On October 30, Cho Myeon-sik, head lawyer at Gate Law Firm, shared his thoughts on social media regarding NewJeans’ emergency press conference and their declaration to terminate their contract with ADOR.
Cho explained, “NewJeans followed contractual procedures by demanding ADOR correct its violations within a set grace period. They then notified ADOR of the contract termination due to non-compliance but chose not to pursue any legal action, including injunctions.” He emphasized that a breach does not automatically lead to termination. “A correction period must be provided, and if the violations remain unaddressed within that time frame, legal grounds for termination are established.”
He added, “NewJeans exercised their legal right to terminate. What NewJeans likely hopes for is that ADOR will respond by filing its own termination notice and seeking damages.” Cho downplayed concerns about potential financial claims, stating, “Even if ADOR pursues astronomical damages, there’s little cause for concern. It’s doubtful that judges would award shockingly high amounts.”
Cho concluded, “This is exactly what NewJeans is banking on. ADOR is in a difficult position, essentially forced to file a lawsuit. Cases like this aren’t won or lost solely on legal grounds.”
Previously, on October 13, NewJeans sent a formal notice to ADOR, demanding:
- A formal apology from a manager who allegedly told others to “ignore” Hanni.
- Action against HYBE’s PR director for allegedly downplaying NewJeans’ achievements.
- Measures addressing the unauthorized release of trainee photos and videos.
- An investigation and resolution of damages caused by alleged “chart manipulation.”
- Resolution of a dispute with music video director Shin Woo-seok from Dolphin Kidnappers and recovery of lost project materials.
On October 28, NewJeans held an emergency press conference, announcing that ADOR had failed to address the issues within the 14-day correction period. They declared their exclusive contract with ADOR terminated as of midnight on October 29.
ADOR, however, insists that the contract remains valid. The company stated, “The artists sent a notice on October 13 with eight demands. We responded with the best possible measures and provided a detailed reply via email and certified mail by the November 28 deadline.” ADOR also expressed a desire for sincere dialogue with NewJeans to resolve the matter.
Source: Daum
