Hani, a member of the group NewJeans, is reported to have received a visa reissuance.
On the 12th, Hankyoreh reported, "Hani has recently obtained a legal stay visa through an administrative agent." The media outlet quoted a representative from Hani's side, stating, "Despite having received the visa through the established administrative procedures, numerous false reports have emerged due to personal information leaks that can only be known by the individual or their workplace."
Previously, on the 11th, a media outlet reported that Hani refused to sign documents prepared by Ador for her visa extension. In response, Ador stated, "We cannot confirm."
As a result, there were mentions of Hani being an 'illegal resident.' On the 12th, at a full meeting of the Legislative and Judiciary Committee held in the National Assembly, Democratic Party lawmaker Park Ji-won said to Acting Minister of Justice Kim Seok-woo, "You know NewJeans, right? The famous idol member Hani is about to be kicked out for being an illegal resident." In response, the acting minister acknowledged the situation and said, "It is under review by the practical team."
In this context, it has not been confirmed whether the visa Hani received is an 'E-6' (Entertainment) visa. Some speculate that the visa Hani received is a 'G-1-3' (for foreigners involved in legal disputes in South Korea). If a 'G-1-3' visa is issued, she can stay while the trial is ongoing, and the possibility of extension will be determined after the verdict.
For a foreigner to work as an entertainer in South Korea, they must have an agency, which must renew the 'E-6' visa annually. According to the Immigration Control Act, the visa becomes void if the exclusive contract with the agency is terminated. Industry experts believe it is practically difficult for Hani to obtain an 'E-6' visa without an agency after leaving Ador.
In this regard, Maeil Business Star Today attempted to contact the legal representatives of Hani and the other members but could not reach them.
The members of NewJeans declared the termination of their exclusive contract with their agency Ador last November and have been pursuing independent activities. At that time, the members explained the reason for the contract termination, stating, "Ador has neither the will nor the ability to protect NewJeans." On the other hand, Ador claims that the exclusive contract with NewJeans is still valid and has filed a lawsuit to confirm the validity of the contract.
While the members are participating in various events, they are using their individual names instead of the original team name 'NewJeans' and recently revealed a new team name 'NJZ.'
[Ji Seung-hoon, Star Today Reporter]
