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HYBE Addresses Min Hee Jin Injunction Request for Reinstatement

It looks like Min Hee Jin is keen to continue as the CEO of ADOR. Now, HYBE has responded to her injunction request for reinstatement to her former position.

HYBE Responds to Min Hee Jin Injunction Request

On September 13, HYBE issued an official statement in response to former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin’s legal filing for an injunction, in which she seeks reappointment as both CEO and inside director of the company. This move follows her dismissal from the CEO role, a decision made by ADOR’s board of directors on August 27. Min Hee Jin’s filing has intensified the situation, bringing attention to the underlying legal and managerial disputes between HYBE, ADOR, and Min Hee Jin.

HYBE clarified its stance by explaining that the shareholder agreement between HYBE and Min Hee Jin, which initially governed her role as CEO, had already been terminated. The agency emphasized that, “Once the agreement is terminated, its legal effect is void.” HYBE further disclosed that a lawsuit had already been filed to confirm the termination of this shareholder agreement, and they are currently awaiting the court’s decision on the matter.

In addition to the legal clarification, HYBE asserted that Min Hee Jin’s dismissal as CEO was the result of a decision made independently by ADOR’s board of directors. The agency emphasized that the decision had no connection to HYBE or the previously terminated shareholder agreement. The agency noted that ADOR’s board of directors acted solely out of business management considerations, not influenced by external factors.

HYBE expressed disappointment over Min Hee Jin’s recent actions, stating, “We regret that Min Hee Jin, who has long emphasized the importance of ADOR’s independent management as a separate entity, is not respecting ADOR’s board of directors’ decision.” This statement reflects HYBE’s stance that Min Hee Jin, who previously championed the autonomy and distinct identity of ADOR, is now opposing the very independent decision-making processes she once advocated.

NewJeans Fights for Min Hee Jin

Earlier on the same day, Min Hee Jin’s legal team filed an injunction to challenge her dismissal. Her team argues that the shareholder agreement, which guaranteed her a five-year term as CEO and inside director, is still legally valid and has not been lawfully terminated. They claim that the dismissal was a violation of this agreement and are seeking legal recourse to have Min Hee Jin reinstated in both roles.

The controversy surrounding Min Hee Jin’s departure escalated when ADOR first announced on August 27 that she would no longer serve as CEO. However, it was noted at the time that Min Hee Jin would continue her involvement with NewJeans by producing their content as an internal director at ADOR. Despite this, the shift in leadership has caused tension, particularly with fans and the members of NewJeans.

In a surprising turn, the five members of NewJeans held a live broadcast on YouTube on September 11, where they expressed their dissatisfaction with Min Hee Jin’s removal as CEO. The group firmly requested that she be reinstated by September 25, underscoring her importance to their artistic and professional development.

As the legal battle unfolds, all eyes are on how the court will rule on the shareholder agreement and whether Min Hee Jin will regain her former leadership role within ADOR. The situation has not only legal implications but could also impact the creative direction of NewJeans and the future of ADOR’s independent management.

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ATTRAKT to Sue Warner Music Korea Over Former FIFTY FIFTY Members’ Contracts

FIFTY FIFTY’s agency, ATTRAKT, has announced plans to take legal action against Warner Music Korea following revelations of secret meetings with the group’s former members and alleged tampering.

ATTRAKT To Pursue Legal Action Against Warner Music Korea Over Ex-FIFTY FIFTY Members’ Contract Breach

On September 11, Dispatch released exclusive audio recordings featuring conversations between Ahn Sung Il, CEO of The Givers, and Jin Seung Young, CFO of Warner Music Korea, during meetings with FIFTY FIFTY’s former members and their parents.

The recordings included disparaging remarks about ATTRAKT’s CEO, Jeon Hong Joon, as well as false claims, such as suggestions that ADOR and Min Hee Jin had made offers to Ahn Sung Il to manage a new group (both HYBE and Min Hee Jin denied these claims, with Min Hee Jin stating she does not even know Ahn Sung Il). The discussions also reportedly included strategies for helping the members break their exclusive contracts with ATTRAKT, file lawsuits, and transition to Warner Music Korea.

