Movies

K-Pop Superstars NewJeans Forced Into Hiatus Amid Legal Battle

BBG News

They had intended for the performance to serve as a fresh start or reintroduction. The well-known K-pop group NewJeans, who were involved in a contract dispute with their management company ADOR (a branch of the powerful entertainment giant HYBE), had planned a return under the new name “NJZ” to signify a change of direction after several months.

However, contrary to expectations, the highly anticipated headliner show at ComplexCon in Hong Kong on Sunday concluded not with a performance, but rather with farewells—for the time being.

In front of more than 11,000 fans, the band’s members declared on stage that they were taking a break from all their engagements. This pause in activities follows closely after a Seoul court ruled in favor of ADOR, issuing an order to prohibit the group from undertaking tasks like new releases and international shows, regardless of the label, for a certain period.

Band member Hanni shared the difficult news that they may not perform for a while due to a court ruling from March 21st, which they feel obliged to respect. They explained that this is simply a time for them to step back, catch their breath, and regroup before moving forward with whatever lies ahead for the band. The future of the music group remains uncertain at this time.

I, along with four others, unexpectedly departed from our record label last November, amidst accusations of inappropriate behavior and bias in the workplace. More recently, we unveiled our fresh identity as NJZ. However, it seems that a lawsuit filed by ADOR and a subsequent court order from the Seoul Central District Court has temporarily halted our progress towards this new direction.

Despite the members’ decision for a temporary break using a name other than NewJeans, contradicting the court order, their record label expressed regret and stated this in a statement sent to TIME on Monday. They lamented that the artists chose to perform under another name without their agreement, and they hope to meet with the artists soon to discuss the future course of action. The label emphasized its dedication to supporting the group throughout this process.

In a statement shared online, the group expressed that despite any financial concerns, they can no longer work under a management that disregarded their identities and devalued their accomplishments. They are currently involved in a court case with ADOR regarding the validity of their self-initiated contract termination. The initial court hearing is scheduled for April 3.

Last week, a spokesperson for the group informed TIME that they intended to go by the name NJZ during ComplexCon, whereas earlier, ADOR had announced their approval for the performance under the name NewJeans prior to the concert.

As a diehard film enthusiast, I’m sharing an intriguing event I came across at ComplexCon that left quite an impression. During the performance of an enigmatic band, their name mysteriously vanished from the signage, as reported by CNN. Surprisingly, they didn’t play any of their previous hits, instead opting for a medley of covers and their fresh, unheard single “Pit Stop.” This tune was intended to mark their debut under the NJZ label, according to the news source. To add to the mystery, some band members sported apparel emblazoned with the NJZ logo, and merchandise bearing the same branding was up for grabs. Quite a captivating performance, wouldn’t you agree?

Danielle shared with the gathering, as reported by CNN, that it feels meaningful and worthwhile for us, no matter who we are or our past struggles, to have the opportunity to experience moments like this together.

Following their act, the five girls huddled up on stage, evidently anxious, to convey their thoughts about the importance of taking a temporary hiatus – a message they planned to express in both Korean and English. “Making this choice was not straightforward,” Hanni explained, “but we firmly believe that this is necessary for us right now.

Danielle mentioned that the team had numerous exciting ideas for their supporters, whom they refer to as “Bunnies,” but their legal issues have put a strain on those plans. “It’s become challenging to maintain this pace, and despite our best efforts, it has undeniably had an impact on us mentally and emotionally.

Danielle stated, “From the outset, we understood that this path wouldn’t be a smooth one. Regardless of the court’s decision and the events that transpired, it was crucial for us to voice our convictions, values that are dear to us. This decision, which we do not regret in the least, reflects our unwavering belief that asserting our dignity, rights, and deeply-held beliefs was a necessity.

I must clarify, though, our resolve remains unyielding. ‘Come rain or shine, we persist.’ This is our pledge, irrespective of the situation, we shall reunite before long.

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2025-03-24 15:06

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