NewJeans contracts stripped minors of basic rights, report says

A New York Times report reveals that NewJeans signed record label agreements in 2022 that removed standard legal protections for minors. The five members, aged 14 to 17 at the time, accepted terms from Ador, a subsidiary of Hybe, that waived their right to sleep, rest, and free choice.

The contracts eliminated Korean government template language designed to protect basic human rights. Specific clauses regarding the right to education were struck from the documents. Ador also removed provisions preventing labels from demanding excessive physical exposure or sexually suggestive expressions from minor performers.

The agreements imposed strict behavioral rules on the group. Members were forbidden from displaying an insincere attitude or engaging in inappropriate romantic relationships. The documents also required the band to repay a large portion of plastic surgery costs, a common practice in the industry. Hybe representatives stated that the company does not recommend cosmetic procedures against an individual’s wishes.

The ownership rights granted to Ador extended beyond typical industry standards. The contract gave the label perpetual rights to use the members’ names, photographs, handwriting, voices, and likenesses. Government recommendations usually suggest these rights end when a contract terminates. The Ador agreement specifically included the right to use the members as AI chatbots or clones.

Hybe representatives told the New York Times that the contracts were legal and negotiated in good faith. They stated that the company adheres to child protection laws and ensures artists train in safe conditions. The label maintains that its exit penalty fees do not exceed industry standards.

The group faced public conflict in November 2024 when they announced their departure from the label. The move followed contract disputes and claims that Ador undermined their careers. Band member Hanni accused the label of deliberate miscommunications and manipulation in a statement to South Korea’s parliament.

Ador has maintained that a unilateral claim of broken trust is not valid grounds for contract termination. In December 2025, the label sued Danielle, a member of her family, and the band’s producer for nearly $30 million in damages and contract break penalties. The dispute has kept the group’s legal status in flux.

NewJeans members Minji, Hanni, Haerin, Hyein, and Danielle had undergone years of training in boot camps before signing. Schedules were strict, with rehearsals often stretching until 2 a.m. While the group promised 2026 would be the summer of NewJeans, no new music has been released as of the current reporting.