The Seoul High Court has dismissed NewJeans‘ appeal against their agency, ADOR, upholding a previous ruling that blocks the group from pursuing independent activities. The court reaffirmed ADOR’s legal right to manage the K-pop group, dealing another setback to the members’ efforts to terminate their contracts.
ADOR responded with a statement urging NewJeans to return to group activities. The agency promised full support as the group approaches its third debut anniversary in July. The legal battle, however, is far from over, with a key hearing scheduled for July 24.
Court Rules in Favor of ADOR Again
On June 17, the Seoul High Court rejected NewJeans’ appeal, maintaining an earlier injunction that prevents the members from signing independent deals or performing without ADOR’s approval. This follows a March ruling by the Seoul Central District Court, which also sided with ADOR.
The court’s decision strengthens ADOR’s position in the ongoing dispute. The agency quickly issued a statement on June 18, saying:
“The appellate court reaffirmed that ADOR remains the official agency of NewJeans. We hope this decision will provide the opportunity for the members to return to where they belong—as NewJeans.”
ADOR also emphasized its commitment to supporting the group’s future activities.
Why NewJeans Wanted to Leave ADOR
The conflict began in November 2024 when NewJeans announced they were terminating their contracts with ADOR. The members accused the agency of breaching agreements and failing to protect their interests. They also claimed trust had completely broken down, especially after former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin was removed from her position.
NewJeans attempted to continue activities independently under the name NJZ, performing at events like ComplexCon Hong Kong in March. However, ADOR filed an injunction in January to stop these activities, arguing that the contracts were still valid.
In court, NewJeans’ legal team argued:
“The trust between us has completely collapsed. We have crossed a river of no return.”
ADOR countered by stating that contracts must be honored regardless of personal disputes. The agency also suggested assigning a new producer to oversee NewJeans, but the group rejected the idea.
Financial Penalties for Independent Activities
In May, the court approved ADOR’s request for indirect compulsory execution, meaning each NewJeans member could face a 1 billion won ($729,370) fine for every unauthorized activity. This penalty applies until the final verdict on the contract dispute.
NewJeans’ lawyers called the fines temporary, stating:
“If the members win the appeal, both the injunction and the fines will become null and void.”
However, with the latest appeal dismissed, the financial risks for independent activities remain.
What Happens Next?
The next major hearing is set for July 24, where the court will further examine the validity of NewJeans’ contracts with ADOR. The outcome could determine whether the group remains under ADOR’s management or gains freedom to pursue independent careers.
Fans have been divided, with some supporting NewJeans’ fight for independence and others hoping for a resolution that allows the group to continue under ADOR. Over 30,000 fans previously signed a petition backing the members’ decision to terminate their contracts.
For now, NewJeans remains on hiatus, respecting the court’s rulings. ADOR, meanwhile, is preparing for the group’s third anniversary, hoping the members will return to official activities soon.
Sources: Korea JoongAng Daily, Herald Pop, SPOTV News
