NewJeans Hanni Faces Visa Expiration Amid Contract Dispute with ADOR
Hanni, a member of NewJeans, is facing an urgent visa issue as her E-6 visa, required for foreign entertainers in South Korea, is set to expire in early February 2025. This development comes amid an ongoing legal dispute between NewJeans and their former agency, ADOR, further complicating her ability to remain in the country and continue her career.
Hanni’s E-6 Visa and the Complications
Hanni, who holds dual citizenship in Australia and Vietnam, has been residing and working in South Korea under the E-6 visa, which is tied to her employment with ADOR. This visa typically requires annual renewal by the sponsoring agency. However, following NewJeans’ announcement of their contract termination with ADOR on November 29, 2024, the group has been operating independently. This has raised concerns about Hanni’s visa renewal process since the E-6 visa becomes invalid if the employment contract is terminated.
According to South Korean immigration law, foreign entertainers must secure a new agency sponsorship to renew their E-6 visa. However, ADOR disputes the contract termination and has initiated legal action to confirm its validity. Without ADOR’s consent or a clear resolution from the court, Hanni faces significant hurdles in renewing her visa.
Seoul Immigration Office’s Statement
On January 10, 2025, the Seoul Immigration Office addressed concerns over Hanni’s visa status following an anonymous report alleging her as an illegal resident. The office stated:
“For foreign entertainers staying under the E-6 visa, their residency status and duration are determined based on employment contracts with domestic agencies. Appropriate measures will be taken once the employment relationship is resolved.”
This statement indicates that Hanni’s ability to extend her visa hinges on resolving the legal dispute with ADOR. If no resolution is reached, she may need to leave South Korea or apply for a different type of visa abroad.
What Lies Ahead?
As the expiration date approaches, all eyes are on how this legal and immigration dilemma will unfold. If ADOR refuses to provide consent for a new agency sponsorship or if the court ruling is delayed, Hanni may face limited options, including leaving South Korea temporarily.
The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how similar situations involving foreign K-pop artists are handled in the future. For now, fans and industry insiders alike are hoping for a resolution that supports Hanni’s continued success as part of NewJeans.
With February just around the corner, time is running out for a solution to ensure Hanni can remain in South Korea and continue captivating fans worldwide with her talent.
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