The first official statement from Danielle’s legal team has been released following a 43 billion won ($28.5 million) damages lawsuit filed by ADOR against the NewJeans member, her family and former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin.
During the first hearing held on March 26th at the Seoul Central District Court, Danielle’s representatives argued that ADOR is purposefully dragging out the legal proceedings to the detriment of the artist’s career.
Danielle’s legal team emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that time is of the essence for an active idol: “A prolonged lawsuit inevitably causes damage to Danielle. This is the most defining period of her career as an idol. ADOR, as a management agency, is well aware of this and appears to be delaying the suit on purpose.”
They pointed out that the suit targets not only Danielle but also her mother, who has no legal ties to the exclusive contract, and Min Hee Jin.
“The issues are clear, and a significant portion of the evidence has already been presented. There is no need to prolong this case. We request that this case be heard promptly and intensively.”
The lawsuit was initiated by ADOR in December 2024 after the termination of Danielle’s exclusive contract. ADOR stated at that time that they will hold Min Hee Jin and a member of Danielle’s family legally responsible for “causing the dispute and delaying NewJeans’ return.”
Earlier, the NewJeans members had demanded the reinstatement of Min Hee Jin after her dismissal following conflicts with HYBE, but the request was rejected. In November 2024, the members claimed their contracts were terminated due to ADOR’s breach of contract. ADOR disagreed and filed a lawsuit to confirm the contracts were still valid, and the court ruled in ADOR’s favor.
Haerin and Hyein have since announced their return through ADOR, and Hanni has also rejoined. Minji is still in discussions about returning, while ADOR has notified Danielle that her exclusive contract has been terminated.
The case is being handled by Civil Settlement Division 31, the same court that previously ruled in favor of former CEO Min Hee Jin in a stock payment lawsuit against HYBE, ordering HYBE to pay 25.5 billion won ($17 million). Because of this, both the legal and music industries are closely watching how the court will rule in this new dispute.
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