New agency Okay established as NewJeans contract dispute heads to verdict

With the main contract lawsuit between NewJeans and their agency Adore looming toward a verdict on the 30th, Min Hee-jin, the former CEO of Adore, is said to have established a new talent agency, drawing attention. Min Hee-jin established the new agency Okay on the 16th and completed its corporate registration. Min Hee-jin has been listed as an executive director. Okay’s business purpose includes agency management for entertainers, production and distribution of music and records, planning and production of performances and events, brand management, production of broadcasting programs, development of mobile platforms and content, as well as sales of clothing, beverages and daily necessities, publishing, travel-related services, and other areas. Since leaving Adore, Min Hee-jin had not publicly pursued activities beyond continuing the lawsuit with HYBE; the formation of the new corporation is seen as meaningful. The first-instance verdict on Adore’s lawsuit seeking confirmation of the validity of the exclusive contracts with the five NewJeans members is due to be announced on the 30th. Though it’s difficult to predict the verdict, if the court rules in favor of the members, there is speculation that they may move toward Min Hee-jin’s newly established company. Last November, NewJeans held an urgent press conference to protest adverse treatment at Adore and announced their contract termination.