On December 11, 2024, a topic titled “NewJeans Managers vs ADOR Email revealed” was published on the Korean forum “theqoo”, drawing massive attention.
The topic attached a video from media outlet Channel A, which obtained the full exposé made by NewJeans’ managers regarding the mistreatment they suffered from under ADOR.
Below is a summary of the email content sent by this manager:
- Summoned After Work and Coerced Investigation
- Raised concerns about the appropriateness of being called back to the office for an investigation after work hours.
- Explained that they had not brought their PC home but had offered to return it the next day; however, they were forced to hand it over that day and prevented from leaving.
- Asserted they did not voluntarily stay at the office and regarded being forcibly held as coercion.
- Highlighted that the security team cited false information, such as CCTV footage of them entering with a suitcase, to pressure them.
- Criticized the use of emergency contact information to threaten contacting their parents as unprofessional and dehumanizing.
- PC Submission and Issues Around Returning Home
- Stated that after enduring the investigation, it was natural for them to go home. Yet, the company misrepresented this act as “fleeing the office.”
- Emphasized that allegations of misconduct tied to the investigation were unfounded.
- Communication Regarding Advertising Contracts
- Explained they accurately conveyed the members’ intentions to the brand regarding the fulfillment of advertising contracts signed before contract termination.
- Denied allegations that they proposed direct contracts between the brand and artists, excluding the company.
- Asserted the company mischaracterized their actions to portray them as misconduct.
- Emphasizing Managerial Responsibilities
- Clarified that their core responsibility as a manager was to faithfully relay communications between members and other parties.
- Argued that this duty remained unchanged even amid conflicts between the company and members.
- Refuting Allegations of Lying
- Rejected claims from the company that they lied, pointing out the absence of evidence to support such accusations.
- Highlighted that they had transparently disclosed all relevant communication points at the members’ request.
- Handling Japanese Schedules Amid Confusion
- Described prioritizing smooth schedule execution for members and staff amidst a chaotic situation in Japan.
- Criticized the management for neglecting on the ground staff and failing to provide guidance regarding scheduling.
- Confirmed they advised external vendors to direct payments to the company, contrary to misconduct allegations.
- Objection to Suspension and Intent to Resign
- Expressed disagreement with the suspension imposed for alleged misconduct and subsequently submitted their resignation.
- Criticism of Company Leadership
- Accused management of instructing them to selectively relay company aligned messages to members and legal representatives.
- Condemned leadership for disregarding staff and members’ anxiety during uncertain times.
- Backup and Submission of Materials
- Asserted they backed up and submitted all company materials, with no harm done to the original data.
- Explained their PC was formatted to protect personal information and reiterated their willingness to clarify any doubts.
- Rejection of Mobile Phone Submission Request
- Strongly opposed the request to inspect their personal phone, asserting it was an illegal overreach without legal authority.
- Condemnation of Public Misrepresentation and Demands to Cease Threats
- Expressed shock at the company releasing false information to the media.
- Requested an end to emails distorting facts and employing coercive language.
On the other hand, the aforementioned manager of NewJeans previously accused CEO Ju Young Kim of workplace bullying and filed a complaint with the Ministry of Employment and Labor.
Meanwhile, ADOR refuted the managers’ claims and announced their intention to take necessary legal action.
Upon reading the full email, netizens were shocked, even calling each other to sign a petition against HYBE. Some comments under the “theqoo” topic include, “HYBE needs to be destroyed”, “This company is f*cking crazy”, and “I hope this trash company will go under soon”.
