The mediation efforts in a lawsuit filed by a former Adore employee, identified as “A,” against the company’s former CEO Min Hee-jin have failed. The case involves allegations of defamation stemming from sexual harassment claims that were allegedly covered up by the leadership at Adore.
On January 6, the Seoul Western District Court hosted the first mediation session for the damages lawsuit. A is seeking 100 million won in compensation. However, only the legal representative of Min, Sejong Law Firm, attended the session. Min Hee-jin herself was absent. Sejong Law Firm expressed no willingness to engage in mediation, stating they reject all claims made by A.
Attorney Jin Hyeong-hye, representing A, noted, “Our client was open to mediation if Min acknowledged the wrongdoing and offered an apology.” However, Min’s side maintained that the allegations were unfounded.
Background of the Allegations
Last year, A accused Adore’s former vice president, referred to as “B,” of sexual harassment during her employment at the company. It was further alleged that Min Hee-jin had attempted to suppress the incident instead of addressing it appropriately.
In response, Min released an 18-page statement denying the accusations. She described the claims as baseless and questioned the timing and language of A’s allegations. Min’s statement dismissed A’s complaints as exaggerated and misleading.
Following this, A filed multiple lawsuits against Min, citing violations of the Labor Standards Act, the Personal Information Protection Act, and defamation. Additionally, A placed a 100 million won lien on Min’s real estate as part of the legal proceedings.
Failure of Mediation and Legal Implications
Mediation was seen as an opportunity to resolve the dispute without proceeding to a full trial. However, the failure to reach an agreement means the case will now move forward as a formal lawsuit. Attorney Jin commented, “We anticipated that mediation might not succeed. The other party refuses to acknowledge the facts, which makes resolution through mediation unlikely.”
The legal battle is further complicated by additional complaints filed with the Ministry of Employment and Labor. A has accused both Min Hee-jin and former Vice President B of unfair labor practices and other violations. The Ministry is expected to release its findings this month, which could have significant implications for the case.
Public Reaction and Industry Impact
The allegations against Min Hee-jin, a prominent figure in the K-pop industry, have drawn widespread attention. Adore, known for managing successful acts, is now under scrutiny for its handling of employee grievances.
As the lawsuit unfolds, industry observers are closely watching the outcome, as it may set a precedent for addressing workplace harassment and power dynamics in the entertainment sector.
The next steps in the legal process will determine whether the allegations are substantiated and if any changes are needed within Adore to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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.
