"Imagine they are going to court for 5 girls using IG"- Fans react to ADOR's statement on NewJeans' social media activities amid contract dispute

On December 18, 2024, a South Korean media outlet, Yonhap News, reported that ADOR released an official statement regarding NewJeans' independent social media activities. The label stated that the account was created without consulting the agency and claimed this action could lead to legal complications, as it allegedly breaches their exclusive contract.

The statement came after the group shared their Vogue January issue cover on their newly created Instagram account, @jeanzforfree. Notably, former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin, who directed the Vogue Korea pictorial, showed her support by liking the account's first post. The pictorial sparked conversation for its unique approach, highlighting only the members' names while excluding the group name “NewJeans.”

The label added that advertisers and collaborators had already raised questions and concerns about the posts on the account. ADOR stated:

"Aside from the official NewJeans SNS accounts opened by ADOR, all accounts were opened without prior consultation under the exclusive contract. There are actually inquiries and complaints from advertisers and other third parties regarding the accounts and content postings."

For context, amid an ongoing contract dispute with their agency ADOR, the five members of the group launched a new Instagram account, “jeanzforfree,” on December 14. Described by the members as a space to reveal “the real us,” the account has quickly become a focal point in the unfolding conflict.

Fans took to social media, voicing their support for the members and criticizing ADOR’s reaction. An X user, @danaNYB wrote:

"Imagine they are going to court for 5 girls using IG lmaoooo dafuqqq."

Others too joined who believe the agency’s concerns stem from the account’s viral success and the attention it has garnered from brands and advertisers.

"they terminated their contract. like obviously fraudor is angry cuz newjeans's power earns all their money,but that's on them," an X user wrote.

"what more lies are they spinning with their desperation, we can all see whr the brands and advertisers stand... the girls are not your artist anymore so stop acting like a clingy ex," a fan commented.

"odor officially bu*thurt about the girls opening their own instagram account and going viral since the day it went live. more hurt to find out brands, advertisers and important ppl are following the girls and unfollowing ador," another person mentioned.

Some fans noted the Vogue Korea cover for excluding the group’s name, viewing it as a symbol of the members’ independence.

"notice how it's individual names and not NewJeans," a fan wrote.

"No newjeans brand mentioned, purely only using their own name, directed by min hee Jin," an X user commented.

"promoting just using their names and no group name is such a huge flex. tbh they're actually changing the game," another fan mentioned.

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All you need to know about the ongoing contract dispute between NewJeans and ADOR

This controversy follows the group’s sudden announcement last month. On November 28, NewJeans members Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein held an emergency press conference, revealing their decision to terminate their contracts with ADOR effective November 29.

The group cited a lack of trust, unresolved grievances, and dissatisfaction with the agency’s handling of internal issues as reasons for their departure.

During a press conference, the members emphasized their determination to protect their group name, NewJeans, and assured fans they would continue promoting together. They also stated that their contract termination was based on alleged breaches by ADOR, not by mutual agreement.

In response, ADOR has maintained that the contracts remain valid and denies any breaches. The agency expressed disappointment over the press conference, describing it as premature and claiming it was open to further discussions with the group.

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As the legal battle unfolds, the members continue their group activities. They are a part of the lineup to perform at the Golden Disk Awards set to be held on January 4 and 5, 2025 at Fukuoka PayPay Dome in Japan.