On November 19th, K-media reported that HYBE recorded its highest stock price since the 'Min Hee Jin scandal' and returned to a market capitalization of 9 trillion won. It seems that the stock price is being affected as expectations for BTS' full comeback are increasing in the stock market.
This comes from Jin's revelation through his special fan showcase, "Jin 'Happy' Special Stage", which was held recently. Jin's news revealing the timing of BTS' comeback has brought positive waves to fans as well as HYBE, Kpop.
If you missed this news during his showcase, check it out below:
On the 16th and 17th, Jin stirred up the fan community with songs from his first solo album such as the title track 'Running Wild', 'Till I Reach You', 'Another Level', 'I'll Be There' and 'In Yearning'. Red Velvet's Wendy's surprise appearance at the showcase also created an emotional moment when the two performed 'Heart on the Window' together.
Jin shared that the inspiration for this album was ARMYs: "I wanted to make ARMY happy with this album. I believe greater happiness comes when we share it together. I’m determined to keep running toward that goal." Jin's showcase and solo debut came at a crucial time of HYBE, which is facing turmoil due to a dispute involving NewJeans and former ADOR's CEO Min Hee Jin. HYBE's problems even escalated after internal documents of HYBE were leaked, revealing controversial statements about their idols and people from other companies.
Not stopping there, HYBE CFO Lee Kyung Joon soon caused controversy when he mentioned the uncertain future of BTS members as a group. The CFO's statement goes against HYBE's previous statement when they renewed their contracts with all members that they would return in 2025. This further confused fans and they claimed that HYBE was using a media play.
Amidst these challenges, Jin's return has brought a glimmer of hope to fans. At the same time, with his insider voice, he is showing that he and the members are starting to prepare for a full group comeback after completing their military service in June 2025. Specifically, mentioning in the showcase, Jin sent a message to fans: "We’ve experienced immense happiness in life, and just when we thought it was the peak, more happiness awaited us beyond it. If you wait, I believe another wave of happiness will come to you."
His words have sparked hopes for BTS's full comeback and a possible new world tour next year after the remaining five members are discharged from the military. Although doubts may have existed due to HYBE's previous statements about BTS's future, ARMYs have absolute faith in Jin after he hinted at this during a fan meeting. BTS never lied to their fans!
BTS' full comeback not only brings happiness to ARMYs but also affects K-pop as a whole. With BTS being the powerhouse of K-pop, their comeback signals huge growth potential for HYBE and the global music industry. BTS's reactivation will not only boost album, streaming, and concert revenues but also fuel indirect profits like fan merchandise sales. This also means HYBE will ease the ongoing NewJeans - Min Hee Jin crisis and restore stability.
Meanwhile, Jin's single 'Running Wild' topped iTunes charts in 70 countries, including Australia, Finland, and вяαzιℓ, while 'I'll Be There' broke records on the UK Official Chart for solo performances. Further good news lies ahead for BTS fans. RM will release a documentary, "RM: Light People, Long Place," on December 5th, and V will debut a duet, 'Wнιтe Christmas,' with Bing Crosby on December 6th. Additionally, j-hope is preparing for his solo comeback after his military discharge on October 17th.