NewJeans Manager Accuses ADOR CEO of Workplace Harassment Amidst Legal Battle

The manager of the K-pop group NewJeans has accused ADOR CEO Kim Joo-young of workplace harassment, prompting ADOR to announce potential legal action.

Channel A reported on the 10th that NewJeans' manager, referred to as A, filed a complaint with the Ministry of Employment and Labor against Kim Joo-young for workplace harassment.

According to A's complaint, ADOR allegedly forced them to remain at the company, demanding the submission of their laptop and personal phone. A claimed that ADOR lured them under the pretense of a work meeting, issued a suspension notice, and demanded the immediate return of a company laptop from home. Despite requests to leave, A was allegedly detained for about three hours until the laptop was returned and was coerced into handing over their personal phone without legal grounds. A also stated that despite backing up all work-related data online and formatting the laptop to remove personal data, ADOR initiated an investigation, citing the formatting as grounds for disciplinary action.

ADOR has refuted these claims and hinted at legal countermeasures. ADOR stated, "Recently, an employee responsible for managing the artist (NewJeans) contacted advertisers directly, bypassing the company, and urged direct contract agreements between the artist and the brand." They added, "The manager admitted to this communication, which constitutes a serious breach of the artist's exclusive contract." ADOR emphasized that the manager should facilitate the smooth execution of the exclusive contract between the company and the artist, which mandates that the artist conduct entertainment activities solely through ADOR.

ADOR further explained, "We immediately launched an investigation and provided the manager with ample opportunity to explain, but they refused to cooperate, making false statements contrary to clear evidence." Consequently, ADOR placed the manager on suspension and requested the return of the company laptop, asserting that no coercive actions, such as illegal detention, occurred. ADOR claimed they repeatedly requested meetings to allow the manager to explain, but these requests were declined.

Additionally, ADOR stated, "All work-related information performed using the company's laptop must be returned without unauthorized deletion. The manager submitted the laptop hours after being asked, having received it from someone else, and it was formatted to be irrecoverable." ADOR announced plans to thoroughly investigate the matter and take necessary legal actions.

Previously, NewJeans announced the termination of their exclusive contract with ADOR during an emergency press conference on the 28th of last month. They cited reasons such as management changes and lack of trust. Regarding the astronomical penalty fees, they stated, "We have not violated the exclusive contract, so the responsibility lies with ADOR and HYBE." NewJeans expressed their desire to continue using the group name and mentioned their wish to work with CEO Min Hee-jin if possible.

In response, ADOR filed a lawsuit on the 3rd to confirm the validity of the exclusive contract with NewJeans at the Seoul Central District Court.

Meanwhile, Min Hee-jin faces tampering allegations. A media outlet reported that Min allegedly orchestrated NewJeans' live broadcasts and Hani's National Assembly appearance to attempt a return as ADOR's CEO. The report included photos and conversations suggesting Min discussed investment opportunities with Company D.

Min Hee-jin has not provided an explanation for the detailed allegations but has confirmed the filing of a lawsuit. As tampering has been a central issue in the ongoing conflict between HYBE and Min Hee-jin since April, there are calls for a proper explanation and rebuttal.

Choi Ji-ye, TenAsia Reporter wisdomart@tenasia.co.kr