The ongoing legal battle surrounding NewJeans has caught the attention of the entire K-pop industry, and now, a respected voice has added his perspective. Renowned composer and producer Yoon Il Sang, known for his keen insights and advocacy for artists’ rights, has spoken out on the controversy, emphasizing the fundamental importance of contractual obligations.
In a candid video titled “Speaking Up! Thoughts on the NewJeans Controversy and Insider Stories of the K-pop Industry,” uploaded to his YouTube channel ‘Producer Yoon Il Sang‘ on May 2nd, the veteran producer addressed the widely discussed situation. When prompted for his thoughts, Yoon Il Sang responded with a blend of caution and firm conviction, drawing upon his extensive experience within the Korean entertainment landscape.
“To put it briefly, contracts are not something to be taken lightly,”
Yoon Il Sang stated unequivocally. His words carry weight, coming from a figure who has witnessed the intricacies and potential pitfalls of the industry firsthand. He further elaborated on the responsibilities of those in positions of power, asserting,
“If you claim to care about an artist, you should never expose them to risk. That’s not true affection.”
Yoon Il Sang also expressed his heartfelt sympathy for the members of NewJeans, who have found themselves at the center of this tumultuous situation.
“It truly saddens me to see them in this situation,” he confessed. “One day, they may look back and regret their current actions, but that realization only comes with time. That’s when adults should offer guidance. Yet I can’t help but wonder if the adults around them are managing things with their own interests in mind.”
The producer reiterated the foundational principle of honoring agreements.
“Once you sign a contract, it should be fulfilled. After that, you can start claiming your rights.”
He also subtly pointed out potential missteps, suggesting,
“Also, criticizing the Korean music industry in interviews might have been something worth reconsidering.”
Drawing upon his deep understanding of the music production process, Yoon Il Sang highlighted the human element often overshadowed by business concerns.
“This business is about people, not products. When you produce an artist, you’re taking responsibility for their career. Of course, it’s still about profit, but when you’re inside the system, comparisons naturally arise. One company might do one thing better while another lacks in that area. That’s just the reality.”
He further elaborated on the contrasting dynamics between major and smaller entertainment companies.
“Large companies are better equipped with marketing and PR, but they can’t devote all their attention to one artist. Smaller companies might lack resources, but if there’s mutual trust, they can grow with the artist. It’s about which environment suits the artist best. In the case of NewJeans, they made their choice when they signed the contract.”
Yoon Il Sang also voiced his concern over the public handling of the dispute.
“If I truly cared about an artist, I would never let them speak out publicly like this. I would step up and speak on their behalf. It’s heartbreaking to watch them carry the emotional and professional burden. That’s what companies are for.”
He pointedly questioned the role of the agency in the current scenario.
“An artist should focus on choreography, concepts, performances. Producers should focus on the music. The company’s job is to manage everything behind the scenes. If the artists are doing interviews, defending themselves, and taking on legal battles, what is the role of the company then? Unfortunately, in this case, the company seems to have lost its purpose.”
The controversy between NewJeans and their agency ADOR remains a significant point of contention. The legal proceedings have been ongoing since ADOR successfully filed an injunction in March, preventing the group from pursuing independent activities. While NewJeans initially attempted to terminate their contracts and operate under ‘NJZ,‘ their appeal was rejected by the court. They have since filed an immediate appeal, keeping the legal battle alive, with the next hearing scheduled for June 5th. ADOR maintains the contract termination is invalid, citing a lack of legal basis, while NewJeans argues that their trust in the agency was irrevocably broken following the dismissal of former CEO Min Hee Jin.
What are your thoughts on producer Yoon Il Sang’s analysis of the situation? Let us know in the comment section below!
