NEWJEANS VS. ADOR: A CAUTIONARY TALE OF ARTISTRY AND AGENCY In the ever-evolving landscape of K-pop, the recent legal entanglement between NewJeans and their agency, ADOR, serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between creative autonomy and contractual obligations. The dispute, which began in November 2024, centres around NewJeans’ assertion that ADOR breached their exclusive contract, prompting the group to seek independence under the name NJZ. ADOR, a subsidiary of HYBE, responded with legal action to uphold the contract’s validity. Despite two mediation attempts, the latest on 11 September 2025, no settlement was reached. The Seoul Central District Court is expected to make its final ruling on 30 October 2025. This case underscores the complexities that artists face when navigating the intersection of personal growth and professional commitment. NewJeans’ pursuit of creative control and ADOR’s emphasis on contractual integrity reflect the broader challenges within ...