NewJeans' Hanni testifies at National Assembly audit on workplace harassment allegations
Image: YonHapp
On October 15th, NewJeans member Hanni testified at the National Assembly’s Environment and Labor Committee audit regarding workplace harassment allegations within her label, HYBE. Arriving at the National Assembly building in Yeouido, Seoul, Hanni maintained a calm demeanor, dressed in jeans, a white shirt, and a knit vest. Although she did not take specific questions from the press, Hanni briefly addressed her fans, stating, “I don’t need to say anything because my fans already know everything.”
Hanni’s testimony stems from an incident she shared during a live YouTube broadcast on September 11th, where she described being told to be ignored by another artist's manager, prompting concerns about workplace bullying. The label involved, later revealed to be Belift Lab, denied the allegations after reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing staff and artists, claiming that the claims were unfounded.
Despite the denial, the controversy gained significant attention, leading the Environment and Labor Committee to call Hanni and HYBE’s Chief Human Resources Officer Kim Ju Young to testify as witnesses. Hanni chose to attend voluntarily, sharing on her fan platform Phoning, “I will be attending the National Assembly audit alone. I’m doing this for myself, my members, and Bunnies (NewJeans’ fandom).”
The audit highlights broader concerns over workplace culture in the entertainment industry. The case has drawn widespread attention, as fans continue to support Hanni and her decision to testify.