NewJeans Ends Legal Battle, Will Honor Exclusive Contract With Ador

K-pop sensation NewJeans is reuniting with its record label. The group will return to Ador after a lengthy legal dispute. This decision follows a recent court ruling that favored the label.

All five members have now agreed to honor their exclusive contracts. According to BBC News, the members made this choice after careful discussion. This resolution ends months of uncertainty for their global fanbase.

Court Ruling Prompts Group’s Decision to Return

The shift began when members Hyein and Haerin decided to respect the court’s latest decision. They will adhere to their exclusive contract with Ador. This information was confirmed in a statement from Ador to Pitchfork.

The other three members—Hanni, Danielle, and Minji—soon followed. They confirmed their return in a separate statement. They noted the announcement was delayed because one member was in Antarctica.

The group initially sought to split from Ador last year. This occurred after the dismissal of label CEO and group mentor Min Hee-Jin. Members had previously accused the label of mistreatment and workplace harassment.

Legal Journey Culminates in Contract Honor

NewJeans had attempted to rebrand as NJZ to circumvent their Ador contract. This strategy was unsuccessful. A Seoul court ruled the group failed to prove significant negligence by the label.

The legal journey included multiple court rulings. A South Korean high court decision in June was upheld by a Seoul district court last month. The courts consistently ruled the group must honor its seven-year contract, which runs through 2029.

According to Reuters, the group had paused all band activities last March. At the time of the October ruling, the group’s legal representative told Rolling Stone they planned to appeal. The latest development indicates that appeal will not move forward.

Ador has committed to fully supporting the members. The label aims to ensure the seamless continuation of their artistic endeavors. They have requested fans avoid unfounded speculation regarding the members.

The resolution of the NewJeans contract dispute marks a new chapter for the popular group. Their return to Ador ensures the continuation of their musical journey. Fans can now anticipate new music and performances from the reunited team.

Info at your fingertips

What was the main reason for NewJeans’ legal dispute?

The dispute began after Ador’s CEO, Min Hee-Jin, was dismissed. The group subsequently alleged mistreatment and attempted to terminate their exclusive contract with the label.

How long is NewJeans’ contract with Ador?

The exclusive contract is a seven-year deal. It is now set to extend through 2029 following the court’s ruling and the group’s decision to honor it.

Did all members agree to return to Ador?

Yes. Members Hyein and Haerin were first to accept the court’s ruling. Hanni, Danielle, and Minji then confirmed they would also return to the label.

What does this mean for the group’s future activities?

Ador has committed to providing full support for the members’ artistic endeavors. This suggests a resumption of music releases and performances after the indefinite pause.

Why did the group attempt to rebrand as NJZ?

The rebrand to NJZ was an effort to work around their exclusivity deal with Ador. The strategy was ultimately unsuccessful in the court’s view.

Trusted Sources

BBC News, Pitchfork, Reuters, Rolling Stone