In brief
K-pop fans were left wanting more as Hanni from NewJeans provided few revelations about workplace bullying in her recent testimony at the South Korean Parliament hearing.
K-pop fans eagerly anticipated Hanni of NewJeans testifying before South Korea's National Assembly regarding bullying within the industry. Yet, her appearance fell flat as she offered little new information. The hearing spotlighted a previous incident involving a Hybe employee who advised others to overlook Hanni, whose real name is Pham Ngoc Han. Despite expectations, Hanni reiterated what was already known, stating she experienced disrespect and insensitivity from company leaders. The absence of concrete evidence meant unresolved claims against Hybe, her label embroiled in a public dispute with NewJeans. Kim Ju-young, Ador's CEO under Hybe, supported this, citing conflicting reports. The parliamentary committee, examining the entertainment industry's labor conditions, acknowledged the need for improved performer protections—common issues in the K-pop world, notorious for strict regimes. The Hybe-NewJeans controversy stems from the dismissal of Min Hee-Jin, replaced by Kim Ju-young as Ador's chief. Despite tensions and threats to leave, NewJeans remains with Hybe without resolutions forthcoming.
