Ador Files Lawsuit to Enforce NewJeans Contract as Ousted CEO Alleges Hybe's Legal Violations

By Marcus Bennett

December 5, 2024 at 09:27 PM

Ador, a subsidiary of Hybe, has filed a lawsuit at the Seoul Central District Court following NewJeans' recent attempt to terminate their contract. This legal action comes amid an ongoing dispute between former Ador CEO Min Hee-jin and Hybe executives.

Aerial view of Seoul's skyline

Aerial view of Seoul's skyline

Key Developments:

  • NewJeans announced their departure from Hybe/Ador during a press conference last week
  • Ador claims the contract remains valid until 2029
  • Min Hee-jin denies orchestrating NewJeans' departure
  • Min has filed separate defamation complaints against Hybe executives and reporters

Recent Allegations:

Min Hee-jin accuses former Hybe CEO Park Ji-won and PR head Park Tae-hee of:

  • Illegally obtaining private conversations
  • Adding false information before public release
  • Orchestrating defamatory media coverage

Ador's Position:

The company states they filed the lawsuit to:

  • Confirm the validity of NewJeans' exclusive contract
  • Ensure continued legal enforcement
  • Protect industry trust relationships
  • Preserve K-pop industry foundations

Industry Response:

The Korea Management Association has publicly supported Ador's position in this dispute.

Additional Context:

Separate from this case, Hybe chairman Bang Si-hyuk faces investigation from the Financial Supervisory Service regarding alleged collusion with private equities before Hybe's 2020 IPO.

The situation remains dynamic, with NewJeans expressing continued interest in working with former CEO Min Hee-jin. Legal proceedings are expected to continue as both parties maintain their positions.

Sean Combs in white suit

Sean Combs in white suit

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Nigerian singer Flavour performing live

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