ADOR terminated NewJeans member Danielle’s exclusive contract on Monday, sparking widespread online speculation that she may join THE BLACK LABEL, a South Korean entertainment company founded by producer Teddy Park.
The theory gained traction after Korean netizens observed Danielle’s recent public activities with individuals connected to THE BLACK LABEL. She has often been spotted with actor Park Bo Gum and singer Sean, both of whom are linked to the agency. Bo Gum Park signed with THE BLACK LABEL in January 2023, while Sean serves as head of external relations at YG Entertainment, which maintains structural ties with THE BLACK LABEL.
Danielle joined the running group “Unknown Crew” for their morning run and participated in charity volunteering activities with them. Most recently, she was seen delivering charcoal briquettes at a volunteer event with Sean on Dec. 29, the same day she termination of the contract was announced.
Netizens point out another connection: the actor I’m Si Wanhaving joined The Black Label in November 2025, he was also part of the same running group before signing with the agency. This model has fueled speculation that Danielle may follow a similar path
ADOR said Danielle violated her exclusive contract by “signing conflicting agreements, engaging in independent entertainment activities, or damaging the reputation” of the company and NewJeans. The agency filed a lawsuit seeking fines and damages, although it did not disclose specific amounts.
The Black Label, which operates as an associate company of YG Entertainment, currently manages artists including Taeyang, Rosé, Jeon Somi and the groups Meovv and AllDay Project. The company was founded in 2015 by Teddy Park, the legendary producer behind the hits BIGBANG, 2NE1 and BLACKPINK.​
The speculation comes amid the ongoing legal dispute between NewJeans and ADOR. Following a court ruling that confirmed the validity of their contracts until 2029, members Haerin and Hyein returned to the agency, while Hanni also confirmed her return. Minji remains in ongoing negotiations with ADOR.​
Neither Danielle nor THE BLACK LABEL have commented on the speculation.
If Danielle moves to THE BLACK LABEL, she wouldn’t be the first HYBE artist to do so. ALLDAY PROJECT’s Youngseo, who was originally part of ILLIT’s debut lineup under HYBE’s BELIFT LAB, also he left the agency before joining THE BLACK LABEL and debuting with the co-ed group.
