[talk] [2026 Latest] Why did Daniel leave New Jeans? A complete summary of the reason for the termination of his exclusive contract and his future activities.

Is Daniel actually leaving New Jeans? We'll explain in detail, based on the latest developments in 2025, the dispute over the band's exclusive contract with ADOR, the background to the contract termination notice, each member's future plans, and the reason why the five-member group has disappeared.

1. Why did the issue of Daniel leaving New Jeans become so big?

The controversy surrounding Daniel's departure from New Jeans is seen as more than just a simple departure of a member; it is the result of a long-term conflict with the agency over an exclusive contract. For New Jeans, which has been at the center of K-pop since its debut in terms of both musical acclaim and brand power, the departure of one member has an enormous impact.

The roots of the problem lie in a breakdown in trust between the members and the agency. The members raised issues regarding the contract, citing distrust in the working environment and management system, while the agency asserted the validity of the contract and initiated legal action. In the process, the biggest points of contention became whether the members were allowed to pursue independent activities and whether the termination of their contract was justified, which led to Daniel's departure gaining significant public attention.

2. What the notice of termination of exclusive contract to Daniel means

The notice of termination of Daniel's exclusive contract does not simply mean that he left the group of his own accord. The crux of the matter is that ADOR, his agency, decided that the contract could not be continued and unilaterally notified him of the termination.

This decision effectively makes it impossible for New Jeans to return as a complete five-member group. Terminating the contract is not just a simple suspension; it will have a cascading effect on future promotional rights, rights to use the brand and content, and even compensation issues. Daniel, in particular, had worked with global brands and was well-known overseas, so this termination has dealt a major blow to both his individual career and the group's.

In other words, this case should not be understood as a "declaration of withdrawal," but rather as a departure from the group that was confirmed by the end of the legal relationship.

3. ADOR's position and the legal dispute

ADOR has consistently maintained that the exclusive contract is valid and that they will hold Daniel responsible for any breach of contract. The agency believes that the trust between them is irreparable and has issued a notice of contract termination, along with the possibility of seeking penalties and damages.

In the process, the issue of control over HYBE and the responsibility of the former management, Min Hee-jin, were also raised, further complicating the situation. This situation goes beyond a simple dispute between an individual artist and the agency, and calls into question the appropriateness of the label's management and management decisions.

Below is a table summarizing the current legal structure.

4. New Jeans' organizational changes and future activity scenarios

With Daniel's contract being terminated, it is no longer possible for New Jeans to continue activities as a five-member group. Some members are exploring the possibility of returning while maintaining their contracts with the agency, while others are carefully considering their future plans.

There are three main scenarios that can be realistically considered. First, a reorganization as a four-member group. Second, a strategy focusing on unit and individual activities. Third, the possibility of restarting in a new form after a long hiatus following the conclusion of the legal dispute. In any case, Daniel's departure is not just a change in members, but an event that redefines the very direction of the New Jeans brand.

5. Fan reactions, industry evaluations, and overseas media perspectives

Among Korean fans, disappointment and fatigue over the protracted conflict are spreading, with many saying, "The legal issues come to mind before the music itself." Meanwhile, international media is analyzing this case as emblematic of the structural challenges and risks facing the K-pop industry.

The issue of balancing the protection of artists' rights with the stability of contracts for labels has once again come to the forefront, and it has been pointed out that this could have an impact on the contract structures of other idol groups in the future.

6. Q&A | Frequently Asked Questions about Daniel's departure from New Jeans

Q1. Is it confirmed that Daniel is leaving New Jeans?
At this point, a notice of termination of her exclusive contract has been issued, and it is considered highly unlikely that she will return to group activities. While the details may change depending on the legal outcome, this is considered a de facto departure.

Q2. Will New Jeans continue to operate in the future?
Some members remain under contract, so there is still room for the group to resume activities. However, it is not realistic for the group to continue as a complete five-member group, and a new lineup is being considered.

Q3. How does this issue affect the K-pop industry?
This has sparked renewed discussion of the nature of exclusive contracts, label independence, and management responsibility, which may have an impact on future contract clauses and dispute resolution.

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