NewJeans Lose Court Battle Against Label Ador, Vow to Appeal

In a major legal setback, K-pop group NewJeans has lost its bid to terminate its exclusive contract with record label Ador, after a South Korean court ruled that its agreement remains valid until 2029.

The Seoul Central District Court dismissed the group’s claim that Ador breached its contract by dismissing former CEO Min Hee-jin, who had played a key mentoring role in the group’s formation and early success.

The five members — Hanni, Hyein, Haerin, Danielle, and Minji — had announced last year that they were unilaterally leaving Ador, citing mistreatment, manipulation, and a breakdown of trust following Min’s removal.

According to reports, NewJeans plans to appeal the ruling, saying it is “impossible to return to Ador” and continue activities under the same management.

In a statement released after the verdict, Ador said it “sincerely hopes the judgment will serve as an opportunity for the artists to calmly reflect on this matter.”

The label added that it is preparing for the group’s upcoming activities, including an album release, and is currently “waiting” for the members’ response.

Background of the Dispute

The court’s decision follows a year-long standoff between the hit-making group and its management. The conflict stems from tensions between Min Hee-jin and Ador’s parent company, Hybe, one of South Korea’s largest entertainment firms and home to several top artists.

In April 2024, Hybe launched an audit into Ador, accusing Min of attempting to go independent. After she refused to step down, she was dismissed in August 2024.

Soon after, NewJeans publicly demanded Min’s reinstatement, accusing Hybe and Ador of undermining their careers. Member Hanni also alleged she experienced workplace harassment during her time with the label.

When their demands went unmet, the group announced their departure from Ador in November 2024, drawing widespread attention across the entertainment industry.

Legal Fallout and Aftermath

In response, Ador filed a lawsuit in December 2024 to confirm the validity of the group’s contracts. Earlier this year, the court issued an injunction preventing NewJeans from rebranding or promoting music independently.

Despite the order, the group — temporarily calling themselves NJZ — performed a new, unreleased track during a show in Hong Kong, before announcing a hiatus.

At the time, NewJeans described the injunction as “a shock” but said they would “go through it together.”

Formed in July 2022, NewJeans quickly rose to prominence with their debut single “Attention”, which topped Korean charts. Their track “Super Shy” was widely praised and appeared on multiple year-end best song lists.

Known for blending 1990s R&B influences with modern pop, NewJeans were hailed as “game-changers” in the K-pop industry — one traditionally dominated by rigid agency control and electronic-heavy production.

The ongoing dispute has shocked fans and industry insiders alike, as it challenges the power dynamics between idols and management companies in South Korea’s tightly controlled entertainment system.