The fanbase of K-pop girl group NewJeans (NJZ) has come under heavy fire after a legal scandal involving unauthorized fundraising further intensified by the revelation that the organizer at the center of the controversy is a minor.
Team Bunnies, the fan group in question, launched a major crowdfunding campaign last October aimed at combating malicious online attacks against Newjeans. Within just eight hours, the campaign garnered over 50 million KRW (approx. 34,800 USD). While praised at first for its speed and fan dedication, the campaign soon became the subject of legal scrutiny for potential violations of South Korea’s Fundraising and Gifts Act.
It has since been confirmed that the Seoul Prosecutor’s Office has transferred the case to the Juvenile Division of the Family Court, as the main organizer identified only as “A” is underage. According to reports, prosecutors opted for protective custody over criminal charges, citing the suspect’s age and the non-malicious intent behind their actions.
A legal official commented, “It appears the individual didn’t fully understand the legal implications. Because the organizer is a minor, we believe the case doesn’t warrant formal punishment.”
South Korea’s current fundraising law requires registration for any donation efforts that exceed 10 million KRW (~6,970 USD). Team Bunnies, however, failed to comply, raising red flags about transparency and legal compliance. The collected funds are now frozen, and depending on the outcome of the investigation, remaining funds may be returned to donors.
The news sparked heated discussion online, with netizens expressing confusion and frustration over how a fanbase allowed such oversight:
- “Even if the organizer was a minor, someone should’ve stepped in.”
- “It’s bizarre how far this fandom went.”
- “Did they use a minor as a shield? Or was this just extremely reckless?”
- “Someone needs to be held accountable before it spirals further.”
- “People really get bold when they don’t understand the law.”
Team Bunnies was originally formed to support Newjeans during the group’s legal disputes. However, what started as fan devotion has now raised serious concerns over how fandoms manage money, legality, and responsibility especially when minors are involved.
Sources: Chosunbiz, Theqoo
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