In a dramatic 24-hour period, all five members of NewJeans announced their return to agency ADOR. However, the stark differences in how and when they did so hinted at internal rifts, legal pressure, and unresolved tensions between the members.
Haerin and Hyein revealed their return through ADOR’s official statement. Minji, Hanni, and Danielle made their announcement later through their law firm, not the agency.
This difference in timing and method has led to speculation about internal communication, legal pressure, and public trust.
Why Newjeans Members Released Their Return Statements Separately
On November 12, 2025, ADOR first announced that Haerin and Hyein had decided to return to the company after “careful discussions with their families.” The agency said it would give them full support to resume activities.
About an hour later, Minji, Hanni, and Danielle issued their own statement through Hanil Law Firm. They said, “After careful discussion, we have decided to return to ADOR.”
However, they explained the delay was caused by “one member being in Antarctica.” Minji, Danielle, and Hanni said that since ADOR did not respond to their earlier contact, they had no choice but to release a separate statement.
ADOR responded carefully, saying it was “confirming the sincerity” of the three members’ decision.
Experts believe the difference in timing hints at both internal communication gaps and personal circumstances among members and families.
Haerin and Hyein’s early return likely created a psychological ripple effect. Their return made it harder for the remaining three to continue resisting.
The case also shows the power imbalance between idols and management in legal disputes. Even though the members initially tried to separate from ADOR after CEO Min Hee Jin’s dismissal, the court’s ruling left them with little room to act independently.
Legal Pressure Forced Them to Return
This confusing rollout came just one day before the appeal deadline (November 13) in the legal battle between NewJeans and ADOR.
On October 30, the Seoul Central District Court fully sided with ADOR and ruled that the group’s exclusive contracts were valid until 2029.
The court also imposed strict measures—if the members performed or signed new contracts outside ADOR, they could be fined ₩1 billion (approx. $700,000) per violation.
After losing the case, the members had expressed plans to appeal the decision. They reversed course shortly before the deadline, likely due to the legal and financial pressure.
The Role of Families, Especially for Minors
Family influence played a key role in the timing of each member’s decision.
Both Haerin (born 2006) and Hyein (born 2008) are minors. During the legal conflict, Hyein’s father opposed the lawsuit against ADOR, while her mother supported reconciliation. After a custody battle, the court granted sole guardianship to her mother, who later approved Hyein’s return to the agency.
This family decision reportedly encouraged Haerin, who was also facing internal family disagreements, to return with her.
When ADOR announced Haerin and Hyein’s return, it emphasized “discussions with their families.” This suggests that family consensus was central to the agreement.
Public Reaction to NewJeans’ Return
The reaction among fans (Bunnies) and the general public was mixed.
Many fans were relieved that all five members had returned after over 1.5 years away from the spotlight. They used hashtags like #NEWJEANSISFIVE and celebrated the group’s reunion. However, others expressed concern that the members’ statements felt rushed and forced, not the result of true reconciliation.
Some fans commented online that “it doesn’t feel like they had a choice.” Others urged the public to support the members regardless of internal issues.
Brand and Industry Response
The news also drew attention from advertisers and brands that partner with NewJeans. Members are ambassadors for brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Dior, Celine, and more.
According to reports, the reaction among sponsors has been lukewarm. Some brands welcomed the possibility of the group’s full return but are waiting for ADOR’s official confirmation before resuming large campaigns.
Marketing experts noted that while NewJeans’ influence is still strong. Brands prefer to wait for “stability and clarity” before committing to new promotions.
The news of all five members of NewJeans returning to ADOR quickly had an impact on the stock market.
On November 13, shares of HYBE, ADOR’s parent company, climbed sharply in morning trading. According to the Korea Exchange, HYBE’s stock was priced at 304,000 KRW as of 10:10 a.m., a 4.47% rise (13,000 KRW) from the previous day. Earlier that morning, the price had briefly surged over 5%.
What’s Next for NewJeans
ADOR has not yet released detailed schedules for NewJeans, but insiders say preparations for a new full-length album are already complete.
Fans are hoping that the group can move past the conflict and focus on music again. However, many believe it will take time to rebuild trust between the members, the agency, and the public.
