The US Embassy in Seoul sent a letter to acting police chief Yoo Jae-seong requesting cooperation for Bang Si-hyuk, HYBE's chairman, to visit the US. He is currently under a travel ban due to a police investigation.
According to Chosun, the letter requested a temporary lifting of the travel ban. It cited Bang's planned attendance at US 250th Independence Day celebrations on July 4 with other HYBE executives.
The embassy also mentioned the need for discussions related to BTS's ongoing world tour, including US dates. The request frames the travel as necessary for business.
The letter was sent to acting National Police Agency chief Yoo Jae-seong. It also named HYBE CEO Lee Jae-sang and VP Kim Hyun-jung for the US visit.
The travel ban stems from an ongoing police investigation. The US request seeks a temporary exemption for the stated business and diplomatic purposes.
The development highlights the international business dimensions of HYBE's operations and BTS's tour planning amid domestic legal proceedings.