“I’m so sorry...“ NewJeans’ Hyein Shares Heartfelt Message to Fans on Her Birthday Amid Hiatus

On April 21, Hyein of NewJeans touched fans’ hearts by posting a handwritten letter on the group’s shared Instagram story — a warm gesture marking her birthday, despite her current hiatus from group activities.

“Thank you so much for all the birthday wishes,” she wrote. “Every single letter gave me strength and brought comfort. I wish I could reply to each one, but I’m worried some Bunnies might feel hurt that I couldn't.” She added, “Please don’t be too disappointed. I truly value every single Bunny who supports us — equally and wholeheartedly.”

Hyein also shared how meaningful her birthday felt thanks to fans’ letters and café events organized in her honor. “I was genuinely moved by the birthday café you opened,” she wrote.

However, she also opened up about a personal struggle that day. “I really wanted to visit more of the cafés today, but just as I got near one, I had severe stomach pain and couldn’t go in,” she explained. “I’m so sorry I couldn’t make it to every place. I wanted to let you all know that.”

Her heartfelt note comes at a sensitive time for NewJeans. In November 2023, the group announced their intent to part ways with their agency ADOR — a sublabel under HYBE — citing unresolved issues despite prior requests for improvement. They declared that their exclusive contracts would be terminated as of November 29, 2024, with plans to continue their careers independently.

In response, ADOR filed a lawsuit in December seeking confirmation that the contract remains valid. A month later, the company also filed an injunction requesting that the court ban NewJeans members from engaging in any independent activities — including commercials, broadcasts, music production, and performances — without ADOR’s approval.

On March 21, the court sided with ADOR, effectively prohibiting the group from carrying out entertainment activities without the label’s consent. Although the five members submitted an objection to the ruling on the same day, the Seoul Central District Court officially dismissed the appeal on April 16.

As it stands, all professional activities are restricted unless approved by ADOR.

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