On February 25, Min Hee Jin, CEO of OOAK Records and former CEO of ADOR, held a press conference at a location in Jongno, Seoul. The conference comes after a recent court ruling in its ongoing legal battle with HYBE.
Early on February 12, the Civil Settlements Division 31 of the Seoul Central District Court, presided over by Chief Judge Nam In Soo, ruled in favor of Min Hee Jin in the lawsuit filed by HYBE seeking confirmation of the termination of their shareholder agreement. The court also ruled that HYBE must pay Min Hee Jin ₩25.5 billion in proceeds from the stock sale.
During the press conference, Min Hee Jin said: “I held this press conference to make a significant proposal to HYBE. Of all the reasons that led me to this decision, the most urgent is the members of NewJeans.” He continued, “In exchange for waiving ₩25.6 billion, I propose that all ongoing civil and criminal cases be immediately stopped and all litigation be brought to an end.”
He expressed concern about the members’ current situation, saying: “I can no longer watch a reality where five members who should be happy on stage are instead divided, some on stage, some in court. Even the performing members have to suffer, and not only the fans but no one can see this situation with joy.” He underlined, “With hearts so deeply divided, it is impossible to create a good culture.”
Min Hee Jin also addressed her original vision when she launched NewJeans. “I had a creative vision when I launched NewJeans. I regret that I wasn’t able to follow through with it, but I sincerely ask that ADOR fulfill its promise in court to treat NewJeans well if they return.” he said. He proposed creating an environment where “all five members of NewJeans can come together and freely pursue their dreams.”
NewJeans had previously declared the unilateral termination of its exclusivity contracts in November 2024. However, the court ruled in favor of ADOR. Following the decision, members Haerin, Hyein and Hanni returned to ADOR, while Minji is reportedly still in negotiations with the agency.
Meanwhile, ADOR has notified Danielle of the termination of her exclusive contract. The agency also said it would pursue legal liability against “a family member of Danielle and former CEO Min Hee Jin, who bears significant responsibility for causing this dispute and the departure and delayed return of NewJeans.” Legal proceedings have since begun.
Sources: Nate
