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ADOR Responds to HYBE’s Management Audit on CEO Min Hee Jin

HYBE’s decision to initiate a management audit of its subsidiary label ADOR has sent ripples through the K-pop industry, raising questions about the dynamics between the two entities and the future of their partnership. Since then, ADOR has addressed the label’s plans.

HYBE Initiates Management Audit on ADOR

Despite HYBE holding a controlling 80 percent stake in ADOR, recent developments have highlighted tensions between the label and its parent company. Reports surfaced on April 22 indicating that HYBE had detected efforts by ADOR to assert its independence, prompting concerns within the conglomerate. In response, HYBE took swift action, calling for a shareholders’ meeting to address the situation and hold the ADOR management accountable for their actions.

Founded in 2021 by industry veteran Min Hee Jin, ADOR quickly became synonymous with innovation and creativity, serving as the home for rising stars like NewJeans.

Central to HYBE’s concerns was the composition of ADOR’s leadership, with both current directors having joined the company alongside Min Hee Jin from SM Entertainment. In an effort to exert greater influence and oversight, HYBE sought to appoint an additional director from its own ranks, signaling a shift in power dynamics within the label.

Furthermore, reports circulated that HYBE had issued a document calling for Min Hee Jin’s resignation as CEO of ADOR, further complicating the situation and raising speculation about the future leadership of the label.

ADOR Responds to HYBE’s Plans

In response to these developments, ADOR issued a statement addressing the reports and affirming its commitment to transparency and cooperation with HYBE during the audit process.

“It appears that HYBE and BELIFT LAB along with Chairman Bang Si Hyuk think that simply driving CEO Min Hee Jin out of the company will end this issue without providing proper apologies or measures. However, ADOR will use all possible means and methods to protect the cultural achievements that NewJeans has worked for and to prevent further infringement due to copying. We want to make it clear that we cannot tolerate copying and various unfair actions continuing against ADOR and NewJeans,” it read.

The outcome of this audit and the subsequent actions taken by both parties will undoubtedly shape the future trajectory of ADOR and its relationship with HYBE, underscoring the complexities of navigating the competitive landscape of the K-pop industry.

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ADOR Begs NewJeans Fans To Avoid Giving Letters At Airport

NewJeans fans are in for some disappointing news. The group’s agency has issued a notice asking people to avoid giving letters and gifts at the airport.

NewJeans Fans No Longer Allowed to Hand Letters and Gifts at the Airport

On April 5, ADOR issued a notice regarding fan interactions with NewJeans, urging fans to adhere to certain guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of the members. The notice, titled “Information on How to Deliver Fan Letters to NewJeans (No Giving Letters at the Airport),” outlined specific instructions regarding the delivery of fan letters and gifts to the group.

In the notice, ADOR expressed concern over the potential risks associated with fans presenting gifts or letters to NewJeans at the airport, particularly during congested situations with heavy foot traffic. Acknowledging the safety hazards posed by such practices, the agency made it clear that NewJeans would not be accepting letters from fans at airport locations.

“Giving presents or fan letters during a congested situation with heavy human traffic may lead to dangerous accidents, requiring extra caution. As such, we would like to inform you, as we have in the initial notice, that fan letters can be delivered only through the designated methods.”

Furthermore, ADOR emphasized that NewJeans has a strict policy against receiving gifts from fans under any circumstances. This policy extends to fan letters, which are only accepted through designated channels, namely the group’s official PO box or directly from NewJeans fan club managers during specified events such as open music shows or in-person fan sign events.

By issuing these guidelines, ADOR aimed to ensure the safety and security of both NewJeans members and their fans during public appearances. The agency’s proactive approach underscores its commitment to prioritizing the well-being of its artists and maintaining a safe environment for fan interactions.

While the notice may have disappointed some fans who were eager to express their support for NewJeans in person, adhering to these guidelines is essential for fostering a positive and responsible fan culture. By respecting the agency’s directives and following the designated procedures for letter delivery, fans can continue to show their love and appreciation for NewJeans in a manner that prioritizes safety and compliance with official protocols.

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NewJeans Delivers Sponsorship Funds for The Deaf

NewJeans, the rising sensation in the K-pop scene, has recently garnered attention not just for their musical prowess but also for their commendable philanthropic efforts. On December 22, Kim Minja, CEO of the welfare organization Snail of Love, proudly announced that NewJeans had delivered sponsorship funds dedicated to supporting deaf individuals.

NewJeans Joins Exclusive Club After Latest Sponsorship Funds

This act of generosity stemmed from a portion of the album revenue earned by NewJeans, exemplifying their commitment to making a positive impact beyond the realm of entertainment. Notably, this isn’t the first time the group has contributed to this cause. In the previous year, both ADOR and NewJeans had also donated proceeds from their sales profits to the same organization, showcasing a consistent dedication to supporting those in need.

