NewJeans contracts spark controversy

A report by The New York Times has brought fresh scrutiny to the contracts signed by popular K-pop girl group NewJeans.

According to the report, the members, who were between 14 and 17 at the time, were required to sign agreements that failed to include basic child protection safeguards.

The contracts also imposed various restrictions on the artists even after their terms had expired. The revelations have sparked widespread debate across the K-pop industry.

South Korea’s government-issued ‘K-pop Standard Contract’ includes provisions to protect underage artists’ physical and mental health, education, and right to adequate sleep and rest.