Rapper and KOZ Entertainment CEO Zico has spoken up to deny recent claims that he accessed an internal HYBE document, specifically the "Music Industry Report," which came up during a national audit.

On October 30, Zico took to Instagram to address the issue, saying, “What’s going on? After reading today’s reports, I felt it was best to clear things up myself.”

He explained, “I’ve never seen the document mentioned, and I haven’t accessed any related email. I only found out about being on the recipients list through the news.” Zico also shared that he confirmed with KOZ Entertainment that there’s a record showing he didn’t open any emails or documents, adding, “For anyone concerned, I hope you have a peaceful day.”

The controversy started when it was reported that, back in January 2022, HYBE Chairman Bang Si-hyuk had asked that Zico be added to a “Weekly Music Industry Report III” email from Weverse Magazine's former editor Kang Myung-seok. Zico’s company, KOZ Entertainment, was acquired by HYBE in 2020, which led to his addition to the document’s distribution.

As the report made waves, Zico immediately denied any involvement, hoping to end the confusion.

On October 24, during a National Assembly audit, details of the “Music Industry Report” were released, revealing harsh comments on idol groups’ visuals and talents. In response, HYBE issued a statement saying that the report was a compilation of fandom and industry feedback, adding, “We take full responsibility and recognize the lack of awareness in our leadership about the report’s contents. The CEO has now stopped the creation of such reports.”

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Lee Kyung Gyu's star-making influence goes beyond Kang Ho Dong, as Hong Jin Kyung shares how he helped her kickstart her career.

On the April 24 episode of KBS 2TV’s Problem Child in House, legendary comedian Lee Kyung Gyu appeared as a guest—and a touching story from the past was revealed.

Hong Jin Kyung surprised everyone when she said, “He’s the teacher for all of us. Personally, he’s the one who helped me debut.” She even pinned a carnation flower on his chest to show her gratitude.

Lee Kyung Gyu smiled and said, “I still remember when Hong Jin Kyung walked up the stairs onto the stage for the first time.”

Hong Jin Kyung then shared her journey to becoming a star. “I joined a supermodel contest, but only the top 3 winners were noticed in broadcasting. I got a special prize, so I had no chance to be on TV."

She continued, "At first, I was just a backup for a show. But somehow, I became a regular the next week. I never knew why."

She added, "I thought the PD gave me a shot. But then one day, I randomly met Kyung Gyu sunbae, and he told me it was actually him who recommended me.”

Kim Sook asked with a smile, “So Kyung Gyu sunbae said nice things about you to the PD?”

Lee Kyung Gyu playfully replied, “Don’t say it in such a childish way,” making everyone laugh.

He then explained more seriously, “The show was Scoop TV Entertainment, and I was pretty much the main MC. When Jin Kyung showed up, I saw her determination and passion."

He added, "While others didn’t seem serious, she really stood out. I told the PD, ‘She seems unique. Why not keep her on the show?’”

Kim Jong Kook chimed in, “So if the main MC said that, doesn’t that mean you basically got her in?”

That made Lee Kyung Gyu happy. He grinned and replied, “Exactly! You speak well. Be like him!”

He added, “After that, Jin Kyung’s career took off. She started doing shows with Lee Young Ja and just kept going.”

Fans are now calling Lee Kyung Gyu not only a top MC, but also a quiet star-maker behind the scenes!

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