1. NewJeans Members Return to Agency, Shaking the K-Pop Industry
On November 12, 2025, the K-pop world was rocked by breaking news. It was announced that Haerin and Hyein, members of the globally successful five-member girl group NewJeans, have decided to return to their agency, ADOR. But could this choice signify more than just a contract renewal? What ripple effects might it send through the entire K-pop industry?
As the curtain falls on a year-long exclusive contract dispute, let’s explore what NewJeans’ comeback truly implies and the impact it might have across the K-pop sphere.
How NewJeans Captivated the Global Market
Since debuting in 2022, NewJeans has injected a fresh breeze into the K-pop scene. With consecutive hits like “Attention,” “Hype Boy,” “Ditto,” and “Super Shy,” they have carved out an unparalleled position not only domestically but also on the global stage. Particularly, NewJeans’ powerful worldwide fandom and distinctive musical identity have captured the hearts of the MZ generation, catapulting them to the flagship idol status of ADOR, a label under HYBE.
Behind this phenomenal success stood Min Hee-jin, former CEO of ADOR, whose exceptional planning and producing skills were key. She did more than just create music—she shaped NewJeans’ identity and led their global market entry strategy. The significance of her role becomes especially clear in the subsequent contract dispute.
The Rift Triggered by Min Hee-jin’s Dismissal
In mid-2024, cracks appeared between NewJeans and their agency ADOR as trust broke down. This rupture came when Min Hee-jin was dismissed from her CEO position amid clashes with HYBE’s management—a decision that shocked the members deeply.
From NewJeans’ perspective, the core figure who designed and nurtured their growth was abruptly ousted. This was more than a personnel issue; it shattered the artist-producer trust bond. Consequently, on November 29, 2024, NewJeans declared that their contract was terminated due to ADOR’s breach of exclusive contract terms and began independent activities under the name NJZ.
Legal Battles and Turning Points
As the dispute moved into the courtroom, the fierce clash between NewJeans and ADOR intensified. Following a temporary injunction granted by the court in March 2025, a decisive moment came.
On October 30, 2025, the first trial ruling on the validity of the exclusive contract favored ADOR. The court ruled that “based on the claims and evidence submitted by NewJeans, it cannot be concluded that the trust relationship between ADOR and NewJeans has collapsed to an extent that makes maintaining the contract impossible or grounds for termination.”
This verdict was a defeat for NewJeans. Interestingly, however, this legal confirmation of the contract’s validity became pivotal in Haerin and Hyein’s decision to return—prompting a pragmatic choice after the court’s judgment.
The Story Behind Haerin and Hyein’s Return
According to ADOR’s official statement, Haerin and Hyein decided to come back “after deep reflection with their families and extensive discussions with ADOR.” Yet, behind this decision lies a fascinating backstory.
Surprisingly, Hyein’s father held the key to the situation. From the start, he opposed the contract termination and persuaded his daughter, along with Haerin, to choose returning to ADOR. For 17-year-old Hyein, a minor, the legal guardian’s consent was crucial in the contract matters.
This case highlights how vital parental roles are in contract issues involving groups with underage artists like NewJeans. The fact that a legal guardian’s decision can steer the future of an entire group exposes structural challenges within the K-pop industry.
Fundamental Questions Raised for the K-Pop Industry
NewJeans’ saga transcends a single group’s contract dispute, posing several profound questions to the whole K-pop industry.
First, the role of producers versus idol group autonomy. Min Hee-jin’s dismissal reveals both the critical importance of creative planners and the potential pitfalls when agencies make unilateral human resource decisions.
Second, the protection of minor artists’ rights. Hyein’s case, where a legal guardian’s consent determines her career trajectory, highlights the need to improve current systems.
Third, the modernization of exclusive contract systems. It prompts a fundamental review of whether long-term contracts exceeding seven years align with the fast-evolving K-pop market.
Fourth, managing NewJeans as a global brand. The dispute’s impact on their brand value underscores the essential role of artist management in global K-pop strategies.
