NewJeans controversy
The latest scandal rocking the K-pop industry involves NewJeans, a popular group, their creative director, and one of South Korea's leading record labels. Hybe, the powerhouse behind BTS, and its subsidiary label Ador are embroiled in a bitter dispute, causing confusion among fans.
The conflict reached its peak during a lengthy press conference by Min Hee-jin, Ador's CEO, where she tearfully expressed her frustrations, accusing Hybe of betrayal. She emphasized her desire to prioritize NewJeans despite the turmoil.
HYBE’s shares take another hit as dispute with NewJeans label drags on https://t.co/WfrROEC2Au
— Rappler (@rapplerdotcom) April 26, 2024
Source: Twitter/Rappler
Who are NewJeans?
Formed under Ador in 2022, NewJeans comprises five members: Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein, aged between 16 and 20. Their music, blending the nostalgic R&B vibes of groups like TLC with catchy melodies, captivated audiences within and beyond the K-pop sphere.
Their debut single "Attention" immediately soared to the top of Korean charts upon release in July. Moreover, their smash hit "SuperShy" earned acclaim, landing on numerous "best of the year" lists for 2023, including those from Rolling Stone, NME, and Billboard Magazine.
NewJeans has amassed a significant fan base, boasting nearly 12 million followers on their official Instagram account. They have also captured the attention of investors and have been selected as ambassadors for various global fashion brands.
In a noteworthy move, they recently took over from K-pop phenomenon Blackpink as the featured faces in tourism board advertisements at Incheon airport, Korea's largest airport.
How did the controversy start?
The controversy ignited on Monday when Hybe announced an audit of its subsidiary label Ador and its executives, including Ms. Min, urging her resignation.
Hybe, a major player in the K-pop industry representing groups like BTS and Seventeen, holds the position of South Korea's largest music firm.
Ador, established in 2021 as an independent label under Hybe, solely manages NewJeans. Local reports indicate that Hybe accused Ms. Min and others of orchestrating plans for Ador's independence and seizing control of the label, as well as leaking confidential information to attract investors.
Ms. Min, who holds an 18% stake in Ador compared to Hybe's 80%, refuted the accusations and countered by alleging Hybe's involvement in launching a rival girl group, Illit, accused of imitating NewJeans' music and appearance.
What could happen next?
The next steps for each party remain uncertain, with speculation from local outlets suggesting a potential legal battle. During the press conference, Ms. Min expressed her intention to pursue damages against Hybe.
Reports indicate that Hybe has called for a shareholders' meeting at Ador to oust Ms. Min, although resistance from her and her team makes this outcome unlikely.
In such a scenario, Hybe may need court approval to convene an urgent shareholders' meeting, a process that could take up to two months. Despite the ongoing dispute, NewJeans has yet to address the situation publicly.
However, they are poised to stay in the spotlight, as they have announced the upcoming release of their new double single, "How Sweet," slated for May, with teaser images already being unveiled as of Friday.
Read more such news on techinsighttoday
Thank you so much for reading.