Former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin blasted a new report raising additional questions about NewJeans’ potential independent activities, calling it a “reverse viral” move and warning of strong legal action.
On the 23rd, news outlet Dispatch reported that, based on details not revealed in court, Min contacted a wealthy Japanese man in his 70s while exploring contract termination and independent activities for NewJeans, and allegedly arranged meetings with the members. The report also claimed Min was involved in preparations and investment talks for NewJeans’ ComplexCon Hong Kong appearance and took part in drafting a script for a contract-termination press conference.
According to the report, the Japanese figure is known as a heavyweight in the racing world, and NewJeans supposedly met him at least three times during visits to Japan. It also said NewJeans sent birthday gifts and handwritten letters to mark his special day. In addition, the outlet raised allegations that there were discussions about investment and a potential sale related to the ‘Pit Stop’ performance NewJeans presented at ComplexCon Hong Kong.
That same day, Min responded on her social media: “Is this Dabolink Season 2? No one’s falling for that kind of fiction anymore. It looks like a reverse-viral operation kicked off last week right after my complete win―same old trick.” She added, “Dispatch should remember my right to respond during reporting. Including the false Dabolink report and today’s piece, I will pursue civil and criminal liability to the fullest extent the law allows. I’m sick of this.”
Also on the 23rd, Min revealed she filed to seize HYBE’s bank account. She posted proof of filing for a claim seizure and collection order on social media with the caption, “Application to Seize Bank Account.” The document shows creditor Min Hee-jin applying for a claim seizure and collection order against debtor HYBE. This appears to be a follow-up step after Min won lawsuits over the termination of a shareholders’ agreement and a stock sale payment related to a put option.
Earlier, on the 12th, the Civil Division 31 of the Seoul Central District Court dismissed HYBE’s lawsuit seeking confirmation of termination of the shareholders’ agreement against Min and ruled that Min’s exercise of her put option was valid. The court rejected HYBE’s claims, ordered HYBE to bear litigation costs, and ruled that HYBE must pay approximately 25.5 billion won in stock sale proceeds.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)