Haerin Appears Tense at Luxury Brand Event
On December 6, Haerin attended an event for luxury brand DIOR at Lotte World Mall in Jamsil, Seoul. Dressed in a chic outfit that paired argyle knee socks and boots with a black lace mini skirt, she exuded elegance. Despite her flawless visuals, her expression remained stiff throughout the event, likely reflecting the ongoing turmoil. Even in photos shared on NewJeans’ official account, her usual bright smile was noticeably absent.
Hyein’s Emotional Moment on YouTube
That same day, Hyein expressed her emotions indirectly. In a video titled “Introducing NewJeans Hyein’s Favorite Neighborhood,” uploaded to comedian Park Myung-soo’s YouTube channel Hal Myungsoo, the veteran entertainer handed her a handwritten letter. The letter read, “I hope you continue to grow as a leading K-pop star and that NewJeans becomes the best group in the world. I feel this way as a father would.” Touched, Hyein appeared on the verge of tears, calling the gesture “too emotional.” She also shared a heartfelt wish to maintain connections, hinting at the gravity of her current situation.
The Contract Dispute Unfolds
NewJeans declared on November 29 that they were terminating their exclusive contracts with ADOR, citing breaches by the agency. The group stated that they see no need for additional legal action, such as filing injunctions, or paying penalties. They also asserted their right to continue using the NewJeans trademark, given their contributions to the brand’s success.
In response, ADOR filed a lawsuit seeking to confirm the validity of the contracts, expressing their unwavering desire to continue working with the group.
However, major industry organizations such as the Korea Entertainment Producers Association and the Korea Management Federation have voiced concerns over NewJeans’ actions. They criticized the group for what they described as “irresponsible and baseless claims that threaten the foundation of K-pop.” These groups urged the members to reconcile with ADOR and resume normal activities.
NewJeans’ Accusations Against ADOR
Despite the backlash, NewJeans has maintained their stance. The group argued that they have already returned profits exceeding ADOR’s investments in them, thereby negating any further obligations to the agency. They also accused ADOR of surveillance, slander, and attempts to sow discord among the members and former CEO Min Hee-jin, leading to a breakdown of trust.
The group claimed that after announcing their contract termination, they attempted to fulfill their remaining schedules with ADOR. However, they alleged that staff assisting them had their laptops confiscated and were subjected to sudden investigations, calling the agency “unethical and inhumane.”
Channel A further reported allegations that ADOR subjected NewJeans to frequent, unnecessary meetings and harassment, and even forced managers to hand over their personal phones and kept them in the office for over three hours against their will.
The fallout from this high-profile dispute continues to unfold, with both sides remaining firm in their positions.
Source: Sports Chosun