NewJeans’ Hanni Faces Allegations of Illegal Residency in Korea Amid Employment Contract Issues

NewJeans’ Hanni Faces Immigration Inquiry Over Visa Status

South Korea’s Immigration Office has received a report concerning Hanni, a member of the popular girl group NewJeans, related to her visa status. This concern was raised by an anonymous individual through the National Petition system, as noted by SPOTV News.

Investigation Announcement

On January 10, the Investigation Division of the Seoul Immigration Office, under the Ministry of Justice, issued a public statement outlining their intention to proceed with an investigation. They clarified that any actions regarding Hanni’s status would be contingent on the resolution of her employment contract termination proceedings with her agency, ADOR.

“We plan to take appropriate measures as soon as the employment relationship between the parties is resolved,”they stated.

Visa Details

Hanni holds dual citizenship in Australia and Vietnam, but does not have Korean nationality. Her current residence in Korea is facilitated through an E-6 artist visa, which allows for both work and living arrangements in the country. To maintain her legal status, Hanni needs to extend this visa, typically granted for a year and renewable through her agency.

Reports from TenAsia indicate that Hanni’s visa, which was processed through ADOR, expired in December. If her agency’s claims regarding the termination of her contract are substantiated, she would be considered an illegal resident in Korea starting from December 14.

Immigration Office’s Position

As the investigation unfolds, the Seoul Immigration Office has emphasized the complexities surrounding Hanni’s visa status. They have refrained from commenting on specific personal details, such as violations of the Immigration Control Act.

“For foreign entertainers staying in Korea with an E-6 visa, the immigration office determines the domestic residency qualification and period of stay based on employment contracts with domestic agencies, and plans to take corresponding measures once the employment relationship is settled between the parties,”they said.

Conclusion

The situation surrounding Hanni and her visa status highlights the intricacies faced by foreign entertainers in South Korea. As the investigation progresses, the next steps will depend significantly on the resolution of her employment status with ADOR.

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