NewJeans (NJZ) Vows to Continue Legal Battle with Ador Over Contract Dispute

K-pop girl group NewJeans, also known as NJZ, has expressed its determination to pursue a legal dispute with their agency, Ador, regarding their exclusive contract. In an interview with Time magazine on March 22, 2025, the group shared their disappointment with the court's ruling, stating, "We did not expect the K-pop industry to change overnight. Compared to what we have experienced so far, this is just another stage in our journey."

They further commented, "This might be the reality in Korea. Therefore, we need change and growth. It seems that Korea wants to make us revolutionaries."

Previously, NewJeans claimed a breach of contract by Ador in November 2024, leading them to change their name to NJZ and begin independent activities. In response, Ador filed a court injunction to prevent the members from engaging in independent advertising contracts and other music and entertainment activities.

On March 21, 2025, the Seoul Central District Court accepted Ador's request for an injunction, ruling that NewJeans had not sufficiently proven their claims for contract termination. The court stated, "The evidence presented does not convincingly demonstrate that Ador violated significant obligations under the contract, nor that the trust between the parties has irreparably broken down."

The court also noted that Ador had invested significant resources and support into the members, who were once unknown trainees, and that if they were to unilaterally terminate the contract after achieving popularity, it would cause substantial harm to Ador.

Following the court's decision, Ador expressed gratitude for the ruling, stating, "We will fulfill our responsibility to support our artists and ensure that the upcoming performance at ComplexCon in Hong Kong will proceed under the NewJeans name."

Despite Ador's commitment to support, NewJeans remains resolute in their independence. They confirmed their intention to continue the legal battle regarding the validity of their exclusive contract at a hearing scheduled for April 3, 2025.

NewJeans stated, "The court's decision did not adequately consider the complete breakdown of trust between the members and Ador. We plan to contest this ruling through the appeals process and will provide additional evidence to support our case. We believe that the truth will soon be revealed."