▲ This undated file photo shows an exterior view of the Hybe building in central Seoul. (Yonhap)

 

SEOUL, June 18 (Yonhap News) — A group accused of illegally obtaining and trading flight information of Hybe artists has been handed over to the prosecution.

 

Hybe announced on the 18th that it received notification that the social media account operators who traded artist flight information online have been sent to the prosecution.

 

Since last year, Hybe formed a dedicated response team and gathered evidence to identify the social media account operators, subsequently filing a complaint with the police.

 

Following the investigation, the police confirmed the allegations and referred some suspects to the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office.

 

The investigation revealed that the suspects profited millions to tens of millions of won by selling artist flight information. They conducted illegal transactions via chat or direct messages, exchanging information about K-pop artists' flights.

 

This illegally obtained information was used for stalking activities, such as attempting to board the same flight as the artists to make close contact. There were instances where the suspects changed the artists' seats and in-flight meals or canceled flight reservations, disrupting their schedules.

 

To prevent further leakage of artists' personal information, including flight details, Hybe is inspecting relevant systems and has requested cooperation from airlines and travel agencies. The company plans to work with various organizations to protect the artists' personal information.

 

Hybe stated, "We will adhere to a zero-tolerance policy regarding the commercialization and trading of artists' personal information, holding those responsible accountable without any compromise or leniency."

[ⓒ K-VIBE. 무단전재-재배포 금지]