Industry Experts Weigh In on NewJeans Injunction: “Ban on Independent Activities Is a Rational Decision”

The recent ruling by the Seoul Central District Court in favor of ADOR against NewJeans has ignited significant debate within the entertainment sector. Experts have noted that the prohibition of the group’s independent activities aligns with the fundamental principles governing artist-agency relationships, reinforcing the importance of contractual commitments.

Support for the Court’s Decision from Industry Experts

On March 21, the court issued a ruling that bars NewJeans from pursuing activities outside of their obligations to ADOR. Choi Kwang-ho, Secretary General of the Korea Music Content Association, remarked, “It is common knowledge that artists cannot engage in solo projects while bound by an exclusive contract.”

He elaborated, “The court’s intervention was warranted due to recent questionable actions by NewJeans. Allowing them to operate independently prior to a verdict would undermine the integrity of the legal process.”

Adding to this sentiment, Lee Nam-kyung from the Korea Management Federation asserted, “NewJeans’ effort to assert independence while under contract was inherently precarious.” He continued, “This ruling could set a significant precedent for the enforcement of exclusive contracts within the entertainment industry.”

An unnamed industry insider, designated as A, highlighted the lack of viable arguments presented by NewJeans during the injunction hearing, stating, “The rejection of their claims indicates that the court found no valid grounds for ending the contract.” They further commented, “Permitting NewJeans to engage in independent ventures would have led to substantial financial repercussions for ADOR, alongside significant reputational damage for both parties.”

Overview of the Legal Dispute

This conflict originated in November 2024 when NewJeans accused ADOR of contract violation, asserting their contract was nullified and seeking to undertake independent activities. In response, ADOR filed injunctions in January and February 2025, seeking to prevent NewJeans from entering contracts independently or participating in music-related pursuits.

With the court siding with ADOR, many industry analysts view this as a reinforcement of K-pop contract law, illustrating that exclusive agreements must be respected until they are legally dissolved.

As the comprehensive lawsuit regarding the legitimacy of NewJeans’ contract progresses, the entertainment industry remains vigilant, observing how this case may influence future dynamics between artists and their agencies.

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