NewJeans Heads to Japan Amidst Contract Dispute with ADOR

The members of NewJeans, Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein, were spotted at the airport heading to Japan for the '2024 Music Bank Global Festival in Japan'. While most members covered their faces with hats and sunglasses, Hanni stood out by not wearing any, smiling brightly at fans calling her name.

The group departed for Fukuoka, Japan, from Incheon International Airport on the morning of the 13th. This schedule was arranged before their notice of contract termination with ADOR, and they were accompanied by ADOR managers and staff.

Hanni's appearance without a hat and sunglasses drew attention, as she cheerfully responded to fans calling her name. Meanwhile, Minji, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein kept their faces mostly hidden. Despite their neutral expressions, Danielle waved to a fan who said, "It's okay, I'll come again."

Previously, on the 28th of last month, NewJeans announced their decision to terminate their exclusive contract with ADOR during an emergency press conference. They cited a breakdown in trust due to management changes and other issues. They also addressed the astronomical penalty fees, stating, "We have not violated the contract, so the responsibility lies with ADOR and HYBE." The group expressed their desire to continue using the name NewJeans and mentioned their wish to work with CEO Min Hee-jin if possible.

In response, the Korea Management Federation (KMF) issued a statement on the 3rd, urging NewJeans to resolve the dispute and return to a normal relationship. KMF criticized NewJeans' unilateral contract termination, suggesting that they never intended to maintain the contract. They described NewJeans' actions as "unreasonable" and potentially harmful to the cultural industry.

KMF highlighted the lack of legal measures to protect companies in such situations, stating that the current approach by NewJeans could destabilize the entertainment industry.

Meanwhile, Min Hee-jin faces tampering allegations. A media outlet reported that she allegedly manipulated NewJeans' activities, including Hanni's appearance at a national audit, to facilitate her return as ADOR's CEO. The report also included evidence of her meeting with Company D to discuss investment opportunities.

Min Hee-jin has not addressed these detailed allegations, only confirming her intention to file 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 thorough explanation and rebuttal.