This proposal seeks stability for the NewJeans members and their fandom.
Min plans to work towards realizing a new vision for K-pop.
[TV Daily, Kim Han-gil] Min Hee-jin, CEO of OOAK Records, has proposed to waive her expected 25.6 billion KRW in exchange for the immediate cessation of all ongoing lawsuits against HYBE. Speaking at a press conference on the 25th in Jongno-gu, Seoul, she described the legal journey as a critical moment following her victory in the foot option case.
She expressed gratitude to the court for clarifying the essence of the case over the long battle, stating, "I decided to forgo the 25.6 billion KRW for the sake of concluding all disputes entirely." This significant sum, while an immense amount, was deemed necessary for both her and the members of NewJeans along with the fandom. Her affection for the NewJeans members was a major motivator in this decision.
Furthermore, she highlighted that ending all legal disputes is essential for artists and fans to find stability. Min intends to use this outcome to repay her debts by creating a new vision for K-pop. Meanwhile, she is currently conducting a global audition for a new boy group.
Min Hee-jin's proposal not only symbolizes a personal sacrifice but could redefine conflict resolution within the K-pop industry. In a landscape where relationships between artists and agencies can be tenuous, her decision reflects a commitment to ensuring the stability of both her artists and their fandoms. This is a vital opportunity for restoring trust within the music industry.
Furthermore, the continued growth of newer artists such as NewJeans plays a significant role in the background of this decision. Min's strong sense of responsibility for NewJeans' future indicates her desire to focus on their creative endeavors and activities. This decision transcends financial implications, highlighting her vision for developing something new.
Lastly, this discussion reiterates the importance of healthy relationships between artists and companies as K-pop elevates its global footprint. Min's determination could have a profound impact on the K-pop landscape, signaling the need for active participation from fandoms in this time of transition.
This article is KOSTAR’s reinterpretation of a story originally reported by TVDaily.
Photo: DB
