Min Hee Jin shared candid thoughts on the Gwangju Uprising, the K-pop industry, and artistic independence during a special lecture held at Chonnam National University.
The lecture took place on May 12 at the university’s Yongji Hall Convention Center as part of commemorative events marking both the 30th anniversary of the university’s 5·18 Research Institute and the 46th anniversary of the May 18 Democratic Uprising.
Before the lecture began, Min Hee Jin reportedly paid respects at the May 18 National Cemetery in Gwangju. The event drew significant attention, with students and citizens filling not only the venue but also surrounding hallways.
During her speech, Min Hee Jin firmly addressed the historical significance of the May 18 Democratic Uprising.
“It is a historical fact that happened,” she said. “Some people try to interpret it politically in different ways, but citizens should never turn away from this history.”
The former ADOR CEO also reflected on her career path following the launch of NewJeans and the management dispute that eventually led her to establish her independent label, OK Records.
“I started a label because I wanted to make music,” she explained. “If the fundamentals are strong enough, that alone can become an industry. In the end, people who focus on essence and authenticity are the ones who change larger trends.”
She also emphasized the need to protect artists and creators from excessive corporate influence.
“When the power of capital tries to dominate creative work, there needs to be at least a minimum protective barrier for artists,” she stated.
Min Hee Jin additionally commented on ongoing discussions surrounding the possible relocation of Korea National University of Arts to Gwangju, expressing opposition to the proposal.
“Politicians and artists think differently, which is why unrealistic cultural policies sometimes emerge,” she said.
She added: “For example, I oppose suddenly relocating K-Arts to Gwangju. Artificially created culture is often left behind and eventually rejected by the public.”
The lecture quickly became a trending topic online, with many praising Min Hee Jin for speaking openly about both historical memory and structural issues within the entertainment industry.
Sources: Daum | 엑스포츠뉴스
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