Former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin is embroiled in a legal dispute with Source Music. According to Star News, the Seoul Western District Court has scheduled the first hearing for January 10th in a lawsuit filed by Source Music, seeking 500 million won (approximately $350,000) in damages.
The lawsuit, initiated in July, responds to allegations made by Min during a press conference. During this conference, she accused Source Music of neglecting certain members of NewJeans who were previously under their management.
Source Music has firmly denied Min’s accusations, calling them entirely false. The company said, “We have never copied any launch strategy proposed by Min during her time as Chief Brand Officer (CBO), nor have we acknowledged any of her complaints.” They clarified that in May 2020, Bang Si Hyuk, the founder of HYBE, recommended that Min’s proposed strategy be carried out through a new team at her towel, not with “N Team.” The company asserts that Min has misrepresented the facts despite being fully aware of the discussions that took place at the time.
Source Music added, “Min Hee Jin has continuously spread false information about Source Music. In addition to the damage lawsuit previously filed, we will take further legal action. We are prepared to release any relevant materials we possess to ensure a clear and accurate understanding of the truth.”
In addition to her legal battle with Source Music, Min is also facing a 2 billion won (approximately $1.4 million) lawsuit related to the plagiarism controversy surrounding the K-pop group ILLIT. The 12th Civil Division of the Seoul Western District Court has set January 10 as the first hearing date for this case, filed by ILLIT’s agency, BELIFT LAB.
Meanwhile, Min made headlines earlier this week by announcing her resignation as an inside director of ADOR, the label behind NewJeans. She stated, “I am terminating the shareholder agreement with HYBE and will hold them legally accountable for any breaches. Furthermore, I intend to pursue legal action against the numerous illegal activities of HYBE and its associates.”
In response, ADOR expressed regret over Min’s sudden departure. The company reaffirmed its commitment to supporting NewJeans and ensuring their continued success: “We will continue to do our utmost to support NewJeans’ growth and development.”
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