NewJeans members have recently ended their contract with their management agency, ADOR; however, the agency asserts that the contract is still in effect. Although the group perceives itself as functioning independently, new challenges are emerging. On December 20, 2024, 10Asia reported that Hanni, a member of NewJeans, was reported to South Korean Customs as an illegal immigrant.

NewJeans' Hanni reported as an Illegal immigrant

An unidentified individual has reportedly lodged a complaint seeking Hanni's deportation. Hanni possesses dual citizenship, necessitating her to renew her visa in South Korea on an annual basis. Previously, there were rumours regarding the imminent expiration of Hanni's visa. Nevertheless, ADOR had indicated that they were in the process of extending her visa as usual, as they do not recognize the termination of her contract. This implies that there are currently no pressing visa concerns for Hanni or the group.

The situation has, however, become more complex following NewJeans' public announcement regarding their contract termination. Legal experts suggest that if the group pursues independent operations, Hanni's visa, originally issued through ADOR, may become invalid.

Among the five members, Daniel holds dual citizenship in Korea and Australia, which secures her status. In contrast, Hanni, who has dual citizenship in Australia and Vietnam, is classified as a foreigner and is required to obtain visa extensions annually.

Should Hanni's contract with ADOR have indeed been terminated on the 29th of last month, her visa would be rendered invalid, potentially categorizing her as an illegal resident. According to the Immigration Control Act, she should have departed South Korea by the 13th of this month. Given that ADOR asserts the contract remains valid, it is improbable that they would agree to a visa transfer under the provisions that permit individuals to change workplaces without acquiring a new visa, as the agency involved must also consent to such a change.

What is an E6 visa in South Korea?

Foreign entertainers in South Korea generally depend on E-6 visas, which are sponsored by their management agencies. These visas permit them to engage in work within the country and are typically issued to entertainers, artists, and athletes. However, the validity of the visa may be compromised if the contract with the agency is terminated.

With NewJeans announcing their decision to part ways with ADOR, Hanni may need to seek a new agency to sponsor her visa, or she could face the risk of having to exit South Korea.

Hanni has the possibility of renewing her E-6 visa by entering into a contract with a new agency; however, immigration regulations stipulate that she must first obtain approval from her previous agency. Concurrently, HYBE, the parent company of ADOR, has been embroiled in a dispute with the former CEO of its subsidiary, Min Hee Jin, for several months, which has adversely affected NewJeans. Given that ADOR is contesting the termination and pursuing legal recourse, it is improbable that they will provide the necessary approval for Hanni's visa renewal.

Additionally, South Korean immigration law mandates that individuals must apply for a visa change or secure a new contract within 15 days following termination, a deadline that has already elapsed. Hanni's final recourse may be to leave South Korea and apply for a new E-6 visa from abroad.

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