first of all, this thread is stupid because Billlie is actually pretty loved by people aside from SM stans. second, Billlie is under a subsidiary of SM entertainment known as Mystic Story, but I'm sure OP already knew that if they are aware Billlie is under SM, but its pretty obvious SM works differently with their subsidiaries (i'd assume its mostly because they're an older company in comparsion to HYBE, as OP mentioned). Woolim Entertainment is another one and it has artists (im sure you guys have all heard of) such as drippin, lovelyz, rocket punch, and golden child.
anyway, idk and don't really care why. my point is: billlie does not need SM stans to be loved & supported. and they are definitely not flops. I think they're still a great girl group, and definitely much better than some other groups from 4th gen that i've seen.
youtu.be/z8Eu-HU0sWQ