NewJeans Faces Contract Termination Lawsuit Against ADOR: Hyein ‘Tearing Up’ and Haerin ‘Stiff Expression’ Revealed

Haerin’s Tense Appearance at a Luxury Brand Event

On December 6, Haerin made an appearance at a luxury brand event for DIOR, held at Lotte World Mall in Jamsil, Seoul. She commanded attention in a stylish ensemble that combined argyle knee socks and boots with a black lace mini skirt, radiating elegance. Despite her impeccable appearance, Haerin’s demeanor seemed anxious throughout the event, potentially a reflection of the turbulence surrounding her personal life. This tension was evident even in images shared on NewJeans’ official social media, where her trademark bright smile was notably missing.

Hyein’s Emotional Moment on YouTube

On the same day, Hyein conveyed her emotions in a poignant video titled “Introducing NewJeans Hyein’s Favorite Neighborhood,” featured on Park Myung-soo’s YouTube channel, Hal Myungsoo. During the episode, Park presented Hyein with a handwritten letter that conveyed a father’s heartfelt wishes: “I hope you continue to grow as a leading K-pop star and that NewJeans becomes the best group in the world.” Overwhelmed with emotion, Hyein was seen fighting back tears, describing the heartfelt gesture as “too emotional.” In her response, she expressed a desire to maintain valuable relationships amidst challenging circumstances.

The Ongoing Contract Dispute

NewJeans announced on November 29 their intention to terminate their exclusive contracts with ADOR, citing multiple breaches by the agency. The group emphasized that they do not plan to pursue further legal action or pay associated penalties, affirming their rights to continue using the NewJeans trademark due to their significant contributions to the brand’s achievements.

In response, ADOR filed a lawsuit to verify the legitimacy of the contracts, expressing a strong desire to sustain their collaboration with the group.

Despite the ongoing tensions, major industry organizations, including the Korea Entertainment Producers Association and the Korea Management Federation, have raised concerns. They criticized NewJeans for what they view as “unfounded claims that jeopardize the framework of K-pop,” urging the group to reconcile with ADOR and resume their professional commitments.

NewJeans’ Accusations Against ADOR

In light of the criticism, NewJeans has consistently defended their position, arguing that they have already generated profits surpassing ADOR’s initial investments. This, they claim, diminishes any obligations to the agency. Additionally, the group accused ADOR of misconduct, including surveillance, defamation, and attempts to create disharmony among the members—actions that have severely damaged their trust.

NewJeans reported that, following their announcement of contract termination, they made efforts to fulfill their remaining obligations with ADOR. However, they alleged that agency staff confiscated laptops belonging to their team and conducted sudden investigations, labeling such actions as “unethical and inhumane.”

According to Channel A, additional claims surfaced alleging that ADOR subjected NewJeans to numerous superfluous meetings, harassment, and unlawfully retained managers’ personal phones in the office for over three hours against their will.

The situation remains precarious, with both parties staunchly adhering to their respective positions as this high-profile dispute unfolds.

Source: Sports Chosun

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