A Shocking Return After 348 Days, NewJeans Is Back
The leading 4th-generation girl group NewJeans, which had been on pause for nearly a year, has finally returned to the stage. What story lies behind their comeback? On November 12, 2025, a piece of news reached K-pop fans that shattered the long silence that had kept their fandom anxious for almost a year.
NewJeans’ Full Group Comeback Decided Exactly After 348 Days
The announcement of NewJeans’ return by their agency ADOR is not just an ordinary news story—it marks a significant chapter in K-pop history. It comes exactly 348 days after they declared the termination of their exclusive contract on November 29, 2024.
This decision involved all the members of NewJeans. Haerin and Hyein first expressed their intention to come back around 5 p.m., followed about two hours later by Minji, Danielle, and Hanni sharing the same resolve. Why did the members decide on their return at different times? ADOR’s official statement clarifies this clearly.
“After thoughtful consideration with their families and thorough discussions with ADOR, the members decided to respect the court ruling and comply with the exclusive contract.”
This was not a forced decision but rather a mutually agreed-upon choice.
A Difficult Decision Between Reality and Ideals
At first glance, NewJeans’ return might seem like a defeat. However, it reflects the harsh realities of the K-pop industry.
In July 2025, the court ruled in favor of ADOR in the first trial, meaning NewJeans had to cease all their independent activities under the name ‘NJZ.’ A producer’s insight sheds light on the gravity of their situation.
“If the case goes all the way to the Supreme Court, it will take a very long time, during which all activities of NewJeans would be halted. Additionally, the civil lawsuit amount ADOR has filed is substantial.”
Considering the short lifespan of K-pop idols’ careers, a suspension of activities for one or two years or more could be fatal. Faced with the legal reality and the choice to resume activities, NewJeans members ultimately chose to maintain continuity in their musical journey.
What NewJeans’ Return Signifies
This decision is not simply a “surrender” by NewJeans members. Instead, it is a wise strategic choice and a challenge that highlights the structural issues within the K-pop industry.
Debuting in July 2022 with their mini-album ‘New Jeans,’ they soared to the top of the 4th-generation K-pop girl groups with successive hits like “Hype Boy,” “Attention,” “Ditto,” and “Super Shy.” Every fan hopes that this comeback after 348 days is not just a recovery but a fresh new beginning.
It has already been reported that ADOR submitted a list of new songs for NewJeans to the court. This indicates that NewJeans can resume their music activities immediately. All eyes are on whether NewJeans’ new music, breaking their long silence, will meet the expectations of fans worldwide.
2. The Hidden Conflict: The Dismissal of Producer Min Hee-jin and the NewJeans Contract Dispute Unveiled
How did the sudden dismissal of beloved producer Min Hee-jin and the ensuing legal battle drive a wedge between NewJeans and their agency? In this section, we trace the roots of the conflict that shook the K-pop industry to its core.
The Dismissal of Producer Min Hee-jin: The Departure of the Architect of NewJeans’ Identity
In August 2024, K-pop fans were stunned by shocking news: HYBE dismissed Min Hee-jin, former CEO of its subsidiary ADORE. This was no ordinary personnel move.
Min Hee-jin was the mastermind behind NewJeans from the very beginning—she led all planning and creation efforts since their debut. From the 2022 July mini-album New Jeans to hits like "Hype Boy," "Attention," "Ditto," and "Super Shy," Min was the key creative force establishing NewJeans’ musical identity. She was not just an agency executive but the visionary who forged their artistic soul.
Equally vital was her relationship with the members. Even before debut, Min personally mentored NewJeans, building an extraordinary bond of trust. The members viewed her not as a CEO but as a mentor and steadfast supporter driving their musical growth.
NewJeans’ Fierce Backlash: Declaration to Terminate Exclusive Contract
Once news of Min Hee-jin’s dismissal became public, NewJeans immediately voiced strong opposition. They demanded Min’s reinstatement. However, HYBE and ADORE rejected this demand outright.
Ultimately, on November 29, 2024, NewJeans held a press conference to declare the termination of their exclusive contract. This was no mere complaint but a final, resolute decision to sever ties with their agency. It was a serious declaration that, without Min Hee-jin, continuing their contract with ADORE was impossible.
The Shift to NJZ: The Beginning of Independent Activities
Following their contract termination declaration, NewJeans attempted an independent path under the new name ‘NJZ.’ This was far more than a simple rebranding. It symbolized a complete break from ADORE, with the members striving to establish themselves as independent artists.
