Jason Jaesang Lee was recently appointed as the new CEO of HYBE, replacing Jiwon Park. However, his tenure seems to have started on a difficult note due to rising tensions between the company and its artists.
Lee addressed HYBE’s popular girl group NewJeans’ recent demands during his first shareholders meeting. Last week, the group made a surprise request that HYBE reinstate Min Hee-jin as CEO of their label ADOR by September 25th. They believe music production and management work best under Min.
HYBE removed Min as ADOR’s CEO last month amid an ongoing conflict. Min allegedly tried to take control of ADOR from HYBE, who owns 80%. In response, HYBE restructured ADOR and offered Min a producer role instead, which she declined.
According to Lee, HYBE will respond to NewJeans’ request in a “calm and regulated manner”. However, it may take time to resolve. He reiterated HYBE’s commitment to precision management and legal compliance.
This clash puts HYBE’s most profitable new group at risk. NewJeans have threatened further action if unsatisfied, sparking speculation they may sever contracts. Lawyers note the deadline suggests preparing legal documents.
If NewJeans parts with ADOR, the label loses its sole artist after generating $83 million last year. With HYBE stocks also down, Lee faces the challenging task of pacifying artists while protecting the company’s interests during this early crisis.
