Legal issues have raised concerns about the group's reconfiguration and the members face challenges.
Min Hee-jin is now focused on launching a new group, leaving NewJeans in an uncertain situation.
Min Hee-jin's previous dominance at ADOR has significantly impacted NewJeans' comeback. One member faces potential penalties worth hundreds of millions due to ongoing legal disputes, rendering the group's future composition uncertain. NewJeans may need to reconfigure as a trio or quartet, permanently altering their original dynamic. Now, Min Hee-jin seems to be distancing herself from NewJeans, focusing on her 25.6 billion won lawsuit against HYBE and auditions for a new rookie group. During recent court proceedings, she declared that HYBE stifled NewJeans' success and betrayed her, indicating that she has played a key role in triggering the ongoing conflicts. This burden has been passed onto NewJeans' members, stunting their career trajectory during a crucial period. Following the establishment of her new agency 'OK' last October, speculation has arisen about preparations for a new boy group, suggesting Min Hee-jin's shift in focus. Consequently, the future of NewJeans becomes increasingly reliant on decisions made by ADOR and HYBE. As opinions among the members themselves remain discordant, the internal discord could pose further challenges.
This situation starkly illustrates the influence of management companies on artists in the K-pop industry. Min Hee-jin's legal troubles have transcended mere contractual disputes, destabilizing the future paths and public personas of idols like NewJeans. With the establishment of a new leadership regime, the group faces significant challenges as they navigate their identity in a post-Min Hee-jin environment. Beyond the apparent discord among members, there is a lack of a clear vision for their future, which could lead to further internal conflicts and fan anxiety.
Amidst mixed evaluations, Min Hee-jin appears to be distancing herself from communication with fans. The successful environment she previously cultivated highlights the importance of fan connection; however, the current situation raises concerns for fans. As NewJeans members explore individual paths, the uncertainty surrounding the group's identity looms large, leaving their future direction in doubt.
Ultimately, Min Hee-jin's forthcoming endeavors are likely to have profound implications for the broader trends within K-pop and NewJeans. The potential international impact related to her new group launch may draw ongoing attention from global fans and industry stakeholders. To resolve the rifts faced by NewJeans and seek new opportunities, the members themselves must actively explore diverse possibilities.
This article is KOSTAR’s reinterpretation of a story originally reported by TVDaily.
Photo: TVDaily
