NewJeans Members Express Disappointment Over Court Ruling

In a recent development, the Seoul Central District Court ruled against NewJeans' independent activities without their agency, Ador, on March 21, 2025. The court granted Ador's request for a preliminary injunction, stating that the five members of NewJeans cannot engage in entertainment activities without prior approval from the agency. The court found insufficient evidence to support the members' claims that Ador had violated their exclusive contract, which would justify its termination.

The members had raised concerns regarding a production gap following the dismissal of former CEO Min Hee-jin, comments made by then-CEO Park Ji-won about giving the members extended breaks, and disputes involving director Shin Woo-seok. They also cited a report from Hive that suggested replacing NewJeans with a new group, as well as issues regarding the potential infringement of their identity by another group under Belift Lab. However, the court did not accept these claims as valid grounds for contract termination.

In response, Ador expressed gratitude for the court's decision, affirming their commitment to supporting NewJeans and hoping for open communication with the members soon.

Despite this, the members—Minji, Hani, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein—released a statement via their NJZ social media channel, acknowledging the court's decision but emphasizing that it did not reflect the complete breakdown of trust between them and Ador. They reiterated their unwillingness to work with an agency that they feel has disrespected them and assured fans that they have grown stronger together, stating, 'This is not the end.'

In an interview with TIME magazine, the members expressed their disappointment with the ruling but acknowledged that they did not expect overnight changes in the K-pop industry. They described the situation as just another phase in their journey, highlighting the need for change and growth within the industry, and remarked, 'It seems like Korea wants to make us revolutionaries.'

As the court prepares for a hearing on April 3 to confirm the validity of NewJeans' exclusive contract, all eyes are on the outcome of this ongoing legal battle.