HYBE Co., Ltd., formerly Big Hit Entertainment, is a South Korean entertainment company that has redefined the music industry through its "entertainment lifestyle platform" model. Founded in 2005 by Bang Si-hyuk, the company transitioned into a major global conglomerate following the success of the group BTS. HYBE operates under a three-pillar structure comprising Labels, Solutions, and Platforms, allowing it to manage a diverse portfolio of creative talent while maintaining control over distribution and fan engagement technology.
Business Divisions
The Label division functions as a multi-label system including BIGHIT MUSIC, PLEDIS Entertainment, ADOR, and Source Music, ensuring creative independence for various musical acts. The Solutions division focuses on secondary and tertiary content production, leveraging artist intellectual property (IP) for games, learning content, and video production. The Platform division manages Weverse, a global fandom software that integrates e-commerce, social media, and live-streaming services.
Global Expansion
HYBE has aggressively expanded its international footprint through strategic acquisitions and partnerships. This includes the acquisition of Ithaca Holdings in the United States—bringing major Western artists into its ecosystem—and the establishment of regional headquarters in Japan and Latin America. These moves have positioned HYBE as a leading vertically integrated player in the global music and media landscape.
