Min Hee-jin Reiterates Legal Action Amid Tampering Allegations Without Providing Clarification

Min Hee-jin, former CEO of ADOR, has once again highlighted her legal actions instead of addressing the tampering allegations against her. This approach contrasts with her previous response when she issued an official statement to clarify rumors before they became formal accusations.

On November 2, Min Hee-jin's representatives stated, "We have filed a complaint with the Yongsan Police Station against former HYBE CEO Park Ji-won and HYBE's Chief Communications Officer Park Tae-hee for violating the Act on Promotion of Information and Communications Network Utilization and Information Protection (infringement of information and communications network). Additionally, Dispatch reporters Kim and Park have been accused of defamation under the same act."

Min Hee-jin's side claimed, "Since April, the accused Park Ji-won and Park Tae-hee have actively used illegally obtained private conversations, adding false information to create negative public opinion against former CEO Min." Regarding the two Dispatch reporters, they stated, "Despite being fully aware of the intentions, they continuously published false articles to defame Min Hee-jin. Today, they wrote another article that is completely untrue, adding their speculations to one-sided claims without any fact-checking."

They further expressed, "We hope that this lawsuit will lead to a thorough investigation, revealing the serious lies and deceit of the accused, and that they will face corresponding legal consequences."

However, industry insiders criticize Min Hee-jin for not properly refuting or clarifying the allegations, instead focusing on reiterating the lawsuit. This is particularly notable as she had previously addressed rumors about investment and tampering allegations in early November, even before they were officially raised.

At that time, Min Hee-jin stated, "Recently, there have been baseless rumors about me, and I feel compelled to clarify my position. I heard through journalist tips that rumors were spreading in the investment community that I had agreed to receive investment or enter into a contract with someone." She firmly denied these claims, stating, "I have heard that specific company names are being mentioned, but I assure you that none of it is true. I have not been in contact or discussions with any such entities."

Earlier that day, Dispatch published an article alleging that Min Hee-jin orchestrated events behind the scenes, such as NewJeans' live broadcasts and Hani's National Assembly appearance, to facilitate her return as ADOR's CEO. They also formally raised tampering allegations, presenting photos and conversation records suggesting Min Hee-jin discussed investment with Company D.

Despite the detailed nature of these reports, Min Hee-jin has not provided any clarification, only reiterating her legal actions. Given that tampering has been a central issue in the ongoing conflict between HYBE and Min Hee-jin since April, there are calls for a proper explanation and rebuttal.

Choi Ji-ye, TenAsia Reporter wisdomart@tenasia.co.kr