NewJeans Shuts Down Social Media Accounts Amid Legal Dispute

K-pop group NewJeans has taken the drastic step of shutting down their social media accounts. On April 4, they announced a name change from 'NJZ' to 'mhdhh', which combines the initials of the members' names: Min, Ha, Da, Hae, and Hye. Following this, the official accounts managed by the members' parents were also renamed.

On April 5, the parents of the members issued a statement denying rumors of discord among them, asserting that all five members are united in their decision not to return to HYBE. They emphasized that this decision was made after thorough discussions with their families and that they had previously agreed not to pursue legal action unless all five members consented.

The parents also refuted speculation regarding Haerin's family matters, stating that any adjustments to parental rights were made with respect for the minor's wishes and that the family is resolute in their stance. They expressed a lack of trust in the management of ADOR and HYBE, stating, "As parents, we cannot send our children back there."

Currently, both the accounts created by NewJeans and those managed by their parents have been deleted, along with all previously posted statements, videos, and photos. This move has led to speculation that it may be a strategic decision in light of the impending legal battle with ADOR.

Last November, NewJeans announced the termination of their contract with ADOR and revealed plans to operate independently under the new name NJZ, even completing trademark registration. However, the Seoul Central District Court recently ruled in favor of ADOR regarding a request to maintain the group's status and prevent them from entering into advertising contracts, rejecting the members' claims of contract violations.

Despite respecting the court's decision, the members have referred to themselves as 'revolutionaries' and have refused to return to ADOR. They have declared a halt to their activities and filed an objection to the court's ruling, with a hearing scheduled for April 9. Additionally, a lawsuit regarding the validity of their contract with ADOR is ongoing.

Reflecting on past interviews, it appears the members believed their contract with ADOR had been terminated without issue. They previously expressed shock at the court's ruling in an interview with BBC Korea. However, as the situation unfolds, there are growing concerns that NewJeans may need to adopt a different approach than they initially anticipated.