On September 11, division 41 of the Central District Court Civil Court held its second mediation session between Newjeans and Ador. Just like the first attempt last month, the talks collapsed without settlement. The case now passes to the trial, with a sentence scheduled for 30 October.
Newjeans had declared the termination of their exclusive contract with Ador in November last year, citing the violation of trust following the explosion of the former CEO Min Hee-Jin. The group attempted independent activities, but Ador replied with a cause to confirm the validity of the contract. An injunction was granted, legally blocking Newjeans from pursuing solo activities outside the label.
The part of Ador claims that Hybe has invested $ 21 billion (about $ 15 million) in the group and provided full support. They argue that the cause does not derive from legitimate grievances but from the “change of heart after the success of the members.
In the meantime, Newjeans insists that the foundations of their contract collapsed: “The Ador we trusted when we signed no longer exists”.
This dispute goes beyond the legal validity of the contract, deepening the abstract but crucial question if the “trust relationship” is irrelevant.
Time, however, is not on the side of Newjeans. From their explosive debut in 2022 with attention and Hype Boy, followed by global blows such as ditto, OMG, Super Shy and Eta, the group quickly climbed the celebrity of K-pop. But while the conflict drags itself, the value of their brand and the risk of momentum vanish.
Experts in the sector warn that civil cases can extend for years. A loss could leave the Newjeans who face not only a blocked career, but also heavy penalties. In a rapid movement K-pop market in which the debut of new idols every month, prolonged inactivity can be devastating.
For Newjeans, the bankrupt settlement means that there is no way of return: the Court’s verdict is the only forward path. It could guarantee their independence or cause financial and professional ruin.
Sources: Daum
