South Korea’s breakout girl group has been legally compelled to stay under contract—despite claiming that the relationship with their label is irreparable.

Introduction

October 30, 2025: K-pop sensation NewJeans has suffered a significant legal setback as the Seoul Central District Court ruled that their exclusive management contract with ADOR, a subsidiary of HYBE Corporation, remains valid. The decision means the group is obligated to stay under the label until 2029, despite publicly stating that trust between the two parties has been “completely destroyed.” HOLR breaks down the story here.

The Legal Ruling

The court found that NewJeans’ claims—centering on alleged internal mistreatment and disputes following the removal of former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin—did not meet the legal standards required to void their contract.
According to the court, ADOR had continued to promote the group, plan their upcoming albums, and secure commercial deals, which demonstrated that the company was upholding its contractual obligations.
As a result, members Minji, Hanni, Haerin, Danielle, and Hyein remain bound to the label for the foreseeable future.

The Group’s Statement

Following the ruling, NewJeans released a statement expressing their disappointment and frustration. They said that while they respected the court’s decision, their relationship with ADOR had been “irreparably damaged.” The group also revealed that they intend to appeal the decision immediately, emphasizing that they no longer feel comfortable continuing normal activities under their current management.

Why This Matters

This legal battle has reignited the ongoing conversation about artist rights and agency power dynamics in the K-pop industry. Long-term contracts, sometimes extending up to seven years or more, have long been criticized for limiting artists’ creative freedom and personal autonomy.
The NewJeans case shines a light on how these issues can affect even top-tier acts—raising questions about transparency, fair treatment, and the future of idol-management structures in South Korea’s entertainment world. HOLR has the latest on how this landmark case could shift the industry conversation.

What Comes Next

With an appeal now in motion, NewJeans faces an uncertain path ahead. While the group may continue promotional activities under ADOR’s supervision, tensions between both parties could make it difficult to operate smoothly.
Fans are anxiously waiting to see whether the court’s next decision could open a path for renegotiation or even eventual contract termination. Until then, the group’s future remains in legal and emotional limbo.

The Road Ahead

For NewJeans, this ruling represents more than a courtroom defeat—it symbolizes a deep fracture between artist and management. Whether they stay with ADOR, negotiate new terms, or ultimately win their appeal, this case has already become one of the most talked-about legal battles in modern K-pop history.
HOLR will continue to follow the developments as the story unfolds, keeping fans updated on how NewJeans navigates the fallout from this pivotal decision.