In response to these revelations, ATTRAKT issued a statement on September 13, revealing their intention to pursue legal action against Warner Music Korea. They accused the company of conspiring with The Givers and former FIFTY FIFTY members—Aran, Saena, and Sio—to breach their exclusive contracts with ATTRAKT.

“The claims made by the former FIFTY FIFTY members concerning health management issues, lack of support, and settlement disputes were all proven false in court. These former members committed illegal acts with the sole aim of terminating their contracts, distorting the truth, and deceiving the public,” the statement read.

“Warner Music Korea, the principal force behind this tampering, has attempted to unlawfully seize our valuable artists through the use of financial and coercive power. We will not succumb to the might of such corporate giants and are prepared to stand resolutely against these actions,” it continued.

The legal battle adds another layer to the ongoing conflict surrounding FIFTY FIFTY’s future. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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Stray Kids Han Drops Self-Written Song ‘Human’ on 24th Birthday

Han has once again touched fans’ hearts with the release of a deeply personal and emotional new track. The new self-written song “Human” serves as a gift to fans on the Stray Kids member’s 24th birthday.

Stray Kids Rapper Han Celebrates Birthday With New Track ‘Human’

On September 14, coinciding with his birthday, Han unveiled “Human,” the latest addition to the group’s SKZ-RECORD series. This series allows the Stray Kids members to showcase original songs and covers that fall outside of their official albums and singles, providing a creative outlet for their individual artistry.

“Human,” written by Han and co-composed with NEUT, is a reflective track that delves into the artist’s personal struggles, vulnerability, and emotional journey. Through heartfelt lyrics, Han expresses his gratitude and love for those who have supported him along the way. The song resonates deeply with fans, as it offers a candid glimpse into the emotions and challenges Han has faced, making it a relatable and uplifting message for listeners who may have experienced similar struggles.

This release is part of a series of solo projects that Han has been working on this year. In June, he dropped the track “Maybe,” another poignant solo song under the SKZ-RECORD series. Fans were captivated by his introspective lyrics and impressive vocal delivery, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and talented artist. The surprise release of “Human” continues to build on this momentum, with fans praising the song’s sincerity and Han’s exceptional performance.

Earlier this year, Han also released “1,2,3,4,5,” a collaboration with NMIXX’s Bae, showcasing his ability to collaborate with other artists while maintaining his unique sound. The SKZ-RECORD series has been a platform for Han and his fellow members to explore their artistic styles and share more intimate, personal creations with their fans, enriching the bond between the group and their audience.

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Stray Kids Hyunjin Announced as Newest Cartier Ambassador

Hyunjin is proving to be a true fashion icon. The Stray Kids member has just been revealed as the newest Cartier ambassador!

Hyunjin Announced as Newest Cartier Ambassador

Stray Kids’ Hyunjin has officially been named Cartier’s newest ambassador, marking a significant milestone in his career and further solidifying his influence in the fashion world. On September 12, Esquire Korea exclusively revealed the exciting news, announcing Hyunjin as the newest face of the renowned French luxury jewelry and watch brand Cartier. Known for its elegance and prestige, Cartier has a long-standing tradition of collaborating with influential global icons, and Hyunjin’s addition to their roster underscores his growing international prominence.

The official statement from Esquire highlighted Hyunjin’s “striking visuals, powerful charisma, and irresistible aura,” qualities that perfectly align with Cartier’s timeless image and its celebrated Trinity collection. The Trinity collection, known for its iconic intertwining rings that represent love, fidelity, and friendship, is a fitting match for Hyunjin, whose magnetic stage presence and unique sense of style have made him a standout figure both in K-pop and in the fashion world.

