A Seoul district court ruled in favor of former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin on Friday, dismissing defamation and damages claims filed by HYBE labels Belift Lab and Source Music.
The Rulings
The 12th Civil Division of the Seoul Western District Court dismissed:
- Belift Lab’s 2 billion won ($1.5 million) damages suit against Min
- Min’s 5 billion won countersuit against Belift Lab
- Source Music’s separate 500 million won suit against Min
Court’s Reasoning
Presiding Judge Kim Jin-young found that Min’s remarks about similarities between ILLIT and NewJeans were expressions of opinion rather than assertions of fact. The judge noted that online discussion about the similarities already existed before Min’s comments, and that she was participating in that discussion as a stakeholder.
The court emphasized that freedom of expression should be broadly protected in popular culture and the arts. The judge warned that imposing legal liability for such opinions could discourage criticism and hinder the industry’s healthy development.
The court also dismissed Min’s countersuit, finding Belift Lab’s rebuttal video and statements were likewise expressions of opinion. It rejected Min’s argument that Belift Lab harmed her by copying NewJeans, stating that NewJeans’ creation could not be attributed to Min alone.
In the Source Music case, the judge said Min’s remarks reflected her interpretation of the situation and were difficult to prove false. Regarding her use of the word “bully,” the court found she had directed it at HYBE, not Source Music, and that there was no evidence the company’s standing was diminished.
Background
The lawsuits stem from Min’s April 2024 press conference, where she accused HYBE of copying NewJeans’ concept for ILLIT and claimed Source Music had neglected NewJeans members. Belift Lab filed its suit in June 2024, and Min countersued later that year.
What’s Next
Both Belift Lab and Source Music said they will immediately appeal. Belift Lab called the ruling “deeply regrettable,” saying the court effectively found “victims but no perpetrators.” Source Music criticized the court for ignoring evidence of malicious intent and said it would appeal to protect its artists.
Separately, a criminal case is ongoing. In October 2026, police referred Min and two former ADOR vice presidents to prosecutors on charges of defamation and obstruction of business.
Source: Korea JoongAng Daily
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