In a dramatic twist to a year-long legal dispute, ADOR, the K-pop label behind global sensation NewJeans, has officially terminated member Danielle’s exclusive contract and announced plans to take legal action against one of her family members and former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin.
After months of legal battles between NewJeans and ADOR (a subsidiary of HYBE), tensions hit a peak when ADOR determined it could no longer continue working with Danielle as both a group member and an artist under the label. Danielle’s contract was formally ended on December 29, 2025, throwing the future of the five-member group into uncertainty.
Why ADOR Took This Step
ADOR’s statement said the decision was based on its conclusion that continuing the partnership was untenable. The agency also claimed that members, including Danielle, had been exposed to “distorted and biased information” that contributed to the escalation of the dispute. ADOR said it initially tried to sort out misunderstandings before reaching this outcome.
Legal Action Announced
In addition to ending Danielle’s contract, ADOR revealed it will pursue legal action against:
- A family member of Danielle, and
- Former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin,
accusing both of playing a major role in the conflict and in delaying the group’s return to label activities.
Fans online have reacted with shock and sadness, with many expressing that Danielle’s presence was vital to NewJeans’ identity and success. Some fans have even accused HYBE/ADOR of “separating a family” as the drama unfolds.
Where the Other Members Stand
ADOR confirmed that:
- Hanni has returned to the agency after discussions with her family.
- Minji is still in ongoing talks with ADOR.
- Haerin and Hyein had already resumed their careers with the label earlier in November.
This leaves NewJeans’ future uncertain: the group could continue with four members if Minji returns or undergo further changes depending on negotiations.
Background: The Long-Running Dispute
NewJeans’ contractual drama began in late 2024 when the group publicly announced they were ending their exclusive contracts with ADOR, citing a breakdown of trust after the removal of beloved CEO Min Hee-jin. ADOR filed a lawsuit to uphold contract validity, and in October 2025, the Seoul Central District Court ruled in ADOR’s favour, confirming that the agreements remain legally binding through 2029.
Despite this ruling, reconciliation proved difficult, and the latest contract termination marks the first permanent removal of a NewJeans member from the agency.
