NewJeans, the popular K-pop group, has officially hired Seoul law firm Shin & Kim amid an escalating dispute with Hybe/Ador. The conflict stems from the controversial departure of former Ador CEO Min Hee-Jin, who was accused by Hybe of attempting to sell company stakes and potentially relocate NewJeans to a different label.

Key developments in the dispute:

• NewJeans issued an ultimatum demanding Min's reinstatement
• The group announced their unilateral exit from Ador, citing contract violations
• Ador maintains the contract remains valid until 2029
• The company filed an injunction to prevent NewJeans from making independent agreements
• NewJeans continues promotional activities under "jeanzforfree" on Instagram (4.2M followers)

Recent complications include member Hanni's E-6 visa situation. The Melbourne-born artist must either renew through Ador or return to Australia to obtain a new permit - a process that could force a three-month group hiatus and requires an exclusive contract with a K-pop agency.

The group has explicitly stated they "have absolutely no intention of returning" to Hybe/Ador, while alleging media criticism has been fueled by information from the companies. As both parties maintain their positions, an immediate resolution appears unlikely.

Despite the ongoing legal battle, NewJeans continues their commercial activities, including a recent Calvin Klein advertisement, though without official group branding. Their official Instagram account (12.7M followers) remains active with sponsored content.

Related Articles

Previous Articles