NJZ Takes a Stand: Files Objection Against Court Ruling That Blocks Independent Activities in Ongoing NewJeans vs ADOR Legal Battle, Paving the Way for a Retrial
K-pop group NJZ (formerly NewJeans) has filed an objection to a recent court ruling that upheld an injunction by their agency, ADOR. The ruling prevents the group from pursuing independent activities, such as signing advertising contracts outside their existing agreement. This legal battle highlights the ongoing tension between artists and agencies in the K-pop industry.
The Seoul Central District Court initially sided with ADOR on March 21, 2025, stating that NJZ failed to provide sufficient evidence that the agency had breached their exclusive contract. This decision effectively barred the group from engaging in any independent projects without ADOR’s approval.
However, NJZ is not backing down. In a statement released on social media, the group announced their intention to dispute the ruling and submit additional supporting materials. They expressed their determination to fight for their professional freedom and the ability to pursue independent activities.
“We will continue to stand up for our rights and protect our ability to work freely,” said NJZ in their statement.
The case has garnered significant attention within the K-pop community and beyond. Choi Kwang Ho, secretary general of the Korea Music Content Association (KMCA), commented on the situation, emphasizing the importance of resolving such disputes within the framework of contractual agreements and democratic principles.
“While disagreements between artists and agencies are not uncommon, they should be handled in accordance with the contract and democratic values,” Choi remarked.
As the legal proceedings continue, both NJZ and ADOR will have the opportunity to present further evidence and arguments. The outcome of this retrial could set a precedent for how similar disputes are handled in the future, potentially impacting the balance of power between K-pop artists and their agencies.
What’s Next for NJZ and ADOR?
With the objection filed, the Seoul court will now arrange a retrial to re-examine the case. This legal battle is more than just a contractual dispute; it’s a reflection of the evolving dynamics in the K-pop industry. As artists seek greater autonomy and agencies strive to maintain control, the outcome of this case could have far-reaching consequences. Stay tuned for further developments as the retrial unfolds.
We use cookies to enhance your experience. By consenting, you allow us to process data like Browse behavior and unique IDs. Declining may affect some site features.
Functional
Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes.The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