NJZ became a beacon signaling NewJeans’ fresh start. Fans rallied in support, and the members began preparing for activities under this new identity.
The Legal Battle Begins: ADORE’s Counterattack
ADORE responded swiftly. The agency refused to tolerate NewJeans’ unilateral move and launched immediate legal action.
ADORE’s lawsuit consisted of two key points:
First, they filed a provisional injunction seeking to preserve the agency’s status and prohibit NewJeans from signing contracts or engaging in advertising deals with other companies. This was a legal attempt to block NJZ’s activities.
Second, they sued to confirm the validity of the exclusive contract, arguing that NewJeans’ claim of contract termination had no legal standing.
Court Verdict and NewJeans’ Dilemma: A Win for ADORE but a Heavy Price
In July 2025, the court ruled in favor of ADORE with a first-instance victory, ordering NewJeans to halt all activities under the name NJZ.
The impact on NewJeans was devastating. With appeals and potential supreme court processes that could drag on for years, NewJeans was effectively forced to suspend their music activities. The blow to a K-pop idol group’s career was unmistakable.
Worse yet, NewJeans faced the looming threat of massive civil lawsuit damages from ADORE. The longer the lawsuit continued, the heavier the potential financial penalties.
ADORE’s Quiet Readiness: Waiting for the Return
Interestingly, after the July ruling, ADORE’s stance changed subtly. The agency announced they had completed preparations for activities, including releasing a full album, and were awaiting NewJeans’ return.
This was no idle threat. ADORE had already submitted a list of new songs to the court, signaling they were ready for NewJeans to immediately resume music activities upon their comeback.
A producer’s testimony sheds light on this: "Even if the members continue their legal fight, it will take a lot of time to reach the supreme court, during which their entertainment activities would be halted. If ADORE files a civil suit, the damages could be enormous."
This statement vividly reveals the harsh reality NewJeans faced—legally sound but practically impossible choices lay before them.
NewJeans’ Choice: Compromising with Reality
Against this backdrop, NewJeans announced their comeback on November 12, 2025. This was not simply a defeat but a responsible decision reflective of legal realities, risks of prolonged inactivity, and their career futures.
After 348 days of conflict, NewJeans chose to honor their exclusive contract with ADORE. The biggest challenge now is how they will preserve NewJeans’ unique identity without Producer Min Hee-jin.
The Secret Behind the Comeback Decision: How NewJeans Chose Between Idealism and Reality
Years of legal battles, the risk of career interruption, and deep discussions among family and members—understanding NewJeans’ comeback decision requires first acknowledging the heavy realities they faced. In an ideal world, artists could always stay true to their beliefs, but within the colossal structure of the K-pop industry, NewJeans confronted a far different set of choices.
The Lonely Burden of Legal Realities
In July 2025, the court’s first-instance ruling was harsh on NewJeans. The judgment favoring ADOR wasn’t simply a legal defeat. It meant all of NewJeans’ activities had to be halted immediately—a stark and concrete consequence.
A producer’s testimony lays bare the situation: “Even if the members continue to pursue the case up to the Supreme Court, it will take a long time, during which their entertainment activities will stop.” This highlights the core dilemma NewJeans faced—legal righteousness doesn’t always translate into the practical benefits of continuing music activities. This was the cold reality confronting the members.
Moreover, the mention that “civil litigation from ADOR would involve enormous sums” signals psychological pressure beyond mere financial concerns. It’s easy to imagine how risky it was for NewJeans to potentially lose their foothold in the K-pop market during 1 to 2 years or more of courtroom battles.
The Fatal Threat of Career Interruption
Time is the most precious asset for K-pop idols. Since debuting in July 2022, NewJeans soared to the top of the 4th generation K-pop girl groups with consecutive hits like “Hype Boy,” “Attention,” “Ditto,” and “Super Shy.” But what happens if this momentum pauses for one or two years?
Halting activities means losing the fandom. While NewJeans stands still, rival groups continue to grow and new idols take market share. Even if NewJeans were to win legally, by the time that victory arrives, their influence in the music market would likely have diminished drastically. This was another harsh, realistic dilemma facing the members.
ADOR’s Quiet Signal
Interestingly, ADOR began sending signals encouraging a comeback right after winning the first trial. Immediately following the verdict, ADOR officially stated it was “ready and waiting with preparations including a full album release.”
This was no mere rhetoric. It was a clear message that “We welcome NewJeans’ comeback.” Rumors that ADOR had already prepared a list of new songs only reinforced the impression that this offer was not coercion but rather a mutually beneficial opportunity—a judgment NewJeans members could weigh carefully.
