NewJeans is facing a major controversy following recent legal actions taken by ADOR. On June 30 KST, ADOR released a statement saying,
“Since NewJeans’ debut, we have continuously monitored and pursued legal action against malicious online content targeting the artists.”
The company claims to be actively gathering evidence against severe rights violations, including defamation, false information, invasion of privacy, and malicious insults.
As the situation developed, suspects were charged with criminal defamation and obscene communications. Anonymous users from platforms like DC Inside are being identified and handed over to local police.
Moreover, ADOR is pursuing legal avenues in the U.S. to obtain identities from YouTube. One particularly harmful YouTuber has been identified and is facing strict legal action after repeatedly creating humiliating content about the members. ADOR rejected a settlement offer during the civil lawsuit process.
On June 25, 2025, the court sided with ADOR in a civil damages lawsuit against the YouTuber. The court found the actions a serious violation of personality rights and ordered significant damages.
However, despite receiving a suspended prosecution for the YouTuber, ADOR is appealing for a heavier penalty. The company stated,
“We will pursue the matter to the end to ensure the YouTuber is appropriately punished.”
ADOR is also tackling deepfake crimes. They cooperated with authorities resulting in prison sentences for individuals distributing fake videos of the artists.
One offender, who used ProtonMail, was caught after an extensive investigation.
Meanwhile, NewJeans is engaged in a legal dispute with ADOR over their contract. The group has declared intentions to work independently under the name NJZ, claiming contract violations by ADOR.
In response, ADOR filed for an injunction to validate their exclusive contract. The court ruled in ADOR’s favor, prohibiting NewJeans from any independent promotions. Should they attempt this, penalties could reach approximately KRW 1 billion (around USD 740,000) for each member.
While ADOR has expressed hopes for reconciliation, NewJeans has firmly stated,
“We’ve crossed a point of no return.”
The future of both parties remains uncertain as legal battles loom ahead.
Watch the legal showdown here.
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