As a result of this second sponsorship, NewJeans has been recognized and honored as the seventh member of the organization’s prestigious “Soul Leader” club. The designation is bestowed upon donors whose accumulated contributions exceed KRW 99.0 million (approximately USD 76,400), signifying a remarkable level of commitment to the cause.

How NewJeans’ Donation Will Help The Deaf

The funds donated by NewJeans will play a crucial role in supporting projects aimed at sound-recovery-related treatments and assistance. This includes financing artificial cochlear surgery for deaf individuals, facilitating the replacement of external hearing devices, and supporting speech rehabilitation therapy. By directing their philanthropic efforts towards projects that directly impact the lives of those with hearing impairments, NewJeans is not only raising awareness but also actively contributing to the betterment of the community.

The group’s involvement with Snail of Love also reflects a broader trend within the K-pop industry, where artists leverage their influence to address social issues and contribute to charitable causes. NewJeans’ commitment to making a meaningful difference serves as an inspiration, encouraging fans and fellow artists alike to consider the positive impact they can have beyond their artistic endeavors.

As NewJeans continues to make waves in the music industry, their philanthropic endeavors add an extra layer of admiration from fans who appreciate not only their talent on stage but also their compassionate contributions to society. The announcement of their sponsorship funds for deaf individuals reaffirms that, for NewJeans, success is not only measured in chart rankings but also in the positive change they bring to the lives of those in need.

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ADOR Reacts to Issues About Managing NewJeans

NewJeans’ agency, ADOR, has officially responded to recent controversies surrounding its handling of the group. Concerns arose when fans raised questions about the agency’s alleged reluctance to provide NewJeans members with the desired educational opportunities.

On Tuesday, November 21, NewJeans member Hanni disclosed during a live broadcast her desire for additional Korean classes. 

“I told the company that I wanted to take more Korean language classes, but they said I couldn’t. Because they said I didn’t need them,” Hanni said. Additionally, she also revealed that her last Korean lesson was two years ago. 

This revelation troubled many fans who believed that it’s a sign of mismanagement from ADOR. Other fans are also unsettled by the situation as it seemed like the label isn’t giving their artist’s an access to education. 

In response to the growing concern, Hanni clarified the situation on the fan communication platform Phoning the following day. She stated that there had been a misunderstanding and that her request for Korean lessons had not reached the label or CEO. 

“About a year ago, I mentioned to my manager, who left the company earlier, about how I wanted to start doing Korean classes again,” she explained. “I just wanted to share a fun story with you, but I think there was a misunderstanding. That conversation has not [sic] reached my label or CEO as it was a light one.”

ADOR issues a statement about NewJeans

Following the controversy, ADOR then issued a statement to address concerns on how they handle the girl group NewJeans. 

First, they addressed the members’ education, saying that the agency has hired instructions for the NewJeans members and scheduled classes based on their availability. As for Hanni, the label said that she’s receiving separate language classes, including Korean language education. Then for Hyein, the agency said that her parents decided to let her pursue homeschooling. 

ADOR places utmost importance on the fact that the members of NewJeans are going through a significant phase of personal growth and learning that goes beyond their entertainment activities, encompassing all aspects of their daily lives,” the agency said. 

Furthermore, the label promised fans that they’re exhausting all efforts to provide support for the NewJeans members in terms of their needs at work and personal lives.

Featured image: NewJeans updates fans with new group photo. Credit: Twitter/NewJeans

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Newjean’s “Get Up” Album Is Here!

After weeks of anticipation, K-pop monster rookies NewJeans have finally released their sophomore EP GET UP on Friday, July 21. 

The five-piece rising girl group also released the music video for their track “ETA,” which sees the NewJeans members reaching out to their female friend to tell her that they’ve discovered her boyfriend cheating on her at a pool party. 

 

The “GET UP” EP features a total of six songs, with ETA,” “Super Shy,and “Cool With You” as its triple title tracks. 

All six songs have their own music videos, but the earlier released ones already boast impressive collaborations. 

The New Jeans” music video, for example, saw the group transform into superheroes as it was a collaboration with the 25th anniversary of the hit American cartoon series THE POWERPUFF GIRLS.

Meanwhile, the two music videos for Cool With You,” meanwhile, featured Asian superstars Tony Leung and Jung Ho Yeon. THE “ETA” music video is also in collaboration with Apple as the whole video was entirely shot on iPhone 14 Pro. 

GET UP is NewJeans’ second EP following their self-titled EP, which was released in July 2022.

Composed of Minji, Hanni, Hyein, Haerin, and Danielle, NewJeans is a group under ADOR, the HYBE sub-label headed by Min Hee-jin

Featured image: NewJeans’ Twitter

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Legend Tony Leung and SAG Winner Jung Hoyeon Star in Newjeans’ “Cool With You” Music Video

Rising K-pop girl group NewJeans released on Thursday, July 20, two cinematic music videos for their song “Cool With You,” which stars Squid Game actress Jung Ho Yeon (for which she won the SAG Award for best performance by a female actor in a drama series in 2022) and a cameo appearance from veteran actor Tony Leung. 

