As tensions continue between ADOR/HYBE and NewJeans/Min Hee Jin, YouTube reporter Lee Jin Ho has added new fuel to the fire by revealing private messages that allegedly expose Min Hee Jin's media strategy to sway public opinion in favor of NewJeans.
On June 5, following the court's recommendation for both sides to settle, Lee Jin Ho live-streamed an analysis of the ongoing legal battle between HYBE and its subsidiary ADOR.
During the broadcast, he presented alleged KakaoTalk messages from Min Hee Jin that appear to outline a calculated plan to manipulate public sentiment and apply pressure on HYBE.
According to Lee Jin Ho, the KakaoTalk messages were submitted as evidence in court. The conversation includes remarks that suggest Min Hee Jin was preparing to use the media as a tool in her strategy.
In the messages, Min Hee Jin allegedly speaks with former ADOR vice representative Lee about investments and using the media.
Lee wrote:
"Hee Jin, today I had a casual conversation with an acquaintance, and we discussed where we might find an investor capable of investing on the scale of trillions of won (billions of USD).
I added that, in the capital market, it's not unheard of for a minority shareholder to break through the control of a major shareholder and establish themselves as the actual owner of a company. What matters most is our plan, our information, and our ability to execute."
"The idea is to strike a deal with HYBE.
We’d offer them our previously invested shares in exchange for ADOR shares.
From HYBE’s perspective, it would also be a win-win: instead of letting ADOR become an empty shell over time, they can sell it for a fair price before that happens."
Min Hee Jin wrote:
"In the end, we have to use the media. We need to prepare how to distance ourselves when HYBE gets dragged down altogether."
"Do you think they’ll give up NewJeans for 800 billion KRW (~590.3 million USD)? It’s only possible if there’s strong leverage, like a dirty secret or a bizarre condition that forces them to negotiate."
"Tarnish the reputation of ILLIT or HYBE. Make it public to the outside world. That way, we can accelerate the decision on whether ADOR will be sold or not. If the conversation only happens quietly inside, we’ll end up being sold. We won’t be able to take the lead."
In the conversations, the two figures frequently discussed how to utilize the media. Lee also suggested that Min Hee Jin’s side arrange meetings with selected media outlets to release favorable coverage, aiming to shape the narrative surrounding NewJeans and portray HYBE in a negative light.
Meanwhile, on June 4, the court suggested NewJeans and ADOR settle. However, the group firmly rejected the idea, stating through their legal team, "The relationship of trust has been completely shattered. We have crossed a river and can no longer return."
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