Hybe Chairman Discusses How Technology Helped BTS Dominate Music Scene During Lockdown

Hybe, the label behind BTS, has acknowledged the role of technology in catapulting the Korean supergroup into global stardom amid the COVID-19 lockdown.

Hybe Chairman Bang Si-hyuk said in an interview with TIME Magazine, which came out Wednesday, that the label capitalized heavily on Weverse, an app the label owns and operates, in promoting the septet to the international audience even without going overseas.

He added that the label successfully implemented a "great innovation" by building a platform where it could stream concerts and nurture the relationship between artists and fans as well as promote merchandise, show tickets and broadcast shows anywhere in the world.

Apart from Weverse, Hybe also acquired VLive, another platform that allows live streaming to audiences worldwide.

"The idea was to release new music to console people and heal their minds through our music during these hard times, when it's difficult to physically meet and interact," BTS leader RM said in the same interview. "The results were 'Dynamite,' 'Butter,' 'Permission to Dance.'"

Suga chimed in, saying, "During the pandemic, the company put together online concerts and has been building the fan communities around the world."

The three-chart topping hits not only paved the way for BTS to become certified global hitmakers but also solidified the group's mark in the worldwide pop scene.

During the lockdown, BTS' virtual concerts were streamed to more than a million paid ticketholders worldwide, which eventually set new records for live viewership. Interestingly, BTS members are also shareholders of Weverse, so they also reap its rewards.

Now as the group gears for its "Permission To Dance" concerts, which will take place in Las Vegas on April 8, 9, 15 and 16, several establishments around the city have announced BTS-themed attractions as a treat to treat eager fans, collectively known as ARMY, who will troop to Allegiant Stadium for the shows.

MGM Resorts announced BTS-themed hotel rooms that will reportedly feature photo cards and other keepsakes.

Mandalay Bay will serve Korean dishes and desserts curated by Michelin star and chef Back Sung Ook.

Jewel Nightclub in Aria Resort, on the other hand, will hold parties for fans who wish to extend the fun beyond the concerts.

Hybe also announced a photography exhibit titled "Behind the Stage: Permission to Dance" at AREA15/A-LOT, which will show a behind-the-scenes look at a BTS concert. The exhibit will feature photographs of the group preparing before the shows.