NewJeans popularity debate
NewJeans popularity debate

On November 13, Yoon Il Sang shared a new video mentioning Bang Si Hyuk and NewJeans on his YouTube channel. In the video, he expressed frustration over how the public has intertwined Bang Si Hyuk’s legal scandal with NewJeans’ contract dispute with Ador.

“Why are people bringing up Bang Si Hyuk’s case when discussing NewJeans? These are separate issues. What I said was about NewJeans—they are the core of this matter. If Bang Si Hyuk has done something wrong, he’ll face the consequences. But that has nothing to do with NewJeans. Why mix the two?” he emphasized.

He continued, “I still want NewJeans to succeed. Their youth brings a freshness in voice and performance that only exists at this stage in life. It’s heartbreaking to see that precious time being wasted because of adults. Why is Bang Si Hyuk being dragged into this?”

Previously, Yoon had commented on NewJeans’ declaration to leave Ador, saying, “Let me say just one thing: contracts are not a joke,” which sparked backlash from some fans demanding to know why he hadn’t criticized Bang Si Hyuk.

This latest statement appears to clarify Yoon’s stance: focus on each issue separately.

Meanwhile, Bang Si Hyuk is facing legal scrutiny for allegedly misleading investors in 2019 by claiming HYBE had no IPO plans. It’s alleged that he secretly profited approximately ₩190 billion by selling shares to an SPC created by a private fund involving HYBE executives.

As for NewJeans, the group recently lost the first trial in their legal battle with Ador over exclusive contracts. On November 12, Ador confirmed the return of members Haerin and Hyein, stating they had made the decision after careful discussions with family and in respect of the court’s decision.

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Two and a half hours later, remaining members Minji, Hanni, and Danielle released a separate statement through their legal representatives announcing their return to Ador, citing delayed communication due to one member being in Antarctica and no reply from the company. Ador responded briefly, saying it is “verifying the sincerity” of the trio’s statement.

Now, the decision lies with Ador. Winning the lawsuit means the contracts are legally valid—but it doesn’t obligate Ador to accept all members back. Whether NewJeans can return as a full five-member group remains uncertain, drawing intense attention from fans and industry insiders alike.

Sources: nate