The K‑pop girl group NewJeans has suffered a serious blow in their ongoing contract battle, raising alarms over the possibility that they might be unable to actively promote until 2027 — effectively turning them into “OldJeans,” as legal analysts warn.
According to legal experts from the firm that released a public video titled “Why NewJeans Might Not Be Able to Appear Until 2027,” the group’s appeal chances are extremely slim. They cite the recent decision by the Seoul Central District Court which found in favour of their label, ADOR (under HYBE), arguing that despite the group’s claims of trust breakdown, the court deemed the contract valid.
Under the ruling, NewJeans’ exclusive contract runs through July 31, 2029 . Legal commentators note that if the group drags out appeals — including potential regionals and finally the Supreme Court — they may be prevented from meaningful activity until 2027, missing their “golden window” as idols.
The financial stakes are also mounting. The lawsuit has a principal amount of ₩250 million (roughly US$175 k), with legal, taxation and process costs adding about ₩12.26 million. But insiders say NewJeans have engaged a large law‑firm team (13 lawyers plus a lead attorney from Woo‑Seung), potentially costing ~₩10 million per member already. Analysts warn that if they lose appeals, they may face further damages and obligations.
For Min Hee‑jin, the former ADOR CEO and key figure in the group’s creative direction, the implications are also grave. She is simultaneously embroiled in a separate legal fight with HYBE for a ~₩26 billion (US$18 million) “put‑option” dispute. Because the court found indications she aimed to spin off NewJeans independent of HYBE/ADOR, her case may suffer collateral damage from the contract verdict. If she loses, her potential legal liability — including legal costs, taxation, and fines — could push her into serious debt.
Sources: nate