ILLIT’s Parents Praised, NewJeans’ Parents Criticized: Noble vs Evil Reactions?

Recently, a topic titled “Comparing the reactions of ILLIT and NewJeans’ parents” was published on the Korean forum DC Inside, drawing massive attention with almost 120,000 views. In the topic, the author compiled the reactions of ILLIT’s parents and NewJeans’ parents across the controversy involving both girl groups, and below is a summary of this compilation. 

ILLIT’s Parents:

Wonhee’s father: I see that you have matured a lot, and I am very proud. But I also feel sad that you have grown up so quickly and are facing the world at such a young age. Thank you for being our daughter. We will always support and love you.  

Yunah’s mother: I know you had a hard time after debuting, but you kept everything inside and stayed strong because you didn’t want me to worry. I wish you would come to me and complain when things get tough from now on. We will always support your efforts and passion, and we will always be your fans.  

Minju’s mother: Entering the real world is difficult for everyone, but I believe you will handle it wisely without losing your smile. And I hope that more fans will support ILLIT this year so that the group can receive even more love. 

Moka’s mother: In your high school years, you had to be away from home. I thought it was Moka’s destiny and supported you, but deep down, I was also worried and felt lonely. No matter how far apart we are or how much you grow, Moka, you are still my beloved daughter. I hope you will always live happily and full of laughter.  

Iroha’s father: These past few days, I have been proudly showing off your incredible dance moves to so many people. I am truly happy. Your mother and I are always moved when we see you complete a dance routine and exceed our expectations. Please perform with passion and confidence!  To ILLIT members, staff, and GLLIT, please take good care of Iroha!  

NewJeans’ Parents:

Dorm with cockroaches issue: Criticized HYBE for providing a dorm with cockroaches, but it turned out that this dorm had been arranged by Source Music before HYBE took over. After HYBE’s acquisition, NewJeans was moved to a luxury apartment with a view of the Han River. Compared to NewJeans, groups like BTS and BLACKPINK experienced much harsher living conditions when they first debuted.  

Kalguksu noodle controversy: NewJeans’ parents complained when ILLIT mentioned “Kalguksu noodles,” arguing that this dish was closely associated with NewJeans.

Accusations of ILLIT copying NewJeans: NewJeans’ parents accused ILLIT of copying NewJeans’ style. This led NewJeans fans to attack ILLIT on social media, causing severe psychological distress for ILLIT members.

Personal information about ILLIT staff: On June 13, NewJeans’ parents sent an email to the ADOR board to file complaints. They also requested the identities and photos of ILLIT’s managers but received no response. In another incident, NewJeans member Hanni confronted a staff member about not greeting her twice, which caused the staff member significant stress. HYBE stated that they had avoided addressing the issue to protect their employees. However, as false information spread, their staff suffered extreme mental pressure. ILLIT’s managers and staff, after being harassed by NewJeans’ fans, eventually resigned and sought psychiatric treatment.  

Planned contract termination: Leaked internal messages from Min Hee-jin revealed that NewJeans’ parents had planned from the beginning to break the contract with HYBE.  

Hired a lawyer for contract disputes: NewJeans’ parents hired a lawyer specializing in contract disputes to handle their issues with HYBE.  

Upon reading the compilation, many netizens praise ILLIT’s parents, saying that they only showed positive reactions and focused on comforting their kids. Meanwhile, a large number of people criticized NewJeans’ parents for rushing to harsh statements without known proper information. 

Below are some comments from netizens: 

• I’m not even an ILLIT fan, but this still makes me angry. ILLIT’s parents must be really frustrated too, but they remained calm and encouraged their children. I truly respect that.
• Like parents, like children.
• This is the first time in K-pop history that parents have openly criticized another group. (talking about NewJeans’ parents)
• ILLIT’s parents truly have dignity, unlike the other group
• The difference in parenting is clear.
• Noble vs. Evil.
• The difference between these parents is so obvious.
• Reading ILLIT’s parents’ letters made me tear up. They probably only want their daughters to live happily, see only good things, and receive love. Thinking about how their daughters have to endure malicious comments, they must be heartbroken