K-pop sensation NewJeans will appeal a South Korean court ruling that upheld the validity of their contract with agency ADOR until 2029, deepening a contentious legal battle rooted in allegations of unfair treatment and a profound breakdown of trust.
The group’s legal representatives stated that despite respecting the court’s decision, the “completely broken” trust between the members and ADOR makes returning to normal activities “impossible.” All five members plan to appeal the lower court’s decision immediately.
Hanni, Hyein, Haerin, Danielle, and Minji initially sought to terminate their exclusive contracts last November. They cited unfair practices and alleged misrepresentation by their management as reasons for their attempted unilateral withdrawal.
The court’s recent decision means NewJeans remains legally bound to ADOR for the next five years. This ongoing dispute highlights broader issues within the K-pop industry regarding artist-agency relationships.
The conflict erupted publicly over a year ago, escalating into a high-profile confrontation. It involved Min Hee-jin, the group’s former mentor, ADOR, and its parent company, HYBE.
HYBE, South Korea’s largest music label and home to acts like BTS and Seventeen, initiated an audit of ADOR in April. Min Hee-jin was managing ADOR at the time.
HYBE accused Min of plotting to establish an independent company, an allegation she denied. Min was subsequently dismissed as ADOR’s CEO in August.
Following Min’s dismissal, NewJeans issued an ultimatum demanding her reinstatement. When HYBE refused, the group publicly aired grievances, including claims that the agency intentionally undermined their careers.
Member Hanni also alleged workplace harassment during her time with the agency.
The court, in its ruling, found it difficult to conclude that Min’s dismissal alone created a management void. It also stated that ADOR did not lack the capacity to fulfill its duties to the group.
The court noted that the exclusive contract did not stipulate Min’s oversight as mandatory for ADOR. It added that even if Min was dismissed as CEO, she could still participate in production work as an external director.
In March, during the height of the dispute, the members attempted to operate independently. They released new music and performed in Hong Kong under the name NJZ, but these activities were halted by a court order.