NewJeans Accuses HYBE of Deliberately Damaging Their Reputation

At 10:30 AM on the 7th, the 50th Civil Affairs Department of the Seoul Central District Court held a hearing for an injunction filed by ADOR against the five members of NewJeans. The injunction seeks to preserve ADOR’s status as the group’s agency and prevent the members from signing independent advertising contracts.

During the hearing, NewJeans referenced the Jeju Air incident that occurred at Muan International Airport in December of last year, alleging that HYBE had orchestrated a scheme that could have unfairly placed the blame solely on them.

Memorial Ribbon Controversy

NewJeans’ representatives explained, “At the time, the members wanted to wear memorial ribbons on stage in Japan to pay tribute to the victims, but HYBE objected, claiming, ‘The Japanese broadcasting station might take issue with it.’ However, after checking directly with the station, we were informed that there was no issue at all.”

They continued, “In the end, Hanni quickly made a memorial ribbon herself and wore it on stage.”

They further alleged that HYBE’s actions were inconsistent, stating, “Later, HYBE’s artist TWS was seen wearing a regular memorial ribbon on stage. If we had followed HYBE’s instructions, we would have been criticized for not showing respect. This is clear evidence that HYBE is working behind the scenes to damage our reputation.”

The Legal Dispute Between ADOR and NewJeans

This injunction hearing marked the first legal proceeding since NewJeans declared the termination of their exclusive contract with ADOR in November 2023. In January 2024, ADOR filed the injunction to prevent the group from engaging in independent advertising contracts and activities.

At the time, ADOR stated, “We regret that the members are attempting to pursue independent entertainment activities, including adopting a new stage name, before receiving a legal judgment. Such actions could constitute a serious breach of contract.”

NewJeans’ Response and Independent Activities

In response, the members stated, “Even after terminating our exclusive contracts, we wanted to complete our remaining schedules and contracts amicably, avoiding disputes to minimize harm to those involved. However, we have watched ADOR and HYBE refuse to cooperate with our good intentions and instead cause damage to us and others through wrongful means.”

They continued, “We have decided not to remain silent any longer. We will proudly fight in court to expose ADOR and HYBE’s wrongdoings and reveal the truth through legal procedures.”

Following this, NewJeans officially changed their group name to ‘NJZ’ and launched an official social media account to pursue independent activities. In March, they were announced as part of the lineup for a new song release and the Hong Kong festival concert series ‘Complex Live’, where they plan to perform their new song for the first time under the name NJZ.

The legal battle between ADOR and NewJeans intensified the day before the injunction hearing, setting the stage for a fierce confrontation in court.

https://isplus.com/article/view/isp202503070058