NewJeans Hires 13 Lawyers in Legal Dispute with ADOR Regarding Contract Validity
NewJeans is ramping up its legal defense as it prepares for a crucial second hearing regarding the validity of its exclusive contract with ADOR. Recent developments have seen the girl group bolster its legal team significantly.
As of May 21st KST, sources have revealed that NewJeans filed an updated attorney designation form on May 9th with the Seoul Eastern District Court. Their new legal representation now includes 13 attorneys from the prominent law firm Shin & Kim, notably featuring some lawyers who previously worked with former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin.
In a show of strategic preparation, ADOR has enlisted 12 attorneys from Korea’s largest firm, Kim & Chang. While the sheer number of legal representatives doesn’t guarantee a favorable outcome, the fact that more lawyers are hired than there are NewJeans members underscores the high stakes involved in this legal battle.
Ahead of the first hearing held on April 3rd, NewJeans had already added more legal support, focusing on the pivotal issue of whether trust between the two parties had irreparably broken. Although ADOR floated the possibility of a settlement, NewJeans firmly rejected the idea, opting instead to stand their ground. The members were not present for that initial session, and it remains unclear if they will attend the upcoming hearing.
At present, NewJeans’ activities have been largely suspended due to a court injunction issued in March, which upheld ADOR’s request to halt the termination of the group’s contract. This limitation has constrained the members’ ability to operate independently.
However, intrigue sparked on May 19th when member Danielle hinted at a possible collaboration with U.S. R&B duo Emotional Oranges through a now-deleted Instagram post. Fans quickly speculated that the post’s removal was a cautious move to sidestep any legal entanglements amid this ongoing dispute.
TRENDINGThe next chapter in the NewJeans versus ADOR contractual saga will unfold at the second hearing scheduled for June 5th, keeping fans and industry watchers on the edge of their seats as events continue to develop.