Previously, NewJeans gave HYBE an ultimatum: to re-establishing Min Hee-jin as the CEO of ADOR before September 25th. However, with prospects of this happening not looking bright, speculations are arising about the girl group’s fate following this deadline.
Regarding this, Korean journalists have proposed 4 hypothetical scenarios:
NewJeans Recently Shock Fans with a Livestream, Exposing HYBE and Defending Former Ador CEO Min Hee Jin
In the livestream, the group issued an ultimatum to their parent company, demanding Min Hee Jin be reinstated to her previous position by September 25th. Korean media is currently speculating on the possible outcomes for the group in this internal conflict.
HYBE Accepts NewJeans’ Demands
This is the least likely scenario, as NewJeans’ demands are considered completely unreasonable due to the significant conflict between HYBE and Min Hee Jin. Reinstating her as the CEO of Ador would only return the situation to its initial unresolved state. Thus, it’s highly unlikely HYBE will ever accept the five members’ demands.
NewJeans Complies with HYBE’s Policies
Similar to the first scenario, this is also unlikely. The conflict between Min Hee Jin and HYBE has directly affected NewJeans, and the group has openly supported the person who “created” them. Therefore, the five girls have likely already prepared other plans for when the company refuses their demands.
NewJeans Boycotts Activities Under HYBE
This is considered a likely scenario, as it aligns with what the members expressed in the livestream.
At this point, the group is still under contract with HYBE and is obligated to participate in activities. If the group refuses without valid reasons, the company may take legal action, including demanding compensation. However, NewJeans could use HYBE’s actions to file a counterclaim and attempt to terminate their contract.
Filing for a Temporary Suspension of the Exclusive Contract
The most likely scenario is that NewJeans will file for a temporary suspension of their exclusive contract with HYBE. This might also be what HYBE is hoping for.
Before filing, NewJeans could be seen as victims caught in a conflict between adults. However, by submitting a request for temporary suspension, the group officially becomes involved in the dispute, risking public support. HYBE may then argue that Min Hee Jin influenced the group’s demands.
Based on a similar case involving Fifty Fifty, the likelihood of the court accepting NewJeans’ request is very low. If their request is denied, the group may find it difficult to return to their previous status. They could also face compensation charges for breaching a standard contract, with an estimated amount of 237 million USD.