NewJeans’ feud with the label ADOR has been an ongoing battle since news of the iconic girl group wanting to part ways from the label for reasons such as “mismanagement” first hit the headlines in 2024. The plans were countered by a lawsuit filed by ADOR that challenged the group’s claims, and ultimately ruled in favour of the label, with NewJeans having to stay signed with them until 2029.
Contract Termination and Group Status
Following the outcome of the lawsuit, the next major development comes with ADOR announcing that they have officially terminated member Danielle’s exclusive contract as of 29 December. In their statement, ADOR confirmed that members Hanni, Haerin, and Hyein have already returned following the previous round of legal clarification on the label’s official terms. They also stated that discussions with Minji are still ongoing, presenting her future with the group and ultimately under the label as uncertain.
ADOR also plans to hold Danielle’s family member and ex-CEO Min Hee-jin legally accountable for the dispute and delays surrounding NewJeans’ departure and return.
ADOR's Official Statement
To announce the decision and provide more updates on the status of the group, ADOR released an official statement:
“[NOTICE] We would like to inform you regarding the return of NewJeans members.
ADOR has engaged in extensive discussions with Minji, Hanni, Danielle, and their families following the finalization of the district court’s decision confirming the validity of the exclusive contracts.
Hanni visited Korea with her family and held in-depth, extended conversations with ADOR. During this process, they reflected on past events and took time to objectively review the situation. At the conclusion of these sincere discussions, Hanni decided to stay with ADOR, respecting the court’s ruling.
Minji is also in ongoing conversations with ADOR, continuing discussions to foster greater mutual understanding. In Danielle’s case, having determined that it would be difficult for her to continue as a NewJeans member and ADOR artist, the company notified her today of the termination of her exclusive contract.
Additionally, the company intends to pursue legal accountability against one member of Danielle’s family and former CEO Min Hee-jin, who bear significant responsibility for causing this dispute and for the delays in NewJeans’ departure and return.
Through these conversations, ADOR came to understand that the members had been exposed to persistently distorted and biased information over a long period, leading to significant misunderstandings about the company and ultimately escalating into this dispute. The company and the artists share the view that, to regain the love of fans and the public, it is necessary to fully resolve these misunderstandings based on accurate facts, even if it takes some time. Furthermore, they have agreed to address the various controversies that arose during the dispute at a later opportunity, and discussions on the timing and method are currently underway. ADOR will do its utmost to resolve this matter amicably and ensure that NewJeans can return to fans’ side as soon as possible."
Fan Reaction and Public Response
The news of Danielle’s terminated contract hit fans hard, with many expressing outrage and sharing the sentiment that “NewJeans is Five.” Some fans have also shared that listening to the group’s music will never feel the same as they speculate the possibility of NewJeans continuing as a four-member group, alongside critiques of management and legal decisions.
NEWJEANS IS FIVE. pic.twitter.com/LrqvnrHHcR
— hanni (@hannihourly) December 29, 2025
The Future of NewJeans
Looking ahead, NewJeans’ future remains a focal point for fans and the industry alike. While Danielle’s departure leaves uncertainty around the group’s lineup, the remaining members Hanni, Haerin, Hyein, and potentially Minji continue under ADOR.
As the label works to address lingering controversies, ADOR emphasized: “Furthermore, they have agreed to address the various controversies that arose during the dispute at a later opportunity, and discussions on the timing and method are currently underway. ADOR will do its utmost to resolve this matter amicably and ensure that NewJeans can return to fans’ side as soon as possible.” Fans can expect updates in the near future, with hopes high for a smooth return and a renewed chapter for the group.
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