An anonymous lawyer gained attention after expressing concern over NewJeans’ ongoing legal dispute with ADOR and their deep trust in former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin. The lawyer, known only as “A,” shared a post titled “The Future of NewJeans and ADOR” on an anonymous community on March 23, offering a professional opinion on the case.
A stated, “There’s a high possibility that NewJeans will lose the main lawsuit. Even if they appeal or take the case to the Supreme Court, it could take more than three years for a final decision. By then, considering the lifespan of idol groups and changes in public sentiment and music trends, it’s questionable what NewJeans would gain from this legal battle.” The lawyer also openly criticized Min Hee Jin, writing, “Are there no proper adults around NewJeans? If they’re acting like this just because they trust Min Hee Jin, then it’s immature and naive. The law is cold and realistic, very different from fans, YouTube, or Instagram.”
A added, “The only practical solution for NewJeans would be to apologize and reconcile with the company. But given the emotional conflict, media tactics, and cult-like belief in Min Hee Jin, it seems they’ll push through to the end, which is unfortunate.” Regarding ADOR’s current handling of the situation, the lawyer commented, “While the company is maintaining support for NewJeans for legal strategy, they’ll likely cut ties in the long run. The trust between the two sides has already collapsed.” The lawyer predicted that ADOR would “maximize profits from the group during the remaining contract period, then eventually let them go,” potentially one or two years earlier depending on the lawsuit’s progress.
Furthermore, the lawyer warned, “Afterward, the members may face claims for damages or breach of contract. Their individual actions and sales under the name NJZ have already caused losses for ADOR.” A noted, “This could significantly increase the amount of damages claimed in future lawsuits.” The lawyer concluded, “Based on public statements from NewJeans, they are more likely to be the ones in breach of contract. ADOR is likely waiting for the right moment to act, prioritizing legal victory and maximum financial return.” Meanwhile, on March 21, the Seoul Central District Court’s Civil Agreement Division 50 sided with ADOR in granting an injunction. This ruling reaffirms ADOR’s authority as the agency managing NewJeans under their exclusive contract.
Despite the ruling, on March 23, all five members of NewJeans performed at the AsiaWorld-Expo in Hong Kong under the name “NJZ,” a brand they created. They also released new music and publicly declared a halt to group activities under “NewJeans.” In response, ADOR released a statement on March 24, saying, “We deeply regret that they carried out a performance under a different name and unilaterally announced a suspension of group activities, despite the court’s decision. We hope to meet with the artists soon to discuss the future.” NewJeans has announced plans to appeal the injunction decision. The full trial for the main lawsuit is set to begin on April 3, and legal disputes are expected to continue in the months ahead.
