“NewJeans Without Min Heejin is Impossible? ADOR Refutes Contradictory Claims”
The legal battle between NewJeans (Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, Hyein) and their agency ADOR continues to intensify as both sides present their arguments regarding the validity of their exclusive contract. On April 3, the Seoul Central District Court held the first hearing for ADOR’s lawsuit seeking confirmation of the validity of its exclusive contract with NewJeans.
ADOR Challenges “Min Heejin Dependency” Argument
During the hearing, NewJeans members did not appear in court. ADOR argued that claims made by NewJeans members about their dependency on former executive producer Min Hee-jin were contradictory. ADOR stated, “While it is true that Min Heejin played a significant role in shaping NewJeans, the claim that ‘NewJeans cannot exist without Min Heejin’ is baseless.”
The agency further emphasized that as a subsidiary of HYBE, the leading entertainment company in South Korea, it has access to numerous producers and resources to support NewJeans members. ADOR highlighted the group’s recent independent performance in Hong Kong as evidence, stating, “The fact that NewJeans successfully prepared and executed a performance without Min Heejin’s involvement contradicts their claim that she is indispensable.”
Background: Contract Dispute and Independent Activities
The conflict began on November 29, 2024, when NewJeans notified ADOR of their intent to terminate their exclusive contract, citing a breakdown in trust. The group later announced a new name, NJZ, and began pursuing independent activities.
In response, ADOR filed a lawsuit on December 3, 2024, seeking confirmation of the validity of the exclusive contract. On January 6, 2025, the agency also filed for an injunction to prevent NewJeans from engaging in independent activities or signing advertising contracts without its approval.
On March 21, 2025, the court ruled in favor of ADOR’s injunction request, temporarily affirming the validity of the exclusive contract. Following this decision, NewJeans submitted an objection to the court on March 21 and announced their suspension of activities during a performance at a Hong Kong festival two days later.
Courtroom Arguments: Trust and Dependency
ADOR argued that NewJeans’ claims about a lack of trust were insufficient grounds for terminating the contract. The agency maintained that it had provided substantial support for the group’s growth and that its obligations under the contract had been fulfilled.
Meanwhile, NewJeans countered that ADOR’s current management lacked the capability and intention to meet its contractual obligations after Min Hee-jin’s departure. They claimed that this breakdown in trust justified their decision to terminate the contract.
Next Steps
The court has scheduled the next hearing for June 5, 2025.
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