In a surprising move, the K-pop group NewJeans has publicly addressed the internal turmoil at their management company, HYBE. The members expressed their frustration, fearing for their future and questioning what wrongs they might have committed. They also called for the return of former CEO Min Hee-jin by the 25th, emphasizing the urgency of their situation.
On November 11, NewJeans held an emergency live broadcast on a new YouTube account, rather than their official one. With a heavy atmosphere, member Hyein revealed that the decision to go live stemmed from witnessing the unjust pressure on those close to her after the CEO's dismissal. She noted that since their futures were at stake, they felt compelled to share their experiences directly.
As they discussed the prevailing atmosphere within HYBE, member Hani shared an unsettling incident involving dismissive remarks from another team's manager. Her shock was echoed by Minji, who questioned how such behavior could occur in a professional environment. They also addressed past controversies, including the unauthorized release of personal trainee videos and medical records, which left them feeling vulnerable and unsupported.
The group further elaborated on their fears regarding the potential spread of misinformation and bizarre materials about them. While expressing their concerns to their parents and Min Hee-jin, they felt ignored by HYBE, bringing them to question who they could trust moving forward. Amid the current disputes involving their production team, they voiced their anxiety about both their future and the integrity of their artistic work.
In a poignant conclusion, Hyein called for a reinstatement of Min Hee-jin and an end to the disquieting changes within their management. Daniel chimed in, highlighting a need for humane treatment toward their former CEO, condemning HYBE's perceived inhumanity. Ultimately, Minji reiterated their demand for a return to the original structure of Adore by the 25th.