NewJeans split from agency Ador amid allegations of mistreatment
Nov 29, 2024
K-pop group NewJeans has announced its departure from label Ador, citing mistreatment and a lack of respect as primary reasons for the split. This decision follows a tumultuous period marked by escalating tensions between the group and its management
At a press conference on November 28, member Minji declared, "From midnight today, our contract will be terminated with Ador." The announcement comes after the group issued an ultimatum to Ador's parent company, Hybe, demanding changes that were not met.
The five-member group consisting of Minji (20), Hanni (20), Danielle (19), Haerin (18) and Hyein (16) debuted in 2022.
Band member Hanni elaborated on the group's experiences, stating, "We faced mistreatment, not just towards us but also including our staff." She described instances of "deliberate miscommunication and manipulation" within the agency. These claims reflect broader issues within the K-pop industry, where artists often encounter exploitative practices.
Newjeans had been bound by a seven-year contract set to expire in 2029. The group warned of potential financial penalties for breaking the contract, estimated at around KR₩ 300 billion (HK$1.67 billion). However, they argued that any breach was not their fault. "We never broke any rules," Haerin asserted. "We did nothing but try our best – they are the ones at fault. Hybe and Ador are the ones responsible.”
Ador responded by urging the group to continue collaborating and expressing disappointment over the breakdown in communication. The agency claimed it had made numerous attempts to engage with the members.
This split is not an isolated incident but part of a growing trend in K-pop where artists are increasingly vocal about their treatment. In recent years, the industry saw a rise in lawsuits filed by idols against their companies for unfair contracts and working conditions.
The dispute between Hybe and NewJeans has intensified in recent months. In October, Hanni testified before the Labour Committee of South Korea’s National Assembly during a hearing on workplace harassment. She accused agency staff of undermining the members and stated, "I felt convinced that the company hated us." This testimony highlighted the growing rift and set the stage for the group's eventual departure from Ador.
