Legal professionals have said so New Jeans will be unlikely to overturn the recent court ruling that confirmed the validity of the group’s exclusive contract with their agency, ADOR. Despite the group’s decision to appeal, experts underline this “contracts are not a game” predicting that a reversal in the court of appeals is virtually impossible.
On November 8, lawyers Kang Ho-seok and Park Gun-ho discussed the issue on their legal commentary show on YouTube, Kang & Park law firmtitled “The Reason We Might Not See NewJeans Until 2027.” They analyzed the recent decision of the Seoul Central District Court, which rejected NewJeans’ request to terminate its exclusive contract with ADOR.
“The lower court clearly stated that ADOR neither breached the contract nor suffered an operational disruption,” the lawyers explained. “The reasons given by NewJeans for the dismissal were not legally sufficient.”
According to the two legal experts it would be necessary to overturn the sentence on appeal “decisive new evidence”, something they thought was almost impossible.
“If NewJeans proceeded with the appeal, it would lose 100%. The court has already provided a detailed rationale for its decision,” the lawyers said firmly.
Impact on NewJeans’ future operations
Kang and Park warned that extending the case to the Supreme Court could effectively put it on hold New Jeans‘ business until 2027, as members would be legally bound by their current contract for the duration of the litigation.
“Even if they continue to appeal, the contract remains in effect. This means that the group cannot release new music or engage in promotions independently until the case is concluded,” they added.
While the outcome of the first trial represents a serious setback, lawyers noted that NewJeans’ immediate financial burden remains limited, since the lawsuit concerns the validity of the contract rather than damages.
The value of the litigation was estimated at ₩250 million, with overall court costs including legal and administrative fees totaling approximately ₩12.26 million.
Link to Min Hee-jin’s ongoing case
The broadcast also addressed the implications of this ruling for the former CEO of ADOR moviewhich is currently engaged in a separate ₩26 billion put option lawsuit against HYBE.
“Since the first-instance ruling refers to Min’s alleged ‘tampering’ with ADOR’s operations, it will likely weaken his position in the ongoing civil case,” they explained. “Under Korean civil law, the findings recognized in one case have a significant influence on others.”
Potential legal and industry repercussions
If the dispute continues to escalate, New Jeans may face additional legal risks, including potential claims for damages from MOVES should the courts affirm ADOR’s contractual rights through 2029.
Legal experts say the case highlights the rigidity of Korean entertainment contracts, pointing out that even top performers are bound by their contractual commitments unless proven otherwise.
“This sentence sends a clear message” commented an industry analyst. “Even the most popular idols cannot ignore the legal force of their agreements.”
The Court’s ruling marks a crucial turning point for both New Jeans and ADOR, with far-reaching implications for artist management practices in the K-pop industry. As the group prepares for its appeal, both the public and the entertainment industry are watching closely to see whether the case will reshape or strengthen the balance of power between idols and their agencies.
Sources: Naver