In the first video for “Cool With You,” dubbed the “A side”, Ho Yeon was introduced as a cupid who appears to be completely invisible in life and prompts couples to fall in love through her glance. The latter part of the video saw the actress becoming interested in a man, with the members of NewJeans acting out as angels who are watching the forbidden love story unfold. 

 

Meanwhile, the “B side” video for Cool With You” picks up from where the “A side” left off but Ho Yeon is now visible to the world. She’s then seen starting a relationship with her love interest. But as their budding romance starts to pick up, Ho Yeon comes across a mysterious man (played by Tony). From that moment, her lover can no longer see Ho Yeon. 

The “B side” video also saw the NewJeans members dancing to a snippet of their unreleased song “Get Up.” 

 

Aside from “Cool With You,” NewJeans has already released the music videos for Super Shy” and “New Jeans.”

Cool With You” and “Super Shy” are two of GET UP’s triple title songs, alongside the yet-to-be-released track “ETA.” 

NewJeans’ sophomore EP GET UP, which will be released on July 21, will have a total of six songs, with each track having accompanying music videos. 

GET UP will serve as the group’s second EP following their self-titled EP,  which was released in July 2022. 

Composed of Minji, Hanni, Hyein, Haerin, and Danielle, NewJeans is a five-member group under ADOR, the HYBE sub-label headed by Min Hee-jin

Featured image: HYBE Labels’ YouTube

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Watch: Newjeans Returns With Trendy Tracks “New Jeans” and “Super Shy”

Bunnies, rejoice! NewJeans are back with new bangers. 

The rising K-pop girl group released on Friday, July 7, the music videos for tracks Super Shy” and New Jeans.” 

Both songs serve as a pre-release for their upcoming sophomore EP GET UP, which will be released on July 21. 

Super Shy,” which has predominantly funk, jazz, and R&B sounds, is one of GET UP’s triple title songs, alongside yet-to-be-released tracks “ETA” and Cool With You.” 

Meanwhile, the music video for New Jeans” was in collaboration with the 25th anniversary of the hit American cartoon series THE POWERPUFF GIRLS. The music video saw the group transform into superheroes with their respective powers and have their own adventures in this animated universe. 

GET UP will have a total of six songs, with each track having accompanying music videos. Aside from “ETA” and “Cool With You,” the other tracks remaining to be released are “Get Up” and “ASAP.” 

GET UP will serve as the group’s second EP following their self-titled EP,  which was released in July 2022. The five-member group under ADOR, the HYBE sub-label headed by Min Hee-jin, was known for their surprise debut — releasing a series of music videos starting with “Attention” and “Hype Boy” before the official release of their debut EP. 

ADOR first confirmed in June that NewJeans is making a comeback. The group’s latest release is the January 2023 single “OMG.”

Composed of Minji, Hanni, Hyein, Haerin, and Danielle, NewJeans is posing to be one of the rookie powerhouse of the new generation of K-pop artists.

In May, the quintet became the fastest K-pop act to garner 1 billion streams on Spotify. And they’ve achieved the feat in 219 days with only six songs under their belt. Impressive, right?

Featured image from NewJeans’ Facebook

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NewJeans Confirmed for July Comeback

NewJeans will be returning with new music this summer. A representative for the girl group’s agency has confirmed that Minji, HanniDanielleHaerin, and Hyein are preparing for a comeback in July.

ADOR Confirms NewJeans’ Summer Comeback Set For July

News1 reported that NewJeans will be releasing a pre-release song on July 7, 2023. The outlet also revealed that the girl group will release a new album later in the same month.

Since then, a representative for NewJeans’ agency ADOR has addressed the reports. “It is true that NewJeans is preparing for a July comeback. We will inform you once the schedule is confirmed,” the source said.

This is great news considering that fans have been waiting for a New Jeans comeback for some time now. It also means the girl group will be releasing yet another catchy summer track this year.

New Jeans dropped their debut single “Attention” in July 2022. It was soon followed by “Hype Boy”, which became the longest-running song on the Billboard Global 200 by a K-pop female act. It also charted for 35 weeks, becoming NewJeans’ first global hit.

New Jeans’ latest album is the single album ‘OMG’ released in January 2023. It became their first album to sell over one million copies while the title track of the same name also went viral on TikTok.

In related news, Danielle has been confirmed to play Ariel in the Korean dubbed version of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid”. The NewJeans member has just unveiled her own rendition of the classic song “Part of Your World” as part of the remake’s promotions.

The details on NewJeans’ July comeback have not yet been revealed but the new release comes at the perfect time later this year. Minji, HanniDanielleHaerin, and Hyein have been confirmed to perform at the Lollapalooza and Summer Sonic Festival in August 2023.

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