Min Hee-Jin Launches OK Records, Aims to Redefine K-Pop with New Boy Group
Min Hee-Jin Begins a New Journey with OK Records
After concluding her association with ADOR and officially parting ways with HYBE in November 2024 due to a prolonged dispute, former CEO Min Hee-Jin has embarked on a new venture with her label, OK Records. During her inaugural press conference since the company's inception, she provided insights into her forthcoming boy group and her aspirations moving forward. Min expressed her desire to break away from conventional K-pop norms, aiming to establish a group that resonates with individuals who truly appreciate music and culture. While the specifics regarding the lineup and debut date remain unconfirmed, she teased that fans should anticipate a significant announcement in the coming months.
Min Hee-Jin's Vision for a New Kind of Boy Group
At a press event held at the Seoul Foreign Correspondent's Club, Min Hee-Jin articulated her vision for the inaugural boy group under OK Records. She emphasized her intention to steer clear of the traditional K-pop business model, which often targets specific demographics or seeks fleeting success. Instead, her goal is to cultivate a group that appeals to a broader audience and connects with those who genuinely value music and culture. Min aims to create a project that can be enjoyed by multiple generations rather than merely following trends. Although the official lineup and debut timeline are still pending, she hinted that fans won't have to wait long for updates, with an announcement expected in about two months, potentially around September or October. This upcoming act will represent the first major initiative under OK Records since Min's departure from ADOR.
Min Hee-Jin Addresses Legal Issues with HYBE and ADOR
During the press conference, Min was questioned about her ongoing legal battles with her previous agency ADOR and its parent company, HYBE. However, she opted not to delve into the specifics of the situation. Instead, she conveyed her disappointment regarding the portrayal of the incident by South Korean media, stating that the coverage was biased. Choosing to refrain from further comments on the legal matters, Min redirected her focus to her new label and its future endeavors.
For context, Min Hee-Jin officially departed from ADOR and HYBE in November 2024 following a lengthy dispute. The conflict arose when HYBE accused her of attempting to seize control of ADOR, a claim she refuted. Additionally, Min alleged that HYBE's subsidiary, Belift Lab, had replicated NewJeans' concept for ILLIT. After being dismissed as ADOR's CEO in August 2024, she continued as an internal director before resigning and severing her ties with the company later that year.