In a development that has sent ripples of hope through the “Bunnies” fandom, ADOR has officially addressed the swirling rumors regarding the return of NewJeans’ eldest member, Minji.
On May 7, 2026, the agency issued a brief but significant statement following a surge of online speculation and fan activity centered around the idol’s birthday.
This announcement marks a potential turning point for the group, which has faced a tumultuous period of legal disputes and lineup changes over the past two years.
ADOR’s update suggests that the “full-group” vision for NewJeans, which many feared was lost, may finally be coming back into focus.
The news comes at a highly symbolic moment- Minji‘s birthday.
To mark the occasion, NewJeans’ official social media accounts posted a series of photos titled “HAPPY MINJI DAY,” showing the idol baking cookies.
These were the same treats Minji reportedly distributed to fans during a surprise visit to a birthday café earlier this week, where she also left heartfelt handwritten letters.
This direct engagement, coupled with ADOR’s decision to feature her on official channels for the first time in months, was interpreted by many as a “signal” of her reconciliation with the label.
Positive Progress: ADOR’s Official Stance
Responding to the intensifying rumors, an ADOR representative told StarNews and other media outlets,
“We are continuing internal discussions regarding future activities.”
While the agency maintained its characteristic caution regarding specific timelines, they added a crucial note of optimism:
“While we cannot provide specific details at this time, please understand that discussions are moving forward in a generally positive direction.”
This is the most definitive and hopeful language the agency has used regarding Minji’s status since her bandmates Haerin, Hyein, and Hanni returned to the label in late 2025.
The context of this “positive direction” is vital for understanding the weight of the news.
The group had effectively entered a hiatus in March 2025 following a high-profile attempt to terminate their contracts.
While the court eventually ruled in favor of ADOR, the members’ paths diverged: three returned to the fold, one (Danielle) saw her contract terminated amid ongoing litigation, and Minji remained in a state of professional limbo.
For months, industry observers questioned whether the group would proceed as a trio, especially after the other three members were spotted filming “pre-production” content in Copenhagen earlier this April without Minji.
ADOR’s new statement effectively cools those rumors, suggesting that the door is wide open for a four-member reunion.
Rebuilding the “NewJeans” Identity
The potential return of Minji is more than just a personnel update; it is a vital step in rehabilitating the brand’s stability.
Analysts from Meritz Securities recently noted that the resumption of NewJeans’ activities is a core driver for ADOR’s recovery, with projections suggesting a full-scale comeback could occur in the second half of 2026.
Minji’s participation would significantly bolster these prospects, as she has long been considered a “pillar” of the group’s image and leadership.
Fans have noted that “expectation for the full group’s return” is at an all-time high now that official communication channels are once again acknowledging her presence.
As of now, the group is expected to continue their “new musical journey” with a focus on individual conditions and optimized schedules.
While the “Copenhagen sessions” may have initially featured a trio, the industry consensus is that recording and production can be adjusted to include Minji as negotiations finalize.
For now, the “HAPPY MINJI DAY” posts serve as a bridge between the idol and the agency, signaling a thaw in relations that many hoped for but few dared to expect so soon.
FEARNOTs and Bunnies alike are keeping a close watch on official updates, as the “positive direction” hinted at today could very well lead to a major comeback announcement before the summer ends.
