Netizens React Strongly as NewJeans Faces Backlash for Alleged Mistreatment of ILLIT
A recent Instiz post titled “I HOPE NEWJEANS APOLOGIZES TO ILLIT” has sparked heated debate online, as NewJeans is being criticized for their treatment of the rookie girl group ILLIT, leading many netizens to demand an official apology.
NewJeans protested about ILLIT appearing on a variety show around the time of their comeback, so the variety show PD had to clarify.
They also protested about ‘kalguksu’ in another content, saying it could lead others to mock (NewJeans), even involving their parents in the protest.
“NewJeans side also newly stated that some members of ILLIT’s mocked Hanni through their words and actions. However, they did not provide evidence for this, so it was not revealed what specific form of mockery was directed at her.”
They say they went to court because a member mocked them.
AdvertisementThey feel sorry for the unfair treatment they received at HYBE and support them in standing up to HYBE. But why are they doing the same thing to a hoobae girl group?
According to the post, NewJeans allegedly protested ILLIT’s appearance on a variety show around the time of their own comeback. The backlash was so intense that the show’s PD had to publicly clarify the situation.
The controversy didn’t stop there. In another piece of content, NewJeans reportedly voiced concern over the mention of ‘kalguksu’, suggesting it could lead to others mocking them — even going so far as to involve their parents in the complaint.
Most notably, NewJeans’ side claimed that ILLIT members mocked Hanni, citing both verbal and behavioral actions. However, no specific evidence was provided, leaving the exact nature of the alleged mockery unknown.
Ironically, many netizens pointed out that NewJeans — who have publicly spoken out about being unfairly treated by HYBE and even taken legal action — are now accused of turning around and treating a junior group the same way.
The reaction from netizens was overwhelmingly critical:
- “They should apologize…”
- “Seriously why did they do this to ILLIT?”
- “This was seriously so random”
- “They’re power tripping”
- “They should bow their heads and apologize”
- “For real, they need to apologize”
- “They should apologize”
- “I hope they apologize”
- “They should start with an apology”
- “Those vicious NewJeans will insist they’re blameless until the end (They lied at the National Assembly, even put on a tearful show, and now they’re lying in court too)”
While fans of NewJeans continue to support the group’s stand against corporate mistreatment, others are urging the members to reflect on their own behavior toward their juniors.
