During a key court session on July 24 at Seoul Central District Court, NewJeans’ legal team made a bold move. They expressed willingness for the group to resume activities under ADOR—but only if HYBE withdraws its control over the label. This statement came after months of legal turmoil surrounding NewJeans’ exclusive contract with ADOR.
The dispute hinges on a larger debate about the independence of ADOR and the fate of its former creative director, Min Hee‑jin. As this case unfolds, many fans and observers are watching closely.
What Happened in Court
The third hearing, overseen by Judge Kim Yuseong, examined the validity of NewJeans’ exclusive contract with ADOR. ADOR’s legal team accused Min Hee‑jin of orchestrating the attempt to terminate the contract, arguing that contractual obligations remained binding even after her departure.
They dismissed reasons cited by NewJeans, such as the plagiarism controversy involving HYBE’s group ILLIT and claims of being ignored, as mere pretexts. ADOR insisted the label faithfully fulfilled its duties toward the group and that removing the producer does not annul the contract.
NewJeans’ Legal Position
NewJeans’ lawyers disagreed sharply. They placed the blame on HYBE’s audit of Min Hee‑jin in April 2023, calling it the turning point that plunged the group into crisis. Despite no charges, the group claimed they suffered emotional and professional damage as a consequence of leaked accusations and public scrutiny.
During the hearing, their attorney used a powerful analogy: asking the group to return to HYBE was like expecting a school violence survivor to go back to their abuser. This remark quickly spread through fan discussions and social media.
The One Condition Proposal
NewJeans’ team offered two options to the court. They asked to be released from their contract immediately or for ADOR to revert to its pre‑HYBE structure as of April 2024. Only in the latter case did they state they would consider returning to the label. This effectively places the future of the group’s activities directly in ADOR’s ownership.
Currently, HYBE holds 80 per cent of ADOR while MinHee‑jin retains just 20. That imbalance has surfaced as a central issue in NewJeans’ claim that the group’s creative identity and trust have been compromised.
What’s at Stake Next
The legal process will now proceed to mediation, scheduled for August 14 at 2:00 PM. This closed session may lead to a binding agreement if both parties reach a resolution. Should talks fail, the court has tentatively set October 30 as the date to deliver a verdict.
Fans are watching with mixed emotions. Support groups remain hopeful for a resolution that restores the group’s control over its future, while others express concern over the length and emotional toll of prolonged legal conflict.
Subtle Signals From NewJeans
Although the members haven’t made public statements, their recent actions suggest a subtle protest. Some online platforms have removed visible HYBE associations from NewJeans’ profiles, and certain visuals no longer display any HYBE branding. These small changes are being interpreted as a statement of autonomy.
Meanwhile, both HYBE and ADOR have stayed quiet in public. They have refrained from commenting directly on Long’s interviews or social media posts regarding the new condition laid out by NewJeans.
Fans, Media, and Global Response
Public sentiment continues to shift in favour of NewJeans. Fan forums and comment threads show deep concern for the group’s welfare and creative freedom. Media outlets are calling this hearing a turning point, with many describing this as more than just a dispute; it is a fight for identity and trust.
Supporters view NewJeans’ stance not only as a legal position but also as a message about creative ownership. The demand reflects a growing expectation that idols must have agency over their careers and image.
What Could Happen Next?
If mediation leads to HYBE reducing or removing control over ADOR, NewJeans could resume activities under the reconstructed label. If HYBE remains in power and negotiations fail, full contract termination remains the only viable path forward.
Potential outcomes include continued legal stalemate or public statements from either side. International interest is high, as NewJeans’ global fan base is closely following each development.
About NewJeans and ADOR
NewJeans debuted in 2022 under ADOR, a creative label founded by Min Hee‑jin, who led the group’s concept, image, and branding. From their first single to award-winning campaigns, the group quickly captured global attention with hits like Attention, Hype Boy, and Ditto.
ADOR began as an independent creative platform but was absorbed by HYBE in 2023, sparking questions about the continuity of the label’s values. NewJeans was deeply involved with Min Hee‑jin’s vision, setting them apart from other idols.
When HYBE launched an audit on Min Hee‑jin in April 2023, allegations circulated with no prosecution. Nonetheless, NewJeans feels they were emotionally and professionally impacted. That fallout became the catalyst for their lawsuit in early 2024.
As the group navigates this legal challenge, fans wait in hope that NewJeans will regain its creative home or embrace newfound independence. Either way, they remain a symbol of the next generation of artists claiming control over their own stories.
