NewJeans Ordered to Remain Under Contract with Ador Until 2029 After Court Ruling

A South Korean court has ruled that the K-pop group NewJeans must honor its existing contract with record label Ador, which runs until 2029. The decision comes after the group, composed of members Hanni, Hyein, Haerin, Danielle, and Minji, attempted to unilaterally terminate their contract, citing mistreatment and manipulation. The Seoul Central District Court found the agreement to remain valid, rejecting NewJeans’ argument that the dismissal of Ador’s former CEO and their mentor, Min Hee-jin, constituted a breach of trust. Following Min’s removal by parent company Hybe in August 2024 after internal audits and accusations of misconduct, tensions between the band and their label escalated. The group demanded Min’s reinstatement, claiming that Hybe’s decisions intentionally damaged their careers. NewJeans also alleged workplace harassment and filed to operate independently under the name NJZ, but these plans were blocked by a court injunction. Ador expressed hope that the ruling would allow the artists to reflect and said preparations continue for upcoming activities, including a new album. NewJeans has vowed to appeal, maintaining that returning to Ador is impossible. The case has shocked South Korea, highlighting the strict control major labels maintain over K-pop artists and the rarity of such high-profile disputes.