In the latest controversy to hit the K-pop scene, Australian-Vietnamese member Hanni from NewJeans finds herself at the center of a storm as fans express outrage over ADOR's decision to prevent her from taking Korean language lessons.

The revelation came during a live stream on November 21, 2023, where Hanni, known for her endearing personality and multi-faceted talents, disclosed that she hasn't had a Korean class in the past two years due to the company's intervention.

The Revelation: Hanni's Candid Confession

Despite her proficiency in the language, highlighted by occasional charming mistakes that endeared her to Korean fans, Hanni expressed her desire to improve further. In a candid moment during the live stream.

This revelation has sparked a wave of disappointment among fans who believe that continuous improvement in the Korean language is essential, especially considering NewJeans' base is in Korea, despite their numerous international commitments.

 "I told the company that I wanted to take Korean classes too. But they said I can't. They said I don't need them."

 The decision to halt Hanni's language lessons has raised suspicions among fans, with many speculating that it could be a calculated marketing tactic by ADOR to maintain a certain image.

Some netizens have voiced concerns about the possible xenophobic undertones of finding mispronunciations cute, emphasizing the need for sensitivity in appreciating foreign members' language learning journeys.

: Hanni stop improving ur Korean

: Hey! I have something to say! I did ask the company to have more Korean classes but they said I didn't need it
: after hearing everyone all the Bunnies said i can't improve so i don't have any classes my last class was 2 yrs ago pic.twitter.com/7u5OaH8gtK

- NEWJEANS NEWS (@newjeansnews_) November 21, 2023

Others have questioned the logic behind restricting Hanni's desire for self-improvement, especially given that her counterparts in other HYBE labels continue to receive language lessons.

READ ALSO: Is NewJeans Hanni Rich? Here's How Much The Idol Has Earned So Far 

The reactions on online forums highlight the diversity of perspectives on this matter. Some speculate that ADOR might be attempting to control Hanni to fit the group's youthful concept, while others suggest the decision may be rooted in concerns about her potential future endeavors in the industry.

Here's How K-Netz Reacted:

• "No, but this is such an obvious pro, so just why? It's also a plus when other foreign idols in that company speak fluent Korean, and what's more is that they receive lessons, so???"
• "Huh? But Hanni is totally good at Korean."
• "[reply] she probably thinks she's not good enough."
• "Let her learn since she says she wants to."
• "Why can't she? LOL. Her last lesson was two years ago?"
• "I don't think it's such a childish reason as to because fans think it's cute... Isn't it because she might research about working for other companies later on that they want to completely block this?"
• "Huh, this is so fascinating. The other labels in HYBE don't do this. Kazuha seemed to be studying hard, so what's up with ADOR? She said she wants to, so why are they stopping her"
• "Ugh, disgusting."

As the controversy unfolds, fans are demanding transparency from ADOR and expressing disappointment in the company's alleged interference with Hanni's personal and professional development.

The incident serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by K-pop idols, even beyond the spotlight, as they navigate the delicate balance between personal growth and industry expectations.

READ ALSO: NewJeans Hanni Is Drawing Mixed Reactions in Vietnam for THIS Reason

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Cassidy Jones wrote this.