NYT “뉴진스 계약서에 미성년자 보호 조항 삭제…AI 음성 무기한 사용도”

The New York Times reported that the contract of K-pop girl group New Jeans had certain provisions removed, specifically those related to protecting minors and their rights. The contract's deletion of clauses on education rights, sleep rights, and the use of AI-generated voices raises concerns. The outlet obtained and analyzed confidential contract emails, which went through review by five legal experts.

Despite efforts to improve the industry's practices over the years, changes haven't significantly impacted the group's control. New Jeans members signed the contract with the label, Adore, in 2022 when they were 14-17 years old. However, the contract lacked essential clauses ensuring minors' physical and mental health, education rights, sleep and rest periods, and preventing overexposure and repetitive or long-term activities.

The standard contract, not legally binding but serving as a guideline, also had clauses on ethically questionable behavior and restrictions on public statements that might tarnish the company's image. After contract termination, the label could still sell or repackage the group's music, significantly reducing members' compensation.

They might also use their images, voices, or create AI duplicates and chatbots without limits. Experts noted that the validity of these clauses in court was unclear. The label defended the contract, stating it complied with child protection laws, maintained school enrollment, and didn't penalize hibernation. The contract also ensured individual consent for voice and image use post-contract.

Adore clarified that their labels have separate agreements with the national youth agreement, including protective clauses.