Danielle addresses the lawsuit during the first hearing
Former NewJeans member Danielle has responded to the damages lawsuit filed by ADOR following the termination of her exclusive contract. On the morning of March 26, 2026, KST, the Civil Agreement Division 31 of the Seoul Central District Court held the first preparatory hearing in the case. The lawsuit was filed by ADOR against Danielle, Danielle’s mother, and former CEO Min Hee Jin. According to reports, the court session focused on the beginning stages of the legal dispute and the positions of both sides. The case has drawn media attention due to the scale of the damages being claimed for around $30 million, and because it also involves Danielle’s mom. In addition, it sparked more controversy as ADOR requested to delay the trial.
ADOR requested to delay the date of their trial against NewJeans Danielle.
The Judge has just rejected their request and said to proceed as scheduled. pic.twitter.com/Tcp2FsaMoQ
— EMPIRE (@EmpireIX) March 24, 2026
Danielle’s side criticizes the pace and scope of the case
During the hearing, Danielle’s legal representatives said that long legal delays could cause serious damage because of the nature of the idol industry. They argued that an extended lawsuit could take up an important period in her career and claimed the case seemed to be moving in a way that created delays. They also raised concerns about the range of defendants, saying that the inclusion of Danielle’s family member and former CEO Min Hee Jin could be seen as an effort to prolong the dispute. In addition, her team criticized ADOR’s request to postpone the preparatory hearing and said they hoped the case could move forward through more focused proceedings.
“We hope the case reaches a swift conclusion through focused proceedings,” Danielle’s legal team stated.
ADOR defends its position in the damages dispute
ADOR responded by saying that the lawsuit concerns damages and penalties and does not prevent Danielle from continuing any of her projects. Danielle’s side also commented on ADOR leaving open the possibility of a settlement. The team stated they had never considered that possibility in a situation where the exclusive contract had already been terminated and a major penalty lawsuit had been filed.
“You are linking Danielle’s activities to this case, but this is a lawsuit concerning damages and penalties. The defendant herself can decide to continue her entertainment activities,” ADOR said.
ADOR previously notified Danielle in December 2025 that her exclusive contract had ended and later filed a damages claim against her, her mother, and former CEO Min Hee Jin. The claimed amount is about 43.09 billion KRW, or about 30 million USD. According to the agency, Danielle’s family member played a major role in the dispute and in delays related to NewJeans’ return.
