HYBE Chairman Bang Si Hyuk made a striking appearance at the 64th Annual General Meeting of the Korea Economic Leaders Association (KELA) on February 20th, captivating attendees with his noticeably transformed physique. His successful diet journey, previously speculated upon, was confirmed with his slimmer figure, becoming a major talking point of the event.
A Notable First Appearance and a New Look
This marked Bang Si Hyuk’s first participation in the prestigious KELA meeting, held at the FKI Tower Conference Center in Yeongdeungpo, Seoul. Dressed in a sharp black suit, he joined other new member company representatives, including Dunamu CEO Lee Seok Woo, for a commemorative photo. However, it was his significant weight loss that drew the most attention.
From Speculation to Confirmation: The Diet Journey
Rumors of Bang’s weight loss began swirling last August after photos surfaced of him in California with Stanford University Professor Andrew Ng. The images, showcasing a leaner Bang, sparked debate, with some even questioning if the photos had been edited. However, his appearance at the KELA meeting provided undeniable proof of his successful transformation.
HYBE Joins KELA: A Shift in Leadership?
Beyond Bang’s personal transformation, the event also highlighted HYBE‘s inclusion as a new member of the KELA. Joining alongside 46 other prominent companies, including KT, Kakao, Naver, Dunamu, and SK Hynix, HYBE‘s membership is seen as a significant development.
The addition of HYBE and Dunamu, following the inclusion of Naver and Kakao, signals a potential shift in the KELA’s traditional focus. Previously centered on manufacturing, the association is now anticipated to embrace a more diverse leadership structure, reflecting the growing influence of technology and entertainment sectors. The business world is keenly observing how this evolution will shape the KELA’s future direction.
Bang Si Hyuk’s successful diet journey has not only garnered personal attention but also coincided with HYBE‘s continued expansion and influence within the Korean business landscape. His healthier appearance may also be seen as a symbol of the company’s dynamic and evolving nature.