K-POP HYPOCRISY: JYP Tops ‘Sustainable’ List By Exploiting Idol Labor—Is Society Truly Doomed?

Credit: JYP Entertainment
Credit: JYP Entertainment

JYP Entertainment (JYP) has claimed the top spot both in Korea and globally in TIME magazine’s World’s Best Companies in Sustainable Growth 2026, marking an extraordinary achievement for the second consecutive year.

On Wednesday, TIME, in collaboration with German market research firm Statista, officially released the list. JYP earned an impressive 97.59 points, excelling across key metrics including revenue growth, financial stability, and environmental impact. The score not only secured JYP’s position as the top company in Korea but also ranked it first among 500 global companies, highlighting its exceptional growth and commitment to sustainable business practices.

Last year, JYP was ranked first in Korea and third globally in TIME’s 2025 ranking with a score of 93.66. This year’s achievement cements JYP’s reputation as a global leader in sustainability and corporate responsibility.

Statista praised the company, saying, “JYP stands out because it excels across all evaluation categories. Many companies perform well in one area but fall short in others. JYP is one of the few to deliver outstanding financial and environmental performance alike.”

The ranking evaluates 500 companies worldwide that demonstrate strong financial health while achieving exceptional results in sustainable development. TIME and Statista calculate the final score out of 100 by equally weighing revenue growth, financial safety, and environmental impact.

JYP has long prioritized sustainability. In 2022, it became the first Korean entertainment company to fully transition its electricity usage to renewable energy under the RE100 initiative and published a sustainability report outlining its ESG (environmental, social, governance) efforts. Earlier this year, JYP released its fourth sustainability report. CEO Jung Wook said, “Under our ESG vision, Leader of Change, we aim to internalize values of sustainability and diversity, actively address climate change, and contribute to a healthier planet. Together with our stakeholders, we will continue to lead positive change in the world.”

JYP’s ESG excellence has been recognized repeatedly. Last year, it earned an AA rating, the highest possible, in Sustainalytics’ 2024 ESG evaluation, making it the only Korean entertainment company to receive this distinction.

Beyond corporate achievements, JYP actively gives back to the community through its slogan Every Dream Matters (EDM). Notable initiatives include supporting children with medical expenses through the EDM Treatment Support Program and promoting environmental sustainability for future generations with Love Earth. Through these efforts, JYP continues to make a tangible, positive impact on society.

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