The NewJeans contract controversy has sparked strong reactions in South Korea, as the Korea Music Industry Association (KOMA) recently expressed deep regret and concern over the New York Times’ (NYT) recent report citing and analyzing the girl group’s exclusive contract.
Association Criticizes NYT Report on K-Pop Contracts
On the 9th, the association released a statement addressing the NYT’s coverage of the specific K-pop artist’s exclusive contract. The organization stated that it feels deep concern, pointing out that the report failed to adequately consider the legality and legitimacy of contracts formed under South Korea’s legal and institutional framework.
Furthermore, the association criticized the coverage as a one-sided and biased evaluation that overlooks the unique characteristics and value of the incubating system that has contributed to the global growth of K-pop.
Addressing Trainee Rights and Systemic Efforts
Emphasizing that artist rights protection has been a crucial task continuously pursued by K-pop companies and the South Korean government, the association argued that NYT failed to shed light on these institutional developments and industry-wide self-regulatory efforts. It criticized the outlet for expanding a controversy surrounding an individual, isolated contract into a structural problem of the entire K-pop industry.
The association also noted that major K-pop companies, including HYBE, execute standard youth subsidiary agreements for trainees that include protective clauses covering personal rights, sleep, education, and rest. Furthermore, member companies designate youth protection officers in accordance with relevant laws.
Warning Against Distorted Public Opinion
Highlighting that the exclusive contract in question is currently subject to legal disputes and remains bound by confidentiality obligations, the association strongly criticized the leaking and publicizing of its details through foreign media to fuel one-sided arguments and public battles.
The association concluded by vowing to take firm action against distorted public opinion and inappropriate profit-seeking behaviors that undermine the credibility and status of the entire K-pop industry, while striving to protect artist rights and establish a sound contract culture.
Previously, the New York Times reported on the 5th (local time) after obtaining the exclusive contract signed by NewJeans members with ADOR in 2022 during their teenage trainee days. The outlet criticized the contract for lacking clauses guaranteeing the members’ health, education, and rest, while including provisions restricting personal life and allowing the company to commercially exploit their names, faces, and voices even after contract termination.
