Who Is Harin? Truth Behind Former HYBE Trainee’s Removal from NewJeans Debut Lineup

Japanese model Harin, born Harada Rin, has addressed the growing attention over her past trainee experience with Source Music, a HYBE subsidiary. On August 14, 2025, she posted a statement on her official YouTube channel, clarifying that her earlier remarks were personal reflections and not aimed at any company or individual.

“I hope you know that what I’ve spoken about in this interview are my very personal feelings of failure and disappointment from the past, and are not intended to criticize or expose any particular company or individual,” Harin said.

Harin, born in 2003, was formerly part of the Japanese pop group Shibu3 Project before passing a 2020 Source Music audition. She trained for two years in Korea, reportedly as part of a pre-debut lineup believed to be linked to “N-Team,” a project fans associate with future NewJeans members. She recalled practicing intensively, preparing for debut, before being unexpectedly told to terminate her contract.

Despite the setback, Harin expressed continued support for her former teammates, adding, “I still support the members who laughed and cried with me back then! I will work harder in the areas where I’m lacking and show you a better side of myself.”

Her recent comments sparked online debate, especially after she liked Instagram remarks suggesting she was fortunate to avoid involvement in the ongoing ADOR–NewJeans dispute. Harin now works as a commercial model and actress in Korea.