ADOR’s announcement on December 29 confirming the termination of Danielle’s exclusive contract has effectively set NewJeans on a path toward operating as a three- or four-member group. With Haerin, Hyein, and now Hanni confirming their return to the agency, only Minji’s final decision remains before the group’s new lineup is determined. Yet despite these comeback signals, the reaction from the music industry and the general public remains notably cold.
The core issue is not simply whether the members return to ADOR, but whether trust—once lost—can realistically be rebuilt. Over the past year, NewJeans have suffered significant reputational damage, and many analysts argue that Minji’s potential return alone would not be enough to guarantee a full-scale recovery. The group’s image, once defined by freshness and innocence, has been fundamentally altered through this prolonged contract dispute.
Public perception shifted dramatically as the members appeared to prioritize personal loyalty to former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin over the contractual obligations that underpin the entertainment industry. Their actions, including openly challenging the court’s ruling that upheld the validity of their exclusive contracts, were seen by many not only as defiant but also as irresponsible. This stance pushed criticism beyond K-pop fandoms and into the broader public sphere, branding the group as idols who failed to respect social and professional accountability.
Another unresolved issue is the impact NewJeans’ actions had on fellow artists. During the dispute, the group aligned closely with Min Hee Jin’s narrative, contributing to negative public sentiment toward other idol groups. For many observers, this crossed a line—from an internal agency conflict into a violation of industry ethics and basic solidarity among peers.
What has further fueled backlash is the absence of any clear apology or expression of regret toward those affected. The public has been quick to point out the contrast between the group’s firm stance during the dispute and their quiet return to ADOR, all without addressing the harm caused. Industry insiders largely agree that resuming activities without a sincere apology makes it nearly impossible to restore credibility or goodwill.
Beyond public trust, NewJeans also face a creative crossroads. Long labeled as “Min Hee Jin’s group,” they must now decide whether to preserve that identity or redefine themselves under new creative leadership. This choice will play a critical role in determining whether the group can regain momentum or remain overshadowed by controversy.
Meanwhile, ADOR has stated that it will pursue legal responsibility against one member of Danielle’s family and former CEO Min Hee Jin, citing their significant role in triggering the dispute and delaying the group’s return. Some observers speculate that the contractual penalties and damages Danielle may face could amount to tens of billions of won, suggesting that the legal battle surrounding NewJeans is far from over.
As NewJeans move forward, the central question remains unresolved: without accountability and a genuine apology, can a restructured lineup truly mark a fresh start, or will the group continue to be defined by the controversy they leave behind?
Sources: Nate