Highlight's Agency Clarifies Participation Fee Controversy for 'Wonju K-Pop Festival'

Around Us Entertainment, the agency for the group Highlight, has issued a statement clarifying discrepancies regarding the alleged 165 million KRW participation fee for the 'Wonju K-Pop Festival'.

In an official statement released on the 30th, Around Us stated, "There is a significant difference between the participation fee for Highlight for this event and the amount posted on social media." The agency also revealed that they had already paid 22 million KRW, which is 50% of the contract deposit, in relation to the event's cancellation.

"Although the event was canceled due to reasons on the organizer's side, not ours, we paid 50% of the advance payment received at the time of the contract, amounting to 22 million KRW on October 13th, as a matter of goodwill," the agency claimed.

They further expressed their bewilderment at the spread of false information, stating, "We were aware of the situation regarding unrefunded tickets for fans and were monitoring the circumstances. It is highly perplexing that untrue details are being circulated as facts."

Previously, the organizers of the 'Wonju K-Pop Festival' posted a statement addressing refund delays post-cancellation, disclosing the recruitment fees for participating artists. Highlight was listed as receiving the highest fee at 165 million KRW.

The festival, originally scheduled for November 10th and 11th, was abruptly canceled on November 2nd due to budget shortages. Ticket refunds for pre-sale attendees are reportedly still pending.

Korean netizens are expressing outrage, with comments like "This is unbelievable," "Glad the agency is handling this properly," and "This is deceiving the fans." Many are demanding a thorough investigation into the entire situation, citing the disclosed fees for other artists as well.