The Seoul Central District Court’s Civil Division 31 held the first hearing on the 14th for a damages lawsuit worth 43.1 billion won filed by Ador against Danielle and former Ador CEO Min Hee-jin (currently CEO of OK Records).
Danielle’s side argued, “Four months after this lawsuit began, the plaintiff’s representatives have all resigned and are being replaced.” They further claimed it is unfair that Ador targeted only Danielle among the NewJeans members regarding huge penalties and the termination of the exclusive contract, while also issuing retaliatory warnings to the other members.
Ador recently appointed four lawyers from Law Firm Lihan after the previous Kim & Chang legal team resigned, and subsequently filed a request to change the court date.
Danielle’s team emphasized, “This appears to be a blatant and malicious attempt to prolong the case, forcing an idol to spend their most shining moments in legal disputes.” They added that such behavior, which ignores the court, should not be tolerated.
They also added, “The fact that the plaintiff has yet to submit an evidence plan should be seen as effectively giving up on proving their claims, and the lawsuit should be dismissed.” Min Hee-jin’s side supported this, calling it a “malicious act intended to devastate the lives of the defendants.”
In response, Ador apologized for the delay in submitting the evidence plan, stating, “There were practical circumstances, and there is absolutely no intention to delay the case,” adding that they are currently preparing it.
This legal battle began in December last year when Ador filed for 43.1 billion won in damages against Danielle, her family, and former CEO Min, citing violations of the exclusive contract. Ador claims they caused management losses by leading member departures and delaying their return.
