On December 29, ADOR announced that it had terminated Danielle’s exclusive contract, stating that continuing their artist-management relationship was no longer feasible. The agency confirmed that Hanni has finalized her return to ADOR, while Minji remains in discussions.
“In Danielle’s case, we determined it would be difficult to continue together as an ADOR artist and NewJeans member,” the agency stated. “We have therefore notified her today of the termination of her exclusive contract.”
ADOR went further, explicitly naming one member of Danielle’s family and former CEO Min Hee Jin as parties bearing “significant responsibility” for triggering the dispute and delaying NewJeans’ return. The agency added that it plans to pursue legal accountability against them.
Previously, ADOR had officially announced the return of Haerin and Hyein. However, Hanni, Minji, and Danielle expressed their intent to return through legal representatives in what the agency described as a “notification-style” approach, leading ADOR to suspend final decisions pending further discussion.
With Danielle now removed from the roster, industry observers note that NewJeans’ full-group comeback appears increasingly unlikely, at least in the near future.
The situation has drawn heightened attention due to ADOR’s unusual decision to reference a specific family member, prompting speculation that the agency may be referring to Danielle’s Korean mother. Online discourse has also reignited discussion about Danielle’s long-standing emotional bond with Min Hee Jin.
Last August, Min Hee Jin publicly shared a handwritten letter she received from Danielle. In the letter, Danielle wrote: “It’s already been two years! Our CEO, who worked the hardest! I’m really, really thankful. So much has happened during these short yet long two years, it feels like we’ve already gone through everything we would in seven years.”
She continued, “Our CEO, who has protected and taken care of us with all her strength, you’re like our mom and an amazing warrior. Every day is brighter and happier because of you. I love you, CEO. You are more sincere about your work than anyone else, and that sincerity truly moves people and brings happiness. I feel reassured and grateful to have such a cool and mature person like you by my side.”
Danielle also acknowledged the challenges Min Hee Jin faces, saying, “I know you go through countless difficulties that we’re unaware of every day, yet you always show us nothing but love. It breaks my heart and touches me deeply. You know that we’re always on your side, right? You are part of my family.”
She concluded the letter by expressing her commitment to Min Hee Jin, saying, “Whenever you need me, I’ll always run to you. No matter what path you choose, I want to walk it with you. Even if I can’t help much, I want to be by your side when things get tough. I pray for you, support you, love you and love you even more.“
Min Hee Jin has been embroiled in a public conflict with HYBE, the parent company of ADOR, since April. HYBE initiated an audit after discovering signs of a possible management rights takeover attempt of Min Hee Jin. Min Hee Jin held two emergency press conferences and remains in her position as ADOR CEO. Recently, another controversy arose when messages between Min Hee Jin and a shaman during NewJeans’ trainee period were disclosed.
Amidst this ongoing conflict, Danielle’s letter of gratitude and support has become a hot topic online.
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