On January 23, NewJeans (Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, Hyein) announced via their newly created SNS account: “We plan to hold a two-day competition to decide on a new stage name to use for a certain period. Please participate actively by leaving comments.” In this regard, ADOR expressed concern that such independent activities, including the competition for a new stage name, “may constitute a serious breach of contract“.
ADOR said: “Our position remains that the exclusive contract is still valid and we sincerely participate in the ongoing legal proceedings. We deeply regret that members are attempting independent entertainment activities, such as applying for a new stage name, before a legal ruling is issued. Such actions may constitute a serious breach of contract.”
That day, NewJeans released a separate statement, revealing: “ADOR has filed a “legal action to confirm the validity of the exclusivity contract” and recently requested an “injunction to preserve agency status and prohibit the signing of advertising contracts”. A few days ago we received the lawsuit and injunction documents.” They also announced the appointment of Sejong Law Firm as their legal representative. Sejong is the legal representative of former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin.
Members stated: “While ADOR and HYBE publicly urge us to return, behind the scenes they have continued to relentlessly harass and attack us. They have recently secretly approached some of our parents in an attempt to sow discord.”
On November 28 last year, NewJeans held an emergency press conference to announce its intention to terminate its exclusive contract with ADOR. The next day they officially declared the contract terminated. In December last year, ADOR filed a lawsuit to legally confirm the validity of the exclusive contract with NewJeans. Additionally, they sought an injunction to preserve their status as the group’s agency and to prohibit members from signing independent advertising contracts.
