NewJeans-ADOR Mediation to Resume Next Month... Minji and Daniel Attend but No Agreement Reached

Kim Minji and Daniel, members of the girl group NewJeans, appeared at the Seoul Central District Court on the 14th for mediation in their exclusive contract dispute. During the first mediation session held that day, the two sides failed to reach an agreement, and the court scheduled an additional mediation date for September 11.

Daniel (left) and Minji of the group NewJeans, who are in an exclusive contract dispute with the agency ADOR, are entering the Seoul Central District Court in Seocho-gu, Seoul on the 14th for the first trial mediation of the exclusive contract validity confirmation lawsuit. Photo by Yonhap News

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The Civil Settlement Division 41 (Presiding Judge Jeong Hoeil) held a closed-door mediation session in the afternoon for the exclusive contract validity confirmation lawsuit filed by ADOR against the five NewJeans members. In accordance with the principle of parties’ attendance, Kim Minji and Daniel appeared in court in person, but left after simply saying “We’re sorry” to reporters without making any further comments.

The mediation lasted about one hour and twenty minutes, but the two sides were unable to narrow their differences. As a result, the court plans to attempt another mediation next month. The court appears to have determined that additional discussions are necessary, considering the possibility of remaining grounds for agreement or new facts coming to light.

Daniel (left) and Minji of the group NewJeans, who are in an exclusive contract dispute with the agency ADOR, are entering the Seoul Central District Court in Seocho-gu, Seoul on the 14th for the first trial mediation of the exclusive contract validity confirmation lawsuit. Photo by Yonhap News

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This dispute began in December of last year, when ADOR filed a lawsuit claiming that the NewJeans members had unilaterally notified the agency of contract termination. ADOR argues that all members ended their contracts without following proper procedures, and is seeking legal confirmation of the validity of the exclusive contracts.

On the other hand, the NewJeans side claims that the relationship of trust with the agency has already collapsed, which is the basis for their termination. The core issue centers on the dismissal process of former chief producer Min Heejin and the resulting conflict. The NewJeans side emphasizes the legitimacy of the contract termination, arguing that ADOR neglected internal disputes and failed to respond to requests for corrective action.

If mediation ultimately breaks down, the court is expected to deliver a verdict on October 30.

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