NewJeans Announces Activity Suspension Amid Legal Dispute

On March 23, 2025, K-pop group NewJeans declared a suspension of their activities during their performance at 'ComplexCon' held at the AsiaWorld-Expo in Hong Kong. The members concluded the show without introducing themselves as 'NewJeans' or 'NJZ', stating, "We have decided to temporarily halt all activities in respect of the court's ruling. We understand that this choice is not easy, but we raised our voices to protect the values we believe in and each other. We hope you understand that this is not the end. We will return, and we want to meet again with smiling faces. This was a difficult decision, but we do not regret it."

This announcement follows a ruling from the Seoul Central District Court, which granted a provisional injunction requested by Ador, preventing NewJeans from engaging in any entertainment activities without the company's consent. In response, NewJeans expressed their views to Time magazine, stating, "K-pop treats artists like products. This might be the reality in Korea, and change and growth are necessary. It seems Korea wants to make us revolutionaries," which drew significant backlash.

Despite the court's decision, NewJeans has chosen to suspend their activities, effectively rejecting communication with Ador and asserting their independence. Reports indicate that Ador attempted to send staff to the concert to engage with the members, but they refused to meet. By deciding to halt their activities without consulting Ador, NewJeans has made it clear that they do not recognize the agency's authority.

In a statement on March 24, Ador expressed disappointment over NewJeans' unilateral decision to suspend activities and their performance under a different name, emphasizing their commitment to fulfilling their obligations under the valid exclusive contract. They expressed hope for a swift meeting with the artists to discuss their future.

NewJeans plans to file an objection to the court's ruling and intends to present their arguments in the main lawsuit, raising concerns among fans. Notably, attorney Ko Sang-rok, known for his association with NewJeans fans, criticized the group for initially siding with former Ador CEO Min Hee-jin and attacking the parent company, stating that they have now disregarded the industry and even the court, leading to negative sentiments towards Korea.

The members had previously expressed a desire to remain with Min Hee-jin, who was dismissed from her position at Ador, and have since sent a formal notice to the agency regarding the termination of their exclusive contract. During the provisional hearing on March 7, the members expressed their wish to continue working with Min Hee-jin.

Haerin stated, "We were happily achieving good results with CEO Min, and I cannot understand why we were separated," while Danielle added, "We stand on stage as five, but we are a team of six, including CEO Min. I was afraid of losing her as she faced attacks and unfounded articles. I want to continue with her in the future." Hyein expressed her feelings, saying, "We cannot approach the public with insincere work in a false situation without CEO Min," while shedding tears.

Netizens have voiced their concerns, suggesting that while the members are still young and may be impulsive, it is crucial for adults like Min Hee-jin to help guide them towards a better future.