Min Hee-jin Asserts NewJeans' Autonomy in 26 Billion Won Lawsuit Against HYBE
South Korea’s entertainment industry is once again in the spotlight as Min Hee-jin, CEO of ADOR and the creative force behind global girl group NewJeans, continues her legal battle involving a 26 billion won lawsuit. In her latest statement, Min emphasized that the dispute is fundamentally about protecting the artistic autonomy and identity of NewJeans, rather than financial gain.
“NewJeans Must Stay True to Their Own Vision” – Min Hee-jin
During a recent hearing, Min Hee-jin reaffirmed her stance that the lawsuit aims to safeguard NewJeans’ creative independence. She argued that:
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NewJeans should not be “controlled or overshadowed” by other management influences.
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The group’s unique artistic direction—one she helped establish—must be preserved.
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The lawsuit is a response to what she describes as unfair internal pressure from HYBE.
Min stressed that her actions are focused on the long-term well-being of the members and their brand identity.
HYBE’s Counterargument
HYBE, the parent company overseeing ADOR, has rejected Min’s claims, stating that:
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ADOR operates under the same corporate and legal framework as other labels.
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The lawsuit misrepresents the company’s intentions and internal operations.
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HYBE maintains that financial oversight and management decisions are lawful and necessary.
HYBE has accused Min of attempting to separate ADOR’s operations from the company’s unified structure, framing her actions as a breach of trust.
The 26 Billion Won Lawsuit: What It Means
The lawsuit centers on allegations of contract violations, misuse of authority, and attempts to restructure control within ADOR. The key issues include:
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Accusations that Min sought to gain independent authority over NewJeans’ management
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Claims of HYBE interfering with ADOR’s artistic direction
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Financial disputes regarding revenue distribution and label operations
Legal experts note that the outcome could reshape the relationship between major K-pop agencies and their subsidiary labels.
Fans Rally Behind NewJeans
As the legal confrontation unfolds, NewJeans fans worldwide have expressed concern for the group’s stability and future activities. Supporters have taken to social media to call for:
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Protection of NewJeans’ artistic freedom
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Transparency from both HYBE and ADOR
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Mental and emotional well-being for the members
Despite the tension, NewJeans continues its ongoing promotions, though fans worry the dispute may impact future releases.
A Landmark Case for the K-pop Industry
Industry analysts say the Min Hee-jin–HYBE conflict could become one of the most significant legal battles in K-pop history. The case raises important questions about:
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Artistic ownership
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Creative autonomy
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Corporate control within entertainment companies
Depending on the verdict, the case could influence how agencies manage their artists and sub-labels for years to come.
Conclusion
Min Hee-jin has made it clear that the 26 billion won lawsuit is not simply a corporate dispute—it is a fight to protect the creative identity of NewJeans. As court proceedings continue, the global entertainment community is watching closely, anticipating a decision that may set new standards for artists’ rights and industry governance.
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