As tensions rise between HYBE and ADOR, ILLIT‘s creative director, Heo Se Ryun, has stirred controversy by posting a photo on Instagram that many believe is a direct jab at ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin.
On April 25, Heo Se Ryun shared a photo of a raised middle finger on her Instagram story. The photo, taken by photographer Mok Jung Wook, was posted without any caption.
Notably, the post coincided with Min Hee Jin‘s press conference, amplifying its impact and leading to speculation that Director Heo was expressing her frustration at Min Hee Jin‘s claim that ILLIT is simply “a copy of NewJeans.”
In the meantime, HYBE has initiated an audit of CEO Min Hee Jin and another executive, identified as A, for allegedly trying to seize control of ADOR and has called for CEO Min’s resignation.
In response, CEO Min has categorically denied these allegations, arguing that the dispute began when HYBE‘s subsidiary, Belift Lab, launched ILLIT, mirroring NewJeans‘ concept.
Korean netizens have commented:
“She did copy NewJeans, why is she behaving like this?”
“She should feel ashamed.”
“People have been saying ILLIT is similar to NewJeans.”
“She’s acting so immature.”
“I’m starting to dislike ILLIT because of her.”
“The reason Min Hee Jin got upset is because of ILLIT. I don’t think they would have fought if it wasn’t for ILLIT copying NewJeans.”
“It’s amusing how she posted such a cute finger to say ‘f u.'”
Source[1]
