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On November 26, South Korean media outlet Women's Newspaper reported that Rep. Jeong Hye-gyeong of the Progressive Party proposed the 'NewJeans Hanni Act', a partial amendment to the Labor Standards Act.
The proposed amendment aims to protect artists like NewJeans member Hanni and workers on special employment platforms from workplace bullying. This initiative was introduced during a press conference at the National Assembly Communication Center.
Fans of NewJeans have shown strong support for the proposal of the 'NewJeans Hanni Act.' They quickly reacted online, celebrating the proposal. One fan wrote:
"Hanni and NewJeans members are changing the K-pop industry. This is how you fight against injustice. It starts by having the courage to speak up. I hope “NewJeans Hanni Act” will get passed soon so artists and trainees can be protected from scumbags who fill this industry."
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"this girl is changing everything i LOVE her and will support her everywhere she goes from now on" a fan has posted.
"Mind you in the middle of a smear campaign by braindead fandoms, she still did that. People forget what that much hate can do to someone's mental health. Thank you Hanni!" Another fan has written.
"let’s put away the Stan wars for a second and appreciate the only good thing to come out of this insane crazy hot mess. Idols are people too." A netizen has commented.
"this is huge i hope it passes man so many artists would be protected because of it esp in light of everything that's happening to madein and gaeun this is a game changer," an X user has declared.
Fans have praised Hanni of NewJeans for her courage in speaking out about her experiences. Many are hopeful that the law will be passed, believing it will lead to meaningful change and provide stronger protection for vulnerable workers throughout South Korea.
"some fans laugh at her for speaking up, but now, see the result of her bravery? if this bill is approved, even your favs can benefit from it. this is what "changing the idol industry" means. now, say thank you to hanni! 😊" a fan has gushed.
"Now this is how you make history and make a change! Proud of Hanni and the girls for their bravery these past months. It takes incredible courage to stand up to conglomerates and fight for justice. They’re cementing their legacy as true changemakers. My girls, making history 🥹" says another fan on X.
"Hanni will go down in history as the one who ACTUALLY changed the K-pop industry" a netizen has added.
"Amazing girl. Her bravery made this happen. Online hashtags and trucks from fans can only do so much, but with the proper law, the whole industry will change and artists won't be easily mistreated anymore. Hanni Act is such a fitting name too." has written an individual on X.
Rep. Jeong proposes amendment to protect artists and non-traditional workers from workplace bullying after Hanni's testimony
Rep. Jeong emphasized that no one should be subjected to bullying, regardless of income or employment status. She stated:
"Regardless of whether the income is high or low, or whether the relationship is emp loyment or contractual, no one who works sho uld be bullied by their superiors or others at work."
The amendment seeks to address the gap in the current law, which only protects workers in traditional employer-employee relationships.
The proposal was prompted by a recent case involving NewJeans member Hanni, who had testified at the National Assembly Audit and Inspection of the Environment and Labor Committee about experiencing workplace bullying.
However, the Ministry of Employment and Labor ruled on November 20 that Hanni was not eligible for protection, as she is not classified as a worker under the current law.
Rep. Jeong highlighted that many workers, especially in special employment relationships, are left unprotected under the current legal framework.
She cited incidents involving apartment security guards, including one case where a guard took his own life after being harassed by a resident.
"Not only Honey of NewJeans, but many people who are still working are not protected by law. This is because the current law only prohibits workplace bullying in the relationship between employers and employees," she added.
The proposed amendment includes provisions to protect labor providers and artists. It also requires businesses to take measures in cases of harassment by third parties.
The amendment introduces penalties for perpetrators and employers who fail to take appropriate action against workplace bullying and harassment.
This change aims to extend legal protection to a wider range of workers and ensure a safer working environment for all.
On October 15, 2024, Hanni of NewJeans spoke at the National Assembly’s Environment and Labor Committee audit, sharing her experiences with workplace harassment at HYBE.
She described being ignored by a manager from another K-pop group and a senior company figure, which she found unprofessional and discourteous.
Hanni also revealed witnessing hateful and discriminatory comments about NewJeans members on the anonymous app Blind. Her testimony highlighted the need for improved workplace protections and accountability in the entertainment industry.
