Court Rules Against K-Pop Group NewJeans in Legal Battle with Record Label
In a recent court decision in Seoul, South Korea, the chart-topping K-pop group NewJeans, now known as NJZ, has been dealt a blow in their attempt to sever ties with their record label Ador.
The court has prohibited the group from engaging in any independent activities, including creating music and securing advertising deals, after Ador filed an injunction against them for attempting to sign independent contracts without approval.
Despite their claims of mistreatment by Ador, the court ruled that the label had fulfilled most of its contractual obligations, leading to uncertainty surrounding the release of NJZ’s new song scheduled for Sunday.
This decision also poses challenges for the group’s re-debut under the NJZ name, potentially resulting in severe financial penalties for breaching their contract with Ador.
NewJeans and Ador have been embroiled in a dramatic dispute since August 2024, stemming from the removal of NewJeans’ mentor, Min Hee-Jin, by Hybe, Ador’s parent company.
Despite the court ruling, NJZ plans to challenge the decision, citing a lack of opportunity to present their case fully.
The band members, known for their 1990s R&B and pop sound, have continued to assert their independence through social media, maintaining their identity as NewJeans despite the legal battle with Ador.
Despite the challenges they face, NJZ remains determined to protect their name and career, vowing to stay true to their roots as NewJeans at heart.
NewJeans’ popularity in the K-pop scene has earned them recognition as one of the brightest new bands, with global sales success and award nominations.
As the legal battle continues, the future of NJZ hangs in the balance as they navigate the complexities of the music industry and contractual obligations.
