NewJeans Members Engage Fans Amidst Trademark Speculations and Legal Disputes

Speculations have arisen about the former group 'NewJeans' continuing their activities under the name 'NewJeans,' but it has been confirmed that no official trademark application has been filed.

According to the patent information search service KIPRIS on the 16th, there is no trademark application under the name 'NewJeans.' Members Minji, Hani, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein recently launched a social media account under the name 'jeanzforfree' on the 14th, sharing six posts and numerous stories with fans as of this morning. However, there are no signs of an official move to trademark the name for formal activities.

Previously, the members gained attention by sharing glimpses of their daily lives through the newly created account. In their stories, they introduced themselves by saying, "We are real," and mentioned that they had prepaid for drinks and meals for fans attending a rally in Yeouido, advising them to "eat well."

Notably, member Minji caught attention by captioning, "I've been waiting for this day." In the stories, Hani shared playful moments captured in photos and videos from an airplane cabin, asking fans, "Bunnies (fan club name), can you handle our Instagram?" Former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin also liked the post.

Meanwhile, NewJeans held an emergency press conference on the 28th of last month, announcing the termination of their exclusive contract with ADOR. In response, ADOR filed a lawsuit on the 3rd to confirm the validity of the contract. Despite the split, the five members have continued to fulfill scheduled appearances, such as guesting at the Japanese duo YOASOBI's concert on the 7th, introducing themselves by their individual names rather than as 'NewJeans.'

On another note, Min Hee-jin faces allegations of tampering. A media outlet reported that Min Hee-jin allegedly orchestrated events such as NewJeans' live broadcasts and Hani's appearance at a national audit, attempting to leverage NewJeans for her return as ADOR's CEO. The report also raised formal tampering allegations, revealing photos and conversations suggesting Min Hee-jin's discussions with Company D regarding investment opportunities.

Min Hee-jin has not provided an explanation for the detailed allegations but has confirmed the filing of a lawsuit. As tampering has been a central issue in the ongoing conflict between HYBE and Min Hee-jin since April, there is a growing demand for a proper explanation and rebuttal.

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