K-pop band member sued for $30m after bitter record label feud

K-pop Band Member Sued for $30M After Bitter Record Label Feud

K-pop sensation NewJeans faces yet another significant hurdle as the group’s record label, Ador, has initiated a lawsuit against member Danielle Marsh. The legal action, which seeks $30 million (£22 million) in damages due to a contract breach, marks a dramatic turn in an already contentious year-long feud.

Details of the Lawsuit

– Defendants: The lawsuit involves Danielle Marsh, a family member, and ex-boss Min Hee-jin.
– Company Statement: Hybe, Ador’s parent company, confirmed the lawsuit to the BBC.
– Impact on NewJeans: The group’s turmoil is exacerbated by Minji’s uncertain return, leaving NewJeans with only three active members.

Fan Reactions and Support

Fans have expressed bewilderment and dismay over the situation on social media, voicing their support for Danielle. Many fans shared sentiments such as:

– NewJeans is five or nothing.
– Does this make any sense? NewJeans without Danielle isn’t NewJeans. Give us back Danielle!
– All they wanted to do was be artists and make their fans happy.

NewJeans’ Rise and Recent Challenges

Since debuting in July 2022, NewJeans has quickly ascended to become the eighth biggest-selling act globally. Their unique blend of 1990s R&B and contemporary pop melodies has garnered critical acclaim. However, a significant rift emerged with Ador in 2024 following the controversial removal of former CEO Min Hee-jin, whom the group regarded as a key mentor.

– Allegations: NewJeans accused Ador of mistreatment and deliberate miscommunication, prompting them to announce plans to leave the agency.
– Legal Battles: Ador subsequently filed a lawsuit, successfully blocking the group’s departure in October 2023 and enforcing the continuation of their contract until 2029.

Recent Developments

In a surprising announcement, Ador revealed that it had terminated its contract with Danielle, citing difficulties in continuing their professional relationship. The agency also implied that both Danielle and Min Hee-jin bear significant responsibility for the feud. They also noted that NewJeans members had faced persistently distorted and biased information, leading to misunderstandings about the label.

– Other Members’ Status: Hanni chose to remain with the label following extended discussions with her family, while Minji remains in talks.
– Initial Concerns: Fans were initially alarmed when Ador suggested that only two members, Hyein and Haerin, would return, leading to fears of a group disbandment.

Expert Insights

Music critic Lim Hee-yun labeled NewJeans as a pivotal group that reshaped the landscape for female K-pop acts. He emphasized that fans hoped to see the full five-member team return, a wish that now seems unattainable.

– Future of NewJeans: Lim speculated that Ador may need to recruit new members if Minji also departs. In the competitive K-pop industry, successful groups usually have strong chemistry among members, making it challenging for three-member configurations.

Danielle’s Future in Music

The uncertainty surrounding Danielle’s career trajectory raises questions about her path forward. Lim commented on the potential public perception challenges she may face due to the ongoing legal issues, suggesting she might need to pivot towards solo endeavors in acting, modeling, or social media influencing.

As the situation continues to unfold, the fate of both Danielle and NewJeans remains in limbo, leaving fans anxiously awaiting further developments.