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HYBE recently revealed its revenue for the first quarter of 2025, and it was its highest Q1 figure to date. What's more interesting about it is that the first quarter is usually the time when K-Pop agencies record low revenues and profits.
But how come HYBE was able to defy the trend? What kind of strategy did the agency use to break its Q1 revenue? Keep on reading to know the key growth drivers and whether the K-Pop giant will also see high revenue in the second quarter.
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Why is the First Quarter of the Year a Slow Season in K-Pop?
The first quarter of every year is often considered a slow season in K-Pop. There's a simple reason for that: rest and reset. After a jam-packed fourth quarter filled with major comebacks, year-end award shows, and holiday performances, idols take a well-deserved break. It’s not just physical rest—it’s also time for regrouping, planning, and creatively recharging.
Behind the scenes, companies use this downtime to map out strategies for the rest of the year. They plan artists’ album releases, promotional campaigns, and tour dates. K-Pop stars will then prepare for their comebacks, local and international concerts, and other projects planned.
That’s why from January to March, you’ll often see fewer comebacks or new content. It feels like a calm before the storm in the K-Pop world. But as Q2 approaches, momentum usually builds again.
But HYBE defied the trend. It had multiple strategies that seem to have paid off since the agency broke its Q1 revenue record.
HYBE Reveals Revenue for Q1 2025
On April 29, HYBE released an official report detailing its revenue and profit in the first quarter of the year. The document reveals that the South Korean entertainment powerhouse attained its highest first-quarter revenue yet. The company exceeded the 500 billion KRW mark in the first three months.
HYBE recorded a revenue of 500.6 billion KRW (approx. USD 350 million at current exchange rates) in Q1 2025. This marks an increase of 38.7% from 360.9 billion KRW (USD 251 million) in the same period last year.
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Regarding operating profit for the period of January to March, HYBE reported a 50.3% year-on-year growth. It achieved 21.6 billion KRW (USD 15 million) in Q1, although it fell short of the market’s consensus forecast of 53.1 billion KRW (USD 37 million). Kim YooHyeok, a researcher at IBK Securities, said that it's because of fewer album releases.
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The K-Pop giant also saw its net profit surge. It jumped almost 400% from last year to 55.3 billion KRW (approx. USD 39 million).
How Did HYBE Increase Its Revenue in Q1 2025?
HYBE had a strong start to 2025, with its revenue jumping thanks to various business strategies. This section will explore the several ways the agency brought in more money last quarter.
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