NewJeans Members Share Heartfelt Reactions After Hanni's National Assembly Appearance
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| NewJeans Members Share Heartfelt Reactions After Hanni's National Assembly Appearance |
On October 18, NewJeans members Minji and Hanni shared their thoughts in a live broadcast through the paid fan communication platform Phoning, following Hanni's recent appearance at the National Assembly hearing. Hanni had previously spoken out as a witness at the Environment and Labor Committee's general inspection, shedding light on workplace bullying incidents.
During the broadcast, Minji recalled watching Hanni's testimony. "I only saw the part where Hanni first spoke (at the hearing). I had a schedule," Minji explained. She added, "After it ended, I looked it up, and I saw a hundred pictures of her crying." Hanni, in response, wore a relieved expression and light-heartedly said, "Who took those? I had a brief chat with them." Minji then clapped and proudly exclaimed, "In my heart, I was shouting, 'That's my girl.'"
On October 17, another NewJeans member, Danielle, shared her experience of watching Hanni's appearance. She recalled how emotional it was when she saw Hanni return to their dorm in tears. "I’ve told her many times, but she worked so hard. Our amazing unnie. I watched the whole thing from start to finish, and I felt so nervous," Danielle said. She also expressed gratitude to the group's fanbase, Bunnies, who showed up to support Hanni during the hearing. "Thank you so much to the Bunnies who went to support Hanni in person. Thanks to them, Hanni unnie must have gained even more strength," Danielle noted, adding, "I hope many people watched and felt something from it."
Hanni’s Courageous Testimony
On October 15, Hanni testified during the National Assembly’s inspection of the Ministry of Employment and Labor. She spoke candidly about facing workplace bullying, citing an incident where a manager from a HYBE subsidiary instructed others to "ignore" her. Hanni shared, "It wasn’t just that one incident. Since our debut, I’ve encountered many senior executives at HYBE. Each time, they’ve never once acknowledged my greetings. In Korea, I’ve learned that respecting elders is an important part of the culture. So, for someone not to acknowledge my greetings—whether it’s in a professional or personal setting—I think it’s simply rude."
Following the hearing, Hanni shared her emotions with fans. "I am so grateful. Thank you to the Bunnies who worked so hard. I'm so thankful, and I didn't want to cry, but I couldn't stop the tears. I’m just so thankful."
Netizens' Reactions
The news of Hanni's brave testimony quickly gained attention online, with netizens leaving supportive and heartfelt comments:
1. "Hanni is so brave for speaking out about something so important. I'm glad she has her members and Bunnies supporting her."
2. "It's sad to hear that she faced such disrespect from higher-ups, but I hope this opens people's eyes to workplace issues in the entertainment industry."
3. "Hanni crying at the hearing made me cry too. She's such a strong and inspiring woman!"
4. "Kudos to Danielle for comforting her and to Minji for showing such pride. NewJeans really have such a close bond."
5. "HYBE should be ashamed for allowing such behavior from their senior staff. Respect goes both ways!"
6. "Hanni's story is a reminder that idols go through so much behind the scenes. We need to protect them better."
7. "Minji's reaction made me smile. 'That's my girl!'—such genuine friendship!"
8. "Danielle’s words were so touching. I love how much the members care for each other."
9. "It must’ve been so hard for Hanni to talk about her experience publicly. I admire her courage."
10. "The way the Bunnies showed up for Hanni is so heartwarming. Their support clearly means the world to her."
Hanni’s testimony has sparked important discussions about workplace culture in the entertainment industry, with fans and netizens alike expressing admiration for her strength and support from her fellow members. As the conversation continues, many are hoping this marks a step forward in addressing these issues within the industry.
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