NewJeans Leaves Ador Amid Allegations of Mistreatment

NewJeans, the chart-topping K-Pop group, has split from Ador, citing mistreatment and ongoing conflicts within the agency. The group's members expressed their dissatisfaction and desire for independence, especially after facing alleged bullying and miscommunication.

K-Pop sensation NewJeans has officially announced their separation from their management agency, Ador, following serious allegations of mistreatment and manipulation. The five-member girl group revealed their decision during a late-night press conference, where member Hanni spoke out against the alleged neglect from the agency.

Hanni emphasized that the working conditions had deteriorated, stating, "This is not the type of work ethic we respect and not one we want to be a part of. Continuing under a company that doesn’t protect NewJeans could cause us lasting harm." The public announcement has added fuel to an ongoing feud involving former NewJeans producer Min Hee-Jin and Hybe's chairman Bang Si-hyuk, a dispute that has garnered substantial media attention in South Korea.

The group has expressed a desire to reunite with Min, who departed Ador amid speculation of a split that would allow NewJeans to operate independently from Hybe. Min has previously argued that Hybe launched another girl group, Illit, which she claims imitated NewJeans's style and sound.

On November 13, NewJeans submitted a legal notice to Ador, demanding resolution of alleged breaches of their exclusive contracts within 14 days. They highlighted issues including alleged bullying from a company manager and called for Min's immediate reinstatement. While the group is willing to fulfill their contractual commitments, they warned fans that they may face challenges in using the group’s name if the contracts are voided.

NewJeans was previously tied to a seven-year contract that is set to expire in 2029. Early termination could incur penalties, with estimates suggesting that the members might have to pay around 300 billion South Korean Won (approximately £170 million). However, singer Haerin contested the fees, asserting, "We did nothing but try our best—Hybe and Ador are the ones responsible."

In response to the departure, Ador maintained that it had not breached any contractual obligations and expressed a desire to continue its partnership with NewJeans. The agency stated, "Despite multiple requests for meetings with the artists, our efforts have not been successful."

This separation marks a significant moment for NewJeans, who made their debut in 2022 and quickly rose to prominence, along with other high-profile K-Pop groups such as BTS. With hits like "Super Shy" and "OMG," NewJeans was ranked as the eighth biggest-selling act globally last year and was nominated for the best group at this year’s MTV Awards. However, the recent turmoil casts doubt on the group's future and ongoing projects, leaving fans concerned about the next chapter in their journey.