NewJeans Officially Lose Lawsuit Against Ador

A South Korean court has ruled against chart-topping K-pop group NewJeans, which had sought to cut ties with its record label, Ador. The decision prevents the group from conducting any independent activities, including making music and signing advertising deals, without Ador’s approval.

The Legal Battle: What Happened?

NewJeans, now known as NJZ, attempted to break away from Ador last year, accusing the label of mistreatment. In response, Ador sued to have the group’s contracts upheld and filed an injunction in January, claiming NewJeans had tried to sign independent deals without authorization.

The Court’s Decision

On Friday, the Seoul court ruled that NewJeans’ claims did not “sufficiently prove that Ador violated their significant duty as part of their contract.” The court emphasized that Ador had upheld “most of its duty, including payment.”

Additionally, the ruling stated that if NewJeans were to unilaterally terminate their contract, it would cause significant harm to Ador. It also warned that the group’s rebranding as NJZ could damage both their own brand and Ador’s reputation.

Impact on NewJeans’ Career

The court ruling casts uncertainty over the release of NewJeans’ upcoming song, scheduled for Sunday. It also complicates their efforts to re-debut under the NJZ name, as any breach of contract could lead to severe financial penalties.

The Origins of the Dispute

The conflict began in August 2024 when Hybe, Ador’s parent company, allegedly forced out NewJeans’ mentor, Min Hee-Jin. In response, the group issued an ultimatum demanding Min’s reinstatement. When Hybe refused, NewJeans publicly accused the label of deliberately undermining their careers.

One member, Hanni, also claimed she experienced workplace harassment while working with Ador. In November, the group announced their departure from the company, declaring that Hybe and Ador had lost the right to represent them as artists.

NewJeans’ Response

NewJeans issued a statement shortly after the ruling, expressing respect for the court’s decision but arguing that they had not been given sufficient opportunity to present their case fully.

“We plan to challenge today’s decision… during which we will raise additional legal issues and submit further supporting evidence,” the group stated. “Regardless… we can no longer remain with a management that has disrespected our identities and undermined our achievements.“

What’s Next?

A lawsuit regarding the validity of NewJeans’ contract termination is still ongoing. Meanwhile, the group has continued asserting its independence, creating a new Instagram account under the name “jeanzforfree.” They have vowed to fight for their name and careers, insisting they will remain “NewJeans at heart” regardless of the legal outcome.

The Rise of NewJeans

NewJeans was considered one of K-pop’s most promising acts, known for their fusion of 1990s R&B and sugar-coated pop melodies. In 2023, they were the eighth biggest-selling act in the world and received a nomination for Best Group at the MTV Awards.

With the legal battle far from over, the future of NewJeans remains uncertain, but their determination to forge their own path continues to make headlines.

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