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Photo courtesy of Yonhap News |
[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] Seoul, South Korea — November 12, 2025 — All five members of K-pop group NewJeans have decided to return to their agency ADOR, effectively bringing an end to the year-long dispute over their exclusive contracts.
ADOR announced today that members Haerin and Hyein expressed their intention to resume activities under the company. According to ADOR, the two members, after careful discussion with their families and extensive consultation with the agency, have decided to respect the court’s ruling and honor their exclusive contracts.
Following the announcement, members Minji, Hanni, and Danielle also stated their intention to return to ADOR. The three members noted that communication had been delayed due to “one member currently being in Antarctica,” and explained that they were compelled to issue a separate statement as they had not yet received a response from the agency. “We will continue to present sincere music and performances to our fans,” they said.
While Haerin and Hyein’s decision was released directly through ADOR, the remaining three members conveyed their stance independently. ADOR responded that it is “currently verifying the authenticity of their intention to return.”
The members’ decisions come after the Seoul Central District Court ruled in favor of ADOR on October 30 in a lawsuit seeking confirmation of the validity of the exclusive contracts. The court rejected NewJeans’ claim that the dismissal of former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin constituted a breach of contract, stating that the exclusive agreements did not guarantee her position as CEO. The court also noted that Min could have continued participating in production as an outside director even after her dismissal.
Although NewJeans initially indicated plans to appeal, the group ultimately chose to accept the ruling and continue their activities under ADOR.
Alphabiz Reporter Kim Jisun(stockmk2020@alphabiz.co.kr)
