New Chapter Unfolds: Ex-NewJeans Member Danielle’s Emotional Return and the Lingering Contract Saga 🥺🎤💔

Seoul’s vibrant K-pop landscape is rarely without its dramatic turns, and this week has delivered a particularly poignant moment. Former NewJeans member Danielle made an emotional return to the public eye, shedding tears as she addressed fans for the first time amidst the ongoing, complex legal entanglements surrounding her departure from ADOR.

On January 12, 2026, Danielle hosted a live broadcast titled ‘Dear Bunnies’ on her newly launched YouTube channel, ‘Danielle Marsh’. The broadcast was keenly anticipated by fans, who have been waiting for clarity since news of her contract termination broke. While she stopped short of revealing full details, her message was heartfelt and heavy with unspoken emotion.

Addressing her loyal fanbase, Danielle acknowledged the swirling uncertainty. “Many situations are still being sorted out,” she shared, adding that “a day will come when I can tell you what happened and answer your questions.” Her words hinted at a turbulent period behind the scenes, yet her focus remained firmly on expressing gratitude.

The broadcast itself was a raw display of emotion. Danielle reportedly teared up almost immediately after uttering the greeting, “Hi Bunnies.” She confessed, “This moment of greeting you like this feels a little unfamiliar.” Her heartfelt message continued, acknowledging the unwavering support of her fans:

• 💖 “To say you just waited is an understatement. Bunnies stayed right where they were.”
• enduring warmth has truly stayed with me for a long time.”
• lessons and had to protect so much during the past time. My perspective on the world has changed.”
• ✨ “When I think of Bunnies, your eyes always come to mind first. Those moments we met on stage, the feeling and memories that lingered even when the music stopped – they quietly sustain me now.”

Ahead of the live broadcast, Danielle had opened a new SNS account, signaling her intent to reconnect with fans. Her legal representatives had previously stated that this live message was Danielle’s direct and sincere outreach to the fans who have stood by her side through challenging times.

This emotional reunion comes after a tumultuous period for NewJeans and ADOR. In October of 2025, ADOR notably won a lawsuit against all five NewJeans members concerning the validity of their exclusive contracts. Following this verdict, Haerin, Hyein, and Hanni returned to ADOR, with discussions ongoing for Minji’s return. In stark contrast, Danielle was served with a contract termination notice from ADOR and has since been implicated in a lawsuit alongside CEO Min Hee-jin, indicating a unique and complex path forward for her.

We believe Danielle’s raw honesty resonated deeply, cutting through the industry’s usual polished facade with a moment of genuine human connection. Her journey, now navigating independent waters, will undoubtedly be one of the most compelling stories in K-pop’s evolving narrative.

As the legal dust continues to settle, the K-pop world watches keenly to see what the future holds for Danielle and how her new chapter will unfold.

Editor: Eric Choi 🍜