Allegations of Breach of Trust and Corporate Disputes Surround K-pop Powerhouses

Courtesy of Ador

The conflict between K-pop giant HYBE and its subsidiary label Ador continues to intensify, with HYBE filing a police report against Ador's CEO, Min Hee-jin, on Thursday, alleging breach of trust.

Despite the ongoing feud, girl group NewJeans, under Ador, proceeded with the release of their music video "Bubble Gum" on Saturday. The video, featuring one of the tracks from their upcoming album "How Sweet," has garnered over 10 million views on YouTube as of Sunday, showcasing the group's global popularity.

"Bubble Gum" is characterized by simple drum patterns and synth sounds, presenting a feel-good vibe. Ador described the video as capturing the natural aspects of the group members, engaging in activities like blowing bubble gum and playful pranks.
 

▲ NewJeans / Courtesy of AdorThe dispute between HYBE and Ador arose earlier in the week when HYBE accused Min Hee-jin of attempting to spin off Ador from the parent company. Min refuted the allegations during a press conference on Thursday, asserting that she protested against HYBE's replication of NewJeans' formula in producing another group, citing the debut of ILLIT under HYBE's sub-label, Belift Lab, in March.

Min also claimed mistreatment of NewJeans by HYBE, alleging favoritism towards Le Sserafim, a female act managed by HYBE's subsidiary, Source Music. HYBE countered Min's claims on Friday, accusing her of holding NewJeans hostage.

Despite the ongoing conflict, HYBE affirmed NewJeans' plan to release their new album "How Sweet" on May 24 as scheduled. The company pledged support for the psychological well-being of the group members and stated intentions to discuss protective measures with their legal representatives.

NewJeans, the flagship group of Ador, debuted in 2022 and has achieved significant success in the K-pop scene. Min Hee-jin, former creative director at SM Entertainment, serves as the group's producer.

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