Another Exciting Announcement

As part of his new role as Cartier’s ambassador, Hyunjin will grace the cover of Esquire Korea’s upcoming October issue. The feature includes an 18-page spread that showcases Hyunjin in a stunning photoshoot, highlighting Cartier’s luxurious pieces and his own versatile charm. The photoshoot, along with an in-depth interview, will also give fans a closer look at Hyunjin’s thoughts on fashion, his evolving style, and his new partnership with Cartier.

Hyunjin’s appointment as Cartier’s ambassador is another testament to his widespread appeal and influence beyond music. As he continues to break barriers in both entertainment and fashion, this collaboration also signals an exciting new chapter in his career, positioning him among the elite figures who represent one of the world’s most prestigious luxury brands.

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NewJeans Calls for Min Hee Jin Reinstatement as ADOR CEO

NewJeans is taking a stand against the recent changes in their company. The members of the girl group decided to call for Min Hee Jin reinstatement as the CEO of ADOR.

NewJeans Members Push for Min Hee Jin Reinstatement

NewJeans recently spoke out about the sudden change in leadership at their agency, ADOR, following the announcement on August 27 that Min Hee Jin would no longer serve as CEO. Despite the shift in her role, Min will continue producing content for NewJeans as an internal director at ADOR.

However, on September 11, the members of NewJeans took matters into their own hands by hosting a surprise live broadcast on YouTube. During the broadcast, the group openly expressed their dissatisfaction with the change, emphasizing how pivotal Min Hee Jin has been to their career and success.

“Even before debuting as NewJeans and through all of the time that we spent together with CEO Min Hee Jin, all of us felt that the music we wanted to make and the kind of world we wanted to build together—our vision—was similar in so many ways. With CEO Min Hee Jin, we were able to prepare each and every task with sincere hearts, and I believe it shows in our work,” Danielle said. “Putting our sincere effort into something is only possible because the people that we’re working with have trust in each other and have that same vision.”

“CEO Min Hee Jin is not only the person that produces our music, but someone who makes NewJeans who we are. She discusses even the smallest details with us and explains them in ways that we can understand clearly. NewJeans has a distinct color and tone, and this was created with CEO Min Hee Jin. She is integral to NewJeans’ identity, and we all feel that she is irreplaceable,” she continued.

They credited her vision and leadership as key factors in their journey, sharing their strong desire to continue working with her.

Will NewJeans Succeed in Reinstating ADOR CEO?

The group concluded their broadcast by firmly requesting that Min Hee Jin be reinstated as CEO by September 25, highlighting her invaluable role and influence in shaping their artistic direction and future.

For now, it has not yet been confirmed whether Min Hee Jin will be reinstated as ADOR CEO. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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BIGHIT MUSIC Issues Warning Against Impersonation Scams

BIGHIT MUSIC is taking a stand against impersonation scams and related fraudulent activities. The agency issued a statement announcing their intent.

BIGHIT MUSIC Takes a Stand Against Impersonation Scams

On September 11, BIGHIT MUSIC, the agency managing global sensation BTS, issued an official statement warning fans about ongoing scams and fraudulent activities. This alert underscores the increasing attempts by bad actors to exploit BTS’s immense popularity for personal gain, whether through phishing schemes, impersonation, or unauthorized events.

“We do not make any of these offers or notices via text message, social media, personal email, or otherwise, nor do we make offers for employment, financial demands, or rewards,” the statement read.

“Therefore, we advise against replying to or inquiring about such offers and recommend deleting the messages immediately. Please take note of the above details to prevent any fraudulent activity,” it continued.

BIGHIT’s Many Legal Battles

Throughout 2024, BIGHIT MUSIC has been deeply involved in various legal matters, primarily centered around the protection of BTS and its members. Earlier in the year, the agency provided a detailed update on the ongoing legal proceedings, reflecting the company’s steadfast dedication to defending BTS against defamatory actions and malicious attacks. These legal actions are not just limited to scams but also extend to individuals or groups spreading harmful misinformation about the group.

