NewJeans fans, brace yourselves. HYBE’s CEO, Park Ji Won, is reportedly planning to give the members an extended break, and K-netizens are buzzing about what this could mean for the group’s future.
A parent of one of the NewJeans’ members spilled the beans to Ilgan Sports, saying, “After the Tokyo Dome event, CEO Park plans to give NewJeans a long vacation.”
The parent didn’t ask how long the break would be, but she did share that CEO Park mentioned it usually takes about a year and a half to recruit a Grammy-winning producer.
This has led to speculation that the hiatus could last just as long.
In the interview, Ms. A made it clear that all five members’ mothers want NewJeans to continue with CEO Min Hee Jin at the helm.
She expressed concerns about the potential neglect of the idols by HYBE without CEO Min, saying, “Before this issue arose, we heard from CEO Min about plans for a NewJeans world tour next year. Now, they are talking about a long vacation…”
Korean netizens have been quick to voice their thoughts on the matter. Some are worried that the hiatus could be as long as the mandatory military service required of most able-bodied men in South Korea, which lasts between 18 to 21 months.
This has sparked fears that HYBE might put NewJeans on the back burner, leading to a gradual discontinuation of the group’s activities.
Here’s what some Korean netizens had to say:
“Just let NewJeans go free.”
“They’re so crazy. They’ll definitely put NewJeans on the shelf and let them discontinue their activities.”
“This is so trashy.”
“I’m worried about the girls.”
“They’re thinking that if they keep NewJeans in storage, their other groups will make it big.”
“Are they giving the girls a long break without any ill intent?”
“Please let NewJeans go.”
“Even Min Hee Jin said the girls did nothing wrong. I can see why Min Hee Jin is so frustrated.”
Source(1)
