Ador, the agency representing the group NewJeans, has notified member Danielle of her expulsion, with a penalty expected to reach 100 billion KRW, according to Xportsnews.
On the 29th, Ador stated, “We have determined that it is difficult for Danielle to continue as a member of NewJeans and as an Ador artist, and have therefore notified her today of the termination of her exclusive contract.” The company added, “We intend to hold one of Danielle’s family members and former CEO Min Hee-jin legally accountable for causing this dispute, NewJeans’ departure, and the delay in their return.”
While Ador did not disclose the exact amount of the penalty Danielle must pay, the legal community predicts it will exceed 100 billion KRW.
Attorney Ahn Hee-chul of law firm DLG recently estimated on a YouTube channel the penalty Ador might demand if it sues NewJeans for breach of contract, among other issues.
The standard penalty is generally calculated by multiplying the average monthly revenue from the two years prior to contract termination by the remaining contract period.
Ador’s revenue was approximately 110.3 billion KRW in 2023 and 111.1 billion KRW in 2024. Danielle’s exclusive contract was set to last until July 2029, leaving a remaining period of 4 years and 6 months (54 months). Using these figures, the amount per member reaches approximately 108 billion KRW.
Attorney Ahn explained, “The penalty can be claimed separately from compensation for damages, and if it is unreasonably high, the court can reduce it.”
There is also speculation that even if Danielle loses the damage claim lawsuit, the penalty may not be waived through personal rehabilitation or bankruptcy. If the contract breach was intentional, the resulting indemnity debt may become a non-dischargeable obligation, not cancelable by personal rehabilitation or bankruptcy.
Attorney Jang Sung-soo of law firm Hanbyeol told YTN, “If the breach of an exclusive contract is not due to negligence, the creditor claiming damages can garnish a portion of the debtor’s salary, excluding living expenses, for life.”
Meanwhile, members Haerin and Hyein confirmed their return to Ador on the 12th of last month, while Hanni returned on the 29th. Minji is still in discussions with the agency.
