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’ 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.
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.