(MENAFN) K-pop sensation NewJeans has failed in its attempt to terminate its contract with South Korean label Ador.

A court ruling on Tuesday confirmed that the group’s contract, which extends until 2029, remains legally binding. The five members—Hanni, Hyein, Haerin, Danielle, and Minji—had announced last year that they were unilaterally leaving the label, citing alleged mistreatment and manipulation.

The group has stated it will appeal the decision. According to reports, NewJeans emphasized that it is "impossible to return to Ador" and continue their activities as usual.

The Seoul court dismissed the members’ claim that the firing of former Ador CEO Min Hee-jin, who also acted as their mentor, represented a breach of contract. NewJeans argued that her dismissal had eroded their trust in the label.

In a post-ruling statement, Ador expressed hope that the judgment "will serve as an opportunity for the artists to calmly reflect on this matter," adding that the label is prepared for the group’s upcoming projects, including a new album.

The case has drawn national attention in South Korea, where record labels traditionally exert strong control over artists. Such public disputes between K-pop stars and their agencies are rare.

Formed in July 2022, NewJeans, whose members are aged between 17 and 21, quickly rose to prominence. Their debut single Attention topped local charts, and their follow-up hit SuperShy earned spots on multiple year-end “best of” lists internationally, including publications recognized for music coverage. Critics hailed the group as a "game-changer" for blending 1990s R&B influences with pop melodies in a K-pop scene dominated by electronic beats.

Tuesday’s decision concludes a year-long standoff between the group and Ador. The initial split announcement in November last year followed a highly publicized dispute between Min Hee-jin and both Ador and its parent company. Tensions escalated after Hybe, South Korea's largest music label, launched audits into Ador in April 2024 and asked Min to step down. She denied allegations of planning to go independent, but was removed as CEO in August.

The members then demanded Min’s reinstatement. When the parent company refused, NewJeans went public with accusations that the label had deliberately hindered their careers. Hanni also alleged she had experienced workplace harassment while at Ador.

Ador responded in December by filing a lawsuit to confirm the validity of the contract. During the dispute, the group attempted to rebrand as NJZ and release new music, but promotional activities were blocked by a court injunction. They did perform a song at a Hong Kong show, announcing a temporary hiatus.

Following the court ruling, the group described the decision as "a shock," but affirmed their unity in facing the situation together.

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