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On January 6, 2025, ADOR, a subsidiary of HYBE, sparked a wave of mixed reactions online after announcing new auditions on their official social media accounts. The auditions, which are open to anyone born in or after 2006, have no restrictions regarding gender or nationality.
The timing of the audition announcement, however, has raised eyebrows due to the ongoing contract dispute