Deep Discussions Revealed Through Timing Differences
On November 12, 2025, NewJeans’ comeback decision unfolded with a fascinating time gap. Haerin and Hyein expressed their intent to return around 5 PM, followed by Minji, Danielle, and Hanni about two hours later. This wasn’t a spontaneous choice.
As ADOR’s official statement clearly indicates, NewJeans members came to the decision “after careful consideration with their families and thorough discussions with ADOR.” Each member reflected individually, consulted with their families, and then assembled their conclusions to reach a final consensus. This evidences a deliberate, collective decision and testifies to how seriously the members approached this issue.
A Mature Choice Between Ideals and Reality
NewJeans’ choice is not a defeat. It’s maturity.
Acknowledging that the K-pop industry is imperfect, they made the best decision they could within those confines. While producer Min Hee-jin’s potential return is limited for now, NewJeans chose the tangible benefit of continuing their music activities.
This signifies NewJeans moving beyond the role of mere “victims” to become active negotiators shaping their future. The 348-day ordeal was painful, but through it, the members clarified what they wanted and what they were willing to sacrifice.
In the reality of K-pop idols’ short life cycles, NewJeans opted for both sustained long-term activity and seizing the present moment. Whether this choice was right or wrong will now be proven only through their music.
A New Beginning and Remaining Challenges: The Future of NewJeans Without Min Hee-jin
The news of their comeback after 348 days brought joy to fans. However, NewJeans’ return under ADOR doesn’t solve all their problems. Behind the excitement lies significant uncertainty—especially the tangible challenge of the absence of producer Min Hee-jin, the key figure behind NewJeans’ musical identity.
Can NewJeans Maintain Their Identity Without Producer Min Hee-jin?
The success of NewJeans from debut to present cannot be separated from Min Hee-jin’s visionary planning. The addictive beats of “Hype Boy,” the sophisticated visuals of “Attention,” and the emotive lyrics of “Ditto” all stem from Min Hee-jin’s musical vision.
The concept of “a new generation’s sensibility” that NewJeans has pursued is not merely marketing—it is a reflection of the producer’s personal aesthetic. So how can NewJeans maintain their musical identity without Min Hee-jin now?
Currently, the representative of ADOR is Lee Do-kyung, appointed in August 2024. Whether NewJeans can deliver music of the same high quality under new leadership remains uncertain. Fans and industry experts have expressed deep concerns on this point.
The New Song List and the Role of the New Production Team
Fortunately, ADOR has already submitted a list of new songs for NewJeans to the court. This signals that NewJeans is prepared to immediately resume their musical activities. ADOR has stated, “We have completed preparations for activities such as a full-length album release and are just waiting,” which offers a positive signal to fans.
However, what musical direction the new production team will suggest remains a mystery. Whether NewJeans will continue the musical branding they built over the past two years or evolve into a new phase through fresh experiments will become clear with their first album after the comeback.
Remaining Contract Period and Realistic Challenges
The exclusive contract between NewJeans and ADOR runs until July 2029—meaning about 3 years and 8 months of active promotion remain. Considering the typical lifespan of K-pop idol groups, this is not a long time.
During this limited period, NewJeans must accomplish many tasks:
- Musical growth: Continue Min Hee-jin’s vision while demonstrating new creativity
- Rebuilding fandom trust: Restore confidence with fans hurt during the dispute
- Expanding international presence: Maintain and grow NewJeans’ already global fanbase
- Group unity: Overcome psychological hardships faced during the 348 days and rebuild team spirit
NewJeans’ Resilience and New Possibilities
It’s not all negative. NewJeans is already one of the most musically mature and experienced groups among 4th generation K-pop idols. Composed of Haerin (23), Hyein (22), Minji (24), Danielle (22), and Hani (22), NewJeans are no longer mere rookies—they are artists capable of deep reflection on their music and identity.
Through this dispute, the members have gained a profound opportunity to think about the realities of the music industry, the relationship between producer and artist, and the meaning of fandom—potentially making them even stronger artists.
Moreover, NewJeans’ decision to honor the comeback contract with ADOR signals their maturity as professionals. This is a positive step reflecting not childish idols but adult artists taking responsibility for their careers.
What Fans Are Expecting
NewJeans’ fans don’t simply want “new songs like Min Hee-jin’s.” What they seek is authentic music, the voice of a grown NewJeans, and the happiness of the members.
This comeback could be a chance for NewJeans to reveal fresh creativity. If collaboration with Min Hee-jin is impossible, embracing a new production team might open up new musical horizons unique to NewJeans.
