ADOR, the agency representing the K-pop group NewJeans, has announced the termination of its exclusive contract with member Danielle.
In a statement on December 29, ADOR said it had held extensive talks with all members Minji, Hanni, Danielle and their families following the final court ruling confirming the validity of the group’s contracts.
«Hanni visited Korea with her family and took part in in-depth discussions with ADOR. They reviewed past events and examined the issues objectively,» the agency added.
Hanni chose to continue with ADOR, respecting the court’s decision.
Ongoing discussions with Minji
Regarding Minji, ADOR said discussions were ongoing to build mutual understanding between her and the company.
However, the agency explained that Danielle’s situation made it difficult for her to remain a NewJeans member and ADOR artist.
«We informed her today of the contract termination,» ADOR said.
The statement added that one family member of Danielle and former representative Min Hee-jin would face legal accountability for causing the dispute, NewJeans’ departures, and delays in the members’ return.
ADOR also noted that the members had been exposed to distorted and biased information over time, which led to misunderstandings about the company and the ongoing dispute. The agency emphasised that both parties agreed on the need to resolve these misunderstandings based on accurate facts to regain fan and public support.
Future steps and controversies
The agency said it would address controversies related to the dispute at a later date, with the timing and method still under consideration.
«We will do our best to resolve this matter smoothly and ensure NewJeans returns to their fans as soon as possible,» ADOR added.
Last year, on October 30, the Seoul Central District Court ruled in ADOR’s favour, confirming the validity of the exclusive contracts for all five NewJeans members. Haerin and Hyein officially announced their return to ADOR on December 12, with the agency pledging full support for their continued activities.
Minji, Danielle, and Hanni had separately announced their intent to return through legal representatives on the same day. ADOR coordinated individual meetings to ensure smooth discussions. Danielle was later seen taking part in a volunteer activity distributing coal briquettes with Shaun, an artist under YG Entertainment.
