NewJeans Calls Out HYBE’s Missteps Amid Controversy

In a bold move, NewJeans has officially requested the return of former Ador CEO Min Hee-jin, exposing the deepening rift within the K-pop powerhouse HYBE. Legal expert Kim Pil-seong criticized HYBE's handling of the situation, pointing out that the ongoing conflict between Min and HYBE is more about capitalist interests than the surface-level narrative of creators versus the corporation. He emphasized that while legally HYBE may have certain protections, the entertainment industry is driven by public perception, highlighting the need for strategic management over mere legal considerations. Kim's insights shed light on the dynamics at play, noting that even BTS's management has faced challenges, raising questions about the loyalty of their fandom, ARMY, in light of the current dispute. He argued that had he been in charge, addressing NewJeans' psychological wellbeing from the outset would have been crucial for maintaining trust and confidence. Furthermore, he expressed that the approach taken by HYBE—with an over-reliance on legal advice—has ultimately backfired, leading to a damaging position for their most valuable asset, NewJeans. He concluded with a stark warning about the perils of fixating on numbers without understanding the broader implications of such management strategies, referencing Boeing's downfall as a cautionary tale for HYBE. The entertainment industry, particularly in K-pop, demands a nuanced touch that goes beyond just financial metrics to truly resonate with fans and artists alike. In this rapidly evolving scenario, the impacts on both NewJeans and HYBE's reputation continue to unfold, capturing the attention of K-pop enthusiasts globally.