NewJeans makes final call on HYBE settlement after reading fans’ letters: ADOR issues statement

NewJeans rejects HYBE’s settlement offer

On June 5, during the court hearing held at Seoul Central District Court’s Civil Agreement Division 41, the judge addressed the lawsuit filed by ADOR seeking approval for NewJeans’ exclusive contract with the agency, a contract they claim was breached after the singers attempted to rename the brand and relaunch independently earlier this year. According to Xsports News, the court suggested both parties resolve the matter by reaching a “mutually agreeable” settlement. However, while ADOR has shown a willingness to explore the option and rework their proposal, a representative for NewJeans firmly denied having had any such conversation. Speaking to the press minutes after the hearing, the rep said, “The relationship of trust has completely collapsed. It’s like crossing a river of no return. While we will consult with our clients, a settlement is highly unlikely.” In response, ADOR said it remained open to resolving the issue “once the court reaches a conclusion.”

Also read: NewJeans abandons NJZ: Instagram username changed, all posts wiped clean amid parental discord claims

NewJeans pens heartfelt note to fans

Before the second court trial, all five members of NewJeans released a joint note for fans. K-pop fans’ sentiment has dramatically shifted in favour of the band, as more and more allegations against Bang Si Hyuk have surfaced in recent days. Responding to the same, the girls said, “I read your letters yesterday, and they made me feel so good. I started to miss you. So I just came.” The timing of the post certainly carries a meaningful gesture of gratitude. The case continues to drag in court without a conclusion. It started back in November 2024, when NewJeans declared their intent to part ways with HYBE following Min Hee Jin’s departure. The quintet has previously accused staff of mistreatment. In response, the agency filed a lawsuit and managed to clinch an injunction win, blocking NewJeans from any promotional activities or association with other labels or independent efforts, effectively forcing the group to reverse their decision to relaunch. The court even imposed a fine of ₩1 billion KRW (approx. $735,000 USD) per member if the ruling is breached.

NewJeans has paused all their activities, with no plans of a comeback until a resoluion is reached. Earlier, Hanni, the only non-Korean member of the group who holds dual citizenship in Australia and Vietnam, refused to sign the visa extension offer sent by ADOR, which risked her stay in South Korea. Rumours started floating about her illegal stay in the country after her E6 working visa expired, with some even taking the matter to court. However, days later, the K-pop idol managed to secure a new visa through legal procedure.