A South Korean court has ruled in favor of ADOR, the management agency of K-pop group NewJeans, dismissing the group’s lawsuit to terminate their exclusive contract. The contract, which runs until 2029, remains valid, according to the Seoul Central District Court’s decision on October 31
The dispute began in November 2024 when NewJeans held a press conference, accusing ADOR of mistreatment and announcing their intention to leave the agency. The group claimed that the dismissal of their mentor, former CEO Min Hee-jin, constituted a breach of contract. ADOR responded by filing a lawsuit to confirm the validity of their contract with the group.
The court rejected NewJeans’ argument, stating that the dismissal of Min Hee-jin did not justify terminating the contract. The court also criticized Min’s actions, suggesting that she waged a public opinion war not to protect NewJeans but to gain independence for the group. ADOR welcomed the verdict, expressing hope that it would serve as an opportunity for the artists to reflect on their actions.
NewJeans has announced plans to appeal the decision, stating that it is “impossible” for them to return to ADOR and continue normal activities due to the complete breakdown of trust. The group’s members, Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein, have been embroiled in a year-long standoff with ADOR, with tensions escalating after Min Hee-jin’s dismissal as CEO in August 2024