Following BTS’s hiatus for mandatory military service, HYBE has been actively diversifying its portfolio of artists and revenue sources. NewJeans, a group that debuted in 2022 under ADOR, has rapidly gained popularity with hit songs such as “Hype Boy,” “Attention,” “Ditto,” and “OMG.” The group is slated to release a new single next month.
HYBE’s audit targets both Min and one of her deputies, with reports indicating the seizure of computer assets and the gathering of statements. The company suspects Min and her deputy of sharing confidential information with external parties in a bid to secure investors and gain independence for ADOR. However, Min has described the allegations as an “absurd media play” and claims the audit is retaliation for her criticism of Belift’s girl group ILLIT, alleging that they copied NewJeans’ concept.
HYBE CEO Park Ji-won has refuted Min’s claims, asserting that they are largely baseless. He maintains that the plans in question predate ILLIT’s debut and has characterized the situation as an attempt to seize control of the company. An anonymous ADOR deputy has also spoken to the media, attributing the conflict to an internal document that contained personal reflections and grievances. The deputy claims that the document was not shared with Min or other ADOR executives and expresses regret that it was leaked to HYBE and presented as an internal conspiracy.
As NewJeans continues to gain popularity, the audit and allegations surrounding ADOR have raised concerns about the potential impact on the group’s future. The developments have also highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by HYBE as it navigates the changing landscape of the entertainment industry and seeks to maintain its dominance in the global K-pop market.
