K-Pop Star Hanni Testifies About Workplace Harassment In South Korea

K-Pop Star Hanni Testifies About Workplace Harassment in South Korea

NewJeans Member Accuses Hybe of Undermining Band and Disrespectful Treatment

Hanni’s Tearful Testimony Before National Assembly

Hanni, a member of the popular K-Pop group NewJeans, gave emotional testimony before the Labour Committee of South Korea’s National Assembly. The 20-year-old singer detailed allegations of workplace harassment by her entertainment agency, Hybe, claiming that senior managers deliberately ignored her and undermined the band’s success. Hanni’s testimony highlighted a disturbing culture of disrespect and manipulation within the industry.

“I Was Honestly Convinced That the Company Hated Us” – Hanni

Hanni stated that she felt ostracized and disregarded by Hybe, saying, “I came to the realization that this wasn’t just a feeling. I was honestly convinced that the company hated us.” This feeling was reinforced by several incidents, including being told to be ignored by members of another band and witnessing employees speaking negatively about NewJeans on a company communication app.

Specific Incident: Being Told to Be Ignored by Another Band’s Manager

Hanni described a specific incident where she was told to be ignored by a manager of another band. While waiting for her hair and makeup, she greeted the singers and their manager. However, on their way out, the manager instructed the singers to “ignore her like you didn’t see her.” Hanni explained that this incident, along with others, left her feeling deeply disrespected and undermined within her workplace.

Hybe’s CEO Acknowledges Hanni’s Concerns but Expresses Regret

Kim Joo-young, the current CEO of Ador, NewJeans’ record label, was also called to testify. While she acknowledged the validity of Hanni’s story, she stated that she was unable to find supporting evidence due to expired CCTV footage. She expressed regret that the situation escalated to this point, wondering if there was more she could have done. Kim committed to cooperating with an investigation into the incident by South Korea’s Ministry of Labour.

Impact of the Dispute on NewJeans’ Career

The internal conflict between NewJeans and Hybe has garnered significant attention in South Korea and the wider K-Pop community. The band, known for their hit songs like “Super Shy,” “OMG,” and “Supernatural,” was the eighth biggest-selling act globally last year. Despite the controversy, NewJeans continues to release and perform music, but the situation has cast a shadow on their career. Hanni expressed frustration that the band’s achievements have been overshadowed by the ongoing dispute.

This case highlights the complex issues of workplace harassment and power dynamics within the K-Pop industry. Hanni’s courageous testimony has sparked a conversation about the need for greater transparency and accountability in the music industry. It is important to recognize the vulnerability of artists and the need to create a safer and more respectful work environment for them.

Fonte da Notícia: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwyeredgklko