The parents of NewJeans members have publicly supported ADOR’s CEO Min Heejin and accused HYBE of disparaging her, while expressing concerns about their daughters’ treatment as trainees. The interview sparked a negative reaction from Korean online communities, who generally disapprove of parental interference in idol affairs. Many have refuted the parents’ claims, arguing that some of the described conditions and expectations are typical in the industry.
NewJeans Parents Stand by Min Heejin and Call for Ceasefire
On July 24th, the parents of the girl group NewJeans gave a press interview expressing their unwavering support for ADOR’s CEO Min Heejin, while urging HYBE to stop any disparaging remarks against her. This comes in response to a report that alleged Min Heejin had closely consulted with a shaman during NewJeans’ debut process and intentionally delayed related tasks to assert control. The parents claimed that HYBE was behind these accusations.
Minji’s Mother Speaks on Training Conditions
Minji’s mother recounted her daughter’s time as a trainee under HYBE’s subsidiary, Source Music. She expressed relief and joy when Minji transferred to ADOR. She shared that Minji, who moved to Seoul alone at the age of 13 to become a trainee, was only able to visit her dorm after about a year. The dorm was described as being infested with mold and cockroaches. Additionally, Source Music allegedly pressured Minji to abandon her regular schooling in favor of an arts-focused high school.
Hyein and Haein’s Mothers Voice Their Support
The mothers of Hyein and Haein also affirmed their loyalty to ADOR, stating they had never considered leaving the company. Haein’s mother expressed dissatisfaction over the release of trainee videos, urging HYBE to leave their daughters alone.
Concerns from Danielle’s Mother
Danielle’s mother voiced her concerns, criticizing HYBE and Source Music for failing to protect their artists.
United Front: Hani’s Mother Shares the Same Sentiment
The parents concluded the interview by asserting that Hani’s mother, who resides in Australia, shared their sentiments. They emphasized that HYBE has been the aggressor and pleaded for an end to the conflict.
Public Reaction and Criticism
A day after the interview, the public reaction within Korean online communities was largely negative. There is a general aversion to parents intervening in idol affairs, citing past experiences where such involvement has led to unfavorable outcomes. Many believe that parental interference often ends poorly for the group.
Addressing the Parents’ Claims
Several responses refuted the parents’ allegations point by point. They argued that Source Music’s advice for Minji to attend an arts high school was typical for aspiring idols. They also noted that HYBE had never explicitly stated that NewJeans or their parents were targeting the company. Furthermore, it was pointed out that cockroach infestations are not uncommon in dorms of other girl groups and are usually considered part of the trainee experience.
Comparisons to Other Groups
The situation was compared to the disbandment of FIFTY FIFTY, which involved parental intervention. Additionally, it was highlighted that parents of other groups like LE SSERAFIM and ILLIT, who had been attacked by Min Heejin, had refrained from making public statements, possibly preventing further escalation into inter-group parental conflicts.
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Seems like NewJeans’ parents are beefing with HYBE. They’re just kids, but they should act their age and be more grown-up about this.