In a significant move, K-pop sensation NewJeans is ramping up its legal team ahead of its upcoming court hearing to affirm the validity of their exclusive contract with ADOR. Legal experts are closely watching this high-stakes battle, which continues to evolve.
On May 9th, NewJeans filed an updated attorney designation form with the Seoul Eastern District Court, enlisting the services of prominent law firm Shin & Kim. This latest development brings their total legal representation to 13 attorneys, some of whom have direct ties to the former CEO of ADOR, Min Hee Jin.
In response, ADOR has marshaled a formidable team of 12 lawyers from Korea’s largest law firm, Kim & Chang. The involvement of such a large number of legal professionals on both sides underscores the seriousness of the dispute, marking it as a significant chapter in K-pop contractual disputes.
This isn’t the first expansion of NewJeans’ legal team; additional lawyers were also added prior to the first hearing on April 3rd. That session revolved around the pivotal question of whether the trust between NewJeans and ADOR has been irreparably damaged. While ADOR hinted at the possibility of a settlement, NewJeans opted to stand firm, rejecting the proposal and demonstrating their resolve. The group did not appear in person at the first hearing, and it remains unclear if they will attend the second.
The legal tussle has currently put a hold on NewJeans’ activities. A court injunction issued in March backed ADOR’s request to pause the termination of the contract, restricting the group’s independent efforts.
However, interest piqued recently when member Danielle sparked speculation with a now-deleted Instagram post hinting at a collaboration with U.S. R&B duo Emotional Oranges. The quick removal of the post suggests a cautious approach, possibly to steer clear of further legal entanglements during this ongoing saga.
As the anticipation builds, the second hearing in the NewJeans vs. ADOR case is set for June 5th, promising more developments in this unfolding story.
