K-pop girl group NewJeans has publicly addressed the conflict between their label Ador’s former CEO, Min Hee Jin, and Ador’s parent company, Hybe. The dispute led to Min’s dismissal on Aug. 27, 2024. Approximately two weeks later, on Sep. 11, the group’s five members—Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein—called for her reinstatement during a YouTube livestream titled “What NewJeans Wants to Say.” The livestream was broadcasted via a newly created YouTube channel, “nwjns,” which has since been taken down. However, recordings of the 30-minute livestream were reposted online, quickly trending on various social media platforms and sparking fan outrage over the allegations against Hybe.
Background
The dismissal of Min Hee Jin has caused significant unrest among NewJeans’ fanbase and the group itself. Min, who played a crucial role in shaping the group’s identity and music, was suddenly removed from her position, leading to widespread concern. Fans have been vocal, with 1,445 self-identified supporters signing an open letter demanding her reinstatement. The group’s public plea underscores the deepening rift between the artists and their management company.
Not happy with current management
NewJeans began their livestream with a disclaimer, stating that Min had not instructed them to speak out. Sixteen-year-old Hyein expressed that the group had gathered the courage to address the issue. “It hasn’t been long since the CEO was dismissed. And it was so hard to see our staff work hard with us under pressure and unfair demands,” she said. “I am also so worried for the future of the five of us.” Hyein added that despite having meetings with the current management to share their views, they felt their concerns were not adequately addressed, prompting them to go public.
More aligned with Min Hee Jin’s vision
Twenty-year-old Minji spoke next, highlighting the group’s trust and successful collaboration with Min. Her sentiments were echoed by 19-year-old Danielle, who described Min as “irreplaceable” and “integral to NewJeans’ identity.” Danielle elaborated, “We felt that the music we wanted to make, and the world we wanted to build together, was similar in so many ways [with Min Hee Jin]… NewJeans has a distinct colour and tone, and this was created with Min Hee Jin.”
Fan support and industry reaction
The livestream quickly gained traction, with fans rallying behind the group and amplifying their call for Min’s reinstatement. The video made the trending page on various social media platforms, with many fans expressing their anger and disappointment towards Hybe. The situation has also caught the attention of industry insiders, who are closely watching how Hybe will respond to the growing pressure.
Future implications
The public plea by NewJeans and the subsequent fan support have put Hybe in a challenging position. The company’s response to this situation could have long-term implications for its relationship with its artists and fans. If Hybe chooses to ignore the demands, it risks further alienating its fanbase and potentially harming the group’s future. Conversely, reinstating Min could set a precedent for artist-led management decisions in the K-pop industry. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the outcome of this dispute and its impact on the broader entertainment landscape.
