Ex-Ador CEO Accused of Poaching NewJeans Amid Legal Disputes

Former Ador CEO Min Hee-jin, already embroiled in lawsuits with HYBE subsidiaries, is now accused of attempting to poach NewJeans, the globally renowned girl group she helped create.

The allegations arose after Davolink Chairman Park Jung-kyu claimed in a recent interview that Min had discussed “tampering” during a meeting last year. Tampering, a term borrowed from sports, refers to unethical or illegal recruitment attempts targeting individuals affiliated with rival organizations.

Park alleged that Min sought his investment support and discussed strategies to bring NewJeans under her control during a three-hour meeting in September. According to Park, Min suggested that the group’s transfer could be feasible if she left Ador and the company’s valuation declined.

Min resigned from Ador’s board in November and exited HYBE shortly thereafter. The same month, NewJeans members held a press conference announcing the termination of their exclusive contracts with Ador, further fueling speculation.

Ador has since filed a lawsuit to confirm the validity of its contracts with the group, asserting that the agreements remain legally binding. Meanwhile, NewJeans has ceased using its group name and launched independent social media accounts.

In addition to these accusations, Min is facing lawsuits from HYBE subsidiaries Belift Lab and Source Music. Both companies allege defamation and obstruction of business, accusing Min of publicly criticizing their girl group concepts.

Min’s alleged actions, if proven, could constitute a breach of corporate regulations. Her first court hearing is scheduled for Friday. The future of NewJeans remains uncertain as legal disputes continue to unfold.