Hybe has moved to quash speculation that red lighting across Seoul for BTS's comeback carries political undertones, stating the color simply reflects the group's new album concept.
The agency issued a statement Sunday after controversy emerged online over the red illumination planned at landmarks including Gwanghwamun Square, Namsan Seoul Tower, and Sebitseom.
Critics noted the timing—ahead of June's nationwide local elections—and the fact that red is the symbolic color of opposition parties in South Korea. BTS's official team color is purple, not red.
"The red color for the Gwanghwamun Square performance applies the key color of the 'Arirang' album," Hybe said in its statement. "Seoul city is also using red lighting at city landmarks at Hybe's request."
The company pointed out that the "Arirang" album logo and visual identity feature red prominently, making the lighting choice purely artistic.
"We ask that people refrain from interpreting pop culture events through an excessively political lens," Hybe added.