In a significant shakeup, HYBE and ADOR continue to tighten their grip on former CEO Min Hee-jin, raising eyebrows across the K-pop industry.
Despite being dismissed from her CEO position at ADOR, Min Hee-jin has reportedly not been assigned any department related to production. Although she retains her titles, the board reshuffle has effectively stripped her of managerial responsibilities while placing production-related teams under the authority of Lee Do-kyung, another executive. This restructuring has led to concerns that Min's creative role is now severely constrained, undermining her influence in production-related matters.
Industry insiders argue that the separation of production and management duties cited as the reason for her dismissal appears to serve more as a pressure tactic against Min. A labor consultant highlighted that removing a producer's responsibilities can be likened to a form of dismissal, creating an environment where Min cannot effectively contribute. Moreover, this move raises questions regarding the motivations behind the changes orchestrated by HYBE and ADOR.
ADOR's approach has seemingly aimed to erase Min Hee-jin's legacy, as evidenced by recent disputes over the YouTube channel Ban Hee-soo. Following changes in leadership, ADOR requested the removal of NewJeans-related content from the channel, previously operated by a collaborator of Min, escalating tensions further. Such conflicts underscore the ongoing struggle for control and the implications it has for both the company and its artists.
In a dramatic twist, NewJeans members publicly expressed their discontent with HYBE and ADOR, calling for Min Hee-jin's reinstatement. During a live stream, they shared their experiences of being treated unfairly and formally requested her return by the end of the month. This bold move adds another layer to the unfolding narrative of creativity, management, and the future of K-pop under HYBE’s growing influence.