HYBE denied rumors spreading against boy band BTS that its members may have been involved in the fast-spreading drug allegations in the entertainment industry, warning strong legal measures against anyone spreading false details about its artists.

"BTS is in no way related to the rumors spreading online," the K-pop agency told the local press on Thursday.

"We will be taking firm measures against anyone spreading false rumors."

Rumors spread on Wednesday, following news of singer G-Dragon and actor Lee Sun-kyun being investigated by police for illegal drug use, that BTS had been acquainted with a bar in southern Seoul currently alleged to be the place where actor Lee allegedly used drugs.

ARMY, the boy band's fan club, also warned that it will track anyone spreading such rumors online.

Lee is suspected of using marijuana and psychoactive drugs at a nightclub in Gangnam District, southern Seoul.

Lee has filed a lawsuit against the nightclub’s manager, who had blackmailed him and extorted him for 350 million won ($259,000), according to the actor’s lawyers.


The investigation into Lee had expanded to at least eight additional people suspected of using drugs including TV personality and composer Jung Da-eun.

Incheon Police Agency started an official investigation against the Big Bang member for illegal drug use earlier this week in a case separate from the ongoing allegation against “Parasite" (2019) actor Lee.