HYBE's Wattpad Account: Creation and Cancellation—An Inside Look

HYBE, the renowned South Korean entertainment company behind successful K-pop groups such as BTS and TXT, once created an official account on Wattpad. This strategic move was part of their efforts to engage with fans through storytelling and interactive content. Let's delve into this captivating journey.

Creation: Engaging with Fans Through Storytelling

HYBE's decision to create a Wattpad account reflects a broader trend in the entertainment industry. Companies are increasingly leveraging digital platforms to enhance fan interaction and storytelling. Wattpad, a popular platform for fanfiction, allowed HYBE to reach a broader global audience. By sharing original stories and building narratives around their artists, they aimed to foster deeper connections with their fans.

Initiative and Plans Moving Forward

HYBE's initial foray into Wattpad was marked by a strategic use of the platform to engage fans. They planned to continue this approach, as evidenced by their continued plans to share stories. However, things took an unexpected turn almost immediately.

The Debate: Deletion and Controversy

HYBE's Wattpad account was surprisingly removed shortly after creation. Various theories emerged as to the reasons behind this sudden deletion. Some speculated that the account was deleted due to the presence of "smut fictions" about the groups, such as BTS. Others conjectured that it was a typo or accidental post about BTS members that prompted the removal. Interestingly, it was later revealed that the account was not deleted because of any collaboration, but due to a miscommunication.

Fans, especially those of BTS, voiced concerns as news spread. The "NOT WATTPAD" hashtag quickly gained traction, reflecting the panic and fear among ARMYs (BTS fans) who were worried about HYBE's reaction to seeing such fan content. This episode highlighted the sensitivity of such fan interactions and the potential impact on fan relationships and company policies.

Impact on Fan Communities and Fandoms

The incident sparked a broader conversation about the behavior of fandoms and the potential consequences of their actions. K-pop fans, particularly those of TXT and Enhypen, were reminded of the need for self-regulation and responsible fan behavior. The company's decision to delete the account underscored the importance of maintaining a clean and professional image online, especially given the age demographics of some of their fanbase.

Conclusion

HYBE's Wattpad account journey serves as a case study in the complexities of digital engagement for entertainment companies. While the account was a strategic move, it also highlighted the challenges of managing fan interactions and content on digital platforms. The deletion of the account was ultimately seen as a means to protect both the company and its fans from potential embarrassment and controversy. As HYBE continues to navigate the digital landscape, maintaining transparency and clear communication with their fanbase remains crucial.