Min Hee-jin, former HYBE CBO and creative director of NewJeans, is facing a lawsuit filed by Source Music over comments she made referring to the agency as “bullies” during disputes surrounding the group’s casting and management.
The controversy began in April of last year when Min Hee-jin criticized Source Music for demanding compensation related to NewJeans’ transfer. She allegedly said, “Isn’t this too bully-like?” sparking tensions between the two sides.
Source Music, however, argued that her remarks damaged the agency’s image and credibility, claiming that labeling the company as “bullies” constituted defamation. The agency has presented the statements Min Hee-jin made during a press conference as part of the evidence in the ongoing civil lawsuit at the Seoul Western District Court, 12th Civil Division.
Key Disputes Highlighted in the Case
Casting of NewJeans Members
- Min Hee-jin claimed she cast and branded the NewJeans members.
- Source Music countered that she was not directly involved in selecting the members or signing contracts. For example:
- Minji was cast before Min Hee-jin joined HYBE.
- Haerin was scouted by Source Music staff in Anyang.
- Hyein’s parents were convinced directly by Source Music’s CEO.
- Danielle was a trainee from another company who joined via a transfer.
- Hanni was selected through a HYBE-Source Music joint audition, where Min Hee-jin was not part of the judging panel.
Promise of HYBE’s First Girl Group Debut
- Min Hee-jin claimed that the trainees joined under the expectation of debuting as HYBE’s first girl group.
- Source Music argued no such guarantee was made, citing contract discussions and communications with trainees’ families.
Alleged Neglect of Trainees
- Min Hee-jin claimed Source Music neglected the trainees.
- Source Music stated that they actively supported the members, providing opportunities such as BTS music video appearances shortly before the transfer.
Accusation of ‘Selling Trainees’
- Min Hee-jin criticized Source Music for allegedly profiting from the members’ transfer, calling the practice “bully-like.”
Source Music contended that her statements disrupted the company’s operations and harmed staff, trainees, and artists, and highlighted inconsistencies in her claims given that she herself had sued netizens for using the same term against her.
Min Hee-jin’s Defense
Min Hee-jin insisted there’s a difference between saying “Are you bullies?” and “You are bullies.” She claimed her phrasing summarized a situation rather than personally attacking the agency’s character, referring to it as a case of nae-ro-nam-yang (applying a double standard depending on speaker vs. target).
The next hearing in the civil damages lawsuit is scheduled for December 19. Source Music continues to assert that Min Hee-jin’s remarks misrepresented facts, particularly regarding her involvement in member selection, branding, and debut promises, which she allegedly exaggerated to position herself as the key figure behind NewJeans’ success.
This case sheds light on ongoing tensions in the K-pop industry over intellectual property, trainee management, and public statements, highlighting the high stakes and complex relationships between creative directors and entertainment agencies.
Sources: Daum
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