In a major turn of events, all five members of NewJeans have officially returned to ADOR, marking the end of one of K-pop’s most closely watched disputes. Just hours after Haerin and Hyein confirmed their decisions to continue under the label, the remaining members — Minji, Hanni, and Danielle — released a joint statement announcing their return.
“Recently, after careful discussion, we have decided to return to ADOR,” the trio wrote. “One member is currently in Antarctica, so the delivery was delayed, and as ADOR has not responded yet, we have no choice but to announce our position separately. We will continue to meet you with sincere music and performances. Thank you.”
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This announcement officially reunites NewJeans under ADOR after months of uncertainty, legal conflict, and emotional turbulence. The group’s return follows an October ruling by the Seoul Central District Court that upheld the validity of their exclusive contracts with the label. The court stated that ADOR’s dismissal of former CEO Min Hee-jin did not constitute a breach of contract, reaffirming ADOR’s authority to manage the group’s activities.
The ruling effectively ended a legal standoff that began in mid-2024, when tensions erupted following Min Hee-jin’s removal as ADOR’s CEO. The decision sparked internal discord, public outcry, and a temporary rebranding of the group as “NJZ.” Several mediation attempts failed before the case reached a final judgment.
This decision also restores optimism among fans who had feared the group’s possible disbandment or indefinite hiatus. The members’ promise to “continue with sincere music and performances” has reignited anticipation for their next era.
Since their debut in 2022, NewJeans have become one of K-pop’s most influential fourth-generation acts. Their 2023 EP Get Up debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, an unprecedented feat for such a young group.
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