On March 26, 2025, News 1 highlighted that NJZ had filed an objection to a court injunction that restricts their ability to operate independently. The Seoul Central District Court has set a hearing for April 9 to deliberate on the objection raised by the girl group.
This legal challenge was submitted on March 21, coinciding with ADOR’s successful effort to secure an injunction that bars NJZ from pursuing independent ventures without permission. Chief Judge Kim Sang-hoon is scheduled to oversee this crucial hearing on April 9, 2025, at 2 PM KST.
To provide some context, in November 2024, the members of NewJeans announced the termination of their exclusive contracts with ADOR, citing allegations of misconduct and mishandling. In February 2025, they rebranded themselves as NJZ and began exploring independent opportunities.
In response to NJZ’s departure, ADOR lodged an injunction in January 2025, arguing that the exclusive contracts remained legally binding and sought to prevent the group from acting independently.
A key point in the case is the court’s reaffirmation of the ongoing validity of the contracts between ADOR and NJZ. In their objection, NJZ asserted that the court failed to fully consider the deep-seated breakdown of trust that had transpired between them and ADOR.
Moreover, NJZ contended that the injunction would significantly impede their professional freedom, and they intend to challenge this ruling in the upcoming hearing.
Legal Dispute Intensifies: NJZ Rejects Court’s Injunction
On March 21, 2025, the Seoul Central District Court ruled in favor of ADOR’s request, issuing an injunction that bars NewJeans, now known as NJZ, from any independent operations, including securing advertising agreements.
This dispute erupted following the group’s exit from ADOR, which they announced in support of their former CEO, Min Hee-jin.
Interestingly, despite the court’s ruling, NewJeans went ahead with a scheduled performance at ComplexCon Hong Kong on March 23. They introduced their new single, “Pit Stop,”during the event, following a series of cover songs, all while performing under their new identity.
CNN reported that a poignant moment of the evening was the emotional announcement of their hiatus. Danielle, one of the group members, reflected on the difficult nature of their decision, stating:
“As strong as we are trying to stay, it is honestly taking a bit of a mental and emotional toll on us.”
In the wake of NewJeans’ performance and announcement, ADOR expressed disappointment regarding the group’s choice to perform under a new name and without the agency’s consent. They reiterated their stance as the legitimate representatives of the group and expressed a desire to resolve the ongoing dispute amicably.
As the situation develops, all eyes will be on the upcoming hearing to see what the future holds for NJZ and their legal battle with ADOR.