The record label behind chart-topping K-pop group NewJeans has filed a $30m (£22m) lawsuit against one of the band’s members, escalating a year-long dispute that has shaken South Korea’s music industry.
Hybe, the parent company of NewJeans’ label Ador, confirmed it is seeking damages from band member Danielle Marsh, a member of her family, and former Ador chief executive Min Hee-jin, citing contract violations and responsibility for the breakdown in relations between the group and the agency.
The legal action follows Ador’s announcement that it has terminated its contract with Danielle, saying it could no longer continue working with her. Ador also said it would pursue legal claims against Min Hee-jin, who founded the label and was closely associated with NewJeans’ rise to global success.
The dispute has cast doubt over the future of the group, which debuted in 2022 and quickly became one of the world’s best-selling music acts. While Ador said one member, Hanni, has agreed to remain with the agency and talks continue with another, Minji, Danielle’s departure leaves the group reduced to three confirmed members.
NewJeans’ conflict with Ador began in 2024 after Min Hee-jin was dismissed as CEO, a move the band strongly opposed. The group accused the label of mistreatment and attempted to leave the agency, but a court ruling in October ordered them to honour their contract, which runs until 2029.
Reports last month suggested all five members would return, raising hopes of a full reunion. However, Ador’s latest announcement has renewed uncertainty and disappointed fans, many of whom insist the group should only exist as a five-member act.
Industry analysts say the situation is damaging for all sides. Music critic Lim Hee-yun told the BBC that NewJeans’ influence on female K-pop groups made a full reunion highly anticipated, but now increasingly unlikely. He added that three-member groups often struggle in the K-pop market, where fan loyalty is closely tied to group identity and chemistry.
Danielle’s future in the industry is also unclear, with experts suggesting she may face challenges continuing as an idol and could instead pursue work as a solo artist, actor, model or influencer.
