TXT's Soobin Targeted With Malicious Rumors Ahead of Comeback, BIGHIT Responds

BIGHIT MUSIC has announced stronger legal measures against the spread of malicious rumors and false information targeting its artists, as TXT member Soobin faces growing online harassment.

The agency issued a statement on Oct. 22, warning that the circulation of harmful content had reached a critical level ahead of an upcoming comeback. Although BIGHIT MUSIC did not identify a specific member or address individual allegations, the announcement follows several days of controversy surrounding material circulated online in connection with Soobin.

Malicious rumors involving Soobin have circulated across social media since approximately Oct. 19, generating speculation and concern among fans. The situation has also raised questions about the protection of artists' privacy and the speed at which unverified information can spread across international fan communities.

"We have recently identified the indiscriminate spread of false information and malicious rumors targeting our artist across social media platforms and online communities," BIGHIT MUSIC stated.

The company explained that it had initially refrained from issuing public statements to avoid drawing additional attention to the rumors. "until now, we refrained from issuing announcements or comments to prevent false rumors from being unnecessarily amplified by official statements," the agency said.

However, as the online attacks intensified, the company decided to take a more active approach. It said the situation had reached a critical level ahead of the artist's comeback, prompting additional protective measures.

BIGHIT MUSIC confirmed that it is collecting evidence across domestic and international platforms and intends to pursue legal action against those responsible. The agency emphasized that it would not offer settlements or leniency in cases involving unlawful attacks on its artists. It also encouraged fans to report malicious activity through HYBE's official Artist Rights Violation Report System.

The timing of the announcement is particularly notable as TXT prepares for a busy November. The group is scheduled to release its ninth mini album, "PERFECT STORM," on Nov. 16. Moreover, before the album's release, TXT will begin its fifth world tour, "STEAL THE WIND," with three concerts at Seoul's KSPO DOME from Nov. 13 to 15.

Album preorders opened on Oct. 20, placing the controversy directly within the opening stages of the group's comeback promotional campaign.

Ordinarily, this period would be focused on concept releases, music previews and preparations for the group's return to the stage. Instead, the agency has found itself addressing a separate issue involving the online treatment of one of its members.

The proximity of the controversy to TXT's comeback has also drawn attention to the pressures artists face during periods of heightened public interest.

Beyond the immediate controversy, BIGHIT MUSIC's statement highlights a broader dilemma facing entertainment agencies: how to respond quickly to malicious content without giving it additional visibility.

By its own account, the company initially chose not to comment because an official response could unintentionally amplify the rumors. That concern is understandable in an online environment where agency statements can transform otherwise limited speculation into widely reported news. However, remaining silent can also leave artists exposed to continued attacks while fans seek clarification or intervention.

The situation underscores a wider challenge facing K-pop artists, who are increasingly vulnerable to online harassment and speculation that can spread faster than the facts can be established. For Soobin, the priority remains his safety, privacy and ability to continue his activities without being subjected to invasive scrutiny.

BIGHIT MUSIC has made clear that it intends to pursue those responsible for unlawful attacks. The effectiveness of that response will ultimately depend on whether the agency can translate its warning into meaningful protection while allowing TXT's upcoming activities to proceed without further harm to its members.