The ongoing legal dispute between NewJeans-now revamped as NJZ-and their original label ADOR, a sub-label of HYBE, saw a major development on June 17, as the Seoul High Court dismissed the group’s injunction appeal.
The court upheld an earlier ruling by the Seoul Central District Court, which granted ADOR an injunction to preserve its management rights over the five members and to prevent them from signing independent endorsement contracts.
ADOR’s authority reinstated
This ruling meant that Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein can no longer move forward with any independent activities involving NewJeans or NJZ without ADOR’s prior consent. The original injunction also includes a financial clause: if the group violates this condition, they will be subject to a significant penalty fee per violation.
The court ruled that each member must pay 1 billion KRW (approximately $730,000 USD) for every instance of engaging in entertainment activities without ADOR’s prior approval. This includes unauthorized actions such as overseas performances or releasing music under a new group name.
NJZ vows not to return to ADOR
However, despite the court’s ruling, NJZ made it clear that a return to ADOR is not an option. During the second court hearing, representatives for the members stated, “The trust relationship has already been broken. We have crossed the river of no return.” This highlights the deepening rift between the members and the agency.
While ADOR has regained temporary control over NewJeans’ activities, the broader conflict is still unresolved. The idols continue to argue that the agency has violated their trust and failed to protect their interests.
What’s next for NewJeans?
With the court barring independent activities and the members firmly refusing to return to ADOR, the group’s future hangs in the balance. Fans are also caught in uncertainty, as the ongoing legal standoff offers no clear resolution in sight and seems it can go on for years.
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