The Beginning of a New Chapter
On November 12, 2025, Haerin and Hyein’s return to ADOR marked the start of a new chapter for NewJeans. With the futures of remaining members Minji, Danielle, and Hanni still uncertain, speculation about transitioning into a two-member unit is already underway.
Whether NewJeans’ latest decision sparks positive changes within the K-pop industry or leads to recurring disputes depends on the industry’s willingness for reflection and reform. Above all, what matters most is building a healthy K-pop ecosystem where artists’ creativity and rights are truly respected.
The Beginning of the Exclusive Contract Dispute and the Truth Behind CEO Min Hee-jin’s Dismissal
After gaining explosive popularity since their debut, NewJeans faced a conflict triggered by the dismissal of their lead producer Min Hee-jin. But why did this event shatter the trust between the group and their agency?
NewJeans’ Unconventional Success Story
Debuting in 2022 under HYBE’s label ADOR, NewJeans brought a fresh breeze into the K-pop industry. Consecutive hits like “Attention,” “Hype Boy,” “Ditto,” and “Super Shy” went beyond mere musical triumphs, establishing them as one of the most spotlighted girl groups on the global stage. Their unique musical identity captivated the MZ generation and built a powerful fandom, making NewJeans the flagship idol group for ADOR and securing their position as one of K-pop’s leading groups.
Behind this success was the visionary planning and producing skills of a key figure: former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin.
The Dismissal of Min Hee-jin: The Spark of Conflict
In mid-2024, an unexpected crisis unfolded. Min Hee-jin, the very person who led NewJeans’ success, was dismissed from her position at ADOR. This was not a mere personnel change—it was the decisive turning point that broke the trust between NewJeans and their agency.
Analyzing the situation at the time reveals that Min Hee-jin had fostered a deep trust relationship with the group by leading their planning and production. The members wholeheartedly believed in and followed Min’s vision and creativity regarding their music, image, and artistic direction. This bond was the foundation of NewJeans’ success and their foothold in the global market.
Moves Toward Independence and HYBE’s Reaction
What makes the story even more intriguing is the underlying conflict behind Min Hee-jin’s dismissal. According to findings, Min Hee-jin showed intentions to separate NewJeans, which she had planned and nurtured, from HYBE’s direct control.
HYBE had debuted and developed NewJeans through ADOR, but as the group’s value and global presence grew, they seemed to detect Min Hee-jin’s attempts to transform NewJeans into an independent business entity. From HYBE’s standpoint, losing a core asset nurtured through significant investment and support was unacceptable, escalating the situation into a full-fledged conflict with Min Hee-jin.
Collapse of Trust and NewJeans’ Decision
Min Hee-jin’s dismissal dealt a severe blow to NewJeans. Losing the producer who had been their trusted leader created doubts about their future. It wasn’t just a matter of personnel change—the members began questioning their artistic identity and uncertain paths ahead in music.
Against this backdrop, on November 29, 2024, NewJeans declared their contract terminated due to ADOR’s breach of the exclusive contract and embarked on independent activities. Rebranding themselves as NJZ, they chose to pursue a path of autonomy. This decision went beyond a simple contractual dispute—it embodied NewJeans’ determination to take ownership of their careers.
The Possibility of Restoring Trust
This conflict, sparked by Min Hee-jin’s dismissal, highlights how strongly the trust between NewJeans and ADOR depended on the role of a single producer. Min Hee-jin was not just an executive; she was the embodiment of NewJeans’ musical philosophy and creative vision.
The future, especially with members Haerin and Hyelin returning to ADOR, will test whether this fragile trust can be rebuilt. In K-pop, the success of an idol group cannot rely solely on the quality of music or members’ talents. True triumph is born when there is a solid trust between the group and the producer leading their creative vision.
The exclusive contract dispute ignited by Min Hee-jin’s dismissal raises a profound question for the entire K-pop industry: how can the creativity of idol groups and the business strategies of their agencies harmonize?
