On November 29, HYBE-affiliated label ADOR made public its response to the certified letter sent by NewJeans, containing an email from CEO, Ju Young Kim, addressed to members.
In the email, Kim wrote: “For the past two weeks since I received your letter, I have hoped to meet you in person at least once, but ultimately I just have to express my thoughts through this email, which leaves me with a heavy heart.”
He noted that the ADOR team was deeply impressed, stating: “For the past 14 days, our staff has been grappling with despair and sadness.”
Kim explained: “Since NewJeans is our only artist, some members of the team were anxious. However, we have carefully reviewed your requests and have worked diligently to address the issues raised in your letter.”
He admits that some matters are beyond ADOR’s control or require more time than the 14 days allowed, but emphasizes: “We collaborated with other companies and made every effort to do what was possible within the time allowed.”
Kim shared that ADOR is preparing for NewJeans’ future activities, including plans for their next album, stating, “Although we were disappointed when Min Hee-jin informed us a week ago that she could not continue working with ADOR or NewJeans, we remain confident and proactive. In a short time, we have reviewed various global manufacturer lineups to maximize members’ potential and are moving in a positive direction.”
He added, “If Min Hee-jin changes her mind and comes back as a producer for NewJeans, that would be ideal. Our staff has created a comprehensive plan for next year’s activities and I truly believe that if members participate, they will produce heartfelt and distinctive music that reflects their individuality.”
Kim also addressed NewJeans’ fears of being overlooked by ADOR, saying:“One of the most surprising parts of your letter was the concern that we might leave you without any plan. However, HYBE CEO Lee Jae-sang assured us that if members want it, HYBE will fully support them with its global network and resources.”
Kim revealed that the company had responded to NewJeans’ letter on November 28 and sent the response via express courier. He explained, “I was busy with meetings and couldn’t attach the response to an email before hearing about your press conference at 8.30pm. I hope our response clears up any misunderstanding.”
Finally, Kim concluded with a written invitationg, “If possible, I would like to meet you in person for a conversation. As you attend your program in Japan, please take some time to think about things and let us know. I will listen carefully to everything you have to say at the press conference.”
Meanwhile, on the evening of November 28, NewJeans held a press conference to declare that it would terminate its exclusivity contract with ADOR effective midnight on November 29.
Here, the group cited unmet requests for improvements as the reason for their departure and expressed their desire to continue working with former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin.
Source: News1