NJZ Hiatus Announcement: What You Need to Know
NJZ, formerly known as NewJeans, has announced their hiatus amid the ongoing legal dispute with ADOR, their former label under HYBE.
The group claims mistreatment and contractual breaches on ADOR’s part. The conflict escalated after ADOR’s former CEO, Min Hee-jin, was removed from her position amid accusations of misconduct.
NJZ publicly opposed her removal and demanded her reinstatement, to no avail. This, in conjunction with the mistreatment, led to the termination of their contract in November 2024.
@NJZ_official #NJZ pic.twitter.com/90sfNS84Cg
— 반희수 (@catzkang) March 21, 2025
ADOR refutes NJZ’s claims, insisting that their contract remains valid until 2029.
The label has taken legal action to block the group from pursuing independent activities, including a lawsuit to confirm the contract’s validity.
Additionally, in January, ADOR requested an injunction to restrict NJZ from engaging in advertising activities, which was expanded to include all music-related activities in February.
Legal Battle and Court Rulings
On March 7, NJZ attended a hearing regarding ADOR’s injunction request. Their legal team emphasized the breakdown of trust as the core reason for terminating their contract.
Despite their arguments, the Seoul Central District Court ruled in ADOR’s favor on March 21, recognizing the label as the group’s exclusive management agency.
As a result, NJZ is prohibited from independently signing advertising deals or releasing music without ADOR’s approval.
NJZ arrives at the first court hearing for ADOR’s injunction today. pic.twitter.com/j7mmFrV7zL
— Kpop Charts (@kchartsmaster) March 7, 2025
ADOR celebrated the court’s decision, stating they were “deeply grateful” and reaffirmed their commitment to managing the group.
However, NJZ will challenge the ruling, arguing the court has not fully considered the extent of their mistreatment.
Through their PR account, the group criticized the urgent nature of the proceedings, which limited their ability to present evidence.
They also noted that while ADOR and HYBE have full access to their activities, they have struggled to obtain necessary information from relevant parties, who fear retaliation for becoming involved in the lawsuit.
NJZ reaffirmed their stance that ADOR has failed to uphold their contractual obligations, and a main lawsuit regarding the validity of their contract termination is set for an April 3 hearing.
ComplexCon and Hiatus Announcement
Despite the legal turmoil, NJZ performed at ComplexCon Hong Kong on March 23.
This event was supposed to mark their first performance under the name NJZ, but instead, the group did not refer to themselves as either NJZ or NewJeans.
Each member covered an R&B song individually, which surprised the audience as the performances were a “departure from NJZ’s high-energy productions, polished choreography and vibrant stage presence.”
Afterward, the group debuted a new track, “Pit Stop,” which quickly became a fan favorite.
pit stop sounds too good i keep thinking about it pic.twitter.com/e72nfaXdsr
— t NJZ (@phamgucci) March 24, 2025
However, the event took an emotional turn when the group took turns reading a heartfelt letter announcing their hiatus.
Citing respect for the court’s decision, NJZ stated they would pause all activities indefinitely.
They acknowledged the difficulty of their legal battle, expressing the toll it has taken on them mentally, but affirmed their commitment to fighting for their rights.
They reassured fans that they would not give up hope and promised “no matter what the circumstances, we will meet again soon.”
220828. 250323 pic.twitter.com/P0dI42E2YH
— NJZ Loops (@newjeans_loop) March 24, 2025
Legal Action Against Malicious Comments
On March 24, NJZ’s legal representatives, Sejong Law Firm, announced plans to take action against “the spread of false information, malicious slander, and insulting posts against our clients…”
The firm cited the alarming spread of harmful content, particularly against minor members, and pledged to monitor social media platforms and online communities.
They also urged fans to report harmful posts and submit them via email as they plan on taking civil and criminal action against the authors.
The Road Ahead
As NJZ prepares for the April 3 court hearing, the battle over their contract remains unresolved.
The outcome will determine whether the group can move forward independently or remain under ADOR’s management.
NJZ remains steadfast in their fight for artistic freedom and fair treatment, stating, “The reason we are pursuing this legal action is to protect our dignity and rights.”
“We will come back even stronger.” -NJZ pic.twitter.com/23MDpo4mW8
— hanni (@hannihourly) March 23, 2025
Their unwavering determination and the support of their fans serve as a powerful reminder that true artistry is not just about music, but about integrity, courage, and staying true to one’s values.
