Seoul Court Upholds NewJeans Contract; HYBE Alleged Role

The Seoul Central District Court ruled that NewJeans’ seven-year exclusive contract with ADOR remains valid until 2029, rejecting the members’ attempt to terminate it. The court found the dismissal of former ADOR CEO Min Hee‑jin did not constitute a contractual breach or justify nullification and noted the contract did not guarantee her position. It upheld ADOR’s injunction that limited the members’ independent commercial activities during the proceedings and ordered NewJeans to pay litigation costs. NewJeans members Danielle, Minji, Hanni, Haerin and Hyein said they will immediately appeal, stating their trust in ADOR has “completely collapsed” and that they cannot return to the agency. The dispute began in November 2024 when the group announced it was leaving ADOR, temporarily rebranded as NJZ and accused the label of mistreatment and manipulation after HYBE reportedly forced out Min Hee‑jin; ADOR is part of HYBE and NewJeans is one of its most successful acts. Fans and the industry remain uncertain as the legal battle continues and the group’s future activities are on hold.