South Korean K-pop group pauses activities after legal dispute with record label

Hong Kong, China– South Korean K-pop sensation NewJeans has announced they will be taking a break from all activities following a recent court ruling that went against them in their ongoing legal dispute with their record label, Ador.

During their performance at ComplexCon Hong Kong on Sunday, the five-member group – Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Heyin – revealed that the show would mark “our last performance for a little while” as they debuted their new track “Pit Stop.”

The court ruling, issued on Friday, forbade NewJeans from organising their own performances, releasing new music, or signing advertising deals while the dispute with Ador is ongoing. The band has been seeking to sever ties with the label after accusing them of mistreatment, including allegations of workplace harassment.

“Difficult but necessary decision”

In an emotional address to their fans, the group shared a message in both English and Korean, explaining the decision to halt their activities. “It wasn’t an easy decision,” Hanni and Dani said. “But we believe this is something we need to do at this moment.” They expressed that the move was necessary “to protect ourselves so that we can come back even stronger.” The group also reaffirmed their stance on standing up for their rights, dignity, and the values they hold dear.

Ador responds to the controversy

In response to the group’s decision, Ador released a statement on Monday expressing regret over NewJeans’ performance under a new name, NJZ, and their unilateral announcement of a break from activities.

“Ador is fully committed to supporting NewJeans, consistent with the terms of our legally valid exclusive contract,” the label said. “We hope to meet with the artists as soon as possible to discuss the path forward.”

A lengthy legal battle

NewJeans and Ador have been locked in a dispute since August 2024, with the group accusing the label of undermining their career and mistreating them. Hanni previously alleged workplace harassment while working with Ador. However, the Seoul court ruled that NewJeans’ claims were insufficient to prove that Ador had breached their contractual obligations, including payment.

The ruling has complicated the group’s plans to rebrand under their new name, NJZ, as they now face potential financial penalties for breach of contract if they proceed with independent activities.

NewJeans: A rising global star

NewJeans has quickly become one of the most successful new acts in the K-pop industry, recognised for their unique blend of 1990s R&B and upbeat pop melodies. In 2023, they ranked as the eighth biggest-selling act in the world, and were nominated for Best Group at the MTV Awards.

Their break from activities marks a significant moment in their career, as they navigate the ongoing dispute with Ador.