Former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin has been officially penalized by the Ministry of Employment and Labor for engaging in workplace harassment against a former employee. Despite her persistent denials, the government’s investigation has concluded that “some illegal actions did occur,” resulting in a financial penalty.
Labor Ministry Ruling and Fines
According to a report by Ten Asia on March 24th, the Western Branch of the Seoul Regional Employment and Labor Office has issued a formal case resolution notice to the former ADOR employee, identified as “A.” The notice explicitly states that Min Hee Jin’s
“remarks and actions repeatedly directed by the complainant in October and December 2023 exceeded the appropriate scope of workplace interactions and caused physical and psychological distress, worsening the working environment.”
The labor office determined that these actions constituted workplace harassment and subsequently imposed a fine. The maximum fine allowed under the relevant regulations is 5 million KRW (approximately 3,410 USD).
Interference in Workplace Harassment Investigation
Furthermore, Min Hee Jin was found partially responsible for interfering in the investigation of a separate workplace harassment complaint. The former employee, “A,” had also reported former ADOR Vice CEO “B” for workplace harassment and accused Min Hee Jin of conducting a biased internal investigation.
The labor office highlighted Min Hee Jin’s actions, stating, “Min Hee Jin contacted ‘B,’ requesting KakaoTalk messages related to the report, and told Chief Officer ‘C’ that the allegations were ‘one-sided and biased.’ These actions violated the duty to conduct an objective investigation.”
Background and Employee’s Statement
“A” initially filed a complaint with the labor ministry in August 2024, alleging workplace harassment by Min Hee Jin. Min Hee Jin has consistently denied these allegations, claiming that “A” conspired with HYBE and others to falsely accuse her.
However, “A” shared the ruling details, which confirm that Min Hee Jin was indeed fined for workplace harassment. “A” provided a summary of the ruling, outlining key points:
1. Investigation Bias: Min Hee Jin was found guilty of violating her duty to conduct an objective investigation and was fined.
2. Workplace Harassment: Min Hee Jin’s workplace harassment, including verbal abuse, was confirmed, and she was fined. The recognized proportion of workplace harassment was 12%, and the fine imposed is considered a significant sanction.
3. Missed Apology: “A” stated that four opportunities were given for Min Hee Jin to apologize, but she refused and instead filed a lawsuit. An apology is no longer desired.
4. Ongoing Legal Action: “A” will continue to actively respond to both civil and criminal cases, particularly the lawsuit filed by Min Hee Jin.
5. Vice CEO’s Case: Regarding the external reinvestigation of workplace harassment and sexual harassment by the former vice CEO, workplace harassment was recognized, but sexual harassment was deemed inconclusive. No additional fines were imposed.
6. Message of Support: “A” offered support to all workers, the vulnerable, and victims, urging them to “fighting (stay strong)!”
This ruling by the Ministry of Employment and Labor marks a significant development in the ongoing dispute and underscores the government’s stance against workplace harassment. It will most likely also affect the other barrage lawsuits Min Hee Jin is facing.
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