Source Music denies that Le Sserafim had an advantage against Newjeans

The legal dispute between the ador and the members of Newjeans (NJZ) won another chapter after the first hearing at the Central District Court of Seoul on Friday, March 7. The case involves the validity of the exclusive contract of the artists with the company, which was terminated by the members in November 2024, after allegations of contract violation. During the trial, one of the main points discussed was the alleged unequal treatment between the quintet and other Hybe artists, including Le Sserafim.

In its defense, the lawyers of Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin and Hyein They claimed that the label had neglected the group since its debut in 2021, despite the promises that the quintet would be the company’s first female group. The legal representative also raised the case of Hyeinthe group’s maknae, which would have been chosen as a brand ambassador, but soon after Le Sserafim was named for the same position, which generated speculation that the company would have tried to give advantage to the other girlgroup.

However, Source Music, the agency responsible for Le Sserafim, issued an official statement refuting the allegations of favoritism. The agency clarified that the collaboration between the group and the brand in question began in April 2022, when the member Sakura signed a contract with it. The partnership was later expanded to all members, independently, with no relationship with other artists or groups: “Le Sserafim received no special privilege or unfair advantage in the selection process as brand ambassador,” they said.

The company also commented on accusations of unequal treatment against Hybe compared to Newjeans. According to a statement, the label offered full support to the quintet during its preparation for the debut. However, the company criticized Min hee-jinformer CEO of the ador, for spreading unrealistic information during a press conference in April 2024, reinforcing having filed an indemnity action against the former creative director of the ador, who is still underway.

Finally, Source Music reaffirmed its seriousness in dealing with the accusations and pledged to take all the necessary legal measures to correct the false allegations and protect the image of its artists: “Bringing the real name of an artist based on unqualified information is irresponsible and harmful. Such allegations create an environment of misinformation that harms everyone involved, including fans and the public,” the company said.