Ador, the K-pop record label, initiated legal action against Danielle Marsh, a member of the group NewJeans, seeking millions in damages following the termination of her contract on Monday. The lawsuit also targets an unnamed family member of Marsh and the band's former producer, Min Hee-jin, alleging their significant roles in instigating a contract breach.

The compensation suit against Marsh, a 20-year-old Australian-born singer, follows a protracted year-long dispute that involved allegations of mistreatment by the band and attempts to dissolve their contractual obligations. Months prior to this suit, a Seoul district court ruled that NewJeans' five members were obligated to honor their contracts with Ador, a subsidiary of Hybe, the company also behind the K-pop group BTS. The existing contract between NewJeans and Ador is set to expire in 2029.

Ador contends that Marsh's family member and former producer Min Hee-jin contributed significantly to the circumstances leading to the contract termination. The label is seeking damages and penalties associated with the alleged breach of contract.

The dispute highlights ongoing tensions within the K-pop industry regarding artist treatment and contractual agreements. While the specific details of the alleged mistreatment have not been publicly disclosed, the case underscores the complexities of managing talent and maintaining contractual obligations within the highly competitive K-pop landscape. The legal proceedings are expected to continue in the coming months, with both sides presenting evidence to support their claims. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for future artist-label disputes within the K-pop industry.