The decision to escalate these issues to legal authorities highlights the severity of the orchestrated efforts aimed at damaging BTS’s reputation. In today’s digital era, the rise of misinformation, defamation, and online harassment is a significant concern for public figures like BTS. These targeted campaigns aim to undermine the group’s hard-earned success and global influence. BIGHIT MUSIC’s decision to pursue legal avenues sends a clear message that they will not stand by as BTS’s integrity is challenged.

By publicly addressing the situation, BIGHIT MUSIC is showing unwavering solidarity with BTS. The company is also taking a proactive approach to safeguarding the group’s image while urging fans to stay cautious. This commitment also reinforces that any behavior involving fraud, defamation, or exploitation will be met with stringent legal repercussions, ensuring BTS’s legacy remains untarnished.

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Kang Daniel Wins First Trial For Criminal Suit Against Sojang

Kang Daniel’s agency, ARA, has announced its intention to file a civil complaint after winning the first criminal lawsuit against the controversial YouTuber Sojang.

Kang Daniel Announces Plans to Pursue Civil Lawsuit Against Sojang

On September 11, the agency revealed that the court had ruled in their favor in the initial trial against the YouTuber, who had been accused of spreading false and defamatory information about the singer. ARA further stated that regardless of whether the defendant appeals the criminal verdict, they plan to pursue a civil lawsuit seeking 100 million KRW (approximately $74,644 USD) in damages.

“Regardless of whether the shameless defendant appeals, we will file a civil lawsuit for 100 million won, separate from the criminal proceedings,” the statement read. “This is the minimum defense to prevent further innocent victims and to ensure such incidents do not recur. We believe that malicious defamation and profit-making through such actions should be met with strong civil and criminal accountability as they leave lasting wounds that are not easily healed even after all judicial procedures are completed.”

Sojang, a well-known figure in K-pop online communities, has previously been involved in legal battles with other celebrities and their agencies. Earlier this year, in May, it was reported that the YouTuber, identified by the surname Park, was indicted by the Incheon District Prosecutors’ Office on charges of defamation and insult. This case involved allegations of defaming several public figures, including IVE’s Wonyoung.

Wonyoung’s case against Sojang began in October 2023, when her agency, Starship Entertainment, filed a lawsuit citing malicious content posted by the YouTuber. In January 2024, the court partially ruled in Wonyoung’s favor, ordering Park to pay 100 million KRW in damages. However, Park attempted to delay the enforcement of the court’s decision by filing for a stay of execution.

As these legal battles continue, the outcomes send a strong message about the serious consequences of spreading harmful and defamatory content online, especially targeting celebrities.

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SEVENTEEN Reportedly Filmed Comeback MV with 13 Members

SEVENTEEN is gearing up for an exciting comeback as a full group! It has been revealed that the idol group has completed filming their comeback video and it will feature all 13 members.

SEVENTEEN’s Next Comeback Video Reportedly Filmed With All 13 Members

On September 10, it was reported that the group had successfully completed filming the music video for the title track of their highly anticipated 12th mini album, which is set for release in October.

The report mentions that all 13 members of SEVENTEEN participated in the music video shoot, despite some members not being able to join the upcoming promotions. It was revealed that Jeonghan and Jun were present for the filming, even though they will not be actively promoting with the group. Jeonghan is expected to enlist in the military later this year, while Jun will be focusing on acting and other opportunities in China, as confirmed by their agency, PLEDIS Entertainment, last month.

Although Jeonghan and Jun will be unable to join the rest of the group in their comeback promotions, it’s clear that SEVENTEEN also wants to keep them a part of the comeback later this year.

In addition to preparing for their new music, SEVENTEEN is also getting ready to hit the road for their “RIGHT HERE” world tour. The tour will also kick off with two shows in Korea on October 12 and 13 before taking the group to major cities in the United States and Japan. Fans worldwide are also eagerly awaiting both the new album and the upcoming performances, as SEVENTEEN continues to prove their status as one of K-pop’s leading groups.

