NewJeans Faces Legal Defeat in Contract Clash with Ador
The South Korean pop sensation NewJeans has hit a legal roadblock. Their battle to break free from record label Ador has ended in defeat, with the court ruling the group’s contract remains valid until 2029.
A Seoul court delivered the verdict on Tuesday, bringing a major twist to the long-standing feud that’s gripped both suckers and the K-pop industry.
The five-member hustler, known encyclopedically for reconsidering the K-pop scene, had sought to terminate their agreement, claiming mistreatment and mismanagement by their agency.
The disagreement traces back to 2024, when internal strife at Ador began to be discovered in the public eye.
It all started when Min Hee-jin, the former CEO of Ador and the creative force credited with shaping NewJeans’ signature style, clashed with parent company Hybe, South Korea’s music giant. Hybe launched an internal audit of Ador in April 2024, and by August, Min was ousted.
That dismissal sparked outrage. The group, Danielle, Minji, Hanni, Haerin, and Hyein, stood by Min. They demanded her reinstatement, claiming that their artistic growth had been “deliberately restricted” after her departure.
“All 5 members of NewJeans have decided to appeal the decision”
NewJeans’ side released a statement after today’s rulinghttps://t.co/AmtfGLsC6X pic.twitter.com/KQiWwc02cK
— NJZ Base (@njzbase) October 30, 2025
When their requests were ignored, tensions erupted. The members went public, outlining grievances that included alleged manipulation, creative interference, and claims of workplace bullying.
One of the members, Hanni, even described the situation as “workplace harassment,” underscoring the emotional strain behind the glossy façade of idol life.
In an attempt to regain control, NewJeans tried to launch a fresh start earlier this year. Under the name NJZ, they released new music and performed in Hong Kong, an audacious move that symbolized rebellion and independence.
But the court swiftly intervened. Their activities were halted under a judicial order, leaving the group’s future in limbo.
The latest ruling reaffirms that NewJeans’ original deal with Ador remains legally binding. For now, the band remains tied to the agency that helped catapult them to stardom, whether they like it or not.
The decision leaves fans divided. Some are urging the group to appeal. Others fear this could mark the beginning of a long creative drought.
Industry watchers suggest the dispute has exposed the darker side of South Korea’s music machinery, one where control often overshadows creativity.
For now, NewJeans must navigate an uncertain road ahead. Their contract may stand firm, but their trust in the system? That seems far more fragile.
