K-pop group NewJeans has officially rebranded as 'NJZ' amid an ongoing legal battle with Hybe/Ador, announcing new music and an upcoming March concert at Hong Kong's ComplexCon.

The group announced their name change on social media, where their "jeanzforfree" profile has already amassed 4.6 million Instagram followers. Meanwhile, the original NewJeans Instagram account (12.7 million followers) remains under Hybe's control, continuing to post sponsored content.

Key developments:

• NJZ is scheduled to perform at ComplexCon Hong Kong on March 23rd
• The group has confirmed new music is in development
• Legal proceedings continue, with an initial contract lawsuit hearing set for April
• Member Hanni faces work visa challenges in South Korea
• The group has established a parent-managed PR social account

Ador has expressed disappointment over the concert announcement while maintaining openness to reconciliation talks. However, the group appears committed to moving forward under their new identity, despite ongoing legal challenges with their former management company.

The dispute originated from conflicts between Ador's founder Min Hee-Jin and Hybe, leading to contract termination attempts by the group after their demands for Min's reinstatement went unmet. Hybe maintains that the group remains bound by their original contract, setting the stage for continued legal proceedings.

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