ADOR’s 43 billion-won damages suit against NewJeans member DANIELLE, her family, and former CEO Min Hee-jin has officially kicked off.
On the 26th, the Seoul Central District Court’s Civil Division 31 (Presiding Judge Nam In-soo) held the first preparatory hearing in ADOR’s damages claim against DANIELLE, her family, and former CEO Min Hee-jin. This step organizes key issues and evidence before full arguments begin.
DANIELLE’s side argued that ADOR is prolonging the case. “If this drags on, it could cause serious harm to her idol activities. With most issues and evidence already sorted, a swift proceeding is necessary. Including family members in this suit appears to unnecessarily escalate the dispute,” her attorney said, urging the court to move quickly.
ADOR countered, “This lawsuit seeks damages and liquidated damages and is not directly related to the defendant’s entertainment activities. Whether to continue activities is for the parties to decide.”
When the court asked about a possible settlement, ADOR replied, “We wouldn’t say it’s entirely off the table.” DANIELLE’s side responded, “It’s hard to accept discussing settlement at this stage.” ADOR added that opportunities for mediation or settlement could arise as arguments unfold, depending on how the proceedings progress.
The case stems from a dispute between NewJeans members and ADOR. The members previously sought to terminate their exclusive contracts for breach, but the court ruled at first instance that the contracts remain valid. The members returned to ADOR, but DANIELLE received a notice of termination and has left the team. As for whether MINJI will join ADOR, nothing has been officially announced.
Photo: Baik Seung-Chul
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)