The fandom of NewJeans, known as Bunnies, has released a statement expressing strong dissatisfaction toward HYBE following the termination of Danielle’s contract.
In a statement released on the 29th, Bunnies stated, “Despite all NewJeans members expressing their intention to return together, HYBE and ADOR notified only one member of contract termination. This is a violent act aimed at unilaterally dismantling NewJeans as a five member group and a deception toward the court, the parties involved, and the fans.”
They continued, “The court acknowledged the validity of the exclusive contracts based on mutual trust. However, once all NewJeans members declared their intention to return, ADOR suddenly changed its stance and issued a termination notice to one member, clearly attempting to deliberately divide the group,” adding angrily, “Was ADOR CEO Lee Do Kyung’s appeal to the court to bring NewJeans back merely a step toward tearing them apart?”
Bunnies further argued, “A decision to dismantle the full lineup of a group that is the company’s only signed artist and a major driver of its profits due to its high IP value cannot be explained as a normal business judgment by an entertainment company,” claiming that “this is a malicious abuse of power by HYBE, ADOR’s largest shareholder and de facto decision maker, and by Bang Si Hyuk.”
The statement went on to emphasize the importance of the group’s full lineup, saying, “Forcing the breakup of NewJeans against the fierce opposition of fans and the wishes of the members themselves damages the group’s value, tramples on their artistic freedom, and clips their wings. ‘NewJeans’ is the culmination of memories and bonds built together by the five members and their fans. Free NewJeans and guarantee the members their freedom.”
Earlier that day, ADOR released an official statement addressing the status of the NewJeans members’ return. According to the agency, Hanni decided to return to ADOR, Minji remains in ongoing discussions, and Danielle was notified of the termination of her exclusive contract.
ADOR explained, “Hanni visited Korea with her family and held long, in depth discussions with ADOR. During that process, both sides revisited past events and took time to view the situation objectively. After sincere conversations, Hanni decided to respect the court’s ruling and continue working with ADOR. Minji is also in discussions with the company, with talks continuing to broaden mutual understanding.”
Regarding Danielle, ADOR stated, “We determined that it would be difficult to continue working together with Danielle as a NewJeans member and ADOR artist, and therefore notified her today of the termination of her exclusive contract.”
The agency added that it plans to pursue legal responsibility against one member of Danielle’s family and former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin, citing their significant responsibility in causing the dispute and contributing to NewJeans’ departure and delayed return.
SEE MORE: Danielle’s NewJeans exit sparks reports of 108 billion won (80 million USD) penalty
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