For now, SEVENTEEN has not yet announced their next comeback date. However, the group is expected to release new music before the end of the year. Stay tuned for more updates as the release date approaches!

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INB100 Promises Legal Action Against Malicious Posts Against EXO Baekhyun

INB100 is ready to defend Baekhyun. The newly established agency has issued a statement promising to take strong legal action against malicious posts involving the EXO member.

INB100 Issues Statement Regarding Malicious Posts About EXO’s Baekhyun

On September 9, Baekhyun’s agency INB100 announced they would take strong legal action against malicious rumors targeting the EXO member. In their official statement, the agency expressed their intent to pursue those responsible for spreading false information about Baekhyun, emphasizing their commitment to protecting their artist’s reputation and well-being. They vowed to respond with firm measures against defamatory online posts and comments.

“With the help of professional agencies, we have tracked IP addresses and have already taken strong legal action against some of these offenders,” the statement read. “We will continue to file lawsuits in the future. We emphasize that we will take strict legal measures without any warnings, leniency, or settlements.”

They continued, “We would like to inform you that public defamation based on facts or false information through information and communication networks with the intent to slander is a clear illegal act and will be subject to strong legal action.“. “Our company will continue to do our utmost to protect our artist. Thank you.”

This announcement comes at a significant time for Baekhyun, who has been breaking records with his latest solo release ‘Hello, World’. The mini album, released on September 6, set a new personal best for the artist, selling 893,214 copies on its first day. This remarkable achievement surpassed Baekhyun’s previous solo first-week sales record of 868,840 copies for his 2021 album ‘Bambi’—and within just 24 hours.

‘Hello, World’ also made a strong international impact. By September 7, the album had topped iTunes charts in 33 regions, including countries like Brazil, India, Mexico, and Russia. The title track, “Pineapple Slice,” similarly performed well, reaching No. 1 on iTunes Top Songs charts in 24 regions, including Argentina, Thailand, and Fiji. Fans are eagerly watching to see how far Baekhyun’s achievements will go.

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aespa and NewJeans Reunite at 2024 The Fact Music Awards

K-netizens are buzzing with excitement over the recent group photos of aespa and NewJeans taken at the 2024 The Fact Music Awards (TMA).

aespa and NewJeans Thrill Fans with Adorable Group Photos

The two highly popular girl groups, known for their groundbreaking performances and immense fanbases, reunited at the event, posing together for heartwarming photos that captured their close friendship. These images have sparked widespread admiration online, with fans expressing joy over the groups’ mutual support and the stunning visuals of all the members.

Many netizens are thrilled to see the interactions between aespa and NewJeans, with comments praising their camaraderie. The photos were seen as a symbol of respect and unity between the two groups, highlighting how the younger generation of idols supports one another in the competitive world of K-pop. Fans pointed out the sweet and playful energy in the photos, showcasing how the idols are not only talented artists but also close friends behind the scenes.

This isn’t the first time aespa and NewJeans have collaborated, further fueling excitement among their fans. Previously, members from both groups teamed up for viral dance challenges. Danielle and Hanni from NewJeans paired with Ningning and Winter from aespa to perform the “How Sweet” challenge, while Karina and Giselle from aespa danced alongside Minji and Haerin from NewJeans for the “Armageddon” challenge, impressing fans with their teamwork.

Both groups also had a successful night at the TMAs. aespa took home prestigious awards, including the Daesang (Grand Prize), Listeners’ Choice, and a Bonsang (Artist of the Year). NewJeans also won several key awards, including Worldwide Icon, World Best Performer, and the Musinsa Popularity Award. These achievements further solidify both groups’ dominance in the K-pop industry, with their growing influence continuing to captivate fans worldwide.

The 2024 The Fact Music Awards took place on September 7 and 8 at the Kyocera Dome in Osaka, Japan.

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