Feb 27 β€’ 05:41 UTC πŸ‡°πŸ‡· Korea Hankyoreh (KR)

Why Min Hee-jin is shouting 'Long Live Music' despite giving up 25.6 billion won

Min Hee-jin's recent Instagram post featuring the indie band 'Danpyeon-seon Moment' and their song 'Long Live Music' signals a shift in her focus amid ongoing legal battles.

On the night of the 25th, Min Hee-jin, former CEO of Adore, shared a song titled 'Long Live Music' by indie band Danpyeon-seon Moment on her Instagram story, which stirred memories of a powerful speech made by Kim Jin-suk of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions during a retirement ceremony at Hanjin Heavy Industries in 2022. This coincidental timing, both in date and sentiment, raises questions about the connections between art and personal conflicts, especially as Min faces legal struggles involving a significant 25.6 billion won lawsuit. The song reignites discussions around themes of resilience and unity amidst adversity.

Some interpret Min's sharing of the song as a declaration to focus on music moving forward, further underscored by the phrase "laugh and struggle together" from Kim’s speech, which also resonated in the context of protests against corporate injustice. This is particularly poignant given the current situation where a member of NewJeans is facing contract termination and legal battles, reminding listeners of the ongoing conflict. The dual meanings suggest that while she may be focusing on music, it is also a strategic stance that reflects her resilience and determination to endure through her artistic endeavors.

The album containing 'Long Live Music' won "Album of the Year" at the 2025 Korean Popular Music Awards, highlighting its artistic merit and Min's resolve to express her identity through music. This mirrors her current actions as she navigates the complexities of the music industry, hinting that despite conflicts, her passion and talent for music endure as her most authentic form of resistance.

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