K-netz Criticize NewJeans’s Album Strategy: Is Min Hee Jin at Fault?

The promotional events for the Japanese release of their album ‘Supernatural’ by K-pop group NewJeans have caused controversy among K-netizens. This is in contradiction to previous statements made by Min Hee-jin, the group’s creative director, regarding their album sales strategies.

A discussion on Pann Nate sparked controversy as it pointed out inconsistencies between Min Hee-jin’s public statements and the promotional tactics of NewJeans.

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The article, titled “Isn’t Min Hee-jin and NewJeans humorous?ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ”, expressed disapproval towards the group’s use of special items to encourage album sales, despite Min Hee-jin previously speaking out against such methods.

Despite conflicting opinions among netizens, there are two main camps: one that criticizes NewJeans for contradicting Min Hee-jin’s stance, and another that defends the group’s promotional efforts.

“In the first place, the problem was multiple unused album purchases due to excessive photocards. This time, they’re trying to give benefits to those who buy the album quickly by giving one special item per version. There would be no multiple purchase issues. So what’s wrong?”- Netizen defending NewJeans.

“Min Hee-jin didn’t do random photocards or lucky draws. NewJeans gives photocards according to the member version. What are you trying to fool people?”- Another netizen questioning the integrity of NewJeans’s approach.

Critics alleged that Min Hee-jin implemented a double standard in her management style.

“At the press conference, she said she would not push album sales using random photocards… What are you talking about?”- Netizen pointing out perceived hypocrisy.

The dispute highlights the ongoing discussions within the K-pop industry surrounding ethical methods for promoting albums.

The release of NewJeans’ single “Supernatural”in Japan has caused a stir among fans, with opinions being divided. This is mainly due to the unconventional approach of using multiple languages in the lyrics, including English (65%), Korean, and a small amount of Japanese.

The group’s goal of appealing to a wide international audience has sparked concerns about its ability to cater specifically to Japanese listeners.

Despite facing these obstacles, the release has achieved success on streaming platforms in Japan and South Korea. However, there has been a slight decrease in popularity within their own country compared to past releases. The group’s decision to enter the Japanese market demonstrates their determination to increase their international presence in the competitive world of K-pop.