NewJeans, the popular K-Pop group, is currently facing increased scrutiny from Korean netizens following a brief clip from a recent press conference that has gone viral. The controversy centers around a moment where a reporter corrected the group’s statement regarding their ongoing legal dispute with ADOR, and a subsequent reaction from one of the members, Hyein.
The Contract Correction and Hyein’s Reaction
During the press conference, NewJeans members reportedly stated, “We will be terminating the contract.” A reporter then interjected to clarify the phrasing, stating that the correct way to put it was, “We ‘hope’ to terminate the contract, not we ‘will’ terminate the contract.”
Following this correction, a short video clip shows Hyein making what many netizens interpreted as a displeased facial expression and crossing her arms. This reaction, though brief, quickly spread across various online communities, sparking considerable criticism.
Netizen Reactions and Shifting Perceptions
The circulating clip has triggered a wave of negative reactions from Korean netizens. Many are expressing disappointment with the group’s perceived demeanor, with some suggesting that this incident has further damaged NewJeans’ public image amidst the already tense contract dispute with ADOR.
Netizens have shared their opinions online, with comments including:
“Hmm… what made these girls so arrogant and undiscerning like this?”
“That pure and innocent image they had from ‘Attention’ is what I liked about them… They totally shattered that image…”
“Wow, look at her facial expression.”
“That fresh image NewJeans had when they first appeared is shattered to pieces. Now my interest in them is waning.”
“She is making a face a 40-something-year-old divorcee makes in court when she’s giving an attitude. lol.”
“This is so disappointing.”
“I think they tasted success at such a young age. It’s ruined them.”
“Wow, that’s such a turnoff. lol.”
“Geez…”
“I saw middle schoolers make that face at people they don’t like. lol.”
“Wow, she has an attitude. lol.”
“This shows you can fall and get canceled in no time.”
These comments reflect a sentiment among some K-netizens that the group has lost the “pure and fresh” image they initially presented. The incident has seemingly contributed to a growing feeling of disillusionment among some fans and the wider public, especially given the ongoing tensions surrounding their contractual situation. The controversy highlights how quickly public perception can shift in the entertainment industry, particularly in response to perceived attitudes and behaviors of idols.
