ADOR replaces CEO after just a year amid legal battle with NewJeans; fans say ‘management is unstable’

According to Soompi, Kim’s appointment was intended to stabilize the company’s organizational structure. However, now that those goals have been met, the board has decided to shift toward a system that can drive business growth more swiftly. This led to the appointment of Lee, who was previously vice president of Hybe’s IPX division, which develops artist IP-based businesses such as merchandising, licensing, and fan experiences.

“Having deemed the previous restructuring goals achieved, the board is now moving to an operational model focused on quickly supporting artists’ activities and driving business expansion,” ADOR said in a statement.

Fans weren’t pleased with ADOR’s CEO change

Many fans criticized ADOR for changing its leadership in the middle of a legal battle with NewJeans. One fan wrote, “maaaaaan…ador is so stupid… like why would you replace the CEO in the middle of a lawsuit and another mediation session in 22 days.. that’s just admitting that management is so unstable, there’s zero contingency plans and that MHJ was right (again).” Another added, “Big shift at ADOR with Lee Dokyung stepping in as the new CEO. Fresh leadership could mean a whole new direction for the label. Curious to see how this impacts their artists and upcoming projects. Definitely a moment to watch in the K-pop industry.”

What is the ADOR and NewJeans conflict?

Since ADOR’s former CEO Min Hee-jin stepped down, NewJeans members — Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein — have been in conflict with the Hybe subsidiary over contract disputes and allegations of mistreatment.

The K-pop group sought to terminate their contract with ADOR. However, the label filed for an injunction to prevent NewJeans from engaging in independent activities, which the court initially granted. The dispute has since involved multiple court hearings, but no agreement between the parties has been reached.