By: Pooja Amrutsagar
The K-pop world thrives on talent, creativity, and fierce competition, but recent developments between YG Entertainment's BabyMonster and HYBE Corporation have turned the spotlight onto a brewing feud that’s as dramatic as it is controversial. With Baby Monster preparing for their first full album, Drip, their latest activities suggest a deliberate retaliation against HYBE following the release of internal documents criticizing them.
A Shocking Revelation: HYBE’s Internal Documents
In a bombshell revelation, HYBE found itself in hot water when internal documents were leaked during a National Assembly audit. Among over 19,000 pages of discussions, BabyMonster was specifically targeted. HYBE’s assessment of YG's rookie girl group wasn’t flattering; they dismissed the group's visuals, implying inadequacies compared to other K-pop groups. This scandal ignited outrage among fans, leading to a public apology from HYBE’s CEO and the dismissal of the team responsible. But apologies haven’t been enough to quell the storm.
Baby Monster’s Comeback: Sweet Revenge or Coincidence?
Baby Monster, who debuted under YG Entertainment in 2023, is already following in the footsteps of legendary YG groups like BIGBANG, 2NE1, and BLACKPINK. Known for their edgy hip-hop style and unapologetic charisma, the seven-member group has struck back—allegedly—at HYBE’s remarks in their latest promotional activities.
The recently released Baemon News episode—a comedic skit teasing their upcoming music video Click Clack—is at the center of the controversy. In the video, member Rora humorously references “internal disclosures,” a term netizens quickly linked to the leaked HYBE documents.
Another member, Pharita, stirred speculation when she playfully remarked, “The kids are dangerously pretty; how can all seven of them be so pretty?” Fans saw this as a direct jab at HYBE’s earlier criticisms of the group’s visuals.
The K-Pop Diss Culture: A Legacy of Clapping Back
YG Entertainment has never been one to shy away from controversy. Diss culture has long been embedded in YG’s DNA, with iconic moments such as G-Dragon’s scathing performance at the MAMA Awards becoming legendary. BabyMonster seems poised to carry on this tradition, using subtle digs and powerful visuals to assert their dominance.
Their new track Click Clack, filmed in black-and-white, exudes confidence and grit, with its heavy bassline and slick choreography reinforcing Baby Monster's unique identity.
Fans are hailing the group for standing up to HYBE’s perceived slight, viewing the video and promotional skits as a masterclass in delivering “sweet revenge” with style.
The Bigger Picture: HYBE vs. YG Entertainment
The rivalry between YG Entertainment and HYBE has been simmering for years, but this incident pushes the feud into new territory. While HYBE’s internal commentary on Baby Monster reflects the high-stakes competition in K-pop, the public fallout highlights deeper issues within the industry, such as the objectification of idols and the relentless scrutiny they face.
BabyMonster’s Drip, set for release on November 1st, will feature tracks such as Billionaire Love, Woke Up in Tokyo, and Batter up Remix. Fans eagerly await the album, not just for the music but for any hidden messages aimed at their rivals.
A Divided Fanbase
The feud has polarized fans, with some applauding BabyMonster for their boldness and others condemning both YG and HYBE for perpetuating toxic industry dynamics. Critics argue that the focus should be on artistry, not petty rivalries, while others claim that dissing has always been part of K-pop’s allure.
What’s Next?
As BabyMonster gears up for their biggest release yet, all eyes are on whether HYBE will respond to the implied jabs. Will the drama escalate, or will this serve as a lesson for industry giants to tread more carefully? One thing is certain: BabyMonster’s Drip is already dripping with controversy, and fans wouldn’t have it any other way.The K-Pop War: Baby Monster Takes Aim at HYBE in Fiery Comeback
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