The ongoing legal conflict between the popular K-pop girl group NewJeans and their agency ADOR intensified during their second court hearing. The session took place on June 5, 2025, at the Seoul Central District Court. This hearing is part of ADOR’s lawsuit seeking to confirm the validity of its exclusive contract with NewJeans. A major point of contention during the proceedings was the dispute over the use of documents related to former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin’s separate legal battle with Source Music, the agency behind the group LE SSERAFIM.
Both legal teams presented their arguments regarding a request by ADOR for materials from the ongoing lawsuit between Source Music and Min Hee Jin. That case is being handled in the Western District Court. NewJeans’ legal representatives strongly opposed the request, arguing that some of the data in question was gathered through illegal means. They stated that “There is some data among the relevant case materials that could be considered illegally collected evidence in violation of the Information and Communications Network Act.”
ADOR’s legal team, however, maintained that the files were obtained through a proper internal audit and were necessary to support their case. They clarified, “It is a matter for the Western District Court to decide, but this is data obtained through an audit process. The computer file is the problem, but the provider consented and the computer is owned by the company, so it cannot be said to be illegal.” The court ultimately sided with ADOR on this specific point. While the judge did not declare the documents as valid evidence outright, their submission was permitted. The court emphasized that it is the responsibility of the plaintiff to sort through the files and demonstrate which parts are legally acceptable as evidence.
Just like in the first hearing held earlier this year, the court again suggested that both sides consider mediation. The judge explored the possibility of the two parties finding a way to reconcile their differences. ADOR expressed a willingness to explore the option of mediation, but only after the court reaches a preliminary decision in the case.
NewJeans’ legal representatives, however, remained firm in their position and rejected the proposal for mediation entirely. They repeatedly stated that the trust between NewJeans and ADOR has been permanently broken. They stressed that a return to ADOR was not possible for the group. This strong stance highlights the deep rift that has formed between the group and their management.
The dispute began when NewJeans declared their exclusive contracts with ADOR null and void in November 2024. The group accused the agency of seriously failing to meet its obligations. After this declaration, NewJeans began operating independently under the new name NJZ. However, they were soon legally prevented from releasing new music, appearing in advertisements, or promoting under the NJZ label without ADORโs approval.
The legal battle between NewJeans and ADOR stems from a complex history. Min Hee Jin, the CEO of ADOR, was previously a creative director at SM Entertainment before joining HYBE Corporation, the parent company of Big Hit Music (BTS’s agency) and Source Music. She was instrumental in the creation and branding of NewJeans under ADOR, which was established as a HYBE subsidiary. The core of the dispute often revolves around management control, contract terms, and alleged breaches of these agreements.
Reports from the initial stages of the conflict indicated disagreements over the creative direction and promotion of NewJeans. Min Hee Jin has publicly expressed concerns about ADOR’s operations and alleged interference from HYBE. HYBE, in turn, has accused Min Hee Jin of attempting to gain independent control of ADOR, a claim she has denied. The financial implications for both NewJeans and ADOR are significant, as NewJeans has become one of the most successful K-pop groups since their debut. Their music releases consistently rank high on charts, and they have secured numerous endorsement deals. The ongoing legal uncertainty has naturally caused concern among fans and industry observers.
The court proceedings are crucial in determining the future of NewJeans. A ruling in favor of ADOR would likely keep the group tied to the agency, while a ruling in favor of NewJeans could allow them to seek new management or pursue independent activities. The arguments presented in court cover various aspects, including financial settlements, intellectual property rights related to NewJeans’ music and image, and the specifics of the original contracts signed by the group members. The legal teams are examining all communications and internal documents to build their respective cases.
Also Read: NewJeans Faces 5 Billion KRW Fine for Unauthorized Activities; Court Rules in Favor of ADOR
With both sides maintaining their strong positions and the legal issues becoming more complicated, the next hearing is set for July 24 at 4 p.m. KST. During this session, the court is expected to further examine the evidence and arguments presented by both ADOR and NewJeans. This next step could bring the court closer to a resolution in this high-profile case. However, at this moment, any form of settlement or agreement outside of court remains off the table.
Credits: Maeil Kyungjae
