BTS Jungkook Expresses Support for NewJeans Amidst Hive Conflicts

The K-pop world is buzzing as BTS member Jungkook boldly shows support for girl group NewJeans amid rising tensions within their shared label, HYBE. Currently, NewJeans—comprised of Minji, Hani, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein—are at odds with HYBE over the ousting of their former management representative, Min Hee-jin. The situation escalated last month when HYBE’s board removed Min Hee-jin and appointed Kim Joo-young as the new CEO of Ador.

In response to these events, NewJeans launched a new YouTube channel on October 11, where they conducted an emergency live broadcast titled "What NewJeans Wants to Say." During the broadcast, they revealed their struggles following Min Hee-jin’s dismissal, expressing distress over unfair pressures faced by their staff and concerns about their future as artists. They mentioned incidents during their trainee period where private materials, including videos and medical records, were leaked, stating they felt betrayed by the company meant to protect them.

NewJeans further criticized HYBE for failing to address their grievances and lack of action following Min Hee-jin’s dismissal. The group called for her reinstatement by a set deadline, insisting on returning to an original environment where they feel safe and valued. As the conflict between HYBE and NewJeans intensifies, Jungkook took to his personal Instagram on October 14 to post photos of his dog alongside the message "Artists are not guilty," and urged, "Don't use them."

Jungkook’s supportive gesture, highlighted by colorful heart emojis representing the NewJeans members, quickly caught the attention of fans worldwide. The related sentiments prompted Big Hit Music, Jungkook's agency, to confirm that the post was a call against involving young artists in corporate disputes. This event showcases the interconnected nature of K-pop groups and the challenges they face amidst changing management structures.