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.”

Source (1)

BLACKPINK member Jennie made a special surprise appearance at Zico's concert, leaving fans and even Zico himself in shock!

On November 24, Zico celebrated the 10th anniversary of his solo debut with his concert, "ZICO LIVE: JOIN THE PARADE," at the Olympic Hall in Seoul's Olympic Park. The event was filled with excitement as Zico performed for fans after a long time.

Zico kicked off the night with his hit songs like "New Thing" and warmly greeted the audience. He said, “It’s been so long. I missed you. A solo concert feels so different from other events. I’ve really missed being with you at a concert like this.”

He added, “‘Join the Parade’ is my first solo concert under my name in six years, so it’s very special to me. Plus, this year marks 10 years since my solo debut. My journey in music has felt like a parade, and tonight, I want to show you all of it in different parts.”

Zico thanked his fans, saying, “A parade always has spectators, and I think that’s its most important value. You are my wings, and I’m the body. Let’s fly together and make this the hottest place in the world tonight!”

The crowd erupted with cheers when Jennie unexpectedly joined Zico on stage during his performance of "Freak." Without any prior announcement, Jennie gave a brief but unforgettable performance, lighting up the stage before leaving just as suddenly.

After the show, Zico shared how surprised he was. “I didn’t know Jennie would come on stage. Suddenly, the music director told me through my in-ear monitor to stop singing, and I started imagining all kinds of things. Then Jennie appeared, and I was completely shocked. I even did a stage here that I hadn’t done at the MAMA Awards!”

This concert marked Zico’s first solo event in six years since his 2018 "King Of the Zungle" tour, making it a night to remember for fans. With Jennie's surprise appearance, it became even more unforgettable!

Source: [1]