Fandom tensions flare as talk of a Hybe-era reshuffle resurfaces

NewJeans’ comeback has sparked renewed attention as all members reportedly announced their return to Ador on the 12th, fueling talk that the group could again be under Hybe’s umbrella. Yet the fallout from the industry dispute has left deep rifts among HYBE’s girl group fandoms, including Le Sserafim and Ailit.

On the 14th, outside Hybe’s building in Yongsan, Seoul, trucks from Le Sserafim fans appeared, with LED message boards replaying phrases such as “No forced apologies” and “Hybe must separate Le Sserafim and NewJeans.”

Some fans view NewJeans’ return after the legal setback as a form of “backpedaling,” arguing that it would be inconsistent for groups once critical of each other to reunite under the same label.

Last year, Le Sserafim and Ailit found themselves drawn into controversy as NewJeans’ side and Ador’s former head publicly disputed resources and copying claims, alleging that Hybe favored Le Sserafim and that Ailit had copied NewJeans’ concept.

As a result, both groups faced online hostility and accusations, deepening mistrust and division among HYBE’s idol fandoms.

With NewJeans accepting the court ruling and moving back toward Ador, they are expected to resume activities under HYBE, but the fan wounds remain. The industry watches closely to see whether these under-one-roof groups can find a path to coexistence amid lingering tensions.