Some thought there was an ulterior motive.
On December 27, KST, I LOVE IT published a long notice announcing legal action for protection New Jeans against violations of their artist rights.
In the notification, the label updated fans on their previous legal action against “harmful activities”, for example “defamation, personal attacks, sexual harassment, dissemination of false information and ill-intentioned criticism.”
As a result of our previous efforts, several perpetrators have faced legal sanctions for their criminal actions. The Supreme Court has imposed a multi-million fine against individuals who fabricated, distributed and/or sold explicit photos by manipulating artists’ images. Additionally, numerous fines have been issued to individuals responsible for atrocious and defamatory comments. We also confirm that several individuals who posted harmful content anonymously have been identified and that police investigations and legal proceedings are actively ongoing.
– I LOVE IT
The label also informed fans that it had gathered evidence of “rights-infringing activities” of NewJeans and had reported them to the competent authorities. In particular, ADOR said that among those who were reported were people who carried out derogatory posts mocking the nationality and appearance of artists,” as well as comments that sexually harassed or objectified them.
This specific example implied that ADOR had taken legal action on behalf of NewJeans just last week, when Hanni’S visa issues were made public, leading to hateful comments and real-life harassment. The company concluded the notice, saying: “We are always grateful for your love and support for NewJeans. We remain committed to safeguarding the rights of our artists.”
However, this notification has sparked harsh criticism from Korean netizens, who believe that NewJeans should be protected primarily from MOVESparent company of ADOR.
- “These people are really shameless.”
- “What’s all this when you’re the ones making snide comments?”
- “Just give yourself a slap in the face. All right.”
- “If they reported people violating their artists’ rights, wouldn’t they end up meeting all the HYBE executives at the police station?”
- “It seems like they are talking about protecting their artists only to use them later. I’m not falling for it.”
This notification also made it clear that although the group announced the termination of its exclusive contracts with ADOR, the label has no intention of backing down without a legal battle. You can read more about the backstory here.
