Min Hee-jin Responds: “Source Music’s Allegations Are Absurd and False, Legal Action is Coming”

Legal Proceedings Ahead: Source Music Initiates 500 Million Won Lawsuit

The Seoul Western District Court has announced the first hearing for Source Music’s 500 million won damage compensation lawsuit, scheduled for January 10, 2024. This action marks a significant legal confrontation involving prominent figures in the K-pop industry.

Background of the Dispute

Source Music, a label within the HYBE ecosystem, filed this lawsuit against Min Hee-jin, the former CEO of ADOR, in July. The allegations stem from Min Hee-jin’s contentious comments regarding the management of NewJeans, a popular girl group under Source Music.

During a press conference, Min claimed that Source Music failed to support certain NewJeans members during their time with the label and questioned the decision-making process surrounding the debut timing of LE SSERAFIM in relation to NewJeans.

Source Music Responds to Allegations

In a statement to Star News, representatives for Source Music labeled Min’s assertions as “absurd and false,” indicating a commitment to counter these claims vigorously through legal avenues. They firmly stated, “We will respond with strong legal action.”

Furthermore, Source Music rebutted Min’s statement regarding the alleged copying of her promotional strategy, asserting that “Min Hee-jin continues to spread misinformation.” They clarifed that the launch strategy previously proposed by Min was not implemented via Team N but was meant for a new team that was to be established under the label she was set to lead.

Source Music also revealed, “Chairman Bang Si-hyuk had made it clear that Min’s strategy would not be enacted through Team N, despite her current distortions of that fact.” They expressed a willingness to disclose evidence if necessary to validate their position.

Min Hee-jin’s Ongoing Legal Challenges

In a related development, Min Hee-jin is currently embroiled in a separate 2 billion won damage lawsuit filed by Belift Lab, alleging that ILLIT, its idol group, plagiarized concepts originating from NewJeans. The Belift Lab lawsuit is also set to be heard by the Seoul Western District Court’s Civil Division 12 on the same day as Source Music’s hearing.

Belift Lab has denied these allegations, arguing that their branding strategies were finalized prior to any purported similarities with NewJeans’ concepts, which were introduced at a later date.

Accusations and Counterclaims

Min Hee-jin’s spokesperson has responded to this situation, stating that the claims made by Belift Lab lack credibility and are an attempt to mislead public opinion. They emphasized the need to recognize the obligations owed to NewJeans, criticizing Belift Lab for using rookie artists as a shield amidst these allegations.

Additionally, Min disclosed internal information during a recent hearing at the Seoul Central District Court, claiming that ILLIT’s creative director received NewJeans’ planning documents during their preparation stages, resulting in near-identical concepts.

Min Hee-jin’s Recent Resignation

On November 20, 2023, Min Hee-jin announced her resignation as an internal director of ADOR, expressing intent to pursue legal action against HYBE while terminating her shareholder agreement with the company. ADOR quickly responded, expressing disappointment over her sudden departure and reaffirming their commitment to supporting NewJeans.

Conclusion

As these legal battles unfold, the K-pop industry closely monitors the situation, which underscores the complex dynamics and challenges faced by companies and individuals within the realm of idol management.

Source: Daum , Daum

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