Danielle / YouTube screenshot
ADOR and Danielle Face Off in Court Over Massive Damages Lawsuit
The legal battle between ADOR and former NewJeans member Danielle intensified during the second hearing of a multi-billion-won damages lawsuit, with both sides sharply disagreeing over whether the case is restricting the singer’s ability to continue her career.
On June 11, the Seoul Central District Court held the second hearing in ADOR’s lawsuit against Danielle, her family members, and former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin.
While the company originally sought damages totaling 43.1 billion KRW, the claim was later reduced to approximately 33.09 billion KRW (about $24 million USD).
ADOR: “Danielle Is Free to Continue Her Career”
During the hearing, ADOR argued that it has no intention of preventing Danielle from working in the entertainment industry.
“Danielle is free to pursue activities if she wishes,” ADOR’s legal team stated. “There is no reason for the plaintiff to block her career.”
The company also accused former CEO Min Hee-jin of encouraging NewJeans members to terminate their contracts while assuring them they would not face financial consequences.
According to ADOR, such actions constituted a breach of fiduciary duty.
Danielle’s Side Calls the Lawsuit a Career Roadblock
Danielle’s legal representatives strongly rejected ADOR’s position.
They argued that the scale of the lawsuit alone makes it nearly impossible for the singer to secure new opportunities.
“The penalty claims being sought against Danielle approach 100 billion KRW,” her attorneys said. “What entertainment company would realistically sign and support an artist facing that level of financial risk?”
They further claimed that the lawsuit effectively serves as a barrier to her professional activities.
“This is essentially an attempt to block her entertainment career altogether,” the defense argued.
Danielle’s side also alleged that ADOR had previously indicated a willingness to restore the relationship before later notifying her of contract termination, while allegedly ignoring requests for specific corrective measures.
Dispute Over the Lawsuit’s Purpose
The courtroom exchange also focused on the length and purpose of the ongoing legal proceedings.
Danielle’s attorneys argued that the lawsuit was designed not only to target her but also to send a warning to other former members.
“They are forcing an idol to spend some of the most important years of her career tied up in legal disputes,” the defense claimed.
Representatives for Min Hee-jin echoed that sentiment, arguing that the litigation appeared intended to make the defendants’ lives increasingly difficult.
ADOR rejected those accusations, stating that the company likewise wants a swift resolution.
“The plaintiff also wishes to have its rights confirmed as quickly as possible,” the company said.
Settlement Possibility Remains Uncertain
When asked about the possibility of a settlement, ADOR left the door slightly open.
“We would not say that a settlement is completely impossible,” the company’s legal team stated.
Danielle’s side, however, expressed skepticism.
“This is the first time we’ve even heard the word ‘settlement,’” the defense responded. “After terminating the contract and filing a lawsuit seeking enormous penalties, it is difficult to understand what settlement means in this context.”
Legal Battle Continues
The lawsuit remains one of the most closely watched legal disputes in the Korean entertainment industry, as it involves former members of one of K-pop’s most influential girl groups and key figures behind the group’s success.
With both sides maintaining sharply opposing positions, the case appears likely to continue through further court proceedings before any final resolution is reached.
Park Minji is a K‑pop writer and journalist who delivers sharp insights and engaging stories on Korean music and culture for global readers.
📧 Contact: trustdouble@naver.com
Comments