Min Hee Jin has offered to give up her court-awarded 25.6 billion won (about $17.9 million) if it means ending all lawsuits and protecting NewJeans. At the same time, HYBE has deposited 29.25 billion won (around $20.5 million) with the Seoul Central District Court. The money remains in limbo until the appeal is decided.
The conflict centers on a put option, or stock purchase right, related to Min’s former stake in ADOR. In the first trial, the court ruled in her favor, ordering HYBE to pay approximately 25.5 billion won. HYBE appealed the decision on February 19 and requested a suspension of the provisional execution.
On February 23, the court granted the stay and halted payment until the appellate court issues a ruling.
Provisional execution allows the winning party to enforce a judgment before it becomes final. Courts usually require the losing party to deposit cash or provide surety as collateral to prevent immediate payment. HYBE’s deposit of 29.25 billion won covers this requirement and stops any immediate transfer to Min Hee Jin.
On February 25, the former ADOR CEO held a brief press conference in Jongno-gu, Seoul, proposing a peace deal with HYBE. She offered to walk away from her 25.6 billion won court payout in exchange for an end to all ongoing civil and criminal lawsuits. This includes disputes involving NewJeans members, former ADOR employees, partner companies, and even the fandom affected by the litigation.
Min Hee Jin said she “can no longer endure” the members facing court pressures while trying to perform and create music.
One of the most sensitive issues involves NewJeans member Danielle Marsh, who faces a 43 billion won ($30 million) damages lawsuit from ADOR. This stems from her decision to leave the agency after Min Hee Jin’s dismissal as CEO. ADOR held her responsible for the prolonged dispute and delayed return of NewJeans members to the label.
Several outcomes are possible: HYBE could accept the proposal, reject it, negotiate a partial settlement, or continue the appeal and litigation.
Min Hee Jin concluded her statement with a direct message to HYBE Chairman Bang Si Hyuk. She prefers to meet him “not in the courtroom, but in the space of creation.”
