This is a hot topic among K-pop fans recently. Director Shin WooSeok of Dolphin Kidnappers, who produced the music videos for NewJeans’ hit songs ‘Ditto’ and ‘ETA’, has filed a defamation lawsuit against ADOR executives, specifically CEO Kim JooYoung and Deputy CEO Lee DoKyung. This comes after it was revealed that ADOR filed a civil lawsuit against Dolphin Kidnappers and Director Shin two months ago.
The incident began last September, following a management dispute with former HYBE executive Min HeeJin. As changes occurred in the Ban HeeSoo channel operated by Director Shin WooSeok, dissatisfaction among NewJeans fans grew. In response, ADOR explained that “Dolphin Kidnappers posted the director’s cut of the ETA music video without consulting with the advertisers,” but Director Shin refuted this and announced legal action.
The Dolphin Kidnappers have stated that they are unable to disclose content produced in collaboration with NewJeans, and that collaboration with ADOR is no longer possible. They are strongly criticizing ADOR’s response and gaining support from fans.
Meanwhile, ADOR has stated that they hold no personal animosity towards Director Shin WooSeok, who created great works with NewJeans, but have filed a civil lawsuit against him citing contract violations and intellectual property rights infringement.
This legal dispute vividly reveals the complex relationships between producers and agencies in the K-pop industry. How this case will unfold and how NewJeans fans will respond remains to be seen. Fans will be closely monitoring the situation as they await future updates.
