According to Star News, Danielle appointed her legal representative on December 31 in response to ADOR’s lawsuit against herself, her family, and former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin. The same day he filed a power of attorney with the court, signaling his intention to actively contest the request.
Previously, on December 29, ADOR released an official statement explaining the status of discussions with members Minji, Hanni and Danielle following the court ruling affirming the validity of the exclusive contracts. The agency said that after extensive and sincere discussions, Hanni chose to respect the court’s decision and return to ADOR. ADOR added that talks with Minji are ongoing, but in Danielle’s case the company has concluded that continuing the relationship as a member of NewJeans and an ADOR artist would be difficultand therefore issued a formal notice of termination of the contract.
Shortly after making the announcement, ADOR proceeded without delay to file a lawsuit against Danielle.
The penalty and damages case filed by ADOR against Danielle, her family, and former CEO Min Hee-jin was assigned to the 31st Civil Division of the Seoul Central District Court, presided over by Chief Judge Nam In-soo. The total amount requested is approximately ₩43.1 billion. Notably, the same division is currently handling a separate civil case between HYBE and Min Hee-jin regarding ownership of ADOR shares and a ₩26 billion put option.
As expectations grow that the legal battle between ADOR, Danielle and Min Hee-jin will intensify, public attention is increasingly focused on Danielle’s next steps, especially given her quick decision to secure a lawyer.
NewJeans previously announced in November 2024 that they would be terminating their contracts due to what they described ADOR’s failure to fulfill its obligations. After long legal disputes, last October the court once again ruled in favor of ADOR in the case seeking confirmation of the validity of the contract. Since then, ADOR has officially confirmed the return of members Haerin, Hyein and Hanni, while stating that discussions with Minji are still ongoing.
Sources: born
