(ANN/KOREA HERALD) – Members of the K-pop group NewJeans have reassured their fans following the recent announcement of their ultimatum to Ador, the group’s management agency, which could result in the termination of their exclusive contracts if their demands are not met.
Hanni, a member of NewJeans, reached out to fans via the group’s fan community app, Phoning, on Wednesday, just ahead of South Korea’s college entrance exam, the Suneung. “Just in case, do not worry about us. Everyone has an important stage in their lives, and for us, it’s just now. Don’t worry about us when taking the test,” she shared, aiming to calm concerns amid the heightened attention surrounding the news.
Danielle also reassured fans, saying, “You must have been surprised watching the news, but we are okay, so do not worry about us. We hope you do your best in your test tomorrow.”
The members’ messages followed their submission of a certified letter to Ador on Wednesday, which outlined their grievances and demands, giving the agency 14 days to address them. Key demands included a public apology from a manager affiliated with Hybe, Ador’s parent company, who allegedly instructed another girl group member to ignore Hanni, the reinstatement of former CEO Min Hee-jin, the removal of content released without their consent, resolution of conflicts involving director Shin Woo-seok of Dolphin Kidnapping Group, and an audit of alleged company misconduct affecting NewJeans that led to lost work opportunities.
In their letter, the group expressed their desire to return to the original creative and collaborative environment they experienced under Min Hee-jin’s leadership. “We miss the NewJeans that was filled with dreams alongside Min Hee-jin, and the music, performances, and new, creative activities we were to show,” they wrote.
Ador acknowledged receipt of the letter on Thursday. “We have received the certified letter this morning and are currently reviewing it to understand the specific requests. We will do our best to resolve the matter wisely and ensure continued partnership with the artist,” the company stated to The Korea Herald.
The ultimatum from NewJeans marks a significant moment for the group as they await the agency’s response to their demands.
