ADOR filed a lawsuit seeking 43.1 billion won ($31.3 million) in damages against Danielle, her family and Min Hee Jin. The case has been assigned to the Seoul Central District Court.
However, legal experts are already casting doubt on the agency’s chances of winning the full amount. They argue that the $31 million claim is highly unlikely to be upheld in court.
ADOR is claiming compensation for investment costs and lost future profits allegedly caused by Danielle’s departure from the group. The agency also accuses former CEO Min Hee Jin and Danielle’s family of encouraging the contract violation.
Despite the eye-popping number, experts point to Article 398 of the Civil Act, which allows courts to reduce predetermined damages if they are deemed “excessively high.”
Given Danielle’s remaining contract period and NewJeans’ projected revenue, analysts view the 43.1 billion KRW figure as extreme compared to typical contract disputes. Historical precedents in Korean courts often see such penalties reduced by 60-70% to reflect actual damages incurred.
Furthermore, experts note there is currently a lack of clear evidence to substantiate the claim that Min Hee Jin and Danielle’s family actively abetted the breach of contract.
The legal community predicts the final judgment will be drastically lower, estimating a settlement between 1 billion to 5 billion won ($720,000 to $3.6 million)—just 2% to 11% of ADOR’s original demand.
Danielle has officially responded by submitting a power of attorney to the court to begin her defense.
>> Danielle Dropped by ADOR, NewJeans Will No Longer Be 5-Member Group
