NewJeans’ Hanni Faces Illegal Stay Allegations: Korea’s Immigration Office Responds

Hanni, a member of the K-pop group NewJeans, has become embroiled in allegations of illegal stay in South Korea.

An anonymous citizen raised the issue through the national petition system, prompting a response from the Seoul Immigration Office.

The Investigation Department of the Seoul Immigration Office under the Ministry of Justice stated on January 10, “We will take appropriate measures once the employment relationship is clarified.”

The controversy stems from Hanni’s dual citizenship in Australia and Vietnam. She had been working in South Korea under an entertainment (E-6) visa issued through her contract with ADOR. However, during a press conference last November, Hanni announced the termination of her exclusive contract with ADOR as of November 29. This situation has placed her in a position where visa renewal is required.

ADOR clarified, “Our exclusive contract with NewJeans remains valid, and we are currently preparing the necessary documents to extend her visa in accordance with the procedure.”

The E-6 visa is granted to foreign nationals engaged in entertainment activities, contingent upon a valid employment contract with a South Korean agency. Hanni’s E-6 visa was reportedly set to expire early this year, with annual renewals managed by her agency.

However, the E-6 visa becomes invalid if the employment contract with the agency is terminated.

If Hanni’s declaration on November 29 about ending her exclusive contract with ADOR is accurate and the termination has taken effect, her visa granted through ADOR would no longer be valid.

As a result, Hanni must either establish a new employment contract or find another way to maintain her residency status in South Korea.

Experts have emphasized the importance of addressing visa issues carefully when foreign nationals, particularly K-pop idols, work in South Korea. They advised, “Managing the contractual relationship with the agency and preparing the necessary documents in a timely manner are crucial to ensuring uninterrupted residency and legal compliance.”