SEOUL: HYBE, the agency representing top-selling South Korean boy band BTS, withdrew its plan to take control of SM Entertainment, the company said on Sunday (Mar 12).
The move is seen as ending a weeks-long takeover battle between HYBE and social media giant Kakao.
HYBE said its decision to halt the takeover bid came after the stock market had been showing “signs of overheating due to competition”.
Kakao last week launched a 1.25 trillion won (US$946.80 million) tender bid for up to 35 per cent of SM Entertainment at 150,000 won per share, well above the 120,000 won per share offer from HYBE for a 25 per cent stake that gained little traction with shareholders.
On Friday, shares in SM Entertainment closed at 147,800 won.
HYBE and Kakao agreed to cooperate on matters related to their platforms, HYBE added.
Kakao and SM Entertainment said they welcomed the decision by HYBE.
“Kakao and Kakao Entertainment will continue its tender offer bid until the 26th to secure a further stake and work on the details of business cooperation between HYBE and SM,” Kakao said in a statement.