At a news conference on Tuesday afternoon, Min said, “If I put down the 25.6 billion won, I ask HYBE to stop all ongoing civil and criminal lawsuits and disputes.” She said her proposal would also cover ending all complaints and accusations involving not only her but also NewJeans members, outside partner companies and ADOR employees.
Min said the main reason was “because of the NewJeans members,” adding, “It is painful that someone has to be on stage while someone else has to be in court.” She added, “You can’t create good culture with a heart torn to pieces.”
On Feb. 12, the Seoul Central District Court’s Civil Division 31 ruled for Min in her lawsuit seeking payment for a stock sale. The court said HYBE must pay her about 25.5 billion won in put option proceeds. However, it accepted HYBE’s request to suspend enforcement, meaning forced collection is on hold until an appeals court ruling.
Min’s remarks about NewJeans were seen as referring to issues including ADOR’s termination of its contract with member Danielle and a damages lawsuit.
“HYBE and I belong not in court but on the creative stage,” Min said. She said she regretted not being able to complete the creative vision she had when launching NewJeans, and added she hoped HYBE’s promise to treat the group well if it returns would become reality.
She also called for an environment where “all five” can pursue their dreams freely, saying the 25.6 billion won “is not bigger than a healthy K-pop ecosystem and artists’ peaceful daily lives.”
Min appeared at the news conference in a black jacket and looked calmer than at her previous appearance. Referring to the recent ruling, she said the court found allegations such as an attempted management takeover and tampering were not true.
Min recently launched the new label OK Records and announced plans to develop a rookie boy group. OK Records also plans to hold auditions.
“I will take a new path as CEO of OK Records, leaving behind the label of former ADOR CEO,” Min said. “I hope there will be no more wasteful news conferences after today.”
* This article has been translated by AI.
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