NewJeans could face a 1 billion KRW fine, but what if they win their case against HYBE’s ADOR? Here’s what their legal team says

The legal drama between NewJeans and ADOR just got another plot twist. On May 30, the Seoul Central District Court ruled that NewJeans cannot pursue independent activities without ADOR’s green light. If they break this rule, each member could face a 1 billion KRW fine per violation, meaning a crazy 5 billion KRW (about 3.6 million USD) if all five girls act together. But don’t panic yet, NewJeans’  crew is calling it a “temporary” roadblock.

NewJeans Responds to Ruling: “₩1 Billion Penalty per Solo Activity is Temporary” [Official Statement]https://t.co/lGlloKv9mT
Reporter Yoo Ji-hee

Group NewJeans has issued a statement in response to the court's decision that they must pay ₩1 billion (approx. $730,000 USD) per… pic.twitter.com/DVsQohcQFa

— 1tokki (@juantokki) May 30, 2025

NewJeans’ legal team was quick to clarify the fine. They stated the court’s order is only valid until a final ruling is made on the ongoing injunction appeal. If the group wins their case, the whole thing (fines, restrictions, all of it) will be thrown out. So, while the penalty sounds scary, it might never actually come into play.

This legal mess started when the group reportedly prepped for international shows and new music releases under their unauthorized name “NJZ.” And while they performed at ComplexCon in Hong Kong, trying to rebrand themselves, the court ruled it a violation of a previous injunction from March 21. But NewJeans says the current May 30 decision is just about “indirect enforcement” and doesn’t reflect the outcome of the bigger contract dispute still being reviewed.

NJZ are wearing custom made outfits by Denim Tears, custom made phone belts + rings by Ram2, and belt accessories by KIMUNE for ComplexCon#엔제이지 #NJZ pic.twitter.com/NJFh6BIP3T

— ౨ৎ NewJeans Closet (@newjeanscloset_) March 23, 2025

In short, the 1 billion KRW per member fine is hanging over their heads, but if they win the injunction appeal, it all disappears. For now, fans are keeping a close eye on the courts while NewJeans continues their fight to exit HYBE’s ADOR.