The legal action follows ADOR’s recent decision to formally end Danielle’s exclusive contract, citing the breakdown of trust and the inability to continue a professional relationship with her as both a group member and an artist under the company.
ADOR Claims and Additional Defendants
In addition to seeking financial damages, ADOR has pursued contractual penalties against Danielle through the Seoul courts. The company also indicated it would extend legal responsibility to one of Danielle’s relatives, alleging that the individual, along with Min, contributed significantly to the escalation of the conflict and to delays in the group’s planned activities.
The lawsuit has been assigned to a panel at the Seoul Central District Court that previously handled a separate shareholder dispute involving Min and Hybe, ADOR’s parent firm, sources said.
Background of the Dispute
The case stems from a prolonged standoff between ADOR and NewJeans, which intensified after the group publicly called for Min’s return following her removal as chief executive last November amid a management battle with HYBE.
Subsequently, the members asserted that their contracts were no longer binding, claiming the agency had failed to uphold its obligations. ADOR rejected the assertion, maintaining that the agreements were still enforceable and petitioned the court to affirm their validity while seeking to prevent the group from engaging in independent projects.
Court Decisions and Members’ Responses
Judicial authorities ultimately ruled in favor of ADOR, dismissing the members’ claims in both the injunction request and the primary contractual case.
After the rulings, ADOR confirmed that member Hanni would continue under its management, noting that she had opted to comply with the court’s determination. The company also said Haerin and Hyein had expressed their willingness to resume activities with the agency, with Minji, Hanni and Danielle later conveying similar intentions.
ADOR added that discussions with Minji are still underway, describing the talks as part of ongoing efforts to improve communication between the parties.
The agency has not announced a timeline for further legal proceedings.
