K-pop group NewJeans has lost a legal battle to terminate its contract with record label Ador. A South Korean court ruled that the group's contract, valid until 2029, remains in effect. The group's members have stated they will appeal the decision.
Court Upholds Contract Validity
On Tuesday, a South Korean court ruled against K-pop group NewJeans in its attempt to leave record label Ador. The court determined that the group's contract with Ador, which extends until 2029, is valid.
The group, consisting of members Hanni, Hyein, Haerin, Danielle, and Minji, announced last year their intention to unilaterally leave the agency. They cited allegations of mistreatment and manipulation as reasons for their departure.
Local media reports indicate that NewJeans has expressed that returning to Ador and continuing activities normally is "impossible" and that the group will appeal the ruling.
Dismissal of Former CEO and Breach of Trust Claims
The Seoul Central District Court rejected NewJeans' argument that the dismissal of former Ador CEO Min Hee-jin constituted a breach of contract. Min Hee-jin was also described as the group's mentor. NewJeans had alleged that her dismissal damaged their trust with the agency.
The case has drawn attention in South Korea, where artists rarely initiate legal actions against their agencies.
Group's Background and Success
Formed in July 2022, NewJeans' members are aged between 17 and 21. The group achieved notable success following its debut. Their first single, "Attention," topped Korean music charts shortly after its release. Their song "SuperShy" was included on multiple "best of the year" lists in 2023, compiled by publications such as Rolling Stone, NME, and Billboard Magazine.
Critics have acknowledged the group's musical style, which blends 1990s R&B with pop melodies, as distinctive within the K-pop landscape.