Former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin (민희진) is making headlines again for a shocking move against HYBE. After winning the lawsuit against the K-pop entertainment giant, the founder of OOAK recently presented an offer in exchange for the money she won from the trial.
On 25th February 2026 (Wednesday), Min Hee Jin held a press conference to address her plans after winning her lawsuit against HYBE. Earlier this month, the Seoul Central District Court ruled in favour of the creative director in the lawsuit regarding the shareholder agreement and put option. As a result, HYBE must pay KRW25.5 billion (approximately RM69.5 million) to Min Hee Jin.
However, during her press conference, Min Hee Jin made a shocking proposal in exchange for the payout. According to the former ADOR CEO, she’s willing to exchange the KRW25.5 billion for HYBE to halt all its ongoing civil and criminal lawsuits involving the NewJeans (뉴진스) members. She also requested that the company drop its lawsuits and accusations against outsourcing partners and former ADOR employees.
It’s worth noting that Min Hee Jin is currently preparing to debut a new boy group under her new OOAK agency. Since debuting a group typically requires billions of won, many were surprised that the media personality would forgo the payout, as she could invest it in her new group. However, Min Hee Jin explained that she proposed the exchange for the benefit of the NewJeans members, hoping that they could continue their activities in peace.
HYBE has since responded to Min Hee Jin’s proposal, simply commenting, “We have no position in this matter.” The entertainment agency also recently appealed its case regarding the shareholder agreement and the put option. At the same time, the company’s subsidiary ADOR also previously filed a lawsuit against former NewJeans member Danielle (다니엘) for breach of contract and damages.
Netizens have shown mixed reactions to the news, with some praising Min Hee Jin and others wondering if it’s a PR move amid the recent controversy. Regardless, we hope all parties involved can settle their respective lawsuits and disagreements amicably.
Sources: Chosun, Soompi, Ilgan Sports
