NewJeans and their agency ADOR are locked in a heated legal battle over contract termination, prompting veteran producer Yoon Il-sang to share his perspective. In a recent YouTube video, he emphasized the importance of honoring contracts and protecting young artists, sparking widespread discussion in the K-pop industry.
The dispute between NewJeans and ADOR, a subsidiary of HYBE, has gripped the K-pop world since the group announced their contract termination in November 2024. Yoon Il-sang, a respected composer and producer, spoke out on May 2, 2025, offering insights into the controversy and the responsibilities of adults in the industry. His comments highlight the complexities of artist-agency relationships and the broader implications for K-pop.
Yoon Il-sang’s Perspective on the Controversy
In a YouTube video titled “Speaking Out! NewJeans Controversy and K-pop Industry Secrets,” Yoon Il-sang expressed deep concern for NewJeans’ members—Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein. He stated that contracts are serious commitments.
“A contract is not a joke. If you truly care about artists, you shouldn’t expose them to risk. That’s not love.”
—Yoon Il-sang, YouTube video, May 2, 2025
He voiced heartbreak over the young idols’ situation, noting their youth and inexperience.
Yoon criticized the adults guiding NewJeans, suggesting some may prioritize personal interests over the group’s future. He stressed that producing an artist involves a moral duty to safeguard their career.
The NewJeans-ADOR Dispute: A Timeline
The conflict began in April 2024 when HYBE audited ADOR and accused then-CEO Min Hee-jin of attempting to take control of the label and NewJeans. Min Hee-jin, the creative force behind NewJeans, was removed as CEO in August 2024 but remained their creative director until November 2024.
NewJeans issued an ultimatum to ADOR on November 13, 2024, demanding Min Hee-jin’s reinstatement and alleging mistreatment, including workplace harassment. When ADOR failed to meet their demands, the group announced their contract termination on November 28, 2024, during a press conference.
“The reason we are leaving ADOR is very simple. ADOR does not have the will or ability to protect NewJeans. If we remain here, it will be a waste of our time, and our mental distress will continue.”
—NewJeans, Press Conference, November 28, 2024
ADOR rejected the termination, asserting the contract, valid until July 2029, remained in force. The agency filed a lawsuit in December 2024 to confirm the contract’s validity and sought an injunction in January 2025 to prevent NewJeans from pursuing independent activities.
On March 21, 2025, the Seoul Central District Court granted ADOR’s injunction, barring NewJeans from releasing music or signing deals without approval. The court found insufficient evidence to support the group’s claims of contract breaches by ADOR.
NewJeans’ Response and Rebranding to NJZ
Despite the ruling, NewJeans rebranded as NJZ in February 2025, announcing plans to perform at ComplexCon Hong Kong on March 23, 2025. They debuted a new song, “Pit Stop,” but faced legal constraints.
“Even though we have to leave our previous name behind us for a bit, we’re not fully moving on from it.”
—Hanni, CNN Interview, February 2025
At ComplexCon, NewJeans announced a hiatus, citing respect for the court’s decision.
“It is really hard for us to say this, but this might be our last performance for a little while. Out of respect for the court’s decision, we’ve decided to pause all our activities for now.”
—Hanni, ComplexCon Hong Kong, March 23, 2025
ADOR expressed regret, insisting the performance should have used the NewJeans name. The agency reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the group.
Yoon Il-sang’s Critique of Industry Dynamics
Yoon Il-sang highlighted the human element in music production, distinguishing it from manufacturing products. He explained that agencies exist to handle logistics, allowing artists to focus on their craft.
He contrasted large and small agencies. Large companies like HYBE excel in PR but may lack personalized care. Smaller agencies build trust but often lack resources. NewJeans, he suggested, must weigh these factors.
Yoon also questioned NewJeans’ public criticism of the Korean music industry, particularly in international interviews. He advised restraint, arguing such statements could harm their reputation.
Legal and Financial Stakes
The legal battle remains unresolved, with the next hearing scheduled for June 5, 2025. NewJeans argues that Min Hee-jin’s dismissal and ADOR’s alleged mistreatment justify termination. ADOR counters that no breaches occurred, emphasizing HYBE’s significant investment—21 billion won (approximately $14.5 million)—in the group’s development.
Legal experts warn of hefty penalties if NewJeans loses. Estimates suggest damages could range from 400 billion to 600 billion won ($290 million to $440 million), calculated based on revenue and remaining contract years. Courts may reduce excessive penalties, but the financial risk is substantial.
The NewJeans trademark, owned by ADOR, is another hurdle. Legal analysts note that using NJZ may infringe on the trademark, risking further legal action.
“Under trademark law, infringement is a criminal offense. There is a 99.9% chance that legal authorities will deem ‘NJZ’ a confusingly similar trademark to ‘NewJeans.’”
—Attorney Ko Sang Rok, YouTube channel ‘Attack on Lawyer,’ February 2025
Public and Industry Reactions
Fans, known as Bunnies, have rallied behind NewJeans, supporting their fight for autonomy. On April 7, 2025, a truck protest outside HYBE’s headquarters demanded the group’s return to ADOR, though the members’ parents issued a joint statement supporting their daughters’ decision.
“Each of us respects and supports our child’s decision. As parents, we cannot send our daughters back to ADOR.”
—Parents of NewJeans members, April 2025
Industry groups, including the Korea Management Federation, warned that NewJeans’ actions could destabilize K-pop by encouraging contract disputes. They urged government action against “tampering” to protect investments.
NewJeans has continued engaging fans through their “Jins Pop Free” account, avoiding the NewJeans name. Danielle shared an emotional letter thanking fans for their support during the hiatus.
“Your unwavering faith has carried us through our hardest time. We’ll come back stronger.”
—Danielle, Social Media Post, April 2025
Current Status
As of May 4, 2025, NewJeans remains on hiatus, with their legal team appealing the court’s injunction. The June 5, 2025, hearing will examine whether Min Hee-jin’s ouster constitutes a breach of trust sufficient to void the contract. A separate trial on the contract’s validity is set for April 3, 2026, potentially prolonging the dispute for years.
Also Read: Danielle of NewJeans Shares Gratitude for Fans’ Support Amid Challenges
Yoon Il-sang’s comments underscore the need for responsible guidance in K-pop. His call for honoring contracts resonates as NewJeans navigates this unprecedented challenge. The group’s charitable efforts, such as providing 560 meals at a rally for President Yoon Suk-yeol’s impeachment, reflect their commitment to positive impact despite adversity.
CREDITS: Nate, The Korea Herald, Twitter(X)
