NewJeans and ADOR Face Off in Legal Battle Over Contract
Trust Broken Beyond Repair, Says NewJeans
NewJeans and ADOR Contract Clash
K-pop group NewJeans and their agency ADOR are embroiled in a legal dispute over their exclusive contract. NewJeans, managed by ADOR, rejected the court’s mediation proposal, stating, “The bridge has already been burnt,” highlighting a complete breakdown of trust.
Court Proceedings
On April 5th, Seoul Central District Court heard the second trial regarding ADOR’s lawsuit against the five members of NewJeans for a validity check of their exclusive contract. The NewJeans members were not present during the session.
Judicial Inquiry:
– The court inquired about the possibility of an agreement before the next trial.
NewJeans stated, “The trust has already broken down irreparably.”
ADOR hopes for a resolution following the court’s conclusion.
ADOR’s Standpoint
– ADOR presented management documents indicating continued support despite leadership changes.
NewJeans’ Counter
– NewJeans asserted the insufficiency and illegitimacy of ADOR’s submitted evidence, questioning the management responsibilities outlined.
Upcoming Hearings
– Further arguments will be heard on May 24th.
Contract Dispute History
– NewJeans declared contract termination in November last year, citing ADOR’s failure to fulfill obligations.
– They have rebranded themselves as NJZ post-dispute.
In December, ADOR initiated a lawsuit at Seoul Central District Court to confirm the contract’s validity, followed by an injunction request in January to restrain NewJeans from independent activities, which was granted by the court. As a result, NewJeans ceased activities after debuting a new performance in Hong Kong Complexcon and lodged an appeal on March 21st.
