Min Heejin discusses her past relationships and clarifies allegations against HYBE during a court case regarding shareholder agreements.
December/19/2025 12:17Related Groups & Members
Former ADOR representative and head of entertainment planning company ooak records, Min Heejin, clarified suspicions regarding HYBE, ADOR's parent company, and disclosed her past relationships. Yesterday (18th) afternoon, at the Seoul Central District Court Civil Agreement 31 Division (Chief Judge: Nam In-soo), the 6th hearing of the lawsuit for confirmation of the termination of the shareholder agreement filed by Min Heejin against HYBE and the 4th hearing of the lawsuit for the payment of stock sale proceeds filed by Min Heejin against HYBE were held. On this day, HYBE's legal representative questioned whether there was an intention to lift the competition ban through the music label BANA (Beasts And Natives Alike). Min Heejin mentioned BANA and the former CEO of Kakao in a KakaoTalk chat. During the dispute between NewJeans members and the agency ADOR, rumors spread that NewJeans was preparing to transfer to BANA. In response, Min Heejin stated, "There was absolutely no intention to lift the competition ban. At that time, there was a contractual relationship between BANA and ADOR," explaining that she introduced BANA for the purpose of nurturing to HYBE's Bang Si-hyuk, but it did not materialize. Min Heejin also revealed for the first time in court that Kim Gi-hyun, the head of BANA from SM Entertainment's A&R team, was her former lover. While acknowledging the theory that she promised to give part of the put option amount to Kim Gi-hyun, she clarified, "(Kim Gi-hyun) is not my partner now, but he is producing NewJeans' songs and is a very capable person. I have to give him a reward, but I can't give it with the company's (ADOR) funds, so I decided to give part of it from my own share." Additionally, she stated that at the time of the secondary role contract, she was not in a romantic relationship with Kim Gi-hyun, adding, "We broke up before starting the NewJeans project." Min Heejin filed a lawsuit against HYBE for 26 billion won (approximately 27.4 million USD) for the exercise of the put option after leaving HYBE last November. If the court recognizes the right to exercise the put option, HYBE must pay Min Heejin an amount equivalent to 26 billion won. HYBE argued that the exercise of the put option is invalid due to the termination of the shareholder agreement in July last year. Meanwhile, Min Heejin claims she has the right to demand payment as she exercised the put option while the contract was not terminated. - Min Heejin refutes the content of the KakaoTalk with the shaman, saying "it is unrelated to the shareholder agreement" - Min Heejin plans to produce a new boy group? Also mentions NewJeans' situation, saying "everything bad is HYBE's fault."
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In December, K-pop news was dominated by SHINee's Key announcing a hiatus due to a scandal, PSY's police investigation over prescription drugs, and the wedding of Kim Woo-bin and Shin Mina after 10 years of dating. Other highlights included dating rumors between BTS's Jungkook and aespa's Winter, and NewJeans' contract issues with member Daniel.
ADOR has initiated a lawsuit against Daniel, a former member of NewJeans, her family, and ex-CEO Min Hee-jin, seeking 431 billion won in damages. The lawsuit, citing breach of contract, has been assigned to the Seoul Central District Court. ADOR claims Daniel's departure caused significant issues, leading to the contract termination.
ADOR has launched legal action against individuals making malicious posts about its artists, including harassment and defamation. They are actively monitoring social media and music platforms, collecting evidence, and have involved external experts for serious cases. Additionally, they are cooperating with authorities on deepfake crimes. The company emphasizes its commitment to protecting artists' rights and has announced the termination of Daniel's contract due to his family's involvement in recent disputes, while Hani has decided to return to the group after a respectful dialogue with ADOR.
ADOR announced it has filed a lawsuit against Daniel for breach of contract after terminating his exclusive contract with NewJeans. They cited violations related to independent activities and damage to the group's reputation. Meanwhile, discussions continue with other members, including Hani's return and ongoing talks with Minji.
ADOR has clarified the status of NewJeans members' return. Hani has decided to continue with ADOR after discussions, while Minji is in ongoing talks. Daniel's contract has been terminated due to difficulties in continuing as a member. ADOR aims to resolve misunderstandings and restore trust with fans.
Daniel from NewJeans was recently seen participating in a coal donation service alongside SEAN from Jinusean. Despite wearing a mask and heavy clothing, his bright energy and sincere attitude shone through, earning praise from fans. His statement, 'I'm sweating but happy,' resonated with many, highlighting his dedication to community service. This initiative aims to raise social warmth through small acts of kindness, and Daniel's involvement reflects his positive influence.
Min Hee-jin, former ADOR CEO, disputes the relevance of KakaoTalk messages with a shaman to shareholder contracts in a court case against HYBE. She claims the messages from 2021 predate the shareholder agreement and asserts there was no violation of contracts, while HYBE argues the contract was voided last July.
ADOR and the Dolphin Kidnapping Group are in a legal dispute over a music video release. ADOR claims damages for unauthorized publication by director Shin Woosuk, who argues it was industry practice. The case highlights issues of verbal agreements and contract compliance, with a ruling expected on January 13, 2026.
Min Hee-jin openly criticizes HYBE regarding their treatment of NewJeans and expresses frustration over their actions. She reveals plans to form a boy group, stating that she feels HYBE is fully responsible for the current issues. She emphasizes the need for better communication and understanding in the industry.
Min Heejin, former head of ADOR, has launched a new entertainment agency, ooak records, which is currently holding auditions for aspiring idols born between 2006 and 2011. The auditions are open to all nationalities and will take place in Seoul. Amidst legal disputes with ADOR, Min expresses support for NewJeans members' return.
