Netizens have shared fury and anger after HYBE group KATSEYE's recent achievement, linking it to the treatment of BTS. The members of BTS KATSEYE (Manon is on hiatus) | HYBE KATSEYE recently released the track “Animal.” Netizens were shocked after the newest Spider-Man movie clip had “Animal” as the background music (BGM). This has sparked a heated debate online, with many accusing HYBE of engaging in payola practices to promote their artists.

The term 'payola' refers to the practice of paying radio stations or other media outlets to play specific songs or promote certain artists. This scandal has raised questions about the ethics and fairness of HYBE's business practices, particularly in relation to BTS, who have been one of the group's most successful acts.

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  • The recent achievement by KATSEYE is not the only instance where HYBE has been accused of engaging in payola. In 2020, it was reported that HYBE had paid millions of dollars to a popular Korean radio station to play BTS' music exclusively.
  • HYBE's aggressive promotion of its artists has led some to accuse them of 'buying' their way to the top. This includes allegations of using underhanded tactics such as manipulating chart rankings and paying influencers to promote their music.
  • The Spider-Man movie clip featuring KATSEYE's song