NewJeans and ADOR Clash Over Exclusive Contract Dispute, Shaking the K-pop Industry
The dispute between girl group NewJeans and their agency ADOR over the termination of their exclusive contract has become a hot topic in the music industry. On the 28th, NewJeans officially announced at a press conference that they were terminating their contract, citing ADOR's failure to fulfill its obligations. ADOR responded with a firm stance, claiming the contract remains valid based on legal grounds. As tensions escalate, all eyes are on the future of NewJeans.
During the press conference, NewJeans—comprising members Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein—criticized ADOR, stating the agency "lacks the will and capability to protect NewJeans." The members accused ADOR of failing to meet contractual obligations and allowing continued mistreatment within the company, pushing them to take this drastic step.
NewJeans outlined several issues with ADOR, including insufficient support for their activities, disrespectful behavior from staff at other HYBE labels, ADOR’s disregard for requests to reinstate former CEO Min Hee-jin, and activity plans made without consulting the members. Hanni highlighted a specific incident where a HYBE staff member told her to “ignore it,” which ADOR allegedly failed to investigate or address properly.
ADOR maintained that the exclusive contract is valid until July 31, 2029, and provided an official statement outlining their position. They emphasized that they have fulfilled all major contractual obligations, such as managing the group's activities and revenue distribution. ADOR also claimed that many of the issues raised by NewJeans involved third-party conduct rather than direct violations by ADOR.
ADOR further addressed a controversial internal HYBE document containing the phrase "abandon New and create a new plan," explaining that it was misinterpreted and actually referred to solidifying the group's artistic identity. Regarding Min Hee-jin's return, ADOR stated that the decision lies with the board and is beyond the scope of member requests.
In a letter to the members, ADOR CEO Kim Joo-young expressed regret over having to respond via email instead of meeting in person. She argued that some of the members' demands were overly vague or exceeded the agency's authority but affirmed ADOR’s willingness to engage in dialogue and address their concerns.
NewJeans members strongly expressed their desire to work with former CEO Min Hee-jin, but ADOR stated her return was unlikely, revealing that a new producer is being sought to focus on creating music and performances that align with the group’s unique identity. ADOR also unveiled plans for NewJeans’ 2024 activities, including a fan meeting in March, a full-length album release in June or July, and a world tour in August.
The dispute is expected to have far-reaching implications for the music industry. Since their debut, NewJeans has established a strong global fanbase and a unique position in the pop music market. Should the conflict lead to the members pursuing independent activities, questions arise about the future of the NewJeans brand and its fanbase.
Some speculate that legal battles between the two parties are inevitable if ADOR refuses to accept the contract termination. Issues like potential penalties under the contract could also become contentious, especially if the members consider forming an independent label or joining another agency.
CEO Kim Joo-young stated, "We have listened to the members' statements from the press conference and still hope to resolve the issue through dialogue." However, NewJeans maintains a firm stance, asserting that "ADOR has no intention or capability to improve or protect NewJeans," suggesting that reconciliation may not come easily.
The ongoing conflict between NewJeans and ADOR raises significant questions about its impact on the music industry and the precedents it might set. Fans are closely watching how the group’s potential independent journey could redefine the K-pop landscape.
