The legal battle involving former NewJeans member Danielle, former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin, and ADOR officially entered a new phase on May 14 as the court began its first hearing for the massive 43.1 billion KRW damages lawsuit.
According to reports, the Seoul Central District Court’s Civil Agreement Division 31 held the first hearing regarding ADOR’s compensation lawsuit filed against Danielle, one of her family members, and Min Hee Jin.
The dispute stems from the contract conflict that began in late 2024, when all five NewJeans members claimed that ADOR had violated the terms of their exclusive contracts and unilaterally announced contract termination while attempting to pursue independent activities.
However, NewJeans later lost the first trial in ADOR’s lawsuit confirming the validity of the group’s exclusive contracts. Following the ruling, several members reportedly expressed intentions to return to ADOR without filing appeals.
Danielle’s case became more complicated after ADOR reportedly informed her in December that she could no longer continue as a member of NewJeans before filing a separate damages lawsuit worth approximately 43.1 billion KRW against her, a family member, and Min Hee Jin.
Reports state that members Haerin, Hyein, and Hanni have already decided to return to ADOR, while Minji is still reportedly discussing specific conditions for her return.
During the hearing, Danielle’s legal representatives strongly criticized ADOR, claiming the company appeared to be intentionally prolonging the lawsuit.
They argued: “Danielle is an idol. If this lawsuit drags on, she could suffer irreversible damage. She could lose the most important years of her career.”
The legal team also pointed out that Danielle’s mother was included in the lawsuit despite allegedly having no direct involvement in the contract dispute.
ADOR rejected claims that the lawsuit itself was preventing Danielle from promoting, stating that her entertainment activities were not directly determined by the case.
However, Danielle’s side pushed back sharply, arguing that ADOR only moved to terminate her contract after she had already expressed willingness to return to the company.
The hearing also revealed that ADOR may consider calling witnesses due to the number of disputed issues involved in the case.
Meanwhile, the court raised the possibility of a settlement between both sides. ADOR responded that it could not rule out future discussions, explaining that settlements often become possible as legal arguments progress.
Danielle’s side appeared surprised by the mention of a settlement, saying it was the first time they had heard such a possibility discussed after facing both contract termination and a massive financial lawsuit.
The conflict continues to attract enormous attention within the K-pop industry, especially because it involves one of the most influential girl groups of the current generation and the ongoing dispute between HYBE and former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin.
Sources: Daum | 스타뉴스
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