HYBE Can't Stop NewJeans from Leaving: Former Judge-Turned-Lawyer Explains Why.

A prominent lawyer and former judge has stepped forward to support NewJeans following their announcement to terminate their exclusive contract. The lawyer asserted that there is no legal framework to prevent NewJeans from pursuing independence.

NewJeans recently caused a major stir in the industry by declaring their intent to end their contract with ADOR, a subsidiary of HYBE. The group stated they would terminate the contract as of midnight on the 29th but clarified that they would not pursue legal action for the termination. This unprecedented approach has raised questions about its feasibility, with the lawyer expressing support for NewJeans’ stance despite the unconventional nature of their decision.

NewJeans Announces Termination of Contract with ADOR, Paving a New Path in the Entertainment Industry

On the evening of the 28th, NewJeans held an emergency press conference at Space Share Samseong Station Center in Gangnam, Seoul, to announce the termination of their exclusive contract with ADOR, effective at midnight. The group criticized ADOR, stating, "We have concluded that the agency lacks both the will and ability to protect NewJeans," and issued strong remarks about the company after the departure of former CEO Min Hee-jin.

NewJeans revealed that they had already sent an official letter to ADOR, but the agency failed to respond within the specified timeframe. “This confirmed for us that they had no intention of addressing our demands,” the group explained. “Due to unresolved issues, we are officially declaring the termination of our contract.”

Addressing concerns about penalties, NewJeans stated, “Since the cause lies in contract violations by ADOR and HYBE, we see no reason to bear the burden of penalties.” The group also emphasized that they would not file for an injunction to suspend the validity of their exclusive contract.

Terminating an exclusive contract without mutual agreement is typically challenging, as such contracts are usually enforceable through legal disputes. Many celebrities involved in similar conflicts have endured lengthy lawsuits and public image damage. However, NewJeans has opted for a unique approach, declaring independence without pursuing legal action.

Former judge-turned-lawyer Lee Hyun-gon commented on Facebook, calling NewJeans’ strategy "an unprecedented new attempt." He remarked, “By terminating the contract without filing an injunction, NewJeans places the burden of initiating legal action on ADOR. In this scenario, NewJeans only needs to await the agency's response.”

Lee further asserted, “Currently, there appears to be no legal mechanism to prevent NewJeans from operating independently without an injunction.” He added that the group’s strategy aligns with avoiding potential legal risks while asserting their independence.

This approach marks a significant departure from traditional practices in the entertainment industry, where prolonged legal battles over contract disputes often damage public perception of the involved parties. By avoiding lawsuits, NewJeans appears to be minimizing these risks while taking a bold step toward autonomy.

The lawyer also criticized HYBE and ADOR for their past handling of contracts, particularly with former CEO Min Hee-jin. He noted, “HYBE unilaterally terminated a shareholder agreement with Min Hee-jin in the past. Preventing NewJeans from doing the same is hypocritical.”

Lee supported NewJeans’ claims, stating, “They have sufficient grounds for contract termination,” and pointed out that ADOR and HYBE had failed to fulfill several contract obligations regarding NewJeans.

The entertainment industry remains divided on whether NewJeans can continue independent activities without litigation. Should the group succeed in achieving contract termination without legal disputes, it could set a groundbreaking precedent for resolving similar conflicts.

“NewJeans is paving a new path,” Lee concluded. “They are boldly pursuing what they believe is right without being swayed by external pressures. Their commitment to maintaining their identity as musicians is admirable.” He expressed strong support for the group’s independent journey.