NewJeans Members Demand Return of Former CEO

In a recent YouTube livestream event, the popular K-pop group NewJeans, consisting of members Haerin, Hanni, Haein, Danielle, and Minji, made headlines by advocating for the reinstatement of Min Hee-jin as the CEO of their management agency, Ador. For the first time, this dynamic girl group openly expressed their desire to see Min back at the helm of the label, which they believe plays an essential role in their identity and success.

During the livestream, the quintet united in their voice, stating, "What we want is the original Ador headed by Min Hee-jin, where management and production moved in unison." This heartfelt appeal follows Min's removal from the CEO position just two weeks earlier, a decision made by Ador citing a need to decouple management from production amidst ongoing tensions between Min and HYBE, the parent company holding an 80% stake in the label.

The roots of this conflict sprung up in April when HYBE accused Min of attempting to gain control of Ador, with claims that she had intentions of moving NewJeans away from the company. Min has categorically denied these allegations, asserting that the accusations stem from HYBE's perceived favoritism towards other artists instead of NewJeans. As tensions escalated, the K-pop community was left watching closely.

Minji, speaking directly to Bang Si-hyuk, the chairman of HYBE, remarked, "If you've got our message well, I wish Bang and HYBE make the wise decision of returning (Ador) back to as it was by Sept. 25." Her words certainly added pressure for a favorable outcome. Meanwhile, Danielle reflected on the emotional toll the situation has taken on Min, describing the treatment as "inhumane" and expressing genuine pity for her.

“Min is not only the person who produces our music but someone who makes NewJeans who we are,” Danielle emphasized. She went on to highlight Min's irreplaceability in the group and indicated that her influence is integral to their creative process and identity.

Hyein, the youngest member of