Min Hee-jin Offers Forfeiture in HYBE Dispute, Launches New Agency
Seoul, South Korea – February 25, 2026 – Min Hee-jin, the former CEO of ADOR and the driving force behind the K-pop group NewJeans, has offered to relinquish 25.6 billion won (approximately $17.7 million USD) if HYBE Corporation drops all lawsuits against her, according to a live press conference held today. This dramatic move comes amidst a protracted legal battle and public dispute over control of ADOR and the future of NewJeans.
Background: The HYBE-ADOR Conflict
The conflict between Min and HYBE escalated in April 2024 when HYBE initiated an internal audit and accused Min of attempting to seize control of ADOR. This led to a series of legal challenges and public statements, centering on allegations of mismanagement and breaches of trust.
Press Conference Details and Forfeiture Offer
During the press conference, Min Hee-jin presented a proposal to forgo her compensation – totaling 25.6 billion won – if HYBE agrees to cease all legal proceedings. She reportedly addressed concerns raised by HYBE and outlined her vision for the future of the K-pop industry.
New Agency: ooak Records
Simultaneously, Min Hee-jin announced the launch of her new entertainment agency, ooak records. The agency is currently accepting submissions from potential trainees, signaling her intent to continue shaping the K-pop landscape.
Previous Legal Victory
Prior to today’s announcement, Min Hee-jin secured a partial legal victory against HYBE on February 12, 2026, winning an $18 million court battle.
Min Hee-jin’s Career
Min Hee-jin is a highly respected figure in the K-pop industry, known for her perform as a music producer, art director and graphic designer. She previously served as a creative director at SM Entertainment, where she oversaw the branding of prominent groups including Girls’ Generation, Shinee, f(x), Exo, and Red Velvet. She later became the CEO of ADOR, a subsidiary of HYBE Corporation, and was the executive producer of NewJeans.
Allegations and Contract Details
Recent reports suggest Min Hee-jin allegedly wrote the script for NewJeans’ November 28, 2024, contract termination press conference and directed it behind the scenes. She is also accused of arranging meetings between NewJeans members and Kazumichi Goh, a Japanese motorsports figure, potentially seeking investment. Contract details for NewJeans’ appearance at ComplexCon Hong Kong included a $350,000 performance fee and a $500,000 consulting fee.
The situation remains fluid, and the outcome of HYBE’s response to Min Hee-jin’s offer will determine the next chapter in this high-profile K-pop saga.