In a dramatic escalation of tensions within the K-pop industry, record label Ador has filed a lawsuit against former NewJeans member Danielle Marsh, seeking approximately $44.8 million in damages. The legal action comes just a day after Marsh was removed from the chart-topping girl group, signaling a deepening rift between the label and its artists.
On Monday, Ador announced the termination of Danielle Marsh’s contract, a move that follows a year-long legal struggle between the label and NewJeans. The group had attempted to break free from their contractual obligations, citing allegations of workplace hostility and creative sabotage. However, a South Korean court upheld the validity of their contract in October, which is set to run until 2029.
The lawsuit extends beyond Marsh, targeting an unnamed family member and former producer Min Hee-jin. According to Ador, these individuals “bear significant responsibility” for the discord between the label and the group, as reported by the BBC. The label’s statement suggests that NewJeans members were subjected to “persistently distorted and biased information,” leading to misunderstandings about the label’s role.
Background and Industry Impact
NewJeans, which debuted in 2022, quickly distinguished itself in the K-pop scene with a style that deviated from the traditionally rigid performances of other groups. Their success was underscored by breaking the Guinness World Record for the fastest K-pop act to reach 1 billion streams on Spotify, surpassing giants like BTS and Blackpink.
Ador, a subsidiary of the entertainment powerhouse Hybe Corporation, has faced internal turmoil. In 2024, Min Hee-jin, the former chief executive and a pivotal figure in NewJeans’ formation, was dismissed. Meanwhile, Hanni Pham, another Australian member of NewJeans, publicly addressed alleged workplace harassment during the South Korean Labour Committee’s National Assembly in October.
Legal and Social Implications
The unfolding legal battle has sparked broader discussions about the K-pop industry’s treatment of its artists. The intense control exerted over performers, often groomed through agency-run incubation systems, has come under scrutiny. Experts suggest that the NewJeans controversy could lead to legislative changes, potentially introducing new contract types and enhanced mediation practices.
“NewJeans is five or nothing,” declared fans on social media, emphasizing the group’s unity and the importance of its original lineup.
As the situation develops, attention turns to Minji, the remaining member of NewJeans whose future with the group remains uncertain. The dynamics within smaller K-pop groups, where member chemistry is crucial, could be significantly impacted by these changes.
Looking Forward: Industry Reactions
While NewJeans navigates its uncertain future, another major K-pop entity is preparing for a comeback. BTS, one of the world’s highest-selling musical acts, is set to release a new album in March, marking their return after a four-year hiatus due to mandatory military service. A world tour announcement is anticipated, adding another layer of excitement to the K-pop landscape.
The legal and social ramifications of the NewJeans saga are likely to reverberate throughout the industry, prompting both fans and insiders to reconsider the structures that govern K-pop’s global phenomenon. As the story unfolds, the potential for reform and the resilience of the artists involved remain at the forefront of industry discussions.
