NewJeans Sets Condition for Return to ADOR: Mediation on August 14 Amid Min Heejin Dispute
K-pop group NewJeans has expressed willingness to return to ADOR, but only if former CEO Min Hee-jin is reinstated. This condition was revealed during the third court hearing for the ongoing exclusive contract validity lawsuit between ADOR and NewJeans, held at the Seoul Central District Court on July 24.
ADOR Argues No Breach of Trust, Pushes for NewJeans’ Return
During the hearing, ADOR emphasized that it has fulfilled its key management obligations and that the trust relationship with NewJeans was not broken. The company reiterated its commitment to supporting the group’s future activities, including new album releases, and expressed a strong desire for the group to return.
However, NewJeans maintained its stance against ADOR as it currently operates. The group’s legal team argued that HYBE initiated an audit to remove Min Hee-jin from her position, adding that she was later cleared of breach of duty allegations.
NewJeans Demands Min Hee-jin’s Reinstatement as a Condition
For the first time, NewJeans signaled openness to reconciliation—but with a condition. The group’s representatives stated:
“If ADOR can be restored to what it was in April 2024, when Min Hee-jin was still leading, the members would consider returning.”
The group also expressed frustration, using metaphors to describe their experience. They likened themselves to a “school violence victim,” compared HYBE to the “perpetrator,” and referred to Min Hee-jin as a “mother who raised them but was kicked out,” while calling HYBE a “father trying to introduce a new mom.”
ADOR and NewJeans Court Schedules Mediation for August 14
The court has scheduled a mediation session for August 14 at 2 p.m. If both sides fail to reach an agreement, a final ruling will be delivered in October. Whether NewJeans will return to ADOR under the condition of Min Hee-jin’s reinstatement remains a major point of focus in the K-pop industry.
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