NewJeans vs. ADOR: Court Calls Contract Dispute a “Rare Case” as Trial Officially Begins

The Seoul Central District Court Civil Agreement Division 41 held the first trial hearing today for the lawsuit filed by ADOR seeking confirmation of the validity of its exclusive contract with the five members of NewJeans.

During the session, the court asked both sides whether a settlement was possible.

ADOR expressed willingness, “We hope for a settlement.” NewJeans, however, declined: “At this point, mediation is not possible.”

Key Dispute: The Role of Min Hee-jin

A central point of contention remains the ousted ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin, widely credited for the successful launch of NewJeans.

ADOR's position stated, “While Min Hee-jin contributed to NewJeans’ success, the group can exist independently of her.”

NewJeans’ legal team responded, “Min Hee-jin was central to the group’s identity and direction. ADOR has failed to present a clear alternative even after 6–7 months.”

Trust Breakdown: A Uniquely Complex Case

The court addressed NewJeans' claim of a breakdown in trust with ADOR, noting, “This is a rare case, even among idol contract disputes. We need to carefully consider how to assess the trust relationship.”

NewJeans argued that due to a change in leadership, “ADOR is no longer the company we signed with,” challenging the contract’s continuity.

In contrast, ADOR claimed “Min wasn’t removed—she voluntarily stepped down,” adding, “It was NewJeans who unilaterally cut communication and later declared contract termination.”

Previous Injunction and Legal Developments

On March 21, the court granted ADOR’s injunction, rejecting NewJeans’ 11 listed justifications for terminating their contract (including Min’s dismissal and a Belift Lab manager’s “disrespectful” comment).

The ruling stated, “NewJeans cannot engage in entertainment activities without ADOR’s approval.”

NewJeans immediately filed an objection, with a second hearing scheduled for April 9.

Group Activities Halted

NewJeans announced a pause in activities after the ruling. On March 23, during ComplexCon Hong Kong 2025, all members—Minji, Danielle, Hanni, Haerin, and Hyein—addressed the situation, and said “In accordance with the court’s decision, we will suspend all scheduled promotions.”

Background: Contract Termination and NJZ Rebrand

In November 2024, NewJeans declared the termination of their exclusive contract, citing ADOR’s breach of agreement. They have since introduced a new team name, “NJZ” and launched new official social media accounts, signaling plans for independent promotions.

ADOR responded by filing both the main lawsuit and the now-granted injunction, asserting that the original contract remains valid.

What’s Next?

The next court hearing is scheduled for June 5, 2025 at 11:10 AM (KST).

This legal battle is expected to shape industry precedent around idol group management, agency trust, and contractual independence.