HYBE CEO Responds to NewJeans’ Request for ADOR Head Min Hee-Jin’s Reinstatement

On September 12, HYBE Labels held its first extraordinary shareholders' meeting in Mapo-gu, Seoul, where Lee Jae Sang was officially appointed as the new CEO, replacing Park Ji Won. Shortly after his appointment, Lee addressed the recent demand from the members of NewJeans, who requested the reinstatement of former ADOR CEO Min Hee-Jin.

In response, Lee Jae Sang stated, “It will take some time, but we will stick to regulations and respond calmly. HYBE is a company that follows the rules and pursues precision management. Looking back, those who follow the rules always end up as the winners.” This statement is widely interpreted as HYBE's refusal to meet NewJeans' request, with the company maintaining its separation of management and creative production under HYBE 2.0.

The demand by NewJeans was made during a YouTube live, where member Danielle expressed concern over Min Hee-Jin’s treatment, urging HYBE to restore ADOR to its original state under her leadership. Member Minji also echoed the request, emphasizing the need for harmony between HYBE and ADOR.

Industry insiders believe HYBE’s stance signifies a continued focus on structured management without bending to creative pressures.