HYBE's Ador Files Lawsuit Over NewJeans Contract Termination as Ex-CEO Alleges Communications Law Violations
In a significant development in the K-pop industry, Ador has filed a lawsuit against NewJeans following the group's attempt to terminate their contract. This legal action unfolds amid accusations from former Ador CEO Min Hee-jin against Hybe executives.
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The conflict stems from a complex dispute between Min Hee-jin and Hybe, with Ador alleging Min attempted to separate the business and potentially relocate NewJeans to another company. Min counters that Hybe undermined NewJeans' success by launching a similar group, Illit, through Belift Lab.
Following Min's departure in November, NewJeans' members issued a two-week ultimatum demanding her reinstatement. When this proved unsuccessful, the group announced their departure from Hybe/Ador during a press conference.
Ador maintains that NewJeans' contract remains valid until 2029, arguing the group lacks legitimate grounds for termination. The company's lawsuit seeks to confirm the contract's validity and ensure its continued enforcement.
Min has filed separate defamation complaints against two reporters and former Hybe executives Park Ji-won and PR head Park Tae-hee, alleging illegal obtaining and manipulation of private conversations.
The Korea Management Association has expressed support for Ador in this dispute. Meanwhile, Hybe chairman Bang Si-hyuk faces separate scrutiny from the Financial Supervisory Service regarding alleged collusion with private equities before Hybe's 2020 IPO.
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