On March 23, the Newjeans performed at the Hong Kong complex, only two days after a court granted Adr’s injunction that prohibited them from signing independent contracts. Ador tried to help but, according to reports, he was unable to meet the members.
During the event, the Newjeans debuted “Pit stop” Without mentioning “Newjeans” or “Njz” and avoided performing past successful songs. They then announced, “This could be our last performance for a while. We decided to respect the court sentence and suspend all activities. It was not an easy decision, but it is necessary for us right now.” Reassuring fans, they added, “We have no regrets for our choice. We will definitely return.”
The song “Pit Stop”, Symbolizing a short break, it reflects their current situation. On March 24, Newjeans presented an objection to the injunction, with a new trial on their contract set for April. Both parties assembled large legal teams, underlining the meaning of the case.
Legal experts raise concerns about Newjeans’ actions
Legal professionals are questioning the Newjeans’ decision to proceed with the activities despite the sentence of the composition. While their performance of Hong Kong may have been pre-organized, going with it after the Court’s decision could present legal challenges. The sale of NJZ brand goods during the event adds further complications. In addition, the group subtly reiterated their position by wearing Njz hats on their return to Korea on March 25th.
The lawyer Noh Jong-Oeon has plundered the question, affirming, “Crossing Hong Kong’s performance, the Newjeans may have put themselves at a legal disadvantage. The judgment of the composition clearly declared that they should not have operated independently of Adr, but proceeded to the event the following day, which could be interpreted as an intentional challenge.”
He also explained, “The legal procedures must be followed and ignore a judgment of the court could work against them in the main case. Regardless of the multiple cases in progress, the main question remains the validity of their exclusive contract. After their press conference, they should have stopped all activities. It could change that perception.”
Noh also warned the financial risks involved, affirming, “Newjeans should be more worried about the fact that Ador has not yet officially closed their contract. If Ador cites the Hong Kong event as reasons for termination and presenting a cause for the violation of the contract, members could face enormous financial penalties. If the case proceeds to a complete process, almost two years may be necessary, which means that they may not be able to resume activities until then.”
Ador and fans react to Newjeans’ decision
Ador expressed disappointment for the group’s recent actions, affirming, “We are sorry that, despite the decision of the Court, the group proceeded with shows under a different name and has unilaterally declared a pause. We remain committed to supporting the Newjeans pursuant to their valid exclusive contract and we hope to meet the artists soon to discuss their future.”
In the meantime, the teams of the teams, the Fandom in support of the Newjeans, has assured the fans who are preparing an official declaration. “We are organizing a new statement. Future plans have already been prepared”, they announced.
With the intensification of the legal battle, the cause of Ador to confirm the validity of the exclusive Newjeans contract is scheduled for the process on April 3. The result of this case will probably determine the group’s ability to continue their activities and could have long -lasting implications both for their career and for the management of the agencies’ disputes sector.