ADOR has declined to process visa extension documents for NewJeans’ Hanni following the group’s departure from the label.
The agency reportedly received requests to prepare documentation for Hanni’s E-6 visa renewal, which expired in early February, but ADOR has refused to provide the necessary signatures for the extension process. This has reportedly led to the expiration of Hanni’s entertainment visa.
The timing may explain why the group’s first announced performance under their new name “NJZ” is set for Hong Kong.
As an Australian citizen of Vietnamese descent, Hanni requires an E-6 visa for entertainment activities in South Korea. This specialized visa requires specific documentation under the Popular Culture Industry Act, including an exclusive contract with a registered entertainment agency, a personal guarantee from the agency’s CEO, and an employment recommendation from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.
While other visa categories could allow for residence in South Korea, they would not permit participation in entertainment industry activities.
The group, formerly known as NewJeans, announced their rebranding to “NJZ” through newly created social media accounts on February 7th, simultaneously revealing their upcoming performance at “ComplexCon” in Hong Kong, scheduled to begin March 21st.
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