The past few days have been tough for JYP, from the hacking of their official website to Taiwan’s President-elect Tsai Ing-wen commenting on the issue. To clear the air, JYP issued a second statement Monday.

JYP’s first apology letter and video -- made to contain the backlash in China -- received harsh criticism from the public both in Korea and Taiwan. Further, a group calling itself Anonymous Taiwan reportedly hacked the label’s website to protest the firm’s response.

(JYP Ent.)

Local civic groups also pointed out that there is nothing wrong with a 16-year-old girl waving her own country’s flag. They claimed that the disgraceful apology was coerced by JYP to secure its commercial benefits from the Chinese market.

By unveiling JYP’s stance and explaining the situation, the agency hopes that things will turn around. TWICE’s fans are also hoping for the best as the situation is too harsh for a young girl to bear.

(OSEN)

Full translation of JYP’s official statement:

This statement is published to straighten out any misunderstandings regarding Tzuyu’s official position.

As Tzuyu is still a minor, our agency discussed the matter with her parents from the very beginning and waited until they arrived in Korea.

A company forcing its beliefs or ideas on an individual cannot be done, should not be done, and was not done. The announcement by Tzuyu was out of her own will as a result of continuous consultation with her parents.

As Tzuyu is carrying on with her career, she and her parents hope that the matter will be resolved soon, and wish that people support her.

By Kim Ji-young (christinekim@heraldcorp.com)