Minji, a member of the popular girl group NewJeans, recently took a moment to thank their dedicated fanbase, known as “Bunnies.” On the 22nd, she shared her feelings on Instagram after a long day of recording for MBC TV’s Gayo Daejejeon. She expressed deep gratitude, saying, “Today’s recording time was long and it must have been cold, but I’m so grateful to the Bunnies who cheered me on until the end.”
Minji also described how meaningful the moments with fans always feel. “The stages with Bunnies are always memorable, but today, I feel like I’ll remember it even longer. Thank you always. You’re all so cute and kind.” She ended her post on an emotional note, mentioning, “I’ll cry later when I can comfortably cry.”
According to fan accounts, some NewJeans members appeared emotional after completing their performance, with a few even shedding tears. This touching interaction between the group and their fans highlights the bond they share despite the challenges they are facing.
Conflict with Agency: A Fight for Independence
While Minji’s post focused on appreciation, NewJeans as a group has been navigating a difficult time. The five members have found themselves in conflict with their agency, Adore, regarding their exclusive contracts.
In a press conference held last month in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, the group made a public announcement about their decision to terminate their contracts. The members stated, “Adore has a duty to protect us, but it has neither the will nor the ability to do so.”
They detailed their reasons, explaining that staying with the agency had become mentally and professionally draining. “It’s a waste of time to stay here and the mental pain will continue. Above all, there’s absolutely nothing to gain from work, so there’s no reason for the five of us to stay,” they shared.
The announcement sent shockwaves through the K-pop industry, drawing widespread support from fans who rallied behind the group.
NewJeans’ Next Steps
Following their decision, the members took action to maintain direct communication with fans. They launched a new Instagram account, @jeanzforfree, on December 14th. This move signals their intent to continue connecting with their audience on their own terms.
The account quickly gained traction, surpassing 3.5 million followers within hours of its creation. Fans have flooded the account with messages of encouragement, showing their unwavering support for the group during this turbulent time.
NewJeans’ journey reflects the growing conversation around the treatment of artists in the K-pop industry. Their situation sheds light on the importance of agencies prioritizing the well-being and professional growth of their artists.
Kavita Mishra is a dynamic writer and passionate Korean entertainment enthusiast, combining her love for K-pop and K-drama with a flair for storytelling. With a keen eye for the latest trends, Kavita crafts articles that capture the pulse of K-pop idols, chart-topping hits, and the most buzz-worthy dramas taking over screens worldwide.
