On January 12, Danielle opened a personal Instagram account and announced a live broadcast scheduled for 7pm, her first public appearance since ADOR notified her of its termination. The agency and Danielle are currently preparing for a full-scale legal battle.
Prior to the broadcast, Danielle’s legal representatives stated that the live stream was intended solely for communication with fans, stressing that it had “nothing to do with the lawsuit.” They explained that Danielle would like to express gratitude to fans at home and abroad and share short personal updates.
However, live streaming quickly took on a different tone.
As soon as she went live, Danielle greeted fans by saying, “Hi, Bunnies. I’m already crying,” visibly overcome with emotion. The broadcast reportedly attracted nearly 50,000 viewers in real time, with the comments section quickly filling up with messages.
Danielle gave a long poetic monologue, reflecting on time, memories and her connection with fans.
“This moment seems unusual to me, but somehow calming. I have carried it in my heart for a long time,” he said. “The rabbits stayed right where they were. That heat lasts.” She spoke about how the past few months have changed her view of family and the world, adding that memories on stage continue to silently sustain her.
Despite claims of “pure communication”, Danielle referred to the current legal situation, stating that “many things are still being organised”. He also made a public statement that attracted a lot of attention: “There is always NewJeans in a corner of my heart. Every member, sincerely.”
Controversy erupted over how Danielle spoke rather than what she said. While she addressed fans in Korean for emotional reflections, she switched to English when discussing sensitive issues like the lawsuit and her intentions.
In English, Danielle said: “When the time comes, I will explain everything about the cause and what you are curious about. One thing is clear: I fought until the end to stay with the members. They are a part of me.”
Critics argue that this selective language choice reflects a calculated awareness of domestic public opinion, allowing it to soften messages for international fans while avoiding direct accountability in Korean. This perceived duality has fueled accusations of an “ambiguous and strategic” communication style.
The reaction is intensified by past incidents involving members of the NewJeans. During previous litigation with ADOR, the group has publicly stated that it respects the court’s injunctive orders while continuing independent operations. They were also criticized after giving an interview to TIME magazine that was perceived by some as disparaging of the K-pop industry itself.
Danielle concluded the livestream with another emotional message: “Bunnies, this is not the end. Whether through music, silence, or small moments, I want to speak truthfully and beautifully, in my own way.”
However, for many observers, the combination of emotional appeals, unresolved legal liability and linguistic nuances has only increased skepticism.
Previously, ADOR announced that it had officially terminated Danielle’s exclusive contract and planned to file lawsuits seeking fines and damages. The agency said it believed continued cooperation with Danielle was impossible and added that legal liability would also be pursued against a family member and former CEO Min Hee Jin for their alleged roles in the dispute.
Instead of calming the situation, Danielle’s emotional return to public attention has reignited the debate, raising questions not only about accountability and sincerity, but also how language itself can shape public perception in the global K-pop industry.
Sources: Nate News
