On March 21st, HYBE, the management agency behind BTS, faced backlash from ARMYs over billboard ads featuring a YouTube account impersonating BTS's V.

One fan, identified as OP, took to theqoo to express frustration over HYBE's oversight. The controversy stemmed from HYBE promoting BTS V's song "FRI(END)S" through an advertisement that showcased various Shorts videos on YouTube using the song's sound, including an impersonation account mimicking V.

The Fallout

ARMYs quickly noticed the impersonation account and raised concerns. Despite fan efforts to report the account, BTS's official channel continued to promote it.

OP highlighted the irony of the situation, noting that fans had previously requested the restoration of V-Topic, a legitimate account with 2.2 million subscribers, which was ignored.

Subsequently, a new impersonation account emerged, gaining 230,000 subscribers within a day due to HYBE's promotion.

 
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Netizens' Speak Out

Netizens joined the conversation, expressing disappointment and frustration with HYBE's actions:

• "If I complain and it doesn't get resolved, I start to think that this wasn't intentional and I'm really sick of having to spend time and energy complaining when I should be enjoying it the most and supporting it."
• "Why are you doing that?"
• "After seeing this, I hope BTS would not extend their relationship with HYBE. It would be preferable if the members had their own label."
• "Is the business the opposite of the group?"
• "Before placing the advertisements, they ought to have double-checked everything. What are they doing?"
• "HYBE, kindly complete your assignment as assigned."
• "Simply hire ARMYs to work for BTS."
• "I'm still baffled as to why they did that."
• "You're not even able to execute your task correctly?
• "Taehyung's attacker should be dismissed."

The incident not only highlighted the importance of authenticity and responsible promotion but also fueled discussions about the relationship between management agencies and their artists.

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Written by Cassidy Jones.