Korean police plan to refer HYBE Chairman Bang Si-hyuk to prosecutors without detention following a lengthy investigation.

In a significant development, Korean authorities have announced their decision to refer Bang Si-hyuk, the chairman of HYBE Corporation, to prosecutors without detention. This decision comes after two unsuccessful attempts to arrest him in connection with the company’s 2020 stock market listing.

The investigation, which has been ongoing since December 2024, focused on the circumstances surrounding HYBE’s initial public offering. Despite the gravity of the allegations, the police have opted not to detain Bang, citing insufficient grounds for arrest.

HYBE, known for managing global sensation BTS, has been under scrutiny as part of a broader examination of corporate practices within the K-pop industry. The decision to proceed without detention suggests a lack of conclusive evidence to warrant Bang’s arrest at this stage.

Bang Si-hyuk, a pivotal figure in the rise of K-pop, has maintained his innocence throughout the investigation. His legal team has consistently argued against the necessity of detention, emphasizing his cooperation with the authorities.

The referral to prosecutors marks a critical juncture in the case, as it will now be up to the prosecution to determine whether to pursue formal charges against the HYBE chairman.

The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the K-pop industry, which has seen rapid global expansion in recent years. As HYBE continues to play a leading role in this growth, the legal proceedings involving its chairman are being closely watched by industry insiders and fans alike.