The K-pop industry is once again in turmoil following former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin’s legal victory in her put-option lawsuit against HYBE. On February 12, the Seoul Central District Court ruled that HYBE must pay Min about ₩25.5 billion (about $19 million), concluding that he did not violate his shareholder agreement despite seeking independence for ADOR.
The decision sparked strong reactions across the industry, particularly given the ongoing fallout surrounding NewJeans. Critics say Min Hee Jin, widely seen as a central figure in the conflict that fractured the group, now stands to receive hundreds of billions of won while the artists themselves face instability and legal disputes.
On February 13, the Korea Entertainment Producers’ Association (KEPA) publicly expressed concern that the ruling could set a dangerous precedent. In a statement, the association warned that the verdict could be interpreted as granting “temperate immunity”, suggesting that even if an attempt at independence was made, it could be excused until it was fully executed. They pointed out that in trust-based industries like K-pop, intent alone can severely destabilize partnerships.
Notably, this ruling contrasts with previous court decisions involving contractual disputes unique to NewJeans. In previous proceedings, courts had sided with ADOR and indicated that Min Hee Jin had played a key role in escalating tensions, including allegedly attempting to pursue independence alongside the group. However, in the put option case, the court ruled that his actions were based on HYBE’s consent, and therefore did not constitute a breach of contract.
One particularly hotly contested piece of evidence was a message that referred to making ADOR an “empty shell.” While previous courts had interpreted the phrase as implying the removal of NewJeans, the put option court concluded that it instead referred to Min Hee Jin’s departure. Sharply different interpretations of the same evidence fueled further controversy.
Further controversies, including allegations of album push marketing and plagiarism, were viewed differently by the sell option court, even though other legal proceedings had previously dismissed such allegations as unfounded. In this case, some allegations were partially recognized as factual, increasing the perception of inconsistent judicial reasoning.
Industry insiders remain divided. KEPA reiterated its position that “tempering” – the act of interfering with exclusive contracts – is destructive regardless of enforcement. They urged HYBE to appeal and called on higher courts to consider the broader structural implications for the K-pop production ecosystem.
The so-called “NewJeans crisis,” which began in 2024 amid rising tensions between HYBE and Min Hee Jin, has already reshaped the group’s trajectory. Once a five-member powerhouse, the NewJeans’ formation remains uncertain, with ongoing litigation and reports of massive calls for sanctions against individuals linked to the controversy.
While NewJeans’ future hangs in the balance, Min Hee Jin’s court victory secures her substantial financial compensation. The case has now evolved beyond a single contract dispute, becoming a flashpoint in the larger debate over trust, power and governance in the K-pop industry.
Sources: TV Daily, Korean Entertainment Producers Association
