"Bang Si-hyuk, Should Listen to Voices Instead of Taking BJ Photos"
Group NewJeans member Hani has announced her appearance as a witness at the National Assembly's audit, prompting the Reform New Party to raise its voice, stating, "Abuse of superior power by agencies must be eradicated this time for the development of Hallyu."
On the 10th, Kim Seong-yeol, chief spokesperson of the Reform New Party, said in a commentary titled "We Support Hani's Courage," "Her courage to come forward alone is remarkable," but added, "We must first pay close attention to why a Hallyu star has to stand not on the global stage but at the National Assembly audit."
The day before, Hani revealed through the fan communication app PONING that she would appear as a witness on the 15th of this month at the National Assembly Environment and Labor Committee audit regarding the issues of "idol bullying and workplace harassment." Hani claimed that the manager of the girl group ILY:1, under Belift Lab (a label under HYBE), told her to "ignore her," alleging she was being ostracized within the agency. Belift Lab denied the allegations, and both sides are engaged in a dispute over the truth.
Chief spokesperson Kim said, "Hani claims she has been subjected to workplace harassment by her agency HYBE," adding, "She is suffering from intentional ignoring and ostracism by other singers and managers within the agency. Of course, this could be a one-sided claim or a simple misunderstanding caused by mutual distrust."
He continued, "However, recalling the intense conflict between HYBE and former ADORE CEO Min Hee-jin, Hani's appeal seems to have sufficient plausibility," and pointed out, "If HYBE knew about this and either neglected it, encouraged it, or instructed it, that would be a clear criminal act."
Kim also stated, "Under current law, idol singers are classified as special employment laborers who do not receive full protection under labor laws," emphasizing, "Exploiting this legal vulnerability to inflict unbearable wounds on young people who are just starting their careers must not happen."
Furthermore, he targeted HYBE's Chairman Bang Si-hyuk, saying, "Instead of spending time taking photos of sexy BJs, I hope the company becomes one that listens more attentively to the voices of its artists."
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