On April 4, reports surfaced that one parent of a NewJeans member opposed the group’s attempt to terminate their exclusive contract with ADOR. Initial speculation pointed to Haerin’s mother as the source of opposition, based on vague legal references and court documents. However, NewDaily has confirmed that the parent in question is actually Hyein’s father (Mr. A).
The controversy traces back to the first hearing on April 3 of the ongoing civil lawsuit filed by ADOR, in which the Seoul Central District Court questioned the authority of the legal representatives for the minor members. At that time, the judge asked whether there had been a family court ruling resolving the issue of parental authority, a signal that internal disagreement existed between a member’s parents.
Legal Conflict Between Hyein’s Parents
Further investigation revealed that Mr. A, Hyein’s father, had initially aligned with the group’s decision to exit ADOR but later opposed the contract termination. This divergence led to a civil lawsuit between him and Hyein’s mother (Ms. B) over who would have the authority to act as the legal guardian in court.
On March 14, Ms. B filed a lawsuit to gain sole authority over legal decisions on behalf of their daughter. The court sided with her, stating, “It is appropriate to allow the petitioner to exercise sole parental authority.” This ruling granted Hyein’s mother full legal authority in all proceedings related to the contract dispute with ADOR, and she has since acted as Hyein’s official representative in the ongoing litigation.
Confusion initially spread when Chosun Biz and online commentators cited court records for case No. 2024GAHAP113399, listing a defendant with the surname “Kang,” matching Haerin’s family name. However, further details indicated that the listed legal representative was “father with parental rights,” leading some to wrongly assume that Haerin’s mother was the opposing party.
This speculation proved false. The actual opposition came from Hyein’s family, and Haerin’s parents have been fully aligned with the group’s legal direction.
Joint Statement from All NewJeans Parents
In response to media speculation and growing online misinformation, all five NewJeans members’ parents released a unified statement on April 4. “The reports by some media outlets that there is a division among the parents of the members are completely untrue,” they asserted.
They emphasized that the group remains united, stating, “All five members have a firm stance that they cannot return to HYBE. This decision was reached after thorough discussions with each of their families. From the beginning, it was agreed that legal action would only proceed if all five agreed, and the members deeply trust and support one another.”
Directly addressing the rumors about Haerin’s family, the parents clarified, “Haerin and both of her parents are firmly united in their position. All other speculation regarding private family matters is also false.”
They concluded with a respectful request, “Parental rights issues are personal family matters. We hope these issues will not be maliciously linked to the legal dispute with ADOR in the future.”
While initial confusion and online speculation pointed fingers elsewhere, it is now confirmed that Hyein’s father was the only parent who opposed NewJeans’ contract termination. With legal authority resolved in favor of her mother, the group continues to pursue independence under the name NJZ, standing firm in their united front.