Court Rejects NewJeans’ Objection; Maintains Ban on Independent Activities

Court has rejected NewJeans’ objection to an earlier injunction that barred them from engaging in independent activities outside of their contract with ADOR, a HYBE label. The group is celebrating their 1000th day since debut today, and they have received disappointing news.

On Wednesday, April 16, the Seoul Central District Court’s 50th Civil Agreement Division, led by Chief Judge Kim Sang Hoon, rejected NewJeans’ objection to an injunction.

On March 21, ADOR obtained an injunction against NewJeans which restricted them from engaging in independent activities. Initially, the scope of application was limited to advertising contracts. 

Later, the label expanded it to an entertainment ban as NewJeans announced a new stage name, NJZ, and announced large-scale activities overseas. It happened after they announced their debut performance as NJZ at ComplexCon in Hong Kong on March 23. Ahead of their performance, the court ordered them to only engage in activities with ADOR’s approval until the verdict on the main lawsuit was reached.

At the time, the court stated, “ADOR’s status as the management agency under the exclusive contract with NewJeans members is temporarily established.” They added, “NewJeans members are not allowed to engage in entertainment activities on their own or through third parties other than ADOR without prior approval and consent from ADOR.”

On the same day, NewJeans filed an objection, arguing the injunction, and the first hearing was held on April 9, behind closed doors, and lasted only 15 minutes.

After the rejection, NewJeans can file an appeal with the High Court, which will review the case and make a new decision. This second trial may uphold or overturn the initial injunction.

In the appeal process, the 5-member K-pop group may present additional evidence to support their claims and strengthen their case against ADOR.

NewJeans had started independent activities in November 2024, claiming their contracts were terminated due to a breach of trust. However, the court’s acceptance of ADOR’s injunction has restricted them from pursuing these activities. 

Meanwhile, a separate lawsuit filed by ADOR to confirm the validity of NewJeans’ exclusive contracts is ongoing. The second hearing is scheduled for June 5.