NewJeans Legal Setback: K-Pop Group's Battle with Agency Continues

Fri Oct 31 2025 06:13:05 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

K-pop sensation NewJeans faces a significant legal defeat as a South Korean court upholds their contract with Ador, the group's agency, until 2029. The members claim mistreatment and express intentions to appeal.

NewJeans, a popular K-pop group, has lost a legal battle against their agency, Ador, with the court ruling that their contract, valid until 2029, remains intact. The decision follows the group's claims of mistreatment and manipulation, and they plan to appeal. Ador has expressed hope that the ruling may prompt the artists to reflect on their situation while preparing for their upcoming activities. The ongoing tensions stem from a power struggle within the label and a desire for autonomy among the group members.

NewJeans Legal Setback: K-Pop Group's Battle with Agency Continues

K-pop group NewJeans has lost a legal battle to leave its record label Ador. A South Korean court ruled Tuesday that the contract binding the group to the label, which runs until 2029, remains valid.

The group's five members—Hanni, Hyein, Haerin, Danielle, and Minji—initially announced their intention to break free from the agency last year, citing mistreatment and manipulation. Following the court's decision, local media reports indicate that the group plans to appeal.

NewJeans stated it is impossible to return to Ador and maintain their usual activities. The court rejected their claim that the dismissal of former CEO Min Hee-jin, who was also their mentor, constituted a breach of contract. The group argued that Min's dismissal had eroded their trust in the agency.

In a statement released post-ruling, Ador expressed the hope that the judgment will allow the artists to reflect on the matter. The label mentioned its readiness for any upcoming activities from the group, including an anticipated album release.

This case has caught attention in South Korea, where record labels have significant control over their artists. It is uncommon for groups to publicly challenge their agencies. Formed in July 2022, NewJeans had quickly risen to prominence, achieving success with hits like Attention and SuperShy. They were celebrated for their innovative blend of 1990s R&B with pop elements.

What led us here?

The ruling came after a year-long standoff between the chart-topping group and Ador. NewJeans announced their intentions during a press conference in November last year, following a public fallout involving Min Hee-jin and Ador's parent company, Hybe, which is also home to major K-pop acts like BTS.

Tensions escalated in April 2024 when Hybe initiated audits on Ador, suggesting Min resign. After her dismissal in August, the band demanded her reinstatement. Their public complaints against Ador included accusations of undermining their careers and workplace harassment claims from member Hanni.

In December, Ador filed a lawsuit to confirm the validity of the group's contract. As disputes continued, the members briefly attempted to rebrand themselves as NJZ and planned a release, but their promotions were halted by a court order.

The uncertainty surrounding their future became evident when the group referred to the court's decision earlier this year as a shock, but reiterated their commitment to support one another through the process.