NewJeans fans send condolence wreaths to HYBE HQ amid ongoing conflict with ADOR

The NewJeans gallery on the online community site DC Inside, which largely consists of supporters of Min Hee Jin, coordinated this event.

The conflict between HYBE and ADOR continues to escalate, drawing significant attention from fans and the media. In the latest development, NewJeans' fans have sent condolence wreaths to HYBE headquarters, showing their support for ADOR’s CEO, Min Hee Jin, and demanding better treatment for the group members.

On July 31, 2024, fans of NewJeans organised a protest by sending condolence wreaths to HYBE headquarters. In Korean culture, these wreaths are traditionally sent to express condolences after a loss. However, the fans used them as a symbolic gesture to protest the treatment of NewJeans members and to support ADOR’s CEO, Min Hee Jin. The NewJeans gallery on the online community site DC Inside, which largely consists of supporters of Min Hee Jin, coordinated this event. The wreaths will remain in front of HYBE HQ until August 1, 2024.

"Protect NewJeans," "Stop Trying to Kill ADOR, NewJeans Never Die" Fans Send Condolence Wreaths to HYBEhttps://t.co/nCKGw6wmVb
Reporter Se-yeon Park

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(Seoul = News1) On the 31st, condolence wreaths sent by NewJeans fans were placed in front of HYBE's headquarters in Yongsan-gu,… pic.twitter.com/PT0apFMkoZ

— 1tokki (@juantokki) July 31, 2024

This protest has stirred controversy as it coincided with the birthday of LE SSERAFIM member Kim Chaewon. However, fans clarified that the timing was coincidental and unrelated to the K-pop idol or LE SSERAFIM.

The ongoing conflict between HYBE and ADOR began when HYBE conducted an audit, including that of CEO Min Hee Jin, after information surfaced suggesting an attempt to separate management rights. HYBE even sent a letter requesting Min Hee Jin to step down from her position, which she has strongly resisted.

Also Read: E SSERAFIM turns off comments on social media amid increasing hatred online

Min Hee Jin has accused HYBE of trying to suppress NewJeans by copying their concepts for BELIFT LAB's new girl group, ILLIT. She claims that the production of ILLIT’s new album, overseen by Bang Si Hyuk, closely mimicked NewJeans’ concept ideas. Additionally, Min Hee Jin has alleged that HYBE has been taking steps to further marginalise NewJeans.

As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how HYBE and ADOR will resolve their differences and what impact this conflict will have on NewJeans and their future activities.