K-pop sensation NewJeans has announced its split from their agency Ador, accusing the company of mistreatment and manipulation. The five-member girl group held an emotional late-night press conference on Thursday, revealing their decision to part ways with Ador, a subsidiary of the global music powerhouse Hybe.
At the press conference, NewJeans member Hanni spoke out about the “shunning” they faced from the company, adding that the group had endured “mistreatment” not only towards themselves but also their staff. Hanni further alleged “deliberate miscommunications and manipulation” by the company, leading them to decide that continuing under these conditions would “only do harm” to the group.
The split marks the latest chapter in a long-running conflict between NewJeans’ former producer, Min Hee-Jin, and Hybe chairman Bang Si-hyuk, which has garnered significant attention in South Korea. Min, who played a key role in NewJeans’ formation, left Ador in August following accusations that she had planned to break away from Hybe, potentially taking the group with her. These tensions have intensified over the past few months, as Min has accused Hybe of launching another girl group, Illit, which she claims mimics NewJeans’ style and music.
NewJeans had filed a legal notice to Ador in mid-November, demanding the company address breaches of their exclusive contracts within 14 days. They called for an apology from a company manager accused of bullying and requested the reinstatement of Min, who had been pivotal in the group’s creation. The group made it clear they would continue to honor their contractual obligations but warned fans that they may not be able to use the NewJeans name should the contracts be terminated.
The members were committed to a seven-year contract, which runs through 2029. However, breaking the contract could incur significant costs, with estimates suggesting a termination fee of 300 billion South Korean won (roughly £170 million). Despite this, NewJeans’ singer Haerin insisted that the group would not be liable for the breach, stating, “We did nothing but try our best. They are the ones at fault.”
Ador, in response, denied any wrongdoing, claiming that they had not violated the terms of the contract. The agency expressed a desire to continue working with NewJeans on future activities, despite the ongoing tensions.
The dispute is the latest in a series of controversies involving NewJeans, which began after the group made its debut in 2022. With chart-topping hits like “Super Shy” and “OMG,” NewJeans quickly became one of the most successful K-pop groups globally, and was nominated for Best Group at this year’s MTV Awards. However, the group has faced increasing scrutiny over issues related to its management and treatment within the K-pop industry.
As the situation continues to unfold, the future of NewJeans remains uncertain, with fans and industry observers alike closely watching the resolution of this high-profile dispute.
