Viral Photo of NewJeans at Dinner Sparks Heated Debate About Medication and Alcohol
A resurfaced photo of NewJeans members Minji and Haerin has stirred up a whirlwind of controversy online, after fans and critics alike began speculating about the group’s mental health and use of antidepressants.
The photo, originally taken on May 22 at a dinner celebrating the Nike x Hyein Seo collaboration, shows the two idols sitting at a table with wine glasses in front of them. But it wasn’t until July 25 that the image made the rounds again, quickly becoming a hot topic across Korean forums.
The spark for the latest debate came from a single comment, questioning whether the idols should be drinking alcohol at all.
“I thought they were taking antidepressants. It’s really bad to drink while taking them.”
The comment refers to testimony made during NewJeans’ third court hearing in their ongoing legal battle over their exclusive contract with ADOR. According to court statements, the group’s legal team revealed that some members were prescribed medication for depression, citing symptoms such as heart palpitations triggered by proximity to the HYBE building.
Once the photo resurfaced, online reactions were all over the place. Some were skeptical about the group’s earlier claims, while others defended them or urged caution about making assumptions. Comments ranged from harsh criticism to more nuanced takes:
“It’s just a lie. She said she lived in Korea for almost 20 years, but didn’t know what kalguksu was. Liar.”
“NewJeans fans were mocking people who said they were on psychiatric meds not long ago…”
“Honestly, the more I look at it, their behavior seems so entitled. I hate HYBE, but I wonder about the brain cells of people saying HYBE is in the wrong in this case.”
“Min Hee Jin ruined NewJeans’ lives. This is the time they should be releasing songs and performing on stage.”
“All five of them are taking it? Even the Australian member? If that’s true, then Korea must be a mental illness factory.”
Not everyone was quick to judge. Some pointed out that the photo was taken two months ago and doesn’t necessarily conflict with the idea that the members started treatment more recently:
“They could have started taking it recently. That photo is old anyway.”
Others attempted to clarify common misconceptions about drinking while on psychiatric meds:
“Drinking alcohol and taking meds are separate issues. Do you get that now?”
“Taking antidepressants doesn’t mean you can never drink. Doctors just advise skipping meds that day if you plan to drink. Of course, there can still be side effects, but don’t jump to conclusions just from this.”
Still, more intense opinions filled the forums, with some showing little sympathy:
“They caused all this fuss at such a young age. Of course, they’re scared and frustrated that things aren’t going their way. Did they think it would all work out easily? In Korea? Just take your meds and treat the illness before it gets worse. Stop imagining things. You’re done.”
“Alcohol is poison for depression.”
“If you’re taking antidepressants, avoiding alcohol as much as possible is best. If you really must drink, always consult your doctor and drink a tiny amount.”
“People on antidepressants don’t drink, you idiots. They said they’re on meds because they’re depressed. Drinking causes side effects.”
Whether it was an innocent dinner or something more controversial, the photo has clearly struck a nerve — and once again put the spotlight on the ongoing tension between NewJeans, ADOR, and HYBE. The discussion seems far from over.