South Korean pop group NewJeans has lost a court case against its record label, Ador, over an attempt to terminate their contract.
The Seoul Central District Court on Tuesday ruled that the group’s contract with Ador, which runs until 2029, remains legally valid.
The five-member girl group — Hanni, Hyein, Haerin, Danielle, and Minji — had announced last year that they were leaving the agency, accusing it of manipulation and unfair treatment.
Local reports said the group plans to appeal, insisting that it is “impossible to return to Ador” or continue working with the agency.
The court, however, rejected their argument that the dismissal of Ador’s former CEO, Min Hee-jin, who mentored the group, amounted to a breach of contract. The group said her removal destroyed their trust in the label.
In a statement released after the ruling, Ador said it hopes the judgment “will serve as an opportunity for the artists to calmly reflect on this matter.” It added that preparations for the group’s upcoming album were ongoing.
The case has drawn wide attention in South Korea, where entertainment companies are known for maintaining strict control over artists’ careers.
Formed in July 2022, NewJeans rose to fame quickly with hits like Attention and SuperShy, earning praise for their unique 1990s-inspired pop and R&B sound.
The legal dispute stems from a fallout between Min Hee-jin and Ador’s parent company, Hybe, home to top acts such as BTS and Seventeen.
Tensions began in April 2024 after Hybe launched an audit into Ador and demanded Min’s resignation. She was later dismissed, prompting NewJeans to demand her reinstatement.
When Hybe refused, the group accused the label of sabotaging their careers and announced plans to rebrand as NJZ. Those plans were halted by a court order.
Despite the setback, the group performed under the new name during a concert in Hong Kong before going on hiatus.
