On October 30, the Seoul Central District Court’s Civil Division 41, presided over by Judge Jeong Hoe-il, ruled that the exclusive contract between ADOR and the five NewJeans members remains valid. Regarding this, ADOR stated, “We are deeply grateful for the court’s decision, which affirms that our company did not breach any obligations as a management agency. The attempt to escape the exclusive contract by creating the appearance of broken trust was deemed unacceptable.”
ADOR detailed the timeline of the legal proceedings, saying, “Since the artist raised the claim to terminate the exclusive contract in November last year, we have carefully responded to the main lawsuit, the preliminary injunction to prevent confusion before judgment, and the artist’s immediate appeal which was dismissed. We have followed every step with a heavy heart.”
The company added, “Over nearly a year, the court has consistently ruled in multiple related cases that ADOR retains its status as the management agency under the exclusive contract and that the artists must carry out their activities with us. We sincerely hope today’s ruling will serve as a moment for the artists to calmly reconsider the matter.”
Reaffirming their commitment, ADOR emphasized, “We will once again reflect on our responsibilities as a management agency under the contract. As stated during the proceedings, we are fully prepared to proceed with promotional activities, including the release of a full album, and we look forward to restarting discussions with NewJeans.”
The court ruling stated, “The dismissal of Min Hee-jin from her CEO role does not constitute a breach of contract by ADOR. The exclusive contract between the plaintiff (ADOR) and the defendants (NewJeans) remains valid.”
The court further clarified, “Even after being dismissed as CEO, Min Hee-jin could still continue her work as a producer in her capacity as an internal director. Her position as CEO was not essential to performing those duties. While the defendants may have had great trust in Min Hee-jin, that alone cannot be considered valid grounds for contract termination.”
ADOR’s response reflects both relief and a forward-looking stance, as it now seeks to rebuild the relationship and resume NewJeans’ activities under the confirmed contract terms.
Sources: Daum
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