HYBE’s recent updates on the fan-communication platform Weverse have sparked outrage among fans, leading to calls for mass protests. Tensions have been rising between ARMYs and HYBE, especially since the message wall is related to the famous K-pop band BTS. Fans have taken to Twitter and other social media platforms to express their discontent. Recently, some have been sharing information about the ongoing genocide in Palestine to educate idols and fans. However, new rules will limit this type of content.
HYBE’s update on Weverse receives heavy criticism
Due to their military commitments and disciplined lifestyles as active soldiers in the South Korean army, BTS members, including Jin, Jimin, J-Hope, RM, Suga, V, and Jungkook, keep a low profile on social media. Their pages remain silent, only updated during music releases. The only direct contact with fans nowadays is through messages on Weverse. Fans have used this opportunity to raise awareness about events in Israel and Palestine, as BTS has been actively involved in humanitarian projects with the United Nations.
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However, this may have ‘upset’ HYBE, which has updated its guidelines. Some people found a notice on BTS’s Weverse addressing the app’s guidelines. The message announced that content that supports prejudice or discrimination against any political viewpoint is considered a violation of the rules.
BTS’s Weverse Guidelines Update
The K-pop company emphasized the need to create a friendly environment for both their artists and their followers. They introduced a new set of rules, encouraging all members to follow the community rules and avoid participating in certain activities:
“Posts and comments that discriminate or promote prejudice against any political stance, religion, gender, disability, age, caste, region, occupation, etc.”
“Private conversations unrelated to BTS posts and comments promoting other artists and fandom.”
They also stated that action would be taken against posts and comments defaming other artists and fans, as well as profiles that imitate others. Spamming or sharing links to unverified external websites was also stated to be against the guidelines.
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BTS Weverse update, call for protest
This new rule coincides with a rise in pro-Palestine messages on the platform, leading many to suspect that HYBE is trying to control the conversation and silence those voices. “So fans aren’t allowed to make these comments on Weverse but Scooter can?!! How do these rules not apply to him?” one person wrote.
Another shared, “They’re also really fast tracking fan letters, I was trying to like the letter. I saw some letters that were taken down in a matter of minutes…” “Weverse isn’t censoring us right now… that’s awesome. Glad to know where they stand.” Others chimed in with their opinions as well.
