Kang Daniel Faces Contract Lawsuit: Timeline, Career, and Fan Support

Kang Daniel faces court battle, ordered to pay ₩400M.
His agency pushes back, calling the ruling unfair.
Fans worldwide rally with love and support.

The Seoul Central District Court’s ruling on August 25, 2025, came as a shock to many. In a civil lawsuit, the court ordered Kang Daniel to pay ₩400 million (approximately USD 290,000) in damages to Genie Music. The case stemmed from a concert contract signed in 2022–2023 between Genie Music and KONNECT Entertainment, Kang Daniel’s former agency. Genie Music originally sought ₩710 million (about USD 510,000) in losses, claiming the tour revenue failed to cover the advance payment . The ruling quickly stirred controversy among fans, while Kang Daniel’s new agency called the demand unreasonable.

Timeline of the Dispute and Contract

According to court documents, in June 2022 Genie Music and KONNECT Entertainment signed a deal worth ₩2.2 billion for 25 concerts, including encore shows, to be completed by June 30, 2023 . The agreement included a clause stating that if ticket sales and profits did not reach the ₩2.2 billion advance, the artist would be required to hold additional concerts until the full amount was recouped .

During that period, Kang Daniel successfully held concerts in Seoul, the Philippines, Thailand, and other countries, completing a total of 26 performances. However, total revenue only reached ₩1.48 billion —far short of the target.

Genie Music argued that both KONNECT and Kang Daniel should be liable for the shortfall, pointing to performance confirmation documents signed by Daniel himself . The court agreed that there was joint liability but only required Kang Daniel to pay part of the damages: ₩400 million .

The judge also noted several mitigating factors: the issue was raised months after the contract had ended, Daniel had reason to believe he had fulfilled his obligations, and he had never received any formal request for extra shows . These points supported the decision not to hold him fully accountable, even though joint liability was still recognized.

Career Journey and Legal Battles

This lawsuit is the latest hurdle in Kang Daniel’s turbulent career. He first rose to fame after winning Produce 101 Season 2 and debuting with the project group Wanna One in 2017. When the group disbanded, he founded his own agency, KONNECT Entertainment, in 2019 . Though the move symbolized independence, the company soon fell into conflict with its majority shareholder, leading to allegations of document forgery and embezzlement. KONNECT eventually shut down in June 2024 .

A month later, Kang Daniel signed an exclusive contract with ARA (also referred to as Aira), where he continues to promote his music and entertainment projects . Under this new agency, he has been able to focus on rebuilding his career and strengthening ties with his fanbase.

ARA sharply criticized the court’s ruling, stating that the lawsuit was “highly unusual” since the agreement was between two companies, not an individual. They emphasized that Daniel had already completed 26 shows as agreed and was never asked to perform additional concerts . The agency expressed hope that the appellate court will overturn the decision and restore fairness. Their firm response shows a clear intent to protect their artist and signals that the legal battle is far from over.

Global Fan Support and Public Reaction

Amid the legal storm, Kang Daniel’s fandom—known as FLOWD—has shown unwavering loyalty. Social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), has been flooded with posts expressing encouragement and solidarity. Fans wrote messages like, “Kang Daniel, we know you have fulfilled all your responsibilities and always gave your best. You are never alone… our love and support for you will never change.” Others simply declared, “Kang Daniel deserves so much better.”

Photos of Daniel smiling with his beloved cat were widely shared, accompanied by heartfelt captions such as:

“Your community is supporting you from around the world, we love you Kang Daniel 💕.” 

Fans also posted concert shots, writing messages like: “May the world be kinder to Kang Daniel 💜🖤.” 

Many added prayers for his well-being and brighter days ahead, while others called for concrete actions—buying his albums, streaming his songs, and attending concerts—to show direct support.

Outside of the fandom, online forums also questioned the fairness of the ruling. Some netizens argued that the responsibility for missed revenue targets should lie with the organizers and promoters, not the artist himself. Still, others pointed out that by signing the performance confirmations, Daniel inadvertently placed himself in a legally vulnerable position.

What stands out, however, is the overwhelming wave of love from fans worldwide. Their presence shows that an artist’s future isn’t decided solely in the courtroom but also in the unwavering devotion of their community. While the legal battle continues, one thing remains clear: Kang Daniel is not facing it alone.

Sources: Allkpop, MK.co.kr, TenBiz, Daum