Media Watch representative Byun Hee-jae has publicly criticized Bang Si-hyuk, the chairman of HYBE, regarding his treatment of the K-pop group NewJeans.
In a recent YouTube video, Byun expressed concerns about Bang's motives, questioning whether his personal feelings were jeopardizing the group and the company’s value. He warned that Bang's actions could lead shareholders to pursue legal damages for causing a drop in HYBE’s stock prices. Byun emphasized that creators' rights should be respected, regardless of ownership claims by corporate leaders.
Byun also highlighted a recent incident where Bang allegedly undermined Min Hee-jin, the former head of Adore, during NewJeans' activities, leading to a significant stock decline. He asserted that Min's input was essential to NewJeans’ success and that the current turmoil threatens the group's future prospects. Byun's remarks resonate with ongoing tensions in the K-pop industry regarding power dynamics between financiers and creators.
In a related context, the K-pop scene continues to grapple with issues of creator rights and corporate governance, as exemplified by the recent ousting of Min Hee-jin from her leadership role at Adore. While she retained her position as producer for NewJeans, her departure sparked backlash and demands from fans for her reinstatement. The conflict illustrates the broader struggles within the industry, as stakeholders navigate the complex interplay of power and artistic integrity.