NewJeans members are now facing new problems after unilaterally terminating their contracts with ADOR/HYBE. Not long ago, Hanni's visa was reported to expire in early 2025 and was threatened with obstacles in processing the extension.
On December 20, 2024, 10Asia reported that Hanni was accused of being an illegal immigrant. Someone even reported the 2004-born idol to South Korean Customs asking for her deportation. Since Hanni holds dual citizenship for Australia and Vietnam, the idol has to renew her visa in South Korea every year.
She was previously granted an E-6 visa through ADOR. Due to the termination of her contract, Hanni no longer has a valid visa. According to the report's claim, Hanni is considered an illegal immigrant in principle. It has been about 15 days since NewJeans announced their termination of their contract with ADOR/HYBE.
However, the members have yet to reveal the new agency they will be joining in the future. If the termination of the contract is effective on November 29, 2024, as claimed by NewJeans members, Hanni's visa will also be void.
However, Hanni is still working using a visa issued through ADOR. This creates a contradictory situation because Hanni is using a visa from an agency whose contract she has canceled herself. This can even be interpreted as an admission that the exclusive contract with ADOR is still valid.
ADOR, which facilitated Hanni's visa issuance, has stated that the idol's visa will expire early next year. "We are preparing the necessary documents to extend her visa according to the procedure," ADOR said. If Hanni extends her visa with ADOR’s support, it could strengthen ADOR’s claim that the exclusive contract is still valid.
While applying for a new visa is an option, it is also a challenging process. To obtain a new E-6 visa, one needs to submit several documents, including a copy of an exclusive contract with an agency registered under the Popular Culture and Arts Industry Promotion Act and more.
This process usually takes quite a long time, around 2–3 months. Meanwhile, NewJeans members have promised to complete various schedules that have been agreed upon before they leave ADOR. They will appear at SBS Gayo Daejeon, 2024 Asia Artist Awards, MBC Gayo Daejejeon, and Golden Disc Awards.
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