In brief
NewJeans, the acclaimed K-Pop group, has publicly severed ties with their agency Ador, alleging mistreatment and manipulation in a recent press conference, igniting a widespread controversy within the K-Pop industry.
The five-member girl group, known for their chart-topping hits, revealed their decision during a late-night press conference where member Hanni expressed their concerns about being shunned by the company. This split marks an escalation in a prolonged conflict involving former producer Min Hee-Jin and Bang Si-hyuk, chairman of Hybe, NewJeans' parent company. Hanni emphasized that working under conditions perceived as harmful would not align with the group's work ethic, decrying the treatment they and their staff received, which included deliberate miscommunications. The group's departure follows a series of allegations against Hybe, including claims made by Min about the creation of a competing girl group, Illit, that supposedly mimicked NewJeans’ musical style and branding.On November 13, NewJeans issued a legal ultimatum to Ador, demanding a resolution to breaches of their contracts within a two-week window. If unmet, they threatened termination of their contracts, asserting the need for an apology for alleged bullying from a company manager and the reinstatement of Min as a crucial team member. They warned fans about potential limitations in using the band name if the contract concludes.The members were initially tied to a seven-year contract that extends to 2029, posing potential financial hurdles, as recent estimates suggested that terminating the contract early could impose a hefty fee of 300 billion South Korean Won (around £170 million). However, singer Haerin contested this, arguing that they shouldn’t be liable as they adhered to all contractual obligations while the agency breached its responsibilities.In response, Ador countered claims of contract violations and expressed a desire for continued collaboration, highlighting unsuccessful attempts to engage in discussions with the group. The burgeoning conflict has drawn media attention, particularly after Hanni's recent testimony at a Labor Committee hearing, where she detailed feelings of neglect and hostility from the agency.Since their debut in 2022, NewJeans has achieved significant acclaim within the K-Pop scene, widely recognized alongside global sensations like BTS. Their rise to fame includes hit singles like "Super Shy" and "OMG," making them prominent figures within the industry, while this recent split raises questions about their future trajectory amidst escalating disputes.
