K-pop’s NewJeans announce split from agency Ador, citing a lack of respect

Chart-topping K-pop group NewJeans have announced their decision to leave their label Ador, accusing the company of “mistreatment”.

The news comes two weeks after the girl group sent an ultimatum to Ador’s parent company Hybe – the label behind K-pop sensation BTS – telling it they would terminate their contract unless a set of demands was met.

“From midnight today, our contract will be terminated with Ador,” member Minji said at a news conference on November 28.

Band member Hanni said the group had “faced mistreatment, not just towards us but also including our staff”, without elaborating.

NewJeans performing during the “2024 Korea On Stage – New Generation” live show held in Seoul in May 2024. Photo: AFP

NewJeans experienced “deliberate miscommunication and manipulation regarding multiple areas”, she said.