Chart-topping K-pop sensation NewJeans has announced its decision to part ways with its agency, Ador, citing “mistreatment” and “manipulation” as primary reasons.
The shocking announcement came during a late-night press conference on Thursday, where the five-member girl group opened up about their struggles under the management of Ador, a subsidiary of entertainment giant Hybe.
Despite this declaration, Ador insists that its contract with NewJeans remains intact, asserting that no terms have been violated. This unfolding dispute is the latest chapter in an ongoing saga involving Hybe’s chairman Bang Si-hyuk and former NewJeans producer Min Hee-jin, which has captivated South Korea’s entertainment industry.
Among the allegations, group member Hanni highlighted instances of workplace harassment and a toxic work culture at Ador. “This is not the type of work ethic we respect and not one we want to be a part of,” Hanni stated during the press conference.
She revealed that the group had faced not only personal mistreatment but also systemic issues affecting their staff. She went further to allege “deliberate miscommunications and manipulation in multiple areas,” underscoring a strained and hostile relationship between the band and the agency. These claims paint a troubling picture of an agency allegedly neglecting its duty to safeguard its artists.
Ador, however, has dismissed the allegations and reiterated that their contract with NewJeans is legally binding. The agency released a statement expressing regret over the press conference, stating, “A unilateral claim that trust has been broken does not constitute valid grounds for termination of a contract.”
Ador also criticized the group’s decision to hold the press conference without allowing sufficient time for a formal response to their legal notice. The company urged NewJeans to continue their scheduled activities, maintaining that it has not violated any contractual obligations.
The dispute also shines a spotlight on Min Hee-jin, the creative force behind NewJeans’ meteoric rise, who left Ador in August amidst rumors of a fallout with Hybe. The group expressed a desire to work with Min, praising her as the mastermind behind their success.
However, her departure was marred by allegations that she had intended to split from Hybe and take NewJeans with her, a claim she denies. Min, in turn, has accused Hybe of launching another girl group, Illit, that mimics NewJeans’ style and music. This simmering conflict has added another layer of complexity to an already contentious situation.
Adding to the drama, NewJeans recently issued a legal notice demanding that Ador address breaches of their exclusive contracts within 14 days. Their demands include an apology for alleged workplace bullying, the immediate reinstatement of Min, and resolutions for various grievances.
They also warned their fans that if their demands are not met, the group might lose the right to perform under the NewJeans name after the contract is terminated. This legal standoff raises questions about the future of the group and its identity, which has become synonymous with their unique sound and style.
Complicating matters further is the financial weight of the contract. NewJeans was initially committed to a seven-year agreement that would expire in 2029, but early termination could come at a steep price. In October, K-pop news site Koreaboo estimated that the group might face a termination fee of 300 billion South Korean Won (about £170 million).
Member Haerin pushed back against this, stating, “We never broke any rules. We did nothing but try our best – they are the ones at fault.” This financial aspect has become a pivotal factor in the dispute, as both sides prepare for what seems to be an inevitable legal battle.
The controversy surrounding NewJeans has not only tarnished their relationship with Ador but also shaken Hybe’s public image. The issue gained national attention when Hanni testified before South Korea’s Labour Committee about workplace harassment, alleging that Hybe’s management deliberately undermined the group. “I came to the realisation that this wasn’t just a feeling. I was honestly convinced that the company hated us,” she said.
The ongoing turmoil has also impacted Hybe’s financial performance, with its shares trading 3% lower on Friday morning. Despite these challenges, NewJeans’ legacy remains undeniable. Since their debut in 2022, the group has delivered chart-topping hits like Super Shy and OMG, earning global recognition and becoming one of Hybe’s most successful acts alongside BTS.
