Controversy Surrounds K-Pop Group NewJeans Over Contract Termination and Tampering Allegations

The Korea Entertainment Producers Association (KEPA) has joined the Korea Management Association (KMA) in criticizing the unilateral termination of the exclusive contract by the K-pop group NewJeans, along with allegations of tampering.

On the 6th, KEPA expressed significant concern over NewJeans' unilateral contract termination and the tampering allegations through an official statement.

KEPA stated, "We express great concern over the notion that a contract can be terminated based solely on unilateral claims. Contract termination can only occur if the party making the claim provides legitimate reasons. NewJeans has not presented concrete evidence to support their claims. Moreover, holding a press conference to announce the unilateral termination of the contract without following the proper procedures is highly irresponsible as a party to the contract. This action disregards both legal standards and industry practices and deserves strong criticism."

Regarding the tampering allegations, KEPA noted, "Currently, NewJeans is suspected of having internal personnel from their agency collude with a third party to induce contract termination. If these allegations are true, it could constitute a highly advanced form of tampering. Tampering is a critical act that undermines trust in the entertainment industry. If a renowned K-pop artist like NewJeans is involved in tampering, it would leave an indelible scar on our entire pop culture industry."

They further warned, "NewJeans' unilateral termination declaration could set a very dangerous precedent that threatens the sustainability of South Korea's pop culture and arts industry. If such contract termination notifications are accepted, who would dare to invest in the K-pop market in South Korea?"

The KMA also issued an official statement on the 3rd, urging NewJeans to promptly resolve the dispute and return to a normal relationship. The KMA criticized NewJeans' unilateral contract termination claim against ADOR, stating, "It can only be interpreted as having no intention or consideration for the mutual efforts required to maintain the contract from the beginning. The current contract termination claim by NewJeans is absurd."

They emphasized, "Current laws do not provide any measures considering the position of companies in the 'B' position. In cases of malicious contract termination, there are no measures to maintain the contract other than ultimately claiming damages. From this perspective, the current approach by NewJeans could shake the foundation of our pop culture and arts industry."

Previously, on the 28th of last month, NewJeans held an emergency press conference to announce the termination of their exclusive contract with ADOR. They cited reasons such as management changes and director replacements for the breakdown of trust. Regarding the astronomical penalty fees amounting to billions, they claimed, "We have never violated the exclusive contract, so the responsibility lies with ADOR and HYBE." NewJeans also expressed their desire to continue using the group name.

Furthermore, they stated, "If possible, we would like to work with CEO Min Hee-jin." Meanwhile, Min Hee-jin is facing tampering allegations. A media outlet reported that Min Hee-jin attempted to orchestrate NewJeans' return as ADOR's CEO by manipulating events such as NewJeans' live broadcasts and Hani's appearance at a national audit. The report also formally raised tampering allegations, revealing photos and conversations indicating Min Hee-jin's discussions with Company D regarding investment attraction.

Min Hee-jin has not provided an explanation for the detailed report but has repeatedly confirmed the lawsuit. As the core issue of the ongoing internal conflict between HYBE and Min Hee-jin since April has been the seizure of management rights and tampering, there are calls for a proper explanation and rebuttal.