The popular K-pop girl group NewJeans has officially decided to remain under the management of their agency, Ador, following a legal dispute that culminated in a decisive court ruling. All five members of the quintet—Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein—have expressed intentions to honor their exclusive contracts, which are valid through 2029. This resolution, reported on Wednesday, marks a significant turning point after months of public litigation between the artists, Ador, and its parent company, Hybe.
The development follows an October court decision that upheld the validity of the group’s contracts with Ador, a subsidiary of entertainment giant Hybe.
Members Affirm Decision to Respect Contractual Obligations
Ador confirmed the return of its two youngest members, 19-year-old Haerin and 17-year-old Hyein, in an official statement released Wednesday. The agency noted that after careful deliberation with their families and sufficient internal discussions, the artists chose to respect the court’s judgment and continue their activities with Ador.
The three senior members—Minji (21), Hanni (21), and Danielle (20)—subsequently announced their decision to rejoin the label. Represented by the law firm Hanil Law Corporation, the trio stated they would resume activities under the label, expressing their desire to continue meeting fans with “sincere music and performances.”
However, Ador initially sounded a cautious note, acknowledging the confirmation of Haerin and Hyein while stating it was “in the process of verifying the authenticity” of the remaining trio’s reported intentions, suggesting operational finalization was still required.
Context of the Legal Battle
The high-profile conflict began in April 2024 when Hybe initiated an audit of Ador and mandated the resignation of then-CEO Min Hee-jin. Hybe accused the 45-year-old executive—who played a central role in NewJeans’ creative direction—of planning to seize control of the subsidiary.
Following her removal in August 2024, NewJeans publicly stood by Min Hee-jin, arguing that her dismissal undermined their trust in the conglomerate and disrupted their artistic endeavors. The group subsequently sought premature contract termination, citing alleged mistreatment by Ador.
The October court ruling dismissed the group’s request for contract termination, affirming the agreements were binding until 2029. Crucially, the court indicated that Min Hee-jin’s role as CEO was not essential for her continued producing duties, separating the internal management conflict from the artists’ employment status. Earlier rulings this year had already blocked the girls’ attempt to rebrand independently and set a substantial penalty for unauthorized activities.
Former CEO Supports Group’s Unity
In a separate statement issued Thursday, former Ador CEO Min Hee-jin expressed her support for NewJeans’ choice to remain united.
“I believe the decision the members made yesterday to return together was reached after deep deliberation and discussion. I respect and support that choice,” Min wrote. She emphasized the importance of keeping NewJeans intact as a five-member group, valuing their courage to prioritize mutual protection amidst the turmoil.
Min Hee-jin also clarified that her ongoing legal dispute with Hybe is separate from NewJeans’ activities, reaffirming her commitment to supporting the group’s music and growth from afar.
Ador has since urged fans to refrain from speculating on internal matters as the group prepares to fully resume its schedule. NewJeans, who debuted in 2022, rapidly ascended to global fame, notably becoming the first K-pop female act to win Group of the Year at the 2024 Billboard Women in Music Awards. Their solidified return to Ador ensures the continuation of their successful trajectory in the global music industry.