Former Madein Member Opens Up Ahead of Press Conference on Alleged Abuse Case
Ga-eun, a former member of the K-pop girl group Madein, shared a heartfelt message on her social media amid rising controversies involving her former agency, 143 Entertainment. Her statement comes just ahead of a scheduled press conference where her mother and the Hanbit Media Labor Rights Center are set to address allegations against the label’s CEO.
“It took immeasurable courage to speak out in a world filled with recordings and stories that I never knew existed and that do not reflect the truth,” Ga-eun wrote. “Yet, I want to sincerely thank everyone who believed in me, waited patiently, and offered heartfelt support.”
Ga-eun described being an idol not just as a career but as a dream she had cherished since childhood. “The moments with fans were precious memories that words can’t fully express,” she said. However, she admitted that her time in the industry was marred by repeated distressing events. “I endured involuntary circumstances, unfair treatment, and unexpected disadvantages. There were many difficult moments, but not once did I allow myself to give up on my dream. I wanted to hold on till the end. I endured because the thought of losing my dream terrified me.”
She further revealed the pain of learning about her departure from the group through news reports. “That day, when I had to leave so suddenly without any proper explanation or farewell to the fans, remains a deep scar. This was a dream I dedicated my school years to. And now, I no longer wish to hide. I will openly speak about my experiences and my truth.”
The controversy stems from a shocking report aired last November by JTBC (Joongang Tongyang Broadcasting Company) through its investigative program, which unveiled allegations that a girl group member had been sexually harassed by the CEO of her agency. Not long after, news surfaced that Ga-eun had left Madein.
143 Entertainment denied all allegations at the time, claiming that no inappropriate physical contact had taken place between the member and the CEO.
Today, in a significant development, Ga-eun’s mother and representatives from the Hanbit Media Labor Rights Center announced their intention to hold a press conference, formally pressing charges of indecent assault against the label’s executive.
