The North American tour organizer for ONF (J&B Entertainment, hereafter referred to as J&B) is embroiled in controversy over mismanagement. WM Entertainment has decided to terminate their Hong Kong tour contract with the organizer.
Jackie Yu, the CEO of J&B, stated on the 5th, "My foolish attitude and reckless remarks have caused concern to ONF members, fans, and WM Entertainment."
The issue came to light when a fan publicized a chat group run by CEO Yu. It was revealed that Yu had offered special events and ticket purchasing opportunities only to Fuses (ONF fans) who paid a significant amount.
Furthermore, private information was exposed. Details about ONF's personal schedules and lodging information were provided, and even a member's performance-worn T-shirt was handed over. This was an exploitation of fan sentiment.
CEO Yu admitted, "While selling tickets, I communicated with a few fans via KakaoTalk regarding the Canadian performance, North American ticket sales, and additional benefits."
He also disclosed that he had received corrective orders from the agency. "My arbitrary actions were found to be problematic. WM Entertainment pointed out issues with the ticket selling methods."
However, it was noted that he did not adhere to the agency's warnings. "Instead, I caused ongoing issues through incorrect communication with fans. Informing fans about the tour schedules led to misunderstandings," he reflected.
He bowed his head in shame, saying, "There is no excuse. This happened due to my recklessness. I am reflecting on my actions. I will cancel all benefits that were not agreed upon with the agency."
WM Entertainment also released an official statement, explaining, "We have consistently lodged complaints and requested improvements regarding J&B's unagreed operating methods and unkind responses."
They continued, "(However) this was not accepted. J&B belatedly expressed their apology and intention to improve. We decided to terminate the Hong Kong tour contract and cancel the performance."
They apologized to the fans, saying, "We are sorry to the fans in Taiwan and Hong Kong. We will thoroughly review and re-announce our plans considering the fans who have prepared in advance for the North American tour."
They concluded, "We are gravely aware of our responsibility. We apologize for causing concern to the fans and artists. We will strive to ensure this does not happen again."
Meanwhile, ONF recently completed their Japan tour. They will begin their first North American tour this August, visiting Toronto, Montreal, New York, Chicago, Atlanta, Dallas, Denver, and LA.
They are also scheduled to tour Taiwan and Hong Kong this October.
<Photo Courtesy = WM Entertainment>
