Hanni from NewJeans will appear at the National Assembly to discuss idol ostracism and workplace bullying. She claims to have been mistreated by a manager from another HYBE group, sparking both legal actions from fans and widespread public criticism. While her decision has divided opinions, it appears to be a way for NewJeans to address their growing challenges in the public eye.
Hanni’s Decision to Appear at the National Assembly
Hanni from the K-pop group NewJeans has confirmed her intention to testify at the National Assembly’s Environment and Labor Committee on October 15. She will serve as a witness in discussions surrounding idol ostracism and workplace bullying. On October 10, she shared this decision with fans through the group’s communication app “Phoning,” stating, “I’ve made my decision. I will appear at the National Assembly.” She clarified that she is doing this for herself, her fellow members, and NewJeans’ fans, known as “Bunnies.” Hanni reassured her supporters, saying there was no need to worry, but also revealed that her manager and agency had not been informed of her plans yet.
Hanni’s Workplace Bullying Allegations at the National Assembly
Hanni raised concerns regarding her treatment within her agency, Belift Lab, a HYBE subsidiary. She claimed that a manager from ILLIT, another HYBE girl group, told others to “ignore her” and alleged that she was being ostracized at her workplace. However, Belift Lab disputed these claims after reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing those involved. As this controversy grew, Hanni was chosen to testify at the National Assembly, while ADOR CEO Kim Joo-young was called to appear as a witness on the same day.
Legal Actions by NewJeans Fans
In a parallel development, NewJeans fans announced plans to file complaints with the Yongsan Police Station against key figures at ADOR and HYBE. The fans accused ADOR CEO Kim Joo-young and Vice President Lee of business negligence. They claimed these executives hindered the group’s activities. Fans also accused HYBE’s communication and PR executives, Park Tae-hee and Jo, of privacy violations and illegal disclosures. They argued that these individuals hampered NewJeans’ creative process and future musical projects. This interference, they said, caused significant financial damage to the company.
Public Criticism of Hanni’s Decision to Speak at the National Assembly
When this news reached the online community MLBPARK, many members strongly criticized Hanni. They questioned whether she really heard the phrase “ignore her.” They argued that it was unreasonable for her to testify at the National Assembly over such an issue. Even if Hanni did hear the comment, many felt it was excessive for the Assembly to get involved. Some critics noted that Hanni received a 5.2 billion won (approximately 3.85 million USD) settlement from HYBE last year. They suggested her actions made her seem as though she was playing the victim. Most members on MLBPARK believed workplace bullying on a personal level should not go to the National Assembly. Others claimed the true victim was the ILLIT manager, who reportedly earns far less than Hanni and lacks support. Many saw this manager as the real underdog in the situation.
NewJeans’ Public Relations Challenges
Currently, NewJeans is struggling with negative public perception and limited media support. Only two entertainment outlets, Ilgan Sports and Sports Kyunghyang, are reporting favorably on the group’s situation. In contrast, when Belift Lab issued its rebuttal, around 90 media outlets published articles supporting its stance. NewJeans is increasingly losing ground as their statements only appear in a limited number of media sources. Furthermore, ADOR CEO Kim Joo-young has not officially addressed the growing friction between labels, leaving the group without an opportunity to respond publicly. This lack of a platform seems to be driving Hanni’s decision to testify at the National Assembly, potentially as a way to present NewJeans’ side of the story.
I appreciate you taking the time to read this post. Please share your thoughts in the comments!
Don’t you think it’s too small reasons to go to parliament? it’s like someone stole ur chewing gum and I want to tell this issue to school director