NewJeans, a prominent K-pop group, has declared that they are no longer under ADOR’s management, even as the agency files a legal suit to validate their exclusive contract.
On December 5, ADOR filed a lawsuit with the Seoul Central District Court, seeking confirmation of the validity of their exclusive contract with NewJeans. The agency stated, “We hoped to avoid resolving this matter through legal channels. However, we deemed it necessary to confirm for the artists and other stakeholders that an exclusive contract cannot be unilaterally terminated without valid grounds.”
ADOR emphasized the foundational trust and mutual agreement behind their exclusive contract, stating, “Our upfront support was based on the belief in mutual growth over a defined period. If this basic agreement is not upheld, the company’s efforts and investments made in trust will be rendered futile.”
In response, NewJeans released an official statement on December 6, reaffirming their position: “As of November 29, 2024, we are no longer affiliated with ADOR.”
NewJeans further highlighted a clause in their contract allowing them to terminate it if ADOR failed to fulfill its obligations, saying, “Forcing us to work under these circumstances for another five years is not only unreasonable but inhumane.”
The group declared, “Once again, we stress that as of November 29, 2024, we are no longer part of ADOR. They have no right to interfere in our activities. While we anticipate challenges ahead, we are committed to pursuing a healthy music career and living a life dedicated to our fans who support us.”
Last month, on November 28, NewJeans held an emergency press conference, announcing the termination of their contract with ADOR effective at midnight on November 29. The members claimed that the termination was justified due to breaches by HYBE and ADOR, absolving them of any penalty fees. They also expressed a desire to collaborate with former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin in the future.
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