NewJeans Members Face Legal Setback in Independent Activities

A significant legal hurdle has emerged for the members of NewJeans as they pursue independent activities separate from their agency, Ador. On March 21, 2025, the Seoul Central District Court's Civil Division 50, presided over by Chief Judge Kim Sang-hoon, granted Ador's request for a preliminary injunction to prevent the five members—Minji (민지), Hani (하니), Danielle (다니엘), Haerin (해린), and Hyein (혜인)—from engaging in activities that could undermine their exclusive contract with the agency.

The members of NewJeans announced their intention to start independent activities after claiming that their contract with Ador was terminated due to violations by the agency last November. They recently revealed a new team name, 'NJZ', through their NJZ social media channel, along with a revamped logo, signaling a fresh start away from NewJeans.

In response, Ador filed a lawsuit to affirm the validity of the exclusive contracts, arguing that there were no grounds for termination. During a hearing on March 7, Ador's representatives presented detailed arguments against the claims of contract violation.

Ador's CEO, Kim Joo-young, expressed a desire to continue working with the NewJeans members, stating, "The only reason we filed this injunction is that we want to be with the NewJeans members. We have dedicated ourselves wholeheartedly to this group, and we ask for the opportunity to continue doing so."

Conversely, the NewJeans members accused Ador of attempting to bind them like 'slaves' without any remorse, asserting that their termination notice was legitimate and effective immediately. They argued that since the contract was terminated, the injunction should be dismissed.

However, the court's ruling favored Ador, leaving the future actions of the NewJeans members uncertain as they navigate this legal challenge.