Let’s see if they follow through.”
“Are the Ministry Of Culture above investigative agencies? Is this a f*cking comedy? Lol.”
“I mean, isn’t the Ministry Of Culture just investigating because they’ve received so many complaints? I don’t think this is media play.”
“The alleged would have to confess to the crimes for the investigation to find anything. The investigation isn’t going to find anything.”
The outcome of the KCCA's investigation remains to be seen, and it is yet unclear how HYBE and BTS will respond to these renewed allegations. The case continues to develop, with fans and industry observers keenly awaiting further updates.