In a dramatic escalation of tensions between K-pop label Ador and its renowned girl group NewJeans, the label has announced a lawsuit against former band member Danielle Marsh for approximately $44.8 million in damages. This legal action follows Marsh’s removal from the group, marking a significant chapter in the ongoing conflict.
On Monday, Ador disclosed the termination of Danielle Marsh’s contract, an Australian-Korean artist who had been a part of the five-member ensemble. This decision comes after a contentious year-long legal wrangle between NewJeans and Ador, during which the group sought to terminate their contract citing workplace hostility and creative interference. However, a South Korean court upheld the contract’s validity in October, confirming its continuation until 2029.
Legal Repercussions and Allegations
The lawsuit extends beyond Marsh, implicating an unnamed family member and former NewJeans producer Min Hee-jin. Ador claims these parties share substantial responsibility for the discord between the label and the group. According to Ador’s statement to the BBC, the involved parties allegedly contributed to the dissemination of “persistently distorted and biased information,” leading to misunderstandings about the label.
Despite the removal of Marsh, three members—Haerin, Hyein, and Hanni—will continue with NewJeans. Discussions are reportedly ongoing with the fourth member, Minji, whose future with the group remains uncertain.
Background and Industry Impact
Ador, a subsidiary of the entertainment giant Hybe Corporation, has faced significant scrutiny in recent months. In 2024, Min Hee-jin, the former chief executive often referred to as the “mother” of NewJeans, was dismissed. This move came amid allegations of workplace harassment, with Hanni Pham, another Australian member, testifying about her experiences at Hybe during a South Korean Labour Committee session.
Following these developments, NewJeans attempted to sever ties with Ador, temporarily rebranding as NJZ. However, the court’s decision to uphold their contract thwarted this effort. Despite these challenges, NewJeans has made a substantial impact on the K-pop scene, noted for their unique performance style and breaking the Guinness World Record for the fastest K-pop act to reach 1 billion streams on Spotify.
“NewJeans is five or nothing,” declared fans on social media, emphasizing the group’s unity and the importance of its complete lineup.
Broader Implications for the K-Pop Industry
The legal battle between Ador and NewJeans has sparked broader discussions about the K-pop industry, particularly regarding the control exerted over artists by entertainment agencies. The NewJeans case could potentially lead to legislative changes, including new contract types and enhanced mediation practices.
Experts suggest that the industry’s traditional model, which heavily molds performers through agency incubation systems, might be due for reevaluation. The NewJeans controversy has highlighted the need for more equitable and flexible contractual agreements within the industry.
Future Prospects for NewJeans and BTS
As NewJeans navigates this turbulent period, another prominent K-pop group under the Hybe umbrella is preparing for a significant comeback. BTS, one of the world’s best-selling musical acts, has announced a new album release slated for March. This will be their first album in nearly four years, following an extended hiatus for mandatory military service in South Korea. A world tour is also anticipated, signaling a major return to the global music scene.
The unfolding situation with NewJeans and the anticipated return of BTS underscore the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of the K-pop industry, where both challenges and opportunities abound.
