K-pop Sensation Hyein Grapples with Confusion and Frustration

March 22, 2025 – K-pop sensation Hyein, a member of the chart-topping group NJZ (NewJeans), finds herself grappling with confusion and frustration. The whirlwind of 2024 saw NJZ go from being one of the most successful acts in the industry to embroiled in a contentious legal battle with their former label, ADOR, a subsidiary of HYBE.

In a revealing interview with TIME, 16-year-old Hyein shared her struggle: "Some people would conveniently switch their perspective, treating me as a kid when it suited them and then expecting me to act like an adult when it was more convenient for them." This sentiment reflects a pervasive issue within the entertainment industry, where young stars often find their voices marginalized.

Termination of Contract and Accusations of Unfair Treatment

In November 2024, Hyein, along with her bandmates Minji, Danielle, Haerin, and Hanni, made a bold move by terminating their contract with ADOR. They claimed unfair treatment and workplace harassment, accusations that ADOR has vehemently denied. The fallout was immense, potentially costing HYBE nearly half a billion dollars in market value.

Comeback and Creative Independence

Fast forward to February 2025, NJZ announced an exciting comeback under a new name, intensifying their push for creative independence. With a performance slated for March 23 at the high-profile ComplexCon in Hong Kong, Haerin expressed the group’s newfound freedom: "We now have greater creative freedom."

Legal Struggle and Ongoing Fight

However, the conflict escalated when ADOR sought an injunction in January to prevent NJZ from releasing music or performing without the label’s involvement. The court ruled in favor of ADOR, yet NJZ remains undeterred and is prepared to fight back. "We were disappointed, but this is just another step in our journey," the group explained in an exclusive statement. "This might just be the current reality in Korea, but it reinforces our belief that change and growth are necessary."

Cultural Challenges in the K-pop Industry

This legal struggle sheds light on the troubling issues plaguing the K-pop industry, which is notorious for its intense working conditions and the objectification of idols as mere products. Hanni took the fight to the National Assembly, testifying about the harassment she and her members faced while at HYBE, highlighting a culture that often stifles creativity and agency.

Upcoming Court Hearing and Future Prospects

A pivotal court hearing is set for April 3 to determine the legitimacy of NJZ’s contract with ADOR. If they lose, they could face staggering penalties of up to 620 billion KRW (approximately $423.6 million). However, amidst the uncertainty, the group remains hopeful and excited about their music: "We want it to be like, BAM!, just in that moment," Danielle declared. "Whether it changes the K-pop industry or not, we are really proud of ourselves," Hanni added, exhibiting a harmonious blend of ambition and resilience.

Stay tuned as NJZ continues to navigate this tumultuous path—will they redefine K-pop, or will the industry’s challenges prove to be too great?