The Seoul High Court has rejected NJZ’s (formerly NewJeans) appeal against the ban on their solo activities. This upholds the earlier ruling favoring ADOR, their management company. The group cannot now take part in solo projects or advertising deals without ADOR’s approval. Netizens have expressed strong disapproval, criticizing the members for their legal actions.
Court Rules in Favor of ADOR
On June 17, 2025, the Seoul High Court dismissed NJZ’s appeal against ADOR’s injunction. The court confirmed that the group must continue working under ADOR’s management. The original ruling by the Seoul Central District Court had already blocked the members from independent advertising deals.
NJZ had filed an objection after the first ruling but lost. They then appealed, which has now also been rejected. This means ADOR retains full control over the group’s activities. The legal battle began after the members tried to pursue solo work without the agency’s permission.
“Seems like it’s actually worse when they’re highly successful from debut.” — Netizen comment
“This is such a given. But if you read the Youtube comments from their fans, they’re all blaming HYBE.” — Netizen reaction
Netizens Criticize NJZ’s Legal Move
Online communities, including theqoo, have seen strong reactions. Many netizens believe the members should have expected this outcome. Some comments suggest the group’s success from debut made the situation worse. Others blame the fans for directing anger at HYBE instead of the members.
A few netizens mocked the situation, saying the group might appear on shows like Sugarman in the future. Some expressed surprise, thinking NJZ had strong evidence to win the case. The overall sentiment is that the legal battle was unnecessary and poorly planned.
Background of the Legal Dispute
NJZ, formerly known as NewJeans, debuted under ADOR, a subsidiary of HYBE. The group quickly rose to fame with hits like Attention and Hype Boy. However, tensions grew between the members and the agency over creative control and solo opportunities.
The members attempted to negotiate independent deals, leading ADOR to file for an injunction. The court initially ruled in ADOR’s favor, and now the appeal has also failed. This means NJZ must continue group activities under ADOR’s management without solo ventures.
What This Means for NJZ’s Future
The court’s decision restricts NJZ from pursuing individual projects. They must now focus on group activities under ADOR’s direction. This could impact their career trajectory, as solo activities often help idols expand their influence.
Industry experts say the ruling sets a precedent for agency control in K-pop. Most contracts give companies full authority over idols’ careers. NJZ’s case shows how difficult it is for artists to break free from such agreements.
Fan Reactions and Public Opinion
Fans are divided on the issue. Some support the members’ fight for independence, while others believe they should have honored their contracts. Social media is flooded with debates, with many blaming HYBE for the conflict.
“Self-destruction.” — Netizen comment
“We might be happy to see them again if they come out on Sugarman later on or something.” — Netizen reaction
The case has sparked discussions about the fairness of K-pop contracts. Many argue that agencies hold too much power over artists. However, legal experts say contracts are binding, and courts usually side with companies in such disputes.
Legal Experts Weigh In
Lawyers specializing in entertainment law say NJZ’s case was weak from the start. Contracts in the K-pop industry are heavily tilted in favor of agencies. Unless there is proof of mistreatment or contract violations, courts rarely rule in favor of artists.
The injunction against NJZ was based on their existing contract terms. ADOR successfully argued that solo activities would harm the group’s brand. The court agreed, stating that the members must fulfill their contractual obligations first.
Previous Cases in K-pop
This is not the first time a K-pop group has clashed with their agency over contracts. In 2009, TVXQ sued SM Entertainment over unfair terms. The case dragged on for years before a settlement was reached.
More recently, LOONA members fought to terminate their contracts with Blockberry Creative. Some succeeded, while others remained tied to the agency. These cases show how difficult it is for idols to gain independence without lengthy legal battles.
What’s Next for NJZ?
With the appeal dismissed, NJZ must continue as a group under ADOR. The agency may now push for more comebacks or tours to maximize profits. The members’ solo ambitions will have to wait until their contracts expire or are renegotiated.
Fans hope the group can reconcile with ADOR and focus on music. However, the legal loss may strain their relationship with the agency. Future activities will depend on how both sides move forward from this dispute.
Public Sentiment on Social Media
Twitter and online forums are buzzing with reactions. Some fans are disappointed, while others believe the group should accept the ruling. A few netizens predict this will harm NJZ’s reputation in the long run.
“I thought they had evidence to win.” — Netizen comment
The case has also drawn attention to the pressures faced by K-pop idols. Many trainees sign long-term contracts at a young age, with little room for negotiation. NJZ’s situation highlights the challenges artists face when trying to gain more control over their careers.
Industry Impact
The ruling reinforces the power of agencies in K-pop. Companies like HYBE, SM, and YG have strict contracts to protect their investments. This case may discourage other idols from challenging their agencies in court.
However, it could also lead to more discussions about fairer contract terms. Some lawmakers have called for reforms to protect young artists. For now, though, agencies remain firmly in control.
Final Thoughts
NJZ’s legal loss is a setback for their solo ambitions. The court’s decision keeps them under ADOR’s management, limiting their individual opportunities. Netizens remain divided, with some criticizing the members and others blaming the agency.
The case highlights the challenges idols face when seeking independence. For now, NJZ must focus on group activities while fans wait to see how the situation develops.
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