On the 22nd, HYBE, the comprehensive entertainment company behind popular South Korean groups such as BTS, launched an audit of the management of its subsidiary label ADOR, known as the agency for the girl group NewJeans. It appears HYBE suspects that ADOR's management took actions to seize control of the company.

According to industry sources, HYBE's audit team entered the work area of ADOR's management on the 22nd to begin collecting computer-related assets and conducting in-person interviews. A HYBE official stated, "It is true that an audit has been initiated against ADOR's management due to suspected moves to secure management rights over ADOR."

ADOR is led by Min Hee-jin, a star producer who previously worked at major entertainment agency SM Entertainment, where she handled concept development and branding for idol groups such as Girls' Generation, SHINee, and EXO. She moved to HYBE and established ADOR in 2021. She also handled the branding and design for HYBE's new headquarters. HYBE holds 80% of ADOR's shares, with the remaining held by Min and other members of ADOR's management.

HYBE plans to analyze the materials secured from ADOR and take legal action if necessary.

NewJeans, which debuted in 2022 under Min's leadership, has jumped to the center of K-POP by releasing a string of hits. Their unique music and sensibility are said to have brought a fresh breeze to the music industry. They have not only swept domestic music awards but also reached No. 1 on the main U.S. Billboard album chart.

In recognition of these achievements, Min has received awards such as the Seoul City Culture Award, the Golden Disc Awards Best Producer Award, and the Billboard Women in Music Award.

Meanwhile, NewJeans is scheduled to release new music in May.

These are English translations of articles from our GTTOUR Japanese website.