NewJeans’ Danielle: HYBE to Remove Messages From Phoning App
The relationship between HYBE, its subsidiary ADOR, and the K-pop group NewJeans continues to unravel, with the latest development involving the scheduled removal of Danielle’s message history from the group’s official fan communication app, Phoning. The move, announced by HYBE on , has fueled speculation about the future of the group and the individual members, particularly Danielle, and Minji.
Phoning, managed by both HYBE and ADOR, serves as a direct line of communication between NewJeans and its fanbase. According to an official announcement posted on the app, HYBE will be “reorganizing” content, leading to the discontinuation of Danielle’s conversation history on . The announcement, as reported by Koreaboo, attempts to frame the deletion as a measure to “provide better service” and acknowledges the “precious memories” contained within the content, offering fans a viewing period before its removal.
This decision follows a tumultuous period for NewJeans, stemming from a dispute between HYBE and ADOR’s former CEO, Min Hee-jin. HYBE terminated Danielle Marsh’s exclusive contract in December 2025, citing contract violations, and initiated legal action. The situation escalated after Min Hee-jin was ousted as CEO in August 2024, leading to a legal battle and accusations of mismanagement. NewJeans initially announced their intention to depart the agency following Min’s dismissal, but a South Korean court ruled in October 2025 that they were obligated to honor their contract with ADOR, which extends until 2029.
The removal of Danielle’s messages from Phoning is being interpreted by fans as a clear indication of her impending departure from the group. Online discussions, as relayed by Koreaboo, suggest a belief that NewJeans will continue as a four-member act, with Minji remaining with the group. This interpretation is amplified by the timing of the announcement and the specific content being targeted – Danielle’s individual conversation history.
The broader context of this situation involves a complex power struggle within HYBE and ADOR. Min Hee-jin, the creative force behind NewJeans’ success, has been locked in a dispute with HYBE over creative control and business practices. She recently offered to forgo a substantial payout of 25.6 billion won (approximately $17.9 million or £13.2 million) if HYBE were to drop all lawsuits against NewJeans, stating she “can no longer bear to watch” the group be “torn apart.” Her offer, reported by the BBC, underscores the deep emotional investment she has in the group’s future and her desire to protect its members.
The legal battles surrounding NewJeans have been multifaceted. A recent court ruling earlier this month sided with Min Hee-jin in a dispute over a put option with HYBE, ordering the entertainment giant to pay her the aforementioned 25.6 billion won. However, HYBE has appealed this ruling, signaling their continued resistance to Min’s demands. The ongoing legal proceedings and the recent decision to remove Danielle’s content from Phoning demonstrate the escalating tensions and the uncertain future facing NewJeans.
The implications of Danielle’s potential departure extend beyond the group’s lineup. NewJeans has quickly develop into one of the most successful K-pop acts of recent years, known for its innovative music and distinctive visual style. Any significant changes to the group’s composition could impact its brand identity and future trajectory. The removal of Danielle’s content from Phoning, while presented as a routine reorganization, is a symbolic act that underscores the shifting dynamics within the group and the broader industry.
Fans have until , to view Danielle’s messages on the Phoning app before they are permanently removed. This limited window serves as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of digital memories and the complex relationship between artists, fans, and the corporations that manage their careers. The situation highlights the increasing scrutiny of K-pop management practices and the challenges faced by artists navigating the often-turbulent waters of the entertainment industry. The future of NewJeans, and the fate of its members, remains uncertain as the legal battles and internal conflicts continue to unfold.