Legal professionals have stated that NewJeans is unlikely to overturn the recent court ruling that upheld the validity of the group’s exclusive contract with their agency, ADOR . Despite the group’s decision to appeal, experts emphasize that “contracts are not a game,” predicting that a reversal in the appellate court is virtually impossible.
On November 8, attorneys Kang Ho-seok and Park Gun-ho discussed the matter in their YouTube legal commentary program, Kang & Park Law Office, under the title “The Reason We Might Not See NewJeans Until 2027.” They analyzed the Seoul Central District Court’s recent decision, which rejected NewJeans’ request to terminate their exclusive contract with ADOR.
“The first-instance court clearly stated that ADOR did not breach the contract or suffer an operational breakdown,” the lawyers explained. “The reasons cited by NewJeans for termination were not legally sufficient.”
According to the two legal experts, overturning the verdict in an appeal would require “decisive new evidence,” which they deemed nearly impossible.
“If NewJeans proceeds with the appeal, they will lose 100%. The court has already provided detailed reasoning for its decision,” the lawyers said firmly.
Impact on NewJeans’ Future Activities
Kang and Park warned that extending the case to the Supreme Court could effectively suspend NewJeans’ activities until 2027, as the members would be legally bound by their current contract throughout the ongoing litigation.
“Even if they continue to appeal, the contract remains in effect. That means the group cannot release new music or engage in promotions independently until the case concludes,” they added.
While the first trial outcome is a major setback, the lawyers noted that NewJeans’ immediate financial burden remains limited, since the lawsuit concerns contract validity rather than damages.
The litigation value was estimated at ₩250 million, with overall court costs including attorney and administrative fees totaling approximately ₩12.26 million.
Connection to Min Hee-jin’s Ongoing Case
The broadcast also addressed the implications of this ruling for former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin, who is currently engaged in a separate ₩26 billion put-option lawsuit against HYBE .
“Because the first-instance judgment references Min’s alleged ‘tampering’ with ADOR operations, it will likely weaken her position in the ongoing civil suit,” they explained. “Under Korean civil law, findings acknowledged in one case hold significant influence over others.”
Potential Legal and Industry Repercussions
If the dispute continues to escalate, NewJeans could face additional legal risks including potential damage claims from HYBE should the courts affirm ADOR’s contractual rights through 2029.
Legal experts say the case underscores the rigidity of Korea’s entertainment contracts, emphasizing that even top-tier artists are bound by their contractual commitments unless proven otherwise.
“This ruling sends a clear message,” one industry analyst commented. “Even the most popular idols cannot disregard the legal force of their agreements.”
The court’s ruling marks a crucial turning point for both NewJeans and ADOR, with far-reaching implications for artist management practices in the K-pop industry. As the group prepares for its appeal, the public and the entertainment sector alike are watching closely to see whether the case will reshape or reinforce the balance of power between idols and their agencies.
Sources: Naver
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