NJZ Shares New Update After Court Rules in Favor of ADOR, Blocking NewJeans’ Independent Activities, Triggering Mixed Reactions and Calls for Apologies from Fans
The recent developments surrounding NJZ, formerly known as NewJeans, following the court ruling on March 21, 2025, have captured significant attention in the K-pop industry. This report provides a detailed examination of the court’s decision, NJZ’s response, netizen reactions, and the underlying controversies, ensuring a thorough understanding for readers.
Background of the Dispute
The conflict between NewJeans and ADOR began on November 28, 2024, when the group announced their intention to terminate their exclusive contracts, citing unresolved issues and violations by ADOR. They adopted the name NJZ and attempted independent activities, but ADOR filed a lawsuit in December 2024 to verify contract validity, with a hearing scheduled for April 3, 2025, at the 41st civil division of the Seoul Central District Court. Additionally, ADOR sought a provisional injunction in January 2025, heard on March 7, 2025, at the 50th civil division, to prevent independent advertising contracts, claiming breaches by the members.
This dispute is further complicated by the involvement of former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin, who was instrumental in creating NewJeans and has been in conflict with HYBE over control of ADOR. Min Hee-jin, appointed CEO in November 2021 and executive producer for NewJeans since their July 2022 debut, faced tensions with HYBE, with NewJeans members publicly requesting her reinstatement as CEO in September 2024, highlighting her role in their identity.
Court Ruling Details
On March 21, 2025, the Seoul Central District Court ruled in favor of ADOR’s injunction request, prohibiting NJZ from engaging in independent activities. This decision, detailed in reports from The New York Times, halts NJZ’s plans to release new songs, organize appearances, or sign advertising deals without ADOR’s consent. The ruling is provisional, effective until the first-instance verdict in ADOR’s ongoing lawsuit, with Korean netizens noting it was expected, as per allkpop.
The court’s decision did not fully address NJZ’s claims of trust breakdown with ADOR, as stated in their response, with allegations including plagiarism claims against ILLIT and comments like “Ignore Hanni,” which were not substantiated enough for contract termination, according to theqoo.
NJZ’s Instagram Update
Following the ruling, NJZ shared a lengthy letter on Instagram in the early hours of March 22, 2025, addressing fans. The statement, as reported by Koreaboo, included:
“Everything will be okay, Bunnies. It’s not easy, I know… but I hope you can let your heart rest a little today—whether it’s getting some good sleep or just taking it easy. Honestly… I’ve been a bit all over the place preparing for this stage, and I feel really sorry that I haven’t been able to look after you all as much lately. … You’re the ones who’ve always stood by us, endlessly cheering us on… Because of you, the five of us became stronger, are strong now, and will continue to stay strong. This isn’t the end yet! … Let’s all enjoy the stage together on Sunday, happily and fully.”
This update highlighted their commitment to performing at ComplexCon on March 23, 2025, aiming to prevent disruption for fans and stakeholders, as part of their strategy to challenge the ruling through objection procedures.
Netizen Reactions and Demands for Apologies
Netizen reactions, gathered from social media and reported in Koreaboo, are divided. Supportive comments include:
“Honestly, it’d be better if someone else managed their Instagram until things settle down. NewJeans hwaiting.”
“I think it’d be better to pause Instagram for now. Both the idol and the fans seem mentally exhausted—taking a break from communities and SNS and focusing on something else might be the best move.”
However, controversy arises with demands for apologies, particularly over allegations involving ILLIT’s manager. Hanni claimed the manager instructed ILLIT members to ignore her, part of broader mistreatment claims, but court evidence, including CCTV footage from Pinkvilla, showed ILLIT members bowing to Hanni, contradicting her claims. Text messages revealed during the March 7, 2025, hearing, as per Pinkvilla, showed Hanni’s uncertainty, fueling backlash:
“So… are they really saying they’re just going to keep promoting??? How is that even possible??”
“Just start by apologizing to ILLIT, LE SSERAFIM and ILLIT’s manager first.”
“First, how about apologizing to the other idol groups who had to endure everything for a year or more because of what they said…”
“Why are you acting all holy and righteous by yourself? Like you’re some kind of saint, lol.”
These reactions reflect the ongoing tension, with some netizens feeling NJZ should address perceived false accusations, especially given the legal refutation in KBIZoom.
Table: Key Dates and Events
Date
Event
Nov 28, 2024
NewJeans announced contract termination with ADOR, citing violations.
Dec 2024
ADOR filed lawsuit to verify contract validity, hearing set for Apr 3, 2025.
Jan 2025
ADOR filed provisional injunction, heard on Mar 7, 2025, to prevent independent activities.
Mar 21, 2025
Court ruled in favor of ADOR, blocking NJZ’s independent activities.
Mar 22, 2025
NJZ posted Instagram update, reassuring fans and planning ComplexCon performance.
Apr 3, 2025
Main lawsuit hearing on contract validity scheduled.
Current Status and Future Implications
NJZ remains committed to their ComplexCon performance on March 23, 2025, despite the injunction, emphasizing fan engagement. The legal battle continues, with the April 3, 2025, hearing critical for determining contract validity. NJZ has stated they cannot continue under a management they feel disrespects them, as per their Instagram statement, and are focused on protecting their dignity and rights.
This situation underscores the emotional and legal toll on both the group and fans, with divisions highlighting the need for resolution. For the latest updates, keep an eye on VvipTimes, and allow notifications for instant updates on your device.
