In a dramatic turn of events, the legal battle between Kpop giant HYBE and ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin has kicked off with explosive allegations and intense courtroom drama. The first day of the injunction hearing at Seoul’s Central District Court unveiled a series of shocking claims and counter-accusations, painting a picture of deep-seated conflict within the industry.

HYBE, formerly known as Big Hit Entertainment, fired the first shots, alleging that Min Hee Jin had engaged in gaslighting tactics against the members of the Kpop group NewJeans. They claimed that her maternal image was a façade, and behind the scenes, she had expressed disdain for the members, labelling them as mentally weak and unworthy of being treated as artists. HYBE further accused her of manipulating the members and expecting them to be submissive to her authority. However, HYBE's claims were met with scepticism as they failed to provide concrete evidence, with their alleged text messages being rejected by ADOR.

The accusations took a bizarre turn when HYBE accused Min Hee Jin of relying excessively on a shaman for decision-making. They suggested that the group's delayed debut was not due to any promise by HYBE's founder, Bang Si Hyuk, but because Min Hee Jin consulted with a shaman and chose a later debut date. ADOR swiftly dismissed these claims as unfounded, highlighting the lack of proof provided by HYBE to substantiate their allegations.

During the proceedings, the judge intervened, cautioning HYBE to stick to legal facts. HYBE's lawyers were unable to provide substantial evidence for their claims regarding the shareholder agreement and voting rights, citing a lack of legal precedent.

Further adding to the complexity of the case, HYBE alleged that Min Hee Jin had met with outside investors to plan a takeover of HYBE and had also sought the right to terminate NewJeans' exclusive contract with ADOR.

The conflict escalated over accusations of album sales manipulation. Min Hee Jin's refusal to participate in HYBE's alleged suggestion to bulk buy NewJeans' albums reportedly sparked conflict. She criticized HYBE for failing to take social responsibility, accusing the company of engaging in immoral actions that were detrimental to NewJeans.

The trial also shed light on allegations of plagiarism, with foreign producers working with ADOR reportedly in discussions with HYBE to compensate for plagiarism committed by two groups, LE SSERAFIM and ILLIT.

Additionally, HYBE was accused of sabotaging NewJeans' sponsorship with a luxury brand and showing favouritism towards other artists over NewJeans. ADOR highlighted instances such as ILLIT's upcoming appearance on JTBC's Knowing Bros coinciding with NewJeans' album release.

Amidst the legal battle, the members of NewJeans expressed their support for Min Hee Jin, stating their desire to remain under her leadership and expressing concern over HYBE's planned long hiatus.

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As the trial unfolds, it is clear that the clash between HYBE and Min Hee Jin is far from over, with both sides fiercely defending their positions. The outcome of this high-profile case could have far-reaching implications for the Kpop industry. With the ongoing developments, it is difficult to say which party is at fault and what lies ahead for the artist NewJeans and BTS' label HYBE. 

Also Read: All About Min Hee Jin: From SM Entertainment’s Creative Director To ADOR CEO; Know About The Mind Behind NewJeans, Connection With BTS V And More