NewJeans' Danielle Attends Event in Japan Amid Legal Battle with Agency ADOR

NewJeans member Danielle accompanied her agency, ADOR, to a schedule in Japan.

On the 19th, it was reported that Danielle attended a luxury watch brand event in Kyoto, Japan, on the 18th. ADOR staff were confirmed to have accompanied her. This move comes shortly after the Seoul High Court ruled against independent activities for the group, drawing attention.

Previously, on the 17th, the Seoul High Court's Civil Division 25-2 dismissed the appeal against the 'prohibition of independent activities' injunction filed by the five members of NewJeans. The court upheld the decision made in April by the Seoul Central District Court, which granted ADOR's request for an injunction to maintain its status as the agency and prohibit advertising contracts without its consent.

The court stated, "Even after reviewing the claims and evidence repeatedly emphasized by the debtors in their appeal, the injunction decision is deemed justified," siding with ADOR. Although NewJeans members submitted an appeal, the high court dismissed it, confirming the prohibition of independent activities for NewJeans.

As a result of this decision, NewJeans members cannot engage in entertainment activities or advertising contracts without ADOR's consent. Without ADOR's involvement, all entertainment activities are effectively prohibited.

ADOR expressed gratitude for the court's decision, stating, "The appellate decision has once again confirmed ADOR as NewJeans' agency." They added, "We hope this decision will be an opportunity for the members to return to their place as 'NewJeans' and continue their activities. As NewJeans approaches their third anniversary next month, the company plans to fully support their greater leap and growth."

Meanwhile, on April 29, the court also accepted ADOR's indirect compulsory application against NewJeans, deciding that if NewJeans engages in independent activities without ADOR's prior approval, each member must pay 1 billion KRW per violation to ADOR.

Amid the legal battle, NewJeans is effectively immobilized. The industry predicts that activities will be impossible until the legal disputes are resolved. However, the possibility of a settlement between the parties seems low. Previously, NewJeans' representative stated in court, "The trust relationship has already broken down, and it's a bridge too far to return. It will be difficult, although we need to discuss it with our clients." ADOR also preferred a court decision, stating, "Whether it's the main case or an injunction, once the court concludes, a settlement will be easier."

Choi Ji-ye, TenAsia Reporter wisdomart@tenasia.co.kr