The NewJeans and HYBE controversy involving former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin has just hit a whole new level of messy. On January 28, 2026, Min’s legal team held a press conference in Seoul that turned the entire “tampering” narrative on its head. They didn’t just deny the claims—they launched a massive counter-offensive.
Min Hee-jin was a no-show at the event. Her lawyers explained she is in a state of “extreme emotional shock” after NewJeans’ families were dragged into the legal crossfire. Instead of Min, her attorneys took the mic to pivot the defense toward a wild new claim: the tampering accusations were actually a smokescreen for a large-scale stock manipulation scheme.
This isn’t just a contract dispute anymore. After months of HYBE-led audits, Min’s side is now framing the entire controversy as a “massive fraud against the public” designed to artificially pump HYBE’s share prices. It’s a bold move that changes the stakes for everyone involved.
The “Uncle Lee” Connection and Stock Claims
So, what’s the core of this counter-claim? Min’s team pointed the finger at two specific people: a businessman and a man surnamed Lee, who happens to be the paternal uncle of a NewJeans member. According to the defense, these “outsiders” were the ones who originally suggested NewJeans leave ADOR—not Min.
Her lawyers presented evidence suggesting this influence was used to orchestrate what they call a “nationwide scam.” They argue that the narrative of Min poaching the members was weaponized to manipulate the market while making her the ultimate scapegoat for the group’s internal drama.
“The tampering allegations against Min Hee-jin have no substance. This was an attempt at price manipulation carried out by the family of a member and a particular company.” — Attorney Kim Sun-woong
Bringing Families Into the Legal Crossfire
In a move that has shocked the fandom, Min’s team officially identified a member’s relative as a key player in the alleged poaching scheme. But they didn’t stop there. They claimed that HYBE and ADOR might have known about this relative’s actions all along. The allegation? The labels used this info as “leverage” against Min instead of protecting their artists.
This is where things get truly sensitive. Dragging family members into the spotlight is a nightmare for group morale. Netizens are already sounding off about the “breakdown of trust” within the label, worrying that the members’ personal lives are now just collateral damage in a corporate power struggle.
Quick Facts: The $30 Million Lawsuit
The financial stakes are staggering. Here is where the legal battle stands right now:
- Total Damages: ADOR is chasing approximately ₩43.5 billion (roughly $30 million).
- The Targets: The lawsuits specifically name Min Hee-jin, NewJeans member Danielle, and certain family members.
- The Charge: Leading the termination of exclusive contracts and “tampering” with the group.
- Member Status: Hanni, Haerin, and Hyein are reportedly back with ADOR. However, Danielle’s contract remains the main point of friction.
ADOR’s Response: “See You in Court”
ADOR didn’t wait long to respond, but they kept it brief. Moving away from the public mudslinging, the agency made it clear they want to settle this through the judicial system, not the media.
The company refused to entertain the stock manipulation talk in public. They say their focus is strictly on the financial damage caused by the disruption of NewJeans’ activities. “If Min has any claims to make, she should present them through the court system,” an ADOR representative stated flatly.
Receipts and Fatigue: The Fan Reaction
Over on platforms like Twitter, fans are busy dissecting every transcript and voice memo leaked from the press conference. The “receipts” regarding Min’s chats with the businessman are being analyzed frame-by-frame.
But while some “Bunnies” are still riding for Min’s creative vision, a huge wave of fatigue is setting in. Many fans are expressing genuine heartbreak. What started as a fight over creative control has devolved into a mess of financial crimes and family scandals. It’s a lot to process.
What’s Next for NewJeans?
All eyes are on the upcoming 2026 court hearings. These will decide if the contract terminations were valid or not. Plus, there’s a real chance Korean financial authorities might launch a formal probe into those stock manipulation claims.
For now, NewJeans is in limbo. With a $30 million lawsuit over their heads, nobody knows when we’ll see a comeback or even a regular promotion schedule. It’s a waiting game that no one is enjoying.
Legal Disclaimer: This article covers ongoing legal proceedings and allegations; all parties are presumed innocent until proven otherwise in a court of law.
