NewJeans: Ador takes legal action against K-pop stars

The legal dispute between the popular South Korean girl group NewJeans and their agency, Ador, continues to escalate. Ador has filed an injunction with the court, seeking to prevent NewJeans from signing advertising contracts and other commercial agreements. This conflict, which originated from a partnership established in 2022, has now developed into a fierce legal battle.

NewJeans claims their contracts are invalid, accusing Ador of bullying, harassment, and deception. Ador has denied these accusations and filed a lawsuit to uphold the validity of the contracts. Now, Ador further accuses NewJeans of attempting to sign independent agreements without their approval and has taken further legal action in Seoul. Ador stated that this move is to prevent confusion and protect third parties, including advertisers, from potential harm.

Ador also warns that if NewJeans' actions go unchecked, it could have broader implications for South Korea's lucrative music industry. According to Yonhap News Agency, Ador stated in their injunction application that "allowing unilateral termination of exclusive contracts and independent activities without due legal process could undermine investment in the entertainment industry and destabilize the K-pop industry."

NewJeans, known for their unique style that blends 90s R&B and sweet pop melodies, is considered one of the brightest new stars in the K-pop scene. In 2023, they became the eighth best-selling artist globally and received a nomination for Best Group at the MTV Music Awards. However, their relationship with Ador began to deteriorate after their mentor, Min Hee-jin, was allegedly forced out by their parent company, Hybe.

The band issued an ultimatum demanding the reinstatement of Min Hee-jin. After Hybe refused, the group publicly accused the label, including allegations that Hybe deliberately sabotaged their careers. Last November, the five members—Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein—announced their departure from the company, stating that Hybe and Ador had lost their right to represent them artistically. They subsequently filed legal documents seeking a legal separation from the agency, but the case has yet to be heard.

Ador argues that the band's contracts should remain in place until 2027. The label has already finalized the group's schedule for the next 12 months, which includes releasing a new album and holding fan meetings. However, the band members continue to assert their independence, creating a new Instagram account called “[jeanzforfree, external](https://www.instagram.com/jeanzforfree/?hl=en)” where they regularly engage with fans through live streams.

NewJeans has stated that they will fight to retain their name and career, and even if they lose, their hearts will always be “NewJeans.” This is not the first time a K-pop band has attempted to terminate contracts. Popular groups TVXQ and Fifty Fifty have both taken their labels to court, with mixed results, and both groups have experienced lineup changes as a result.

The biggest problem facing NewJeans is that if their case with Ador goes to trial, it could take two to three years to resolve. During this time, they are unlikely to record or promote new music unless these projects are created in collaboration with the label. If the court ultimately finds Hybe at fault, the members would be free to leave and possibly even retain the band’s name. But if the ruling is not in the band's favor, they could face financial penalties.

According to the South Korean pop music news website Koreaboo, the members could potentially be liable for around 300 billion won (approximately £170 million) if they terminate their contracts early.