K-pop group NewJeans's contracts lacked basic protections for minors?
What's the story
The contracts signed by the members of K-pop girl group NewJeans with their record label Ador (a subsidiary of Hybe) reportedly omitted several crucial provisions. According to a New York Times report, the contracts were signed when the members were between 14 and 17 years old. The agreements prohibited "insincere attitude" and "inappropriate romantic relationships," while also excluding standard child protection language that safeguards "basic human rights."
Missing protections
Contracts excluded right to education, excessive physical exposure clause
The contracts omitted parts of the Korean government's K-pop contract template that state labels cannot demand excessive physical exposure or overly sexual expression from minor performers.
They also did not include provisions to protect the members' right to education.
In response, Hybe representatives told NYT that they comply with child-protection laws and strive to ensure safe working conditions for their artists.
The agency also claimed that clauses on rights of underage members were included in separate supplementary agreements.
Training and negotiations
K-pop boot camps and contract negotiations
Before signing their contracts, the NewJeans members, Minji, Hanni, Haerin, Hyein, and Danielle, had already undergone years of rigorous training in K-pop "boot camps."
These camps focused on vocal training, choreography, and foreign language education.
After receiving their exclusive contracts with Ador in January 2022, one member's parents requested multiple changes to the agreement but were told that not signing it as is could lead to reconsideration of "the contract itself."
Contract details
Other shocking revelations from the contracts
The contracts also included a clause that required the band to repay a large percentage of the costs for any plastic surgery, which is common in K-pop.
However, Hybe clarified that they do not recommend cosmetic surgery or procedures against an individual's wishes.
The contracts further granted Ador rights to use the members' "name, photographs, likeness, handwriting, voice and any other elements" indefinitely, extending beyond government recommendations for such rights to end at contract termination.
Career progression
NewJeans's career trajectory so far
NewJeans, one of the most popular K-pop acts of the decade, made history in 2023 by becoming the second Korean girl group to top the Billboard charts with a number one album.
However, their journey took a tumultuous turn in November 2024 when they announced their departure from Ador amid contract disputes and allegations of Ador intentionally sabotaging their careers.
Legal proceedings
Ador has taken legal action against Danielle
Ador has continuously asserted that they did not breach their contractual obligations.
The label took legal action against band member Danielle, her family member, and the band's producer in December 2025 for nearly $30 million in damages and a contract break penalty.
In response to NYT's inquiries about the contracts, Hybe stated that its exit penalty fees are within industry standards.