NewJeans Contract Rift Widens After Mediation Breakdown
The standoff between HYBE and its affiliate ADOR has entered a sharper phase. A second mediation session meant to ease tensions wrapped up in under thirty minutes, with no meaningful progress. The short meeting showed that both sides are still unwilling to compromise.
Talk of early contract renewals for NewJeans had already drawn attention. Now, the failed talks add weight to concerns that management struggles could overshadow the group's plans. At the same time, reports say NewJeans has repeated its stance that it does not intend to return under ADOR's full control, a signal of how firm their position has become.
Courts remain involved. A recent ruling in Seoul confirmed that ADOR still holds binding rights over the group's activities. This means NewJeans cannot push forward on independent projects unless ADOR approves them, at least until further legal changes or a settlement is reached.
The dispute also ties back to ADOR's former chief, Min Hee-jin. She faced a breach-of-trust probe earlier this year but was cleared of wrongdoing. That decision has kept questions alive about accountability inside HYBE, even while easing pressure on her personally.
Across K-pop, the spotlight on NewJeans remains strong. NewJeans debuted in 2022 and has moved up quickly. They've shown up on Billboard and linked with brands such as Gucci, Apple and Coca-Cola. Their rapid growth has been notable, and although the contract dispute is now part of the narrative, their international profile continues to expand.
Observers from fans to business partners are keeping a close eye on what happens next. The outcome could reveal how agencies handle power and control in the industry. Analysts note that the group already has strong momentum. Most believe NewJeans will keep progressing, no matter how the dispute is settled.
