NewJeans vs. ADOR: Inside the Legal Battle and Their Bold New Chapter!

Popular K-pop girl group NewJeans has independently announced their upcoming appearance on CBS’s ‘Kim Hyun Jung’s News Show’ without consulting their agency, ADOR. On December 24th, ADOR issued a statement clarifying that the decision to participate in the show was made solely by the members, and the agency was not informed beforehand.
The announcement has created a buzz, especially after host Kim Hyun Jung, during the closing segment of the program, revealed that the Christmas special would feature five young women—Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein—using their real names instead of referring to them as NewJeans. This sparked curiosity among fans and industry watchers alike.
NewJeans’ Independent Journey Post-Contract Termination
NewJeans has been operating independently since terminating their exclusive contract with ADOR on November 29th. The group made headlines with their bold statement: “The fault lies with HYBE and ADOR, so there is no reason for us to file a lawsuit or pay penalties.” Following the termination, ADOR filed a lawsuit with the Seoul Central District Court to confirm the validity of their contract.
Despite their separation, the group has continued to fulfill prior commitments arranged by ADOR. At the same time, they have pursued independent activities, including launching a new social media account, “jeanzforfree,” to directly connect with fans. This move has been widely embraced by fans but has also raised legal concerns from ADOR.
Vogue Photoshoot and Independent Projects
The members recently appeared in a Vogue photoshoot directed by former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin. Interestingly, the shoot showcased the members’ real names instead of their group name, adding to the intrigue surrounding their current trajectory. These activities signal NewJeans’ desire to establish their identity outside of the ADOR umbrella.
ADOR’s Concerns Over Independent Actions
ADOR has expressed unease about the group’s independent activities. In a statement released on December 18th, the company highlighted potential legal implications of the members operating separate social media accounts and undertaking entertainment activities outside official channels. “We have communicated our concerns to the artists and their legal representatives,” ADOR stated, urging the members to collaborate with the agency on fan interactions and public appearances.
As the group prepares for their appearance on ‘Kim Hyun Jung’s News Show,’ fans eagerly await insights into their new direction and future plans. This latest move reflects NewJeans’ determination to carve out an independent path while navigating challenges with their former agency.