The Hidden Clash of Power and Emotion in the Courtroom: The Truth Behind NewJeans’ Exclusive Contract Dispute
Although the court ruled the exclusive contract valid, NewJeans claims a breach of trust and fiercely opposes the decision. What lies behind this dramatic courtroom battle? On the surface, it seems like a legal dispute, but beneath, there’s a profound conflict between creative artists and a huge entertainment corporation.
NewJeans’ Legal War: A Chronicle from March to October 2025
The legal battle between NewJeans and ADOR intensified starting March 2025. When ADOR’s injunction request was accepted by the court, a critical turning point was reached, and the stage was set for a full-fledged legal showdown with a lawsuit to confirm the validity of the exclusive contract.
Then, on October 30, 2025, a decisive moment arrived. The court ruled, “Based solely on NewJeans’ claims and submitted evidence, it cannot be deemed that the trust relationship between ADOR and NewJeans has deteriorated to the extent that maintaining the contract is impossible, constituting grounds for contract termination.” This verdict legally signified a complete victory for ADOR.
Breach of Trust vs. Contract Validity: A Clash of Arguments in Court
This ruling clearly highlighted the fundamental differences between NewJeans and ADOR. NewJeans argued that a breakdown in their trust relationship justified contract termination.
Their claim was straightforward: The dismissal of former CEO Min Hee-jin completely shattered the trust foundation with ADOR, making it impossible to maintain a normal contractual relationship. Given that Min Hee-jin was the key figure spearheading NewJeans’ planning and producing, her removal held much deeper significance for the members than a mere management change.
However, the court’s judgment differed. The bench decided that a breach of trust alone was insufficient grounds to terminate the contract under legal procedure. This judgment exposes the gap between contract law’s logic and the emotional, creative trust essential between artists and their agencies.
Sejong Law Firm’s Appeal and the Dilemma of an Impossible Return
NewJeans’ legal representatives, Sejong Law Firm, strongly protested this ruling. They promptly stated: “Given that the trust relationship with ADOR is completely shattered, returning to ADOR to resume normal entertainment activities is impossible.”
This statement embodies a deep struggle with the disconnect between legal rulings and real-life circumstances. Just because the court recognized the contract’s validity doesn’t mean the group can continue their original creative endeavors without hindrance.
Unexpected Developments Behind the Courtroom Battle
Interestingly, a surprising twist emerged when NewJeans members Haerin and Hyein decided to respect the court’s ruling and return to ADOR. This seemingly conflicted with the legal team’s intention to appeal.
Complex factors appear to have influenced this turning point—the practical constraints of being minors, the role of legal guardians, and psychological fatigue caused by the prolonged battle all played a part.
Limitations of Legal Systems Faced by the K-Pop Industry
NewJeans’ courtroom battle raises a fundamental question for the K-pop world:
Is legal validity of a contract enough? Even when a contract is declared legally valid, can music activities truly continue if the artist-agency trust is broken? This transcends legal issues and poses a crucial challenge regarding the balance between artistic creativity and industry regulation.
Moreover, this case sparked debates on the modern appropriateness of exclusive contracts themselves. Considering the unique characteristics of K-pop idols active on the global stage and the evolving entertainment environment, it’s time to reflect on whether rigid contract systems remain viable.
Redefining Power Relations: What Remains Unseen in the Courtroom
While the surface issue in court was contract validity, more complex power dynamics underpinned the conflict. Against the backdrop of NewJeans soaring as global K-pop stars and ADOR operating as a subsidiary label under the giant HYBE Group, questions linger about whether the court’s verdict could truly deliver fair judgment amid this asymmetric power struggle.
NewJeans’ case demonstrates that the K-pop industry no longer resides solely in the realm of pure entertainment. Legal processes, media attention, fandom power, and international market influences interlace into multiple layers—all converging to determine the future of a single group.
4. Haerin and Hyenin's Return Decision, and the Complexities of Protecting Minor Artists
As the NewJeans dispute extended beyond three months and escalated into a legal battle, a sudden twist occurred on November 12, 2025: Haerin and Hyenin expressed their intention to return to ADOR. However, delving into the background of this decision reveals that it involved more than just contractual issues—it exposed the complex conflict between the rights of minor artists and the decision-making authority of their families.
