South Korea’s National Assembly has proposed a bill aimed at protecting artists and special employees from the plight of workplace harassment.
Dubbed the ‘NewJeans/Hanni act’, this landmark legislation seeks to create a safer and more supportive environment for K-pop idols, entertainers, and other industry professionals.
On November 26, Jeong Hye Kyung of the Progressive Party held a press conference at the National Assembly Communication Center, where she proposed a partial revision of the Labor Standards Act.
She stressed, ‘Regardless of income level, employment status, or contract status, no one deserves to be bullied by a superior or others in the workplace.’
Rep. Jeong emphasized that the current law fails to protect many workers, including NewJeans’ Hanni. This is because the law only prohibits workplace harassment in employer-employee relationships. She further explained that this loophole leaves vulnerable individuals, such as apartment security guards, exposed to abuse and harassment from residents.
The proposed amendment introduces new provisions specifically designed to safeguard labor providers and artists. It establishes obligations for businesses to take action in cases of harassment by third parties, and also includes penalty provisions for perpetrators and employers who fail to take adequate measures to address workplace bullying and third-party harassment.
In October, NewJeans member Hanni testified before the National Assembly’s Environment and Labor Committee, sharing her experiences with workplace bullying at HYBE.
On November 20, the Ministry of Employment and Labor determined that Hanni does not qualify as a “worker” under current laws and, therefore not eligible for protection from workplace harassment.
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