Former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin has once again sparked public debate after issuing a statement urging others not to “drag New Jeans in the conflict.” Although the message seemed to show his protective attitude towards the group, the reactions of fans, the general public and insiders suggest otherwise: many express skepticism and even frustration.
One of the main reasons behind this reaction lies in the court’s previous ruling, which directly contradicts Min Hee-jin’s narrative. On October 30, the 41 Civil Division of the Seoul Central District Court stated that Min Hee-jin had “engaged in a public campaign to push for New Jeans‘ independence, not for the purpose of protecting them. The court also ruled that ADOR’s decision to remove Min Hee-jin from her position did not constitute a violation of the exclusive contract with the five members.
For this reason, Min Hee-jin’s last message is widely interpreted as selective reasoning: selective reasoning “convenience argument” this does not take into account the court’s findings. Many argue that while the conflict actually began with discord between Min Hee-jin and HYBE, she had used New Jeans as a shield as he pushed for his independence from the label. Therefore, his request that HYBE refrain from involving the group is considered contradictory.
Min Hee-jin’s statement: “There are only five of NewJeans”
In her statement on November 16, Min Hee-jin wrote: “I planned everything around five members: images, sounds, colors and movement. The property was designed for five people only. That’s why the public loved them.“
He continued: “New Jeans it is only as complete as five. Their colors and voices intertwine to create a perfect shape. Now that they are back together, they should be loved. Conflicts and unnecessary interpretations will not help.”
Min Hee-jin emphasized once again, “The main issue is aimed at me, but don’t drag the kids into it. They need to be protected, not used.” New Jeans exists as five.”
Just three days earlier, on November 13, he had also declared: “The members’ decision to get back together must have come after a thorough discussion. I respect and support that. Regardless of where I go or what I do next, New Jeans must remain protected as a five-member group.”
The return of the NewJeans: the complicated path back to ADOR
New Jeans declared the termination of their exclusivity contract last November due to alleged defaults by ADOR. But the court ruled that ADOR…New Jeans the contract remains valid, prompting the group to announce their return to the label on November 12, just one day before the appeal deadline.
The repatriation process, however, was far from unified: Haerin and Hyein conveyed their decision through their families and returned via ADOR’s official channels.
ADOR said: “We respect the court’s ruling and will honor the exclusive contract. We will help Haerin and Hyein resume activities smoothly and ask the public to refrain from speculation.“
Minji, Hanni and Danielle, however, announced their return through their legal representatives, stating that ADOR had not responded to their previous communication.
ADOR said it is still confirming its position and did not immediately formalize its return.
This divided approach has only intensified debates about leadership, trust and internal communication.
Because the public doesn’t believe Min Hee-jin’s “Protect the members” message
- The court’s ruling directly contradicts its claim: the court’s assertion that Min acted to ensure independence, not to protect New Jeans-undermines his moral position.
- The timing seems strategic: Critics say issuing emotional statements after legal snags appears aimed at controlling public sentiment rather than safeguarding members.
- Perception of use New Jeans as a shield: Many believe that Min repeatedly invokes “protect the five” not out of pure intent, but to strengthen his position in the larger conflict with HYBE.
- Fans Exhausted by Constant Controversy: Some fans believe that the group continues to be involved in adult controversies despite Min Hee-jin’s public stance to “stop involving them.”
While tensions continue, public opinion remains sharply divided. While some still see Min Hee-jin as a key creative force behind it New Jeansmany others are increasingly wondering whether his statements are truly in line with his actions and whether his repeated mentions of the “five members” are protective or self-serving.
Sources: TenAsia
