On the 12th, Minji, Hani, and Danielle, through their legal representatives, stated, "After careful consideration, we have decided to return to ADOR. One member is currently in Antarctica, which delayed communication, and since ADOR has not responded, we are announcing our decision separately." They added, "We will continue to bring heartfelt music and performances."
In response, ADOR told TenAsia, "We are verifying the facts," indicating a lack of clear communication. The three members' announcement without agency coordination has raised eyebrows, suggesting unresolved tensions. The industry views this unilateral announcement as less than smooth.
The situation began last year when NewJeans claimed that ADOR had breached their exclusive contract, leading to its termination, and hinted at independent activities. ADOR countered, asserting the contract's validity and filed a lawsuit in December to confirm the contract's validity, also seeking an injunction to prevent independent activities until a final ruling.
The court sided with ADOR, dismissing NewJeans' objections and appeals. Consequently, NewJeans members could not pursue independent activities without ADOR's approval until the final ruling.
Additionally, in May, the court accepted ADOR's request for indirect enforcement, ordering NewJeans to pay 1 billion won per violation if they engaged in independent activities.
The main trial focuses on the validity of the exclusive contract and the reasons for its termination. ADOR claims the contract is valid and that they have supported the artists diligently, while NewJeans argues that the dismissal of former representative Min Hee-jin has irreparably damaged trust.
Choi Ji-ye, TenAsia Reporter wisdomart@tenasia.co.kr