What's Next For NewJeans?

"After almost a year of legal drama, the Seoul Central District Court ruled that NewJeans' contracts with ADOR are still valid. This means that the K-pop girl group is legally bound to the agency until 2029, though legal representatives for NewJeans said that they plan to "immediately" appeal the decision. In a statement obtained by the Korea Herald, the law firm that represents members Hanni, Hyein, Haerin, Danielle, and Minji asserted that it is "impossible" for the members to resume entertainment activities with ADOR"

"While breaking a K-pop contract early is typically associated with exorbitant penalties for artists, the group suggested that the label breached contract first, citing alleged mistreatment and mismanagement. But the Seoul Central District Court didn't find any of the group's arguments - including those related to the removal of former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin amid her very public conflict with parent company Hybe and to an incident where Hybe artists were allegedly instructed to "ignore" Hanni - to be sufficient grounds for termination."

"ADOR reacted to the judgment with optimism, stating that it hopes the ruling will "serve as an opportunity for the artists to calmly reflect on this matter." The label added that it has already made preparations for the group to release its first full-length album and is now "waiting." NewJeans has indicated a desire to keep performing ... just without ADOR. The group previously attempted to rebrand as NJZ and continue their careers without the agency."

Seoul Central District Court ruled NewJeans' contracts with ADOR remain valid, binding the group to the agency until 2029. The members' representatives said they will immediately appeal. The law firm said resuming activities with ADOR is impossible because trust has been completely destroyed. The group alleged mistreatment and cited Min Hee-jin's removal and an incident instructing Hybe artists to 'ignore' Hanni, but the court deemed those claims insufficient. ADOR expressed optimism, said it has prepared the group's first full-length album and is waiting. NewJeans indicated a desire to continue performing without ADOR and previously attempted to rebrand as NJZ.

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