[THE INVESTOR] Idol group BTS’s management label Big Hit Entertainment is worth over 2.5 trillion won (US$2.21 billion), said Hana Financial Investment on Sept. 11. 

The private firm’s revenue and operating profit this year will reach 230 billion won and 83 billion won, respectively. Sales of records will reach 5 million, having already risen to 4.5 million as of August, leaping from last year’s 2.7 million. Revenue from overseas will be greater as BTS has topped the number of YouTube views in the US. Their world tour had officially approximately 800,000 audience and if revenue from its newly established Japanese operation is reflected, the revenue could surpass 70 billion won, said analyst Lee Gi-hun.

Based on this year’s net profit, Big Hit’s total market value could be as high as 2.5 trillion won. Its operating profit and net profit next year will rise to 130 billion won and 90 billion won, respectively. Considering BTS’ popularity, the revenue could reach 450 billion won with no difficulties, he added. 

By Hwang You-mee (glamazon@heraldcorp.com)