"Leave HYBE": International Petition Calls for Min Heejin's Resignation

An international petition has emerged demanding the resignation of Min Heejin, CEO of ADOR, who has been engaged in a management dispute with HYBE, the major entertainment group to which BTS belongs.

On May 27, an international petition titled "MIN HEE JIN Leave HYBE Company" was posted on the petition site 'Change.' The author of the petition, identified as A, began by stating, "I am writing this to inform you of serious issues that are affecting the well-being and morale of various members within the HYBE group."

International Petition Urging Min Heejin, CEO of ADOR, to Resign from HYBE
[Image Source: Screenshot from International Petition Site 'Change']

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The author continued, "Recently, a certain individual (referring to CEO Min) has been spreading misinformation and leading harassment campaigns against groups such as BTS, ILLIT, and LE SSERAFIM." The author further claimed, "(Min) is attempting to bring down HYBE and terminate NewJeans' contract in order to diminish their value." A went on to write, "It is important to resolve this issue swiftly to ensure all groups are guaranteed a safe and respectful environment," and added, "I hope for a thorough investigation and appropriate action to prevent the spread of misinformation."

CEO Min Heejin of ADOR's KakaoTalk conversation with a shaman translated into English [Image source='Change' screenshot]

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In addition, A uploaded English translations of KakaoTalk messages exchanged between CEO Min and a shaman. Given that A's ID is 'ARMY FOREVER,' it is presumed that A is a fan of BTS. As of the afternoon of June 6, more than 32,000 people had signed the petition.

Previously, on May 22, HYBE launched an audit of ADOR's management, including CEO Min, citing an attempted usurpation of management rights, and subsequently filed a complaint against Min for breach of trust. In response, Min strongly refuted the allegations, claiming her dismissal was retaliatory for raising issues of plagiarism involving NewJeans. On May 31, HYBE convened an extraordinary shareholders' meeting in an attempt to dismiss Min, but the effort failed after the court granted an injunction prohibiting the exercise of voting rights. However, two of Min's close associates on the board were dismissed at the shareholders' meeting, and three executives recommended by HYBE-Kim Jooyoung (CHRO), Lee Jaesang (CSO), and Lee Kyungjun (CFO)-were appointed as new internal directors.

On the same day, CEO Min held an emergency press conference and expressed a willingness to reconcile with HYBE, saying, "I hope a good decision will be made for the children (NewJeans), who are like my own." She added, "Now, for the greater good and practical benefits, shouldn't everyone move forward in a positive direction? The organization should work together for the business vision, and I believe constructive and healthy discussion and compromise are necessary for this. HYBE should set aside emotional issues and reconsider the next chapter for the benefit of all."

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