“Escape Based on Intelligence?” KBS Apologizes for Controversial Thumbnail Featuring NewJeans
On May 2, KBS released a formal statement via its official viewer petition board in response to public criticism.
The controversy stems from an April 7 petition titled “We Demand a Halt to Malicious Reporting and an Official Apology”, which criticized KBS for using inflammatory language like “Escape is Based on Intelligence” in a thumbnail that discussed the ongoing contract dispute between NewJeans and their label. The petitioner expressed deep regret that such provocative headlines were used to generate clicks, despite prior official denials regarding alleged rifts within the group.
The post further pointed out that KBS had previously faced criticism for allegedly misrepresenting foreign interview content, suggesting the group made anti-Korean remarks, and later changed the thumbnail without a proper apology when called out by fans. The petitioner emphasized that some members of NewJeans are minors and accused the public broadcaster of neglecting basic journalistic ethics in pursuit of views.
The petition gained 3,826 signatures by 10 a.m. on May 2, triggering KBS to issue a formal response.
In its statement, KBS thanked viewers for their interest and explained that the digital content in question was meant to summarize both sides of the ongoing legal conflict between HYBE and NewJeans without bias. However, they acknowledged that the thumbnail and captions were inappropriate and have since made the video private.
KBS added, “We sincerely apologize to viewers who felt uncomfortable due to this issue. We will pay closer attention not only to the content of our digital productions but also to elements like subtitles and titles going forward.”
Meanwhile, NewJeans continues its legal battle with HYBE. On November 29, 2023, all five members announced the termination of their exclusive contracts with ADOR, citing a breakdown in trust. However, in March, the court ruled in favor of ADOR, granting an injunction to prevent the members from pursuing independent activities or signing new advertising deals. With their solo activities suspended, NewJeans is currently focusing on the ongoing lawsuit.
