On March 21, HYBE’s ADOR scored an injunction win against NJZ (formerly NewJeans), temporarily blocking the girl group from certain entertainment activities. In an exclusive March 22 interview with TIME, the members opened up about the verdict, revealing their disappointment with the Seoul Central District Court’s decision. Instead of treating their dilemma as an isolated feud, they see it as a reflection of how the Korean music landscape sometimes blocks idols’ independence.
Judge: NJZ members are unauthorized and in violation of the law
The court prohibits the five members from engaging in any entertainment activities, whether individually,through their agencies,or via a third party, without ADOR’s approval, and orders them to cover the legal costs pic.twitter.com/ugGWt8awvW— ✨ (@uinv_5) March 21, 2025
All NJZ remarked how important “change and growth” are for the K-pop world, saying transforming an entire industry won’t happen overnight, but they remain determined. The group explained that they’re not giving up despite the setbacks, calling this situation “just another step” in their legal battle. The quintet is expected to bring more proof against their agency in another courtroom hearing on April 3, 2025.
Hanni of NJZ says K-pop labels don’t see their artists as human in an interview with TIME Magazine:
“There's just a very structural problem in K-pop in general, where companies don't really view their artists as actual human beings and rather see them as products” pic.twitter.com/SqhWkCwPr9
— Pop Base (@PopBase) March 21, 2025
Feeling like the system is pushing them to become “revolutionaries,” NJZ signaled a strong desire to keep fighting for their rights. They plan to challenge the injunction by submitting extra evidence and legal arguments, hoping to reveal any potential power plays by the company. As this legal trouble unfolds, they are also expected to perform at ComplexCon in Hong Kong on March 23.
