Former Ador CEO Min Hee-jin smiled during her court appearance. Members of NewJeans, a group under Ador, also smiled at reporters before their legal battle with the agency. Unfortunately, due to the court's ruling of 'suspension of activities', we can no longer see their smiles, but Min appears to be somewhat different.
Min appeared as a witness at the hearing for the confirmation of contract termination and the claim for put option payment against HYBE at the Seoul Central District Court on the 11th. This was the first meeting between the two sides since the conflict with HYBE last April, drawing significant attention.
Before the trial began, numerous reporters gathered outside the court, and a large taxi carrying Min was parked in front of them. Typically, individuals involved in cases arrive at court or police stations in vans. However, Min appeared in a large taxi accompanied by her lawyer.
Unlike during the press conference, Min presented herself in a neat outfit and showed a faint smile in response to the barrage of camera flashes from reporters. Despite the somewhat serious nature of the occasion, she maintained a relaxed demeanor in front of the press. During the press conference last April, she also actively communicated with reporters after all schedules were completed, showing no signs of avoidance.
Could her actions stem from a sense of ease in facing the situation? It seems not entirely so. During this hearing, Min raised her voice regarding HYBE's stance and strongly expressed her views. She exhibited somewhat heated behavior, criticizing the other party and responding with pointed remarks. The smile she showed in front of reporters appears to be more of a brief reflection on the attention directed at her rather than an artificial smile. Perhaps it is confidence rooted in authenticity and sincerity.
During the lengthy questioning, which lasted over three hours, Min demonstrated her determination to speak until the end, engaging in a fierce debate over the truth. However, the court declared a recess and decided to call her again for a personal hearing on November 27.
Previously, members of NewJeans appeared at a hearing in March regarding Ador's request for a provisional injunction to maintain the status of the agency and prohibit the signing of advertising contracts, smiling and conveying their stance to reporters. At that time, most reactions suggested that the court would side with the members, but that judgment was completely off the mark.
Min's position during this trial remained consistent. She rebutted HYBE's claims of 'management rights theft' by emphasizing 'plagiarism' and 'push-out'. What she wants to convey is to look into the causes rather than the result of the 'theft allegations'. While HYBE maintains a firm stance, it remains to be seen whether Min can continue to smile until the end.
