“Such a relationship cannot be seen as merely friendly…”

HYBE Labels has issued a stern response to Min Hee Jin’s defense regarding her interactions with a shaman. Min — the CEO of ADOR — has been under scrutiny after allegations surfaced that she sought the counsel of a shaman for company management decisions and personnel appointments.

HYBE accused Min of using the shaman’s advice to strategize her acquisition of management rights and influence key company decisions, including stock purchases and hiring. It was revealed that the shaman had a significant role in recommending an applicant named Park, who was later hired personally by Min Hee Jin, raising suspicions of improper influence and favoritism.

During a press conference, Min Hee Jin attempted to downplay the controversy by stating her relationship with the shaman was purely based on friendship and personal curiosity. She claimed her interactions were casual, stemming from a need for personal advice and emotional support amid company challenges.

“She is my friend. Can I not have a shaman friend? I had to get therapy because of HYBE. But if someone there listened to me — that was why I went to her.”

— Min Hee Jin

However, HYBE’s latest statement challenges Min’s depiction of the situation, asserting that the relationship with the shaman went beyond mere friendship. The company made further accusations regarding the disclosure of “critical company information” and even emphasized how seriously they take such matters.

“It is not feasible to consider an external individual who intricately involves themselves in management as merely a friend.

There has been an exchange of undisclosed information about executive stock options, potential investor names, and shareholder percentages within a management takeover structure based on the shaman’s suggestions. Such a relationship cannot be seen as merely friendly when it involves disclosing critical company information to an outsider and influencing decision-making, including receiving requests for job placements.

The company views these actions very seriously.”

— HYBE

The company has made it clear that it considers these actions a serious breach of corporate ethics and governance. Thus, it would not be surprising to see HYBE take further actions to address the issue.