South Korea’s Labor Ministry Declares K-Pop Stars Independent Contractors, Ignoring Workplace Concerns
The South Korean Ministry of Employment and Labor has classified K-pop group NewJeans, specifically member Hanni, as independent contractors, dismissing their claims of workplace harassment. The government argues that celebrities do not meet the criteria of workers under national labor laws, a decision met with public backlash. This controversy highlights ongoing issues in the K-pop industry, including grueling schedules and lack of protections for artists. Experts call for reforms to address these challenges, similar to protections found in the U.S. Talent Agency Act.