Escalating Conflict in K-Pop: Min Hee-jin vs. Belift Lab
The tension between Min Hee-jin and Belift Lab has intensified, focusing significantly on the welfare of NewJeans amidst allegations of plagiarism involving ILLIT. Min Hee-jin has voiced her apprehensions regarding what she perceives as a lack of proper support and prioritization of NewJeans during this tumultuous period.
Background of the Dispute
At the heart of this conflict is a legal battle initiated by Belift Lab, which is seeking approximately 2 billion won (around 1.4 million USD) in damages. This legal action stems from claims that ILLIT’s creative concepts bear similarities to those of NewJeans.
Allegations and Counterclaims
According to Belift Lab, Min Hee-jin is intentionally obstructing the legal process. In contrast, Min has accused Belift Lab and its parent company, HYBE, of disseminating misinformation and neglecting to address the issues internally.
Min Hee-jin’s Strong Response
In an interview with StarsNews on November 18th, Min Hee-jin revealed, “Despite the substantial evidence and corroborative testimony from internal sources indicating significant similarities, Belift Lab continues to dismiss the allegations and mislead the public. They have propagated various falsehoods, damaged ADOR’s reputation, and disregarded the situation’s impact on NewJeans, all while positioning rookie group ILLIT as victims.”
Court Actions and Statements
This legal dispute has escalated following Min’s successful petition to prevent HYBE from exercising its voting rights to terminate her position at ADOR. The court ruled in favor of Min, restricting HYBE’s ability to vote against her removal. The conflict further escalated when Min accused ILLIT of inappropriate borrowing of NewJeans’ planning materials during their conceptual process, citing whistleblower allegations.
Belift Lab’s Defense Strategy
Belift Lab has firmly rejected the accusations of plagiarism, asserting that ILLIT’s project was finalized in July 2023, well before any alleged sharing of materials from NewJeans in late August. They have also responded with criminal charges against Min Hee-jin for defamation and business interference, claiming she is manipulating the situation for personal gain while undermining ILLIT’s credibility.
Looking Ahead: Upcoming Trials
As both parties brace for their initial trial scheduled for January 10, 2025, this case has sparked significant discussion around creative integrity and corporate accountability within the K-pop industry. The stakes are high, and the outcomes could have far-reaching implications for artists and companies involved in this vibrant yet complex entertainment landscape.
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More detailed coverage and images are available at KBizoom.
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