Min Heejin has defended herself against allegations of ignoring a female employee’s sexual harassment claims and siding with the accused. The case, previously closed by HYBE’s HR committee, was brought back into the spotlight by Dispatch, leading to a divided public opinion. Min argues that her actions were justified and accuses HYBE of attempting to discredit her.
Min Heejin and ADOR’s Defense Against Sexual Harassment Allegations
Min Heejin, the CEO of ADOR, has addressed allegations that her company ignored a female employee’s claims of sexual harassment. The accusations claim that the company sided with the accused and attempted to cover up the incident. According to the law firm Sejong, representing Min, the harassment case was closed by HYBE’s HR committee on March 16th with a verdict of “no evidence found.”
Disputed Actions by HYBE and Legal Representatives
The law firm added that since HYBE directly handles legal, personnel, and public relations matters through shared services, it is incomprehensible why HYBE would now challenge their own previous conclusions. They argue that reinterpreting the case to attack Min Heejin is unjust.
Dispatch’s Revelations and Public Response
These statements come after Dispatch, an online media outlet, published a KakaoTalk conversation between Min and an ADOR executive, identified as Mr. A, on the 25th. The messages showed Min harshly criticizing the female employee who reported the harassment, seemingly supporting Mr. A. This was further discussed during a court hearing when Min filed for an injunction to prevent HYBE from exercising voting rights against her.
Details of the Incident and Employee Resignation
Min Heejin’s team claims the meeting in question was held on February 1st to help her understand company operations. They assert that the employee had agreed to attend and that the dinner concluded without issues. Regarding the employee’s resignation, HYBE explains that all experienced hires across subsidiaries undergo a six-month probationary period. Various disputes about roles and conditions arose during this time, leading to the resignation. Min’s team insists the incident was unrelated to the resignation.
Min Heejin’s Efforts and Proposals for Improvement
Min Heejin reportedly listened to both sides and worked to mediate the conflict. She emphasized her role in preventing future incidents through warnings and precautions. Additionally, she proposed improvements to HR procedures and transparency to HYBE.
Community Reaction and Internal Conflict
The controversy sparked intense debate on the Korean community site theqoo, which had been a strong supporter of Min Heejin. The release of KakaoTalk messages, where Min criticized the alleged harassment victim, has led to a shift in sentiment. A faction is now opposing her. The community, predominantly female, had been likened to a cult for its unwavering support but is now experiencing division.
Supporters’ Defense of Min Heejin
Min Heejin’s supporters argue that the issue lies in HYBE publicizing a private conversation. They believe what Min said in a private setting should not concern the public. Revisiting a resolved case does not benefit the victim. They also criticize HYBE for reversing its stance on a previously concluded matter. Supporters imply HYBE shares blame if Min acted wrongly and view HYBE’s actions as an attempt to discredit Min despite potential backlash.
Critics’ Condemnation and Disappointment
Those now opposing Min Heejin argue that the employee’s resignation shows the conflict was not amicably resolved. They highlight Min’s harsh language in the KakaoTalk messages, deeming it unacceptable even in a private context. Critics are particularly disturbed by Min referring to the victim derogatorily and express disappointment that Min did not refute the conversation. The critics are outraged by Min’s apparent support of the accused executive, coaching him on his defense, while the victim left the company. Additionally, people who hoped Min would deny the KakaoTalk messages feel disappointed. They are especially troubled by her telling the accused, “Life is real, you little prick,” when referring to the victim.
Min Heejin’s Public Relations Battle
Despite two press conferences where Min Heejin successfully countered HYBE, the company has resurfaced the sexual harassment case, complicating her position. HYBE seems willing to accept responsibility for mishandling the incident if it means challenging Min. This situation suggests a scorched-earth strategy by HYBE, aiming for mutual destruction.
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This reminds me of the saying ” you can fool some of the people some of the time but you cannot fool all of the people all of the time.
Ready for her to be fired. Can’t believe Koreans are falling for her antics. She is so messy and destructive. Glad when she is gone and everyone can move forward.