NewJeans Announces Departure from ADOR Amidst Legal and Ethical Disputes
The K-pop group held an emergency press conference yesterday and announced their departure from ADOR in the midst of dispute.
The members of K-pop sensation NewJeans—Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein—have announced their departure from their agency, ADOR. The announcement was made during an emergency press conference on 28 November, following weeks of escalating tensions and allegations of contract violations.
Earlier this month, on 13 November, NewJeans sent a certification of contents to ADOR, demanding rectifications to what they described as “significant breaches” of their exclusive contracts. The agency was given 14 days to respond, with the group warning they would terminate the contracts if their demands were not met. Some of the demands stated included an apology from their manager who allegedly disrecpected Hanni, the removal of unauthorised photos and videos during their trainee period and an investigation into unfair album distribution. True to their word, NewJeans announced their decision to leave ADOR, citing ongoing mistreatment and a lack of artistic integrity within the agency.
A Contract in Contention
NewJeans’ exclusive contracts with ADOR were initially set to last until 2029 under the industry-standard seven-year term. However, these contracts included a clause allowing unilateral termination if either party violated its duties—a provision now at the heart of the dispute.
ADOR has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that the contracts remain valid and accusing the members of breaking trust. The agency stated, “Claiming that trust has been unilaterally broken does not constitute grounds for termination.” They have also urged the group to continue scheduled activities.
The matter is likely to escalate to legal proceedings, with a judge expected to determine whether the contracts can indeed be terminated and if damages are owed by either party.
Mistreatment Allegations and a Wider Conflict
At the press conference, NewJeans did not hold back in detailing their grievances. Hanni accused ADOR of “deliberate miscommunications and manipulation,” along with mistreatment of both the group and their staff. She criticised the agency’s alleged prioritisation of profit over artistic authenticity, saying, “This is not the type of work ethic we respect nor want to be a part of.”
Minji added an emotional note, highlighting the courage required to take such a step. “I believe that nothing can be resolved without taking action for yourself. That is why the five of us prepared this occasion today...to share our position with dignity.”
The controversy also reflects a broader rift between former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin, who played a pivotal role in NewJeans’ rise, and HYBE chairman Bang Si-hyuk. Min left ADOR in August amidst accusations of attempting a hostile takeover of the agency and favouritism towards other HYBE girl groups. NewJeans have expressed their desire to continue collaborating with Min, despite her departure from the agency.
ADOR’s Response and the Road Ahead
In response to NewJeans’ allegations, ADOR reiterated their commitment to dialogue, stating, “We hope that even now, we can open our hearts and have sincere conversations together.” However, the agency’s insistence that the contracts remain in effect suggests a protracted battle is imminent.
For now, NewJeans have signalled their intention to stay together as a group, even as they explore alternative paths outside of ADOR. The future of one of K-pop’s most promising acts remains uncertain, with fans and industry watchers alike waiting for clarity. NewJeans made its debut in 2022 and is among Hybe's most successful K-pop groups, alongside BTS with global mega hits like 'Super Shy' and 'OMG' on top of winning multiple awards since their debut.
This developing story highlights not just a contractual dispute but also deeper issues around agency-artist dynamics in the K-pop industry. Stay tuned for further updates as this complex saga unfolds.