A Parent’s Decision Shapes a Career: Hyenin’s Father’s Influence
Among the NewJeans members, there was one person who opposed terminating the exclusive contract—Hyenin’s (17-year-old Lee Hyenin) father. From the beginning, he insisted on maintaining the contract with ADOR, and ultimately, his conviction became the crucial factor driving both Haerin’s and Hyenin’s return decisions.
Even more intriguing is that Hyenin’s father engaged in a civil lawsuit with his wife over legal guardianship rights. This legal battle over who holds guardianship for the minor Hyenin starkly reveals the reality that a 17-year-old idol’s future activities hinge on which parent’s opinion carries more weight. This indicates that the NewJeans dispute is not merely an issue between agency and artists but rather a complex situation intertwined with familial interests.
Legal Guardianship Authority vs. Autonomy of Minor Artists
Under South Korean law, minors cannot enter into or terminate significant contracts without the consent of their legal guardians (usually their parents). In Hyenin’s case, being 17 years old means any contractual decisions are valid only if agreed upon by her parents. While this system protects minors, it simultaneously raises questions about how much the artist’s own will is truly reflected.
Although ADOR’s official statement said that “the two members made their decision after careful consideration with their families and thorough discussions with ADOR,” it appears that Hyenin’s father took a leading role in the decision-making. This brings up the fundamental question of how much a minor artist’s own voice can be reflected.
Psychological Impact of the Court Ruling
The first-instance court ruling on October 30, which upheld the validity of the exclusive contracts, also seems to have influenced the decision. When the court dismissed NewJeans’ claims, further legal battles appeared inevitable, and in this context, Hyenin’s father likely concluded that “a practical agreement is better than prolonged conflict.”
Notably, despite NewJeans’ legal team arguing that “returning to ADOR to continue normal entertainment activities is impossible under a completely broken trust relationship,” the court did not accept this argument. Amid this judicial backdrop, the minor’s parents faced the difficult choice of prioritizing pragmatic compromise over legal certainty.
The ‘Joint Return’ with Haerin: Solidarity or Forced Choice?
An interesting point is that Haerin (19 years old) and Hyenin (17 years old) made the decision to return together. Although 19-year-old Haerin is legally close to adulthood, she still tends to consider her family’s views when making major decisions related to the agency. Given that Hyenin’s father spearheaded the return, it is highly likely Haerin agreed to this decision alongside him.
This not only illustrates the strong bonds between fellow members but also reveals a structural characteristic of the K-pop industry: one member’s decision can significantly influence others. Considering the brand value of the group NewJeans, the solo return of just two members could greatly impact the group’s overall image.
The Current Status of Minor Artist Protection Systems
The NewJeans case highlights that the current system for protecting minors is insufficient. Because legal guardians hold absolute authority, decisions may be made that conflict with the artist’s own intentions. On the other hand, limiting guardians’ authority could expose economically vulnerable minors to unfair treatment by their agencies.
This dilemma signals that the K-pop industry needs to establish a more transparent and fair system to protect minor artists. For instance, a neutral third party might intervene in contract processes or procedures could be developed to independently gather a minor artist’s opinions.
Challenges Following the Decision: The Difficulty of Rebuilding Trust
The most unfortunate aspect is that the pragmatic decision by Hyenin’s father cannot be the starting point for restoring trust. With the relationship between NewJeans and ADOR completely shattered, unless the choice was voluntary and not legally compelled, future collaboration is likely to proceed amid discomfort and awkwardness. Especially considering that both Hyenin, a minor, and Haerin, in her early twenties, will have to carry out creative activities under such tension, this may negatively affect their artistic freedom.
If Hyenin’s father has made a pragmatic decision to reduce legal risks, now ADOR and NewJeans face an even tougher challenge: how to rebuild the destroyed trust.
