NewJeans parts ways with their music label amid allegations of mistreatment

Back in September, South Korean girl group, NewJeans raised eyebrows when they exposed K-pop entertainment conglomerate Hybe – the company behind K-pop sensation BTS and the parent company of Ador – in a surprise YouTube live-stream on 11 September.

In the live-stream, the girls called on Hybe and its chairman Bang Si-hyuk to “make the wise decision to reinstate Min Hee-jin as the CEO of Ador”. She added that the members want an Ador where music production and business management are helmed by Min. This came after Ador announced on Aug 27 its dismissal of Min as its CEO, and replaced her with human resources management expert Kim Ju-young.

In the live stream, NewJeans said they have been distressed by the months of public conflict and did not feel that their concerns have been heard. The quintet, who are known for songs like Hype Boy (2022), OMG (2023) and Super Shy (2023), credited their success to Min, whom they say shares a similar vision for the group.

Now, two weeks after the girl group sent an ultimatum to Hybe, NewJeans mentioned that they would terminate their contract unless a set of demands was met. But unfortunately, they were dismissed.

“From midnight today, our contract will be terminated with Ador,” announced member Minji during a press conference.

Hanni also revealed on November 28 that the group had endured “mistreatment, not just towards us but also involving our staff,” though she did not provide further details.

Hanni further elaborated that NewJeans had been subjected to “deliberate miscommunications and manipulation regarding multiple areas.”

While the band members confirmed they would fulfil their remaining contractual obligations, they acknowledged the possibility of no longer being able to perform under the name NewJeans.