ADOR Challenges NewJeans’s Dependency Concerns: “Is Min Hee-jin Really Irreplaceable?”

Intensifying Legal Dispute: ADOR vs. NewJeans Over Min Hee-jin’s Impact

The ongoing legal dispute between ADOR and NewJeans is escalating as ADOR refutes claims from the popular K-pop group that their career hinges on the involvement of former CEO Min Hee-jin. In court, ADOR highlighted inconsistencies in the members’ statements, especially considering their recent performances without Min, stating that the notion of her being irreplaceable is misguided.

Key Court Hearing Update

On June 3, the Seoul Central District Court’s Civil Agreement Division 41 convened for its initial hearing regarding ADOR’s lawsuit, which seeks to validate the exclusive contracts held by NewJeans. Notably, none of the five group members—Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, or Hyein—were present at this pivotal session.

ADOR’s Legal Stance

During the proceedings, ADOR’s legal representatives challenged the assertion that NewJeans’ future is untenable without Min Hee-jin: “While Min Hee-jin played a role in the group’s achievements, the argument claiming that NewJeans cannot exist independently is unfounded, ” they stated. They further emphasized that, as part of HYBE, a leading entity in the music industry, it is unreasonable to suggest that NewJeans lacks support from other notable producers.

Evidence of Independence

In support of their arguments, ADOR referenced a recent performance in Hong Kong conducted without Min’s participation. This event, they assert, serves as proof against the claim of her essentiality, as it demonstrated the group’s capacity to operate and perform autonomously.

Previous Court Rulings and Reactions

Back on March 21, an earlier ruling favored ADOR, imposing restrictions that prevented NewJeans from securing any new advertising contracts. Following this decision, the group promptly appealed and announced an “activity suspension” just before their scheduled performance at a festival in Hong Kong two days later.

Broader Implications for the K-pop Industry

This case has attracted significant attention from both the public and industry insiders due to its potential implications for the idol-producer relationship within K-pop. As both parties maintain their positions, the revelations coming to light may redefine expectations concerning agency authority, artist allegiance, and the essence of creative collaboration in the music industry.

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