• K-pop group NewJeans’ attempt to leave record label Ador has been blocked by a South Korean court.
  • The ruling prevents the group from working independently or signing new deals.
  • The group plans to challenge the decision while a larger contract lawsuit continues.

A South Korean court has ruled against K-pop group NewJeans in their legal battle to break away from record label Ador.

The ruling prohibits the band from pursuing independent activities, including releasing music and signing endorsement deals, without Ador’s approval.

NewJeans, who had attempted to rebrand as NJZ, accused Ador of mistreatment and sought to terminate their contract.

However, the court found no substantial evidence that Ador had violated its contractual obligations, stating that the label had fulfilled “most of its duties, including payment.”

The ruling also raises uncertainty over the release of NewJeans’ new song, originally scheduled for Sunday. If the group attempts to re-debut under a different name, they risk severe financial penalties for breaching their contract.

The dispute between NewJeans and Ador erupted in August 2024 after Hybe, Ador’s parent company, allegedly forced out the group’s mentor, Min Hee-Jin.

The band demanded her reinstatement and later accused the label of intentionally undermining their careers. One member, Hanni, also claimed she experienced workplace harassment.

Despite the court’s ruling, NewJeans insists they will continue to fight for their independence.

“We plan to challenge today’s decision… and submit further supporting evidence,” they stated.

While the injunction has been settled, the broader legal battle over the validity of their contract termination is still ongoing.

Edited by Annette George