NewJeans and ADOR Clash Over Exclusive Contract Dispute

The K-pop group NewJeans and their agency ADOR are currently embroiled in a heated dispute over their exclusive contract. NewJeans has announced their intention to terminate the contract, while ADOR insists that the contract remains valid.

On the 28th, NewJeans held an emergency press conference in Gangnam, Seoul, declaring their decision to terminate the contract with ADOR effective from midnight on the 29th. They attribute the reasons for the termination entirely to HYBE and ADOR, claiming they are not liable for the estimated penalty fees ranging from 3 to 6 billion KRW. Furthermore, they intend to continue using the group name 'NewJeans.' The group expressed unwavering trust and affection for former CEO Min Hee-jin, stating their desire to continue working with her if possible.

In response, ADOR released an official statement expressing regret over NewJeans' decision to hold a press conference without sufficient review or response to the notice. ADOR emphasized that they have not breached the contract and that a unilateral claim of broken trust does not constitute grounds for termination. They affirmed that the exclusive contract with NewJeans members remains valid and requested continued collaboration with ADOR for future activities.

Some observers have criticized NewJeans for hastily notifying ADOR of the contract termination without adhering to the deadline for the notice, labeling the move as 'premature.' There is also a significant perspective that the termination claim is based more on emotions than legal judgment or concrete evidence.

Previously, on the 13th, NewJeans sent a notice to ADOR mentioning the possibility of contract termination. Their demands included an explanation and legal action regarding a statement in HYBE's music industry report, an official apology from a manager who allegedly told member Hani to 'ignore it,' the removal of videos and photos used without consent, an assessment and resolution of damages from 'album pushing,' and the return of former CEO Min Hee-jin.

ADOR received the notice on the 14th and stated their commitment to resolving the issues wisely to continue their partnership with the artists.

Reported by Jiye Choi, TenAsia wisdomart@tenasia.co.kr