K-pop girl group NewJeans has suffered a major blow in its ongoing contract battle, raising alarms that they may not be able to actively promote until 2027, effectively turning them into “OldJeans,” legal analysts warn.
According to the company’s legal experts who released a public video titled “Why New Jeans May not be able to appear until 2027,” the group’s chances of appealing are extremely slim. They cite the recent decision of the Seoul Central District Court which ruled in favor of their label, ADOR (under HYBE), arguing that despite the group’s allegations of breach of trust, the court found the contract valid.
According to the ruling, New JeansThe exclusive contract will last until July 31, 2029. Legal commentators note that if the group drags out appeals – including regional ones and ultimately the Supreme Court – they could be barred from carrying out significant activities until 2027, losing their “golden window” as idols.
The financial stakes also increase. The lawsuit has a principal amount of ₩250 million (approximately US$175,000), with legal, tax and court costs adding approximately ₩12.26 million. But the experts say New Jeans they have hired a large team of law firms (13 lawyers plus a lead lawyer from Woo‑Seung), with a potential cost already of around ₩10 million per member. Analysts warn that if they lose their appeals, they could face additional damages and liabilities.
Even for Min Hee‑jin, former CEO of ADOR and a key figure in the group’s creative direction, the implications are serious. It is simultaneously embroiled in a separate legal battle with HYBE over a roughly ₩26 billion ($18 million) “put option” dispute. Because the court found indications that she intended to separate New Jeans regardless of HYBE/ADOR, his case may suffer collateral damage from the contract verdict. If she loses, her potential legal liability – including legal fees, taxes and fines – could push her into serious debt.
Sources: born
