Shocking courtroom showdown: ADOR, a HYBE subsidiary label, and representatives for former NewJeans member Danielle collided again at the second hearing over a 33.09 billion won damages suit.
On the 11th, the Civil Agreement Division 31 of the Seoul Central District Court held the second hearing for ADOR’s lawsuit seeking liquidated damages and compensation against Danielle, her family, and former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin. ADOR initially filed for 43.1 billion won but later adjusted the claim to 33.09 billion won.
ADOR argued that Min Hee-jin pushed for NewJeans to terminate their exclusive contracts. Citing an October 2024 conversation, ADOR claimed "Min Hee-jin said she would design a way for NewJeans’ parents to avoid monetary penalties such as liquidated damages or compensation," insisting she breached her duty of loyalty and duty of care as an inside director. ADOR also alleged Danielle’s family acted as coordinators among Min, the members, and their parents, seeking to hold them liable for damages.
Danielle’s side forcefully refuted the allegations. They argued, "NewJeans members believed their exclusive contracts were terminated because ADOR failed its duty to protect the artists," adding, "It was only natural to plan activities after the termination."
They also pushed back against ADOR’s stance that "Danielle is free to continue entertainment activities." Danielle’s side countered, "What agency would sign an artist facing a lawsuit of astronomical size?" calling ADOR’s statement a de facto attempt to block her activities.
The two sides also split on the prospect of a settlement and the likelihood of a prolonged legal battle. While ADOR said, "We don’t think a settlement is completely off the table," Danielle’s side responded, "This is the first we’re hearing of any settlement in the midst of a massive liquidated-damages lawsuit."
This legal fight escalated after ADOR, in December last year, notified Danielle that they could no longer work together, declared the exclusive contract terminated, and proceeded to seek liquidated damages and compensation.