In a significant legal setback for the K-pop group NewJeans, the Seoul District Court ruled on March 21, 2025, in favor of their management agency, Ador, effectively halting the members' independent activities under their new brand name, NJZ. The ruling, which granted an injunction at the request of Ador, prevents the five members — Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein — from pursuing independent business endeavors or signing contracts without the agency’s involvement.
The members expressed their disappointment with the court's decision shortly after it was announced. Speaking through an interpreter in a video interview, they told Time magazine, "Compared to everything we've been through so far, this is just another step in our journey." They acknowledged the challenges faced in the K-pop industry but emphasized their belief in the necessity for change and artistic freedom. Hanni further pointed out the structural issues within the K-pop framework, stating, "There's just a very structural problem in K-pop in general, where companies don't really view their artists as actual human beings and rather see them as products.”
Despite the recent ruling, NewJeans is still set to perform at ComplexCon in Hong Kong on March 23, 2025. However, they will be required to perform under their original name instead of NJZ. Ador has announced that it would be present at the event to ensure that the performance is properly managed, reinforcing their control over the group’s activities. In a statement released on March 22, 2025, the company expressed, "With our status as NewJeans' exclusive agency now legally affirmed, we are fully committed to supporting the artists going forward."
NewJeans first made headlines last year, calling for an emergency press conference in November 2024 to unilaterally announce their decision to terminate their contracts with Ador. At that time, they cited breaches of obligation from the label’s side as their motivation for leaving. The tumultuous relationship between the group and their agency escalated particularly after the fallout surrounding Ador’s former CEO Min Hee-jin, who was placed under audit in April 2024. The agency has maintained that the contracts remain valid despite the members’ claims of a broken relationship.
After the court ruling, fans had mixed reactions online. Many supporters rallied behind NewJeans on social media, with one comment reading, “Whatever happens, NewJeans fighting!” Others criticized the industry’s treatment of the group, feeling that it prioritizes profit over the well-being of the artists. A common sentiment among supporters was a desire for better protections for artists within K-pop, where management often wields significant control over their idols' careers.
The ruling could have lasting implications not just for NewJeans but also for other K-pop artists navigating similar power dynamics with their management. This current conflict may prompt a broader discussion about artist rights in an industry known for stringent control over talent by management companies. As Hanni stated, the band is actively searching for a third-party agency to support their desire for more independence. “We are looking for an agency to help us … a third party to help us in between to communicate with other people,” Hanni mentioned during their online communication.
However, social media users were divided, with some urging the group to step back from social media discussions until after the ongoing turmoil subsides. One comment captured the frustrations of many by noting how young members are caught in a complex legal and corporate struggle: “Sigh… The adults really messed up this time. These are just kids, but they’re being used as shields.” The contrasting opinions reflect the broader anxiety shared by fans about the toll which these legal disputes can take on the mental health and well-being of the artists involved.
As NewJeans continues to face these legal challenges, they remain committed to their performance at ComplexCon, where they hope to connect with their fans and express their passion for music, even as they navigate a complicated path ahead. The first court hearing to determine the validity of their contract with Ador is scheduled for April 3, 2025, a date that many fans and industry observers will be watching closely. The outcome could define not only the future of NewJeans but also set precedents within the evolving landscape of K-pop.
