Newjeans Minji’s Cryptic Message Sparks Controversy – What’s Happening in K-pop Group?

Minji, a member of the popular K-pop group NewJeans, shared a cryptic message with fans, sparking speculation among the group's loyal followers.  On September 25th (KST), Minji communicated with fans via the fan platform Phoning. In her message, she wrote, "It seems like a night full of thoughts. I also always feel energized by watching Bunnies (NewJeans' official fan club). Always take care of yourself and fill your mind with only good thoughts. Byeee.” The message, though comforting, came across as vague and left fans wondering if there was more behind her words.

This message was shared on September 25th, shortly after NewJeans made headlines earlier in the month for addressing an internal issue regarding ADOR’s management. The tension began with an emergency live broadcast on NewJeans' official YouTube channel on September 11th.

NewJeans’ Call for Action

The cryptic message comes in the wake of a significant dispute within NewJeans' management. On September 11th, the NewJeans members took the bold step of addressing their concerns directly to fans during a YouTube live stream. The members expressed their dissatisfaction with ADOR's current management under HYBE and demanded the return of former CEO Min Heejin. Min Heejin was previously both the CEO and the producer of ADOR, and the members of NewJeans felt that her absence had negatively impacted the group.

During the live broadcast, the NewJeans members stated, “What we want is the original ADOR, where CEO Min Heejin integrates management and producing.” They added that they believed this was the best way to avoid further conflict with HYBE, the parent company.

The decision to hold the live broadcast was made independently by the NewJeans members, without consulting ADOR. Their message was clear—they wanted ADOR to return to its former structure, with Min Heejin at the helm of both management and production. The group gave HYBE until September 25th to respond to their demands.

Fan Speculation Around Minji’s Message

With the 25th passing and Minji’s cryptic message shared with fans, speculation has increased. Many fans believe that Minji’s thoughtful message might be hinting at her true feelings regarding the ongoing situation with ADOR and HYBE. The absence of an official statement from HYBE as of the afternoon of September 25th has left fans in a state of uncertainty.

HYBE’s Response and Future Steps

Previously, during a shareholder meeting on September 12th, HYBE’s CEO Lee Jae Sang acknowledged the internal dispute, stating, “Though it will take time, we are calmly responding in accordance with our principles. HYBE is a company that adheres to its principles and pursues ethical management, and there will be no change to this stance.” As of now, HYBE has not issued an official response to NewJeans' specific demands, and it remains unclear how the situation will unfold.