30th October 2025 – (Seoul) The K-pop ensemble NewJeans has been unsuccessful in its legal attempt to terminate its recording contract with agency Ador. A South Korean judicial authority ruled on Tuesday that the group’s contractual agreement, which remains effective until 2029, continues to be legally binding.
This legal determination follows a twelve-month dispute between the chart-topping performers and their management company. The five-member group had previously announced their unilateral departure from the agency last November, presenting allegations of professional mistreatment and organisational manipulation.
The conflict originated from tensions between Ador’s former chief executive Min Hee-jin and parent corporation Hybe, South Korea’s predominant music label. Hybe initiated audits into Ador’s operations in April 2024 and subsequently dismissed Min from her leadership position in August.
Following Min’s removal, the musical act issued demands for her reinstatement. When these were declined, the members publicly detailed their grievances against the label, which included assertions that their professional development had been deliberately undermined. One member, Hanni, additionally reported experiencing workplace harassment.
During the ongoing dispute, the performers attempted to establish an independent professional identity under the name NJZ in March. This endeavour included releasing new musical material and performing in Hong Kong before a judicial order suspended these independent activities.
