NewJeans Reportedly Signed Contracts at 14-17 That Omitted Sleep Protections, Gave Label Rights to Their AI-Generated Voices
The report says ADOR omitted standard child-protection terms and imposed strict controls on the group’s training, school life and personal conduct.
- A recent report from The New York Times reveals that ADOR omitted standard child-protection clauses from NewJeans' contracts, signed when members were 14 to 17. The agreements waived rights to "sleep, rest and free choice" and prohibited "insincere attitude."
- While South Korean contract templates aim to prevent inhumane conditions, ADOR made several key changes. The label's agreements allowed for AI-generated voices and restrictive personal conduct policies, including bans on "inappropriate romantic relationships."
- In a 2024 testimony to the Korean Parliament, Hanni Pham denounced ADOR for its treatment of her and her bandmates, alleging "significant negligence." Four of the five members dropped out of school, often rehearsing until 2 a.m..
- Following a failed revolt, ADOR terminated Danielle Marsh and filed a lawsuit in December 2025 seeking approximately $30 million. The label alleged Marsh's unauthorized solo projects and refusal to work cost the label $22 million.
- HYBE representatives stated the company complies with child-protection laws and maintains safe conditions. The group announced a hiatus after a Seoul court granted an injunction in favor of ADOR, though the remaining members are under contract until 2029.
16 Articles
16 Articles
The New York Times reported that protective clauses regarding the right to education and sleep were removed from the exclusive contract signed by the girl group New Jeans when they were minors. It was also reported that there were clauses restricting remarks critical of the agency and allowing the agency to utilize New Jeans' music and AI-generated voices even after the contract ended.
Controversy has arisen over the exclusive contract of New Genes, revealed by The New York Times, which includes provisions lacking protection for minors, excessive financial burdens, and issues regarding the calculation of penalties for breach of contract. HYV countered that the contract is legally valid and complies with industry standard practices. Currently, New Genes continues to face conflicts, including the return of some members and lawsu…
The New York Times (NYT) reported that after obtaining and analyzing the exclusive contracts signed by members of the group New Jeans with their agency, Adore, when they were minors, it found that clauses protecting minors were missing, while controversial provisions regarding the burden of plastic surgery costs and restrictions on behavior were included. Adore's parent company, HYBE, countered that it complied with relevant laws and that the co…
The exclusive contract that the members of NewJeans signed with their agency when they were minors is attracting attention.
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