Endorsement Without Permission, NewJeans Faces New Lawsuit from ADOR

Kapanlagi.com - The conflict between NewJeans and ADOR continues to be in the spotlight at the beginning of 2025. This globally popular K-pop group is accused of breaching their contract after accepting independent endorsement offers. This case reveals the tension between artist freedom and agency control in the South Korean entertainment industry.

Since terminating their contract at the end of 2024, NewJeans has shown resistance against pressure from ADOR and HYBE, their parent company. However, their independent steps have not gone smoothly. ADOR has chosen the legal route to prevent the group's independent activities.

Against the backdrop of this division, many are looking forward to how the court will decide the fate of NewJeans. Will ADOR's legal actions restrict their creativity, or will it instead pave the way for new changes in the K-pop industry?

1. Conflict Begins, Contract Termination by NewJeans

Unique facts about NewJeans members, the story behind their success. (credit: instagram.com/newjeans_offic

On November 28, 2024, NewJeans announced the termination of their exclusive contract with ADOR and HYBE. This decision was made after a series of internal conflicts, including issues of mistreatment towards group members.

Since the announcement, NewJeans has asserted that they are no longer bound to ADOR's management. However, ADOR insists that the group's exclusive contract is still valid until 2027.

2. NewJeans' Independent Activities That Spark Controversy

Unique facts about NewJeans members, the story behind their success. (credit: instagram.com/newjeans_offic

NewJeans began accepting endorsement offers independently without ADOR's approval. This move drew public attention, but also raised concerns from the agency that felt harmed.

ADOR claims that these activities violate the still-valid contract. The agency has filed a request with the Seoul District Court to prohibit NewJeans' independent activities.

3. ADOR Chooses Legal Path to Protect Interests

The conflict between NewJeans and ADOR, the reasons behind the legal path chosen by the agency. (credit: instagram.com/alldoorsoneroom)

In January 2025, ADOR officially filed a lawsuit. The agency revealed that this step aims to protect third parties, including advertisers, from potential losses.

According to ADOR, breached contracts can disrupt the stability of the South Korean entertainment industry. They emphasize that this legal action is important to maintain investment in the industry.

4. Fan Support and NewJeans' Response

Unique facts about NewJeans members, the story behind their success. (credit: instagram.com/newjeans_offic

Amid this conflict, NewJeans fans, known as "Bunnies," show their support. The group even created a new Instagram account to stay connected with fans.

NewJeans is committed to continuing their careers independently. They state that this struggle is not only for their freedom but also for change in the K-pop industry.

5. Legal Challenges and Their Impact on the Future

Unique facts about NewJeans members, the story behind their success. (credit: instagram.com/newjeans_offic

This legal process is expected to take up to two years. During this time, NewJeans may not be able to release new music or promote without ADOR's approval.

If the court rules in favor of ADOR, NewJeans may have to pay substantial compensation. Conversely, if the court sides with NewJeans, this could set an important precedent for other K-pop artists.

6. What are the main reasons for the conflict between NewJeans and ADOR?

The conflict started from the termination of the contract by NewJeans, claiming unfair treatment from ADOR.

7. Why does ADOR prohibit NewJeans from receiving independent endorsements?

ADOR believes that this activity violates their exclusive contract, which the agency claims is still valid until 2027.

What do KLOvers think about this? Come on, write in the comments section! If not now, when?

(kpl/vna)