ENTERTAINMENT
NewJeans Faces Legal Battle Over Group Name and Activities
On November 4th, NewJeans members Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein changed their Instagram account name from 'NJZ' to 'mhdhh_friends'. The new name 'mhdhh' is an acronym of the first letters of each member's name. All previous posts on the account have been deleted. Additionally, the official SNS account managed by NewJeans' family has been renamed to 'mhdhh_pr'.
However, their agency, ADOR, declared that "the exclusive contract with NewJeans remains valid" and warned that "all accounts created without prior consultation are a breach of contract." ADOR emphasized that posting content on unofficial accounts could confuse fans and advertisers.
The court has issued an injunction prohibiting NewJeans from independent activities, meaning they cannot operate without ADOR's agreement. Consequently, NewJeans announced a halt to their activities during their performance at ComplexCon in Hong Kong on October 23rd, stating, "This might be our last stage," and "We have decided to pause all activities in respect of the court's decision."
On November 4th, reports emerged that a parent of one of the minor members, either Hyein or Haerin, had disagreements regarding the termination of the exclusive contract with ADOR. NewJeans' parents countered, "All five members have decided not to return to HYBE," and "All parents respect their children's wishes." They also refuted rumors of family discord or member departures, stating, "We are suffering from mental distress due to baseless speculation."
Meanwhile, NewJeans has filed an objection to the court's injunction. A hearing is scheduled for November 9th at the Seoul Central District Court, Civil Division 50.
Reported by Min-Kyung Lee, TenAsia 2min_ror@tenasia.co.kr
