ADOR terminated NewJeans member Danielle's exclusive contract on Monday, sparking widespread online speculation that she may join THE BLACK LABEL, a South Korean entertainment company founded by producer Teddy Park.
The theory gained traction after Korean netizens observed Danielle's recent public activities with individuals connected to THE BLACK LABEL. She has been frequently spotted with actor Park Bo Gum and singer Sean, both of whom have ties to the agency. Park Bo Gum signed with THE BLACK LABEL in January 2023, while Sean serves as head of external relations at YG Entertainment, which maintains structural ties with THE BLACK LABEL.
Danielle joined their "Unknown Crew" running group for early morning jogs and participated in charity volunteer work alongside them. Most recently, she was spotted delivering coal briquettes at a volunteer event with Sean on Dec. 29, the same day her contract termination was announced.
Netizens point to another connection: actor Im Si Wan, who joined The Black Label in November 2025, was also part of the same running group before signing with the agency. This pattern has fueled speculation that Danielle may follow a similar path.
ADOR stated that Danielle violated her exclusive contract by "signing conflicting agreements, engaging in independent entertainment activities, or damaging the reputation" of the company and NewJeans. The agency filed a lawsuit seeking penalties and damages, though it did not disclose specific amounts.
The Black Label, which operates as an associate company of YG Entertainment, currently manages artists including Taeyang, Rosé, Jeon Somi, and groups Meovv and AllDay Project. The company was founded in 2015 by Teddy Park, the legendary producer behind hits for BIGBANG, 2NE1, and BLACKPINK.
The speculation comes amid NewJeans's ongoing legal dispute with ADOR. Following a court ruling that upheld the validity of their contracts until 2029, members Haerin and Hyein returned to the agency, while Hanni also confirmed her return. Minji remains in ongoing discussions with ADOR.
Neither Danielle nor THE BLACK LABEL has commented on the speculation.
If Danielle does move to THE BLACK LABEL, she will not be the first HYBE artist to do so. ALLDAY PROJECT's Youngseo, who was originally part of ILLIT's debut lineup under HYBE's BELIFT LAB, also left the agency before joining THE BLACK LABEL and debuting with the co-ed group.
