K-pop sensation NewJeans is embroiled in a fresh controversy as record label Ador has filed a $30 million lawsuit against member Danielle Marsh, her family, and the group’s former mentor and ex-CEO Min Hee-jin. The legal action comes after a year-long dispute between the band and the label.
Hybe, the parent company of Ador, confirmed the lawsuit, citing damages and a contract break penalty. The move comes amid uncertainty over the return of fellow member Minji, leaving NewJeans temporarily operating with just three members. This news has disappointed fans who had hoped for a full five-member comeback.
Social media erupted with reactions, with fans demanding the full lineup be reinstated. Posts read, “NewJeans is five or nothing” and “Free NewJeans [all 5 members],” reflecting widespread support for the group.
NewJeans, which debuted in July 2022 and became the eighth biggest-selling act globally a year later, quickly earned acclaim for their blend of 1990s R&B and catchy pop melodies. However, tensions with Ador escalated in 2024 following the dismissal of Min Hee-jin, a mentor figure to the group. The band accused the label of mistreatment and manipulation, and initially sought to leave, but a court ruling in October required them to honour their contract until 2029.
Despite reports in November suggesting that all five members would return to the label, Ador announced Monday that Danielle Marsh’s contract would be terminated and that legal action would follow against her family and Min Hee-jin. The label claimed that Danielle and Min bore “significant responsibility” for the fallout and said other members, Hanni and Minji, were in ongoing discussions about their futures.
Industry experts say the outcome threatens the stability and success of the group. Music critic Lim Hee-yun told the BBC that losing members could significantly impact the chemistry and fan engagement critical to K-pop groups. Danielle’s career path is also uncertain, with potential shifts to solo music, acting, modeling, or influencing likely.
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