Widespread expectations that China will soon end an unofficial ban on K-pop performances — in place since 2016 — is spurring a flurry of preparation throughout the industry and boosting shares. Hybe shares are up 40% this year. SM Entertainment’s stock price have jumped around 70%, while Blackpink manager YG Entertainment shares are up more than 75%.
Hybe, the company behind K-pop sensation BTS, has opened its first office in China in the wake of rising expectations that Beijing will soon lift a near-decade-long ban on Korean pop performances in the mainland.
K-pop’s largest company opened an outpost in Beijing last month, according to a Hybe spokesperson. That comes as Hybe and rival SM Entertainment have ramped up their China business teams over the past few months.
