On March 3, the Special Committee for Rewards and Ethics under the Korea Entertainment Management Association released an official statement addressing the ongoing controversy involving NewJeans. The committee stated that the allegations connected to the group could threaten the foundation of trust and contractual order within South Korea’s popular culture and arts industry. According to the organization, the issue should not be viewed as a simple dispute between individuals but as a matter that could affect the broader K-pop ecosystem.
At the center of the controversy are suspicions involving Min Hee-jin, who currently leads OK Records and previously served as CEO of ADOR. Reports have suggested that she may have played a role behind the scenes in the group’s decision to announce the termination of their exclusive contracts. Media claims stated that the November 28, 2024, press conference, where the contract termination was revealed may have been organized under her direction. Allegations also include that scripts were prepared for the members and that rebuttal materials were drafted to support their position.
The Ethics Committee said that if these claims are confirmed, the situation could represent a case of “tampering.” In the entertainment industry, tampering refers to third-party interference in an artist’s exclusive contract. The committee described it as one of the most persistent illegal practices in the field and called on Min Hee-jin to provide a clear explanation. If the reports prove accurate, the committee stated that she should take responsibility and issue a formal apology.
Additional reports cited by the association claim that Min met with several foreign industry figures during the period when NewJeans’ contract with ADOR remained legally valid. These individuals reportedly included a Japanese racing industry executive and the CEO of Hong Kong-based Complex China. Discussions during those meetings may have involved possible future activities or investment opportunities related to the group.
KEMA stressed that if NewJeans members were involved in such discussions while still under contract, it could raise concerns about the protection of the artists’ rights and interests. The organization also urged HYBE not to dismiss the controversy as a personal or financial conflict. The committee warned that mishandling the situation could weaken trust within the industry and discourage future investment.
As the legal dispute between HYBE and Min Hee-jin continues, KEMA’s statement highlights the potential long-term impact the case may have on the structure and ethical standards of the K-pop industry.
