Holiday Ayo - 

The first hearing in the legal dispute between ADOR and NewJeans was held on Friday (March 7). The agency has filed a lawsuit seeking a court order to prohibit the music activities of the group, now known as NJZ.

This conflict further intensifies the strained relationship between the agency and its artists. According to Korea Times on Thursday (March 6), NJZ stated via social media that ADOR had filed the lawsuit on February 11.

In its legal claim, ADOR is requesting the court to ban Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein from engaging in any musical activities, including songwriting, stage performances, and promotional engagements.

Additionally, the lawsuit aims to suspend all commercial activities of the group while maintaining ADOR as their official agency.

The first hearing took place on Friday morning (March 7) at the Seoul Central District Court.

In response to the lawsuit, NJZ accused ADOR of attempting to restrict their professional freedom.

However, ADOR denied the allegations, stating that the legal action was "unavoidable" as NJZ continues to engage in music-related activities, including planned overseas performances.

Following this hearing, the court is expected to issue a ruling in the coming weeks. This decision will determine whether the five NJZ members can continue their independent activities or remain under ADOR’s contractual obligations.

Furthermore, a separate hearing is scheduled for April 3 to review another lawsuit concerning the validity of NJZ’s contract with ADOR. This upcoming session could serve as a crucial step toward resolving the ongoing conflict.