HYBE Executives Exonerated in Workplace Harassment Allegations
Recent developments have cleared the executives of HYBE from accusations of workplace harassment as the Ministry of Employment and Labor announced the closure of the case. This decision follows claims made in September by former ADOR deputy representative known as “L,”who was associated with ex-ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin.
Background on the Claims
The allegations presented by L suggested that HYBE conducted illegal audits by forcefully acquiring information assets, labeling this conduct as workplace harassment perpetrated by multiple executives within the company. A report by the Korean news outlet Chosun Biz disclosed that screenshots indicated Min Hee Jin’s involvement in orchestrating L’s complaint to the Ministry.
Ongoing Legal Conflicts
Min Hee Jin currently faces legal challenges, including allegations of attempting to assume control of ADOR and an alleged effort to recruit the popular group NewJeans, resulting in her termination in November. Reports indicate that the Seoul Regional Employment and Labor Office ruled last month that HYBE’s actions did not equate to workplace harassment, leading to the closure of L’s claims.
Details of the Allegations Against Executives
In the original complaint made in July, L named five executives, which included ADOR CEO Kim Joo Young and HYBE CFO Lee Kyung Joon, regarding accusations of workplace misconduct. Notably, in March of the previous year, another employee, referred to as “A,”raised concerns stating that L pressured her to attend social gatherings based on her status as a “young female staff member.”This incident allegedly left A alone with an outsider, coupled with claims of disrespectful comments directed at her.
Investigation and Reinvestigation
During the initial investigation, it has been reported that Min directed L to pursue legal action against A for harassment claims. Screenshots acquired by Chosun demonstrated that Min advised L with messages suggesting counteraction against A. When A learned of Min’s involvement, she requested a reinvestigation, asserting that her original complaints were compromised due to external influence.
Unfolding Events and Further Instructions
ADOR pledged to conduct a thorough reinvestigation utilizing an impartial third-party agency, yet allegations surfaced that Min again provided L with strategic advice regarding the case. In messages obtained through Telegram, Min instructed L to submit a new complaint of workplace harassment against the executives responsible for the reinvestigation.
The purported texts from Min included advice on using time off strategically, suggesting L save vacation and sick days to stall the reinvestigation process. Following these recommendations, L filed a complaint with the Ministry of Employment and Labor in September.
Unfolding Legal Complications for Involved Parties
In related developments, employee A has lodged additional complaints with the Seoul Western District Labor Office against both Min and L for unfair labor practices, as well as negligence. Furthermore, A has accused Min of violating labor laws and infringing privacy by leaking their private conversations, seeking 100 million KRW (approximately $68,100) in damages through legal channels.
Min’s legal representation has denied these claims at a mediation session in the Seoul Western District Court, with the case now set to advance to a formal trial.
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