Disputes between NewJeans and their agency, ADOR, have escalated, leading to a tense court appearance by former CEO Min Hee Jin. On November 11, 2023, Min testified in a damages suit related to the group’s music video director, Shin Woo Seok, from the Dolphin Kidnapping Group. This hearing marks a significant moment in an already fraught relationship between the K-Pop group and its management.
During the court proceedings, ADOR emphasized the previous legal battles in which NewJeans’ claims were dismissed by the court. The agency sought clarity on the group’s allegations against them, which had been rejected at multiple stages. When asked about the court’s decisions, Min acknowledged, “Yes,” confirming her awareness of the unfavorable outcomes for NewJeans.
The hearing intensified as ADOR’s legal team questioned Min about comments made by the court that suggested NewJeans’ claims regarding ADOR’s obligations might have originated from Min’s actions behind the scenes. ADOR stated, “The court also remarked that the reasons NewJeans claimed ADOR failed its obligations appear to be the result of your prior efforts.” Min’s response shifted the focus back to the case against Director Shin, stating, “This trial is about whether Director Shin deserves to face a damages claim or not.”
In addition to challenging Min’s prior actions, ADOR accused her of engaging in a secret deal with Shin. This allegation adds another layer of complexity to an already intricate legal narrative. The tensions surrounding these events reflect the struggles faced by artists in the high-pressure world of K-Pop, where agency relationships can significantly impact careers.
The situation continues to draw public interest, as the dynamics between artists and their management remain a critical issue in the industry. NewJeans, while navigating these legal challenges, must also contend with the scrutiny that comes with being a prominent group in the K-Pop scene. As the legal proceedings unfold, the implications for both NewJeans and ADOR remain to be seen, particularly in terms of their future collaborations and public perception.