Ultimately, Music Will Give the Answer
The future of NewJeans will be decided by their next work. Whether NewJeans without Min Hee-jin can keep their identity as “NewJeans” or will be reborn with a new identity—all these answers lie in their music.
NewJeans’ return is not an end but a new beginning. After 348 days of conflict, the music with which NewJeans greet their fans, and how they will write a new chapter in K-pop history—only time will tell.
A Challenge to the K-Pop Industry: Reexamining Artist Rights Through Exclusive Contracts and the NewJeans Case
What does the NewJeans incident reveal about the limitations of K-pop exclusive contracts and the evolving role of fandoms? How must the industry transform in response? Let’s explore where this crucial discussion might lead.
Structural Flaws in the Exclusive Contract System
The foundation of the K-pop industry — the exclusive contract structure — has long been criticized for its imbalance. The NewJeans case starkly exposes those issues.
Traditional K-pop exclusive contracts grant absolute authority to agencies. Nearly all decisions related to planning, production, activities, and profit distribution are concentrated within the company. Meanwhile, artists become subordinate parties forced to comply with the agency’s decisions throughout the contract period.
NewJeans’ situation exemplifies this reality. When the group opposed the dismissal of Producer Min Hee-jin, who had guided their debut and rise to success, they were ultimately pulled into a protracted legal battle. What the members sought was creative freedom and trustful collaboration with their producer — but the system would not allow it.
Lack of Artist Autonomy and Legal Constraints
NewJeans’ attempt to independently promote under the name NJZ was a move born out of desperate resistance. Yet, the court’s first ruling was cold and pragmatic. Declaring the "exclusive contract valid" essentially meant a "ban on activities," forcing NewJeans to surrender to legal realities.
This reveals a fundamental contradiction in the K-pop industry’s structure. During their contract period, artists face:
- Minimal creative autonomy — compelled to follow the music genres and images dictated by the agency.
- No say in collaborators — even if a particular producer is central to their musical identity.
- Huge practical costs to terminate contracts — enduring costly lawsuits and activity suspensions.
While NewJeans’ final decision to return might have been wise, the core truth is that they did not truly have the freedom to choose.
The Evolution of Fandom: From Consumers to Stakeholders
A remarkable shift highlighted by this case is the redefinition of fandom’s role. Previously, K-pop fans primarily supported artists as consumers by purchasing albums, attending concerts, and buying merchandise.
NewJeans’ fans broke that mold. Through the #BringBackMinHeejin movement, fans became:
- Activists exerting social pressure.
- Advocates protecting artists’ creative environment.
- Voices calling for industry reform.
This marks fandom’s evolution beyond mere consumption into political and economic stakeholders. Fans have begun confronting agencies, appealing to the media, and organizing civil campaigns to protect the artists they cherish.
The Need and Direction for Industry Reform
The most pressing question raised by the NewJeans case is: “Is the K-pop industry okay as it is?”
To improve the current exclusive contract system, the following changes are essential:
First, strengthening mutuality in contracts
- Agencies must guarantee creative environments and propose fair profit sharing.
- Artists need structural authority over personnel decisions and creative direction.
Second, bolstering artist protection mechanisms
- Legal grounds to reject unfair contract terms must be established.
- Swift mediation systems for unfair treatment during contract periods are necessary.
Third, ensuring collaboration between producers and artists
- Artists should have at least minimal input regarding collaboration with key figures central to their musical identity.
Fourth, transparent financial settlements
- Systems ensuring successful artists like NewJeans receive fair revenue distribution are required.
The Significance of NewJeans’ Message
Ultimately, NewJeans’ 348-day conflict and return send a critical signal to the K-pop industry: artists will no longer accept unilateral oppression.
Although NewJeans returned to ADOR after their legal battle, everything that transpired has been recorded, debated, and planted seeds for change. Other artists, agencies, and policymakers have been awakened to the system’s flaws through this incident.
The Road Ahead
For NewJeans’ comeback to truly mark a "new beginning," it must transcend merely resuming music activities. Trust between ADOR and NewJeans must be restored, and a fairer contractual relationship must be built.
Moreover, the impact of this case on the wider K-pop industry must be closely monitored. How other agencies recalibrate their artist relationships, what regulatory measures governments enact, and how fandoms continue to act will all be crucial.
The NewJeans case is far from over. Rather, it has opened the prologue to a new era in K-pop. Whether their return becomes a genuine catalyst for change—and whether that change leads to industry-wide reform—now depends on everyone’s attention and action.
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