The outcome of this lawsuit is expected to have significant implications for her new agency and the K-pop industry.
The conflict with Hybe could serve as a pivotal point for important discussions within the K-pop structure and fandom.
Former CEO Min Hee-jin is awaiting the first-instance ruling on her put option lawsuit against Hybe, scheduled for February 12. While she initially expressed dissatisfaction with Hybe's treatment of NewJeans, her actions over the past two years diverged from that intent. In Spring 2024, she boldly declared her battle against Hybe in a press conference, later having the five members of NewJeans actively participate in her conflict. The outcome of this lawsuit is anticipated to have significant implications for her newly established agency, OKE.
Hybe, in defending against the lawsuit, contends that Min Hee-jin's put option is invalid, presenting bases rooted in previous contracts. The claimed sum of approximately 26 billion won represents an unprecedented amount within the K-pop industry. Failure for Min Hee-jin would render her efforts in the NewJeans incident ultimately futile. Recently, she attempted to downplay her connections with DaBoringk's chairman but this could adversely affect her public image.
As the 'mother of NewJeans' persona she has cultivated facing challenges, all eyes are on the results of the impending ruling on the 12th.
The lawsuit by Min Hee-jin is not merely a legal battle; it exemplifies the significant conflict between emerging agencies and established giants within the K-pop industry. The outcome of the New Jeans incident will shape public perception of her role in driving the narrative. If she emerges victorious in her confrontation with Hybe, it could serve as a substantial boost to the reputation of her new agency, OKE.
This lawsuit also has the potential to instigate critical discussions surrounding the issue of tempering within the K-pop industry. If Min Hee-jin's claims about operational issues at Hybe hold true, it will provide important insights into accountability within the industry. The gravity of this situation extends beyond personal conflicts, potentially reshaping the structure of the entire K-pop landscape.
Finally, maintaining the balance between Min Hee-jin's image and her fandom will be critical as she navigates her future endeavors. Observing how the 'mother of NewJeans' persona will be affected by this lawsuit will be an intriguing angle to consider.
This article is KOSTAR’s reinterpretation of a story originally reported by TVDaily.
Photo: TVDaily
