In a dramatic turn of events, NewJeans, the popular K-pop girl group, has announced its departure from Ador, a subsidiary of the powerhouse label Hybe, during a late-night press conference held on Thursday.
This move follows an ongoing conflict between the group and the label, which has garnered significant attention in South Korea.
Despite NewJeans’ public departure, Ador maintains that its contract with the group remains valid, claiming that it has not violated any terms. In response to the band’s announcement, the agency stated that a unilateral claim of broken trust does not provide valid grounds for contract termination. They also expressed regret over the press conference taking place without prior consultation.
At the center of the controversy is Hanni, one of the group’s members, who alleged workplace harassment during their time with Hybe and Ador. Hanni shared her discontent, stating that the group’s mistreatment extended beyond them to their staff, highlighting issues of manipulation and deliberate miscommunication. She further emphasized that continuing to work under an agency with no intention of protecting NewJeans would only harm them.
The conflict has its roots in a larger dispute involving Min Hee-Jin, the former producer of NewJeans, who left Ador in August amidst accusations that she planned to separate from Hybe, taking NewJeans with her. This would have made both the group and the label independent of Hybe, but Min denied the accusations. She has also accused Hybe of attempting to copy NewJeans’ success with the launch of another girl group, Illit.
In November, NewJeans issued a legal notice to Ador, demanding resolutions for breaches of their exclusive contracts. The group also requested an apology for an alleged comment made by an executive at Belift Lab, another subsidiary of Hybe, and accused the company of workplace bullying. They also called for the immediate reinstatement of Min.
The group’s contract, which runs until 2029, includes a clause allowing for unilateral termination if either party breaches the agreement. However, as both sides disagree on the matter, it is expected that the issue will be taken to court, where a judge will decide whether the contract can be terminated and if any damages are owed.
Despite the growing tensions, NewJeans has made it clear that they want to continue working with Min and expressed their commitment to fulfilling their contractual obligations. The members warned fans that they may not be able to use the band’s name if the contract is terminated.
The ongoing dispute has not only shaken up the K-pop industry but has also had financial repercussions for Hybe. The company’s shares dropped by 4% following the announcement.
Formed in 2022 by Ador, NewJeans quickly became one of the most successful K-pop acts under Hybe, with hits like “Super Shy” and “OMG.” They were nominated for Best Group at the 2024 MTV Awards, and have continued to make waves globally. With this latest controversy, the future of NewJeans and its relationship with Hybe remains uncertain.
