NewJeans Faces Setback in Legal Battle Against Ador

Thu Oct 30 2025 16:03:00 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

K-pop sensation NewJeans has lost a crucial legal battle allowing them to leave their agency, Ador, which could shape their future in the pop industry.

In a significant ruling by a South Korean court, K-pop group NewJeans remains bound by their contract with Ador until 2029, following their recent attempt to leave due to claims of mistreatment. The group, formed in July 2022, has been involved in a tumultuous dispute with Ador and plans to appeal the decision as they seek to redefine their relationship with the agency.

NewJeans Faces Setback in Legal Battle Against Ador

Fan Wang

K-pop group NewJeans has lost a legal battle to sever ties with their record label Ador.

A South Korean court confirmed on Tuesday that the act's contract, running until 2029, remains intact.

The members—Hanni, Hyein, Haerin, Danielle, and Minji—had expressed intentions to leave citing mistreatment and manipulation from the agency.

NewJeans plans to appeal the decision, signaling their commitment to fighting for independence.

NewJeans has stated it feels impossible to return to Ador, following the ruling.

The court dismissed the group's argument that the dismissal of former CEO Min Hee-jin was a breach of contract, asserting that it did not constitute a valid reason to nullify their agreement.

This ruling draws attention to the significant power record labels hold over artists in South Korea, making NewJeans' rebellion quite unusual.

Having debuted in July 2022, NewJeans found quick success, particularly with their hit songs like Attention and SuperShy.

The ruling comes amid a year-long conflict between the group and Ador, which heightened amidst internal agency disputes after Min’s dismissal in August.

What led us here?

The tensions peaked when Hybe, Ador's parent company, initiated audits and questioned Min's leadership, leading to her stepping down.

In response to various allegations, NewJeans issued complaints which further deepened their discontent with how their careers were managed.

The conflict escalated when the group attempted to rebrand as NJZ earlier this year amidst ongoing legal pressures.

The latest ruling is viewed as a setback for the group who had already hinted at a restructuring of their approach following documented struggles with the agency.