On March 23, NewJeans performed at ComplexCon in Hong Kong, just two days after a court granted ADOR’s injunction prohibiting them from signing independent contracts. ADOR attempted to assist but was reportedly unable to meet the members.
During the event, NewJeans debuted “Pit Stop” without mentioning “NewJeans” or “NJZ” and avoided performing past hit songs. They then announced, “This might be our last performance for a while. We have decided to comply with the court’s ruling and suspend all activities. It wasn’t an easy decision, but it is necessary for us right now.” Reassuring fans, they added, “We have no regrets about our choice. We will definitely return.”
The song “Pit Stop,” symbolizing a brief pause, reflects their current situation. On March 24, NewJeans filed an objection to the injunction, with a new trial on their contract set for April. Both sides have assembled large legal teams, underscoring the case’s significance.
Legal Experts Raise Concerns Over NewJeans’ Actions
Legal professionals are questioning NewJeans’ decision to proceed with activities despite the injunction ruling. While their Hong Kong performance may have been pre-arranged, moving forward with it after the court’s decision could present legal challenges. The sale of NJZ-branded merchandise at the event adds further complications. Additionally, the group subtly reaffirmed their stance by wearing NJZ hats upon their return to Korea on March 25.
Attorney Noh Jong-eon weighed in on the issue, stating, “By going through with the Hong Kong performance, NewJeans may have put themselves at a legal disadvantage. The injunction ruling clearly stated they should not operate independently of ADOR, yet they proceeded with the event the very next day, which could be interpreted as intentional defiance.”
He further explained, “Legal procedures must be followed, and disregarding a court ruling could work against them in the main lawsuit. Regardless of the multiple ongoing cases, the core issue remains the validity of their exclusive contract. After their press conference, they should have halted all activities. While I understand their concerns about their future as idols, actively taking on new schedules could be seen as a breach of trust. Previously, they were perceived as victims of the ADOR-HYBE dispute, but this latest move might change that perception.”
Noh also warned of the financial risks involved, stating, “NewJeans should be most concerned about the fact that ADOR has not officially terminated their contract yet. If ADOR cites the Hong Kong event as grounds for termination and files a lawsuit for contract violation, the members could face enormous financial penalties. If the case proceeds to a full trial, it could take nearly two years, meaning they may not be able to resume activities until then.”
ADOR and Fans React to NewJeans’ Decision
ADOR expressed disappointment over the group’s recent actions, stating, “We regret that, despite the court’s decision, the group proceeded with performances under a different name and unilaterally declared a hiatus. We remain committed to supporting NewJeans under the terms of their valid exclusive contract and hope to meet with the artists soon to discuss their future.”
Meanwhile, Team Bunnies, the fandom supporting NewJeans, assured fans that they are preparing an official statement. “We are in the process of organizing a new statement. Future plans have already been prepared,” they announced.
With the legal battle intensifying, ADOR’s lawsuit to confirm the validity of NewJeans’ exclusive contract is scheduled for trial on April 3. The outcome of this case will likely determine the group’s ability to continue their activities and could have lasting implications for both their career and the industry’s handling of agency disputes.