5. The Future of NewJeans and New Challenges for the K-pop Industry
A New Chapter Begins Amid Uncertainty
With Haerin and Hyein’s return to ADOR, the dispute surrounding NewJeans has, for now, come to a close. Yet, this resolution raises broader questions for the entire K-pop industry. From the potential shift to a two-member unit to the unclear paths of the remaining members, NewJeans stands at a crossroads. What will the future hold for them?
Projected Activity Models for NewJeans: Three Scenarios
As NewJeans has built a formidable global presence, speculation is rife about how they will operate going forward. Industry experts have identified three main scenarios:
First, a Relaunch as a Two-Member Unit
Drawing parallels to TVXQ’s case, there’s a possibility that NewJeans could continue activities as a duo centered around Haerin and Hyein. In this model, ADOR could preserve the existing NewJeans brand while focusing on a more elite, concentrated lineup. Given that Haerin (19) and Hyein (17) are both key vocalists with strong stage charisma, this scenario is both plausible and promising.
Second, Maintaining the NewJeans Brand with Member Reorganization
Considering the significant global equity the NewJeans name has already amassed, ADOR may retain the brand but restructure the lineup. This could involve recruiting new members around the returning duo or shifting toward a more flexible project-group format.
Third, Individual Paths and Potential Long-Term Reunion
Since Minji, Danielle, and Hanni have yet to express intent to return to ADOR, it’s possible they may pursue solo ventures. While this would make short-term full-group activities challenging, a long-term reunion as a five-member ensemble remains on the table as time and circumstances evolve.
The Ongoing Question Mark Surrounding the Other Members
The status of Minji, Danielle, and Hanni remains uncertain. Their decisions will be critical to shaping NewJeans’ future. As main visual and rapper lines, their presence greatly influences the group’s musical and performance quality.
Industry insiders believe their choices will be affected by several key factors: first, the final outcome of the contract litigation—though ADOR won in the first trial, appeals could shift the verdict. Second, the opinions of legal guardians, particularly vital for the underage members, as parents’ stances vary. Third, emotional shifts over time and fan sentiment will also play significant roles.
Deep Challenges Left for the K-pop Industry
The NewJeans controversy goes beyond internal group conflict, revealing fundamental issues the K-pop world must address.
Structural Limits of Exclusive Contracts
The standard seven-year exclusive contract model in K-pop is being questioned for whether it adequately reflects the unique dynamics of today’s idol industry. Especially as globalization accelerates and individual artist branding grows more critical, the rigid contract framework may hinder trust between artists and agencies.
Inadequate Protection Systems for Minor Artists
In Hyein’s case, her underage status meant that her father’s consent heavily influenced the dispute outcome. This highlights how minors can become trapped in contracts without fully representing their own wishes. The industry urgently needs improved legal frameworks to better safeguard the rights of minor artists.
Redefining the Roles of Producers and Agencies
The dismissal of former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin, which fractured the group’s trust, underscores the critical importance of producers in K-pop. Moving forward, agencies must deepen their commitment to respecting creativity and fostering transparent communication to build long-term artist trust.
Rays of Hope: Positive Legacies Left by NewJeans
It’s not all bleak. The NewJeans case could serve as a catalyst for the industry to mature.
First, transparency in contract culture is likely to gain momentum, heightening awareness of clear and fair agreements. Second, social interest in protecting artists’ rights, especially minors, may drive policy improvements. Third, the industry is expected to further explore balancing creativity with management, cultivating ecosystems where agencies and artists thrive together.
Cheering on NewJeans’ New Beginning
Haerin and Hyein’s return to ADOR marks not an end but a fresh start. How meaningfully these two can achieve musical success with ADOR—and what choices the other members make—will unfold under the watchful eyes of K-pop fans worldwide.
Above all, it is essential that all stakeholders prioritize the artists’ creativity, growth, and fans’ expectations throughout this process. The musical value and charm NewJeans has proven on the global stage remain unchanged. What’s now needed is a healthy fresh start made together by everyone.
We look forward to the K-pop industry evolving into a more mature and sustainable structure and cheer for NewJeans’ new chapter. Their upcoming activities and music, along with the lessons the industry draws from this episode, will undoubtedly become major topics ahead. 🎵✨
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