CEO Min Hee-jin Denies Accusations, Citing Dispute Over Alleged Plagiarism

Courtesy of Ador

▲ Ador CEO Min Hee-jin / Courtesy of Ador

K-pop powerhouse Hybe has launched an audit of its subsidiary Ador, following allegations of a takeover attempt by Ador CEO Min Hee-jin.

This marks the first time Hybe has taken such action against one of its subsidiaries.

Min Hee-jin, also the producer of popular K-pop girl group NewJeans under Ador, refutes the accusation, claiming that Hybe's actions stem from her criticism of Hybe's new K-pop girl group Illit, alleging it imitates NewJeans.

Similarities between Illit and NewJeans in concept and portions of their music videos have drawn public attention online.
 

▲ Illit / Courtesy of Belift Lab

Hybe founder Bang Si-hyuk played a role in the creation of Illit, composing the lead track of their debut album, "Super Real Me."

Min asserts that Hybe suspended and dismissed her from the CEO position after she raised concerns about the alleged imitation and requested explanations and corrective actions.

Hybe initiated an audit on Monday, seizing Ador's computers and taking statements from employees, suspecting Min and another executive of attempting to control Ador and leaking confidential documents to attract investment. 

▲ NewJeans / Courtesy of AdorCurrently, Hybe holds an 80 percent stake in Ador, with Min and other executives holding the remaining 20 percent.

Min, known for her work at SM Entertainment before joining Hybe, established Ador in November 2021 and oversaw branding and design at Hybe's Seoul headquarters.

Min vows to protect NewJeans' intellectual property and prevent further infringement.

Concerns have been raised among NewJeans fans regarding potential impacts on the group's release schedule, with a new single album and music video planned for the near future.

Sayart

Blue YIM, yimyoungseo1010@naver.com