NewJeans’ long-anticipated return as a full five-member group has officially collapsed following Danielle’s contract termination, a move that has triggered sharp backlash from fans and renewed controversy around Ador and HYBE.
On the 29th, Ador announced that it had notified Danielle of the termination of her exclusive contract, stating, “We have determined that it is difficult to continue with Danielle as a member of NewJeans and an artist under Ador. Therefore, we have notified her of the termination of her exclusive contract as of today.” The agency confirmed the decision was effective immediately.
The announcement comes despite earlier public statements from the members expressing their desire to return together as five. The fandom Bunnies responded strongly, calling the decision “an act of deception against both the court and the fans.”
Member Updates Released by Ador
Alongside the termination notice, Ador disclosed the current positions of the remaining members.
Regarding Hanni, the agency said, “After visiting Korea with her family and engaging in deep, long discussions, she has decided to remain with Ador, respecting the court’s judgment.”
As for Minji, Ador added, “We are continuing discussions to broaden mutual understanding.”
Legal Action and Liability Claims
Ador placed responsibility for the dispute squarely on Danielle’s side, announcing plans to pursue legal accountability.
“We intend to seek legal liability against one of Danielle’s family members and former CEO Min Hee-jin, who are heavily responsible for causing this dispute, the departure of NewJeans members, and the delay in their return,” the agency stated, without detailing specific charges.
A HYBE official later confirmed the move, saying, “We cannot disclose the specific amount, but we plan to submit a complaint claiming penalties for breach of contract and damages.”
The timing of Danielle’s contract termination has fueled debate, especially given the legal backdrop. On October 30, the Seoul Central District Court ruled in favor of Ador in a lawsuit over the validity of the exclusive contracts. As no appeal was filed, the ruling became final, affirming NewJeans’ status as artists under Ador.
Fan Reaction and Industry Response
In a formal statement, Bunnies criticized the outcome, stating, “Disbanding the full NewJeans group against the fierce opposition of fans and the will of the parties involved is an act that damages the value of NewJeans, tramples on artistic freedom, and clips their wings.”
Music critic Lim Hee-yoon also weighed in, noting the contradiction in Ador’s position:
“Considering that Ador had requested the members’ return during the lawsuit, the notification of contract termination to Danielle undeniably has an ironic aspect. It is regrettable that the team has split when they were not just a popular group, but a magnificent asset that changed the landscape of K-Pop.”
As legal disputes continue and negotiations remain unresolved, the future of NewJeans now moves forward without certainty—and without all five members together.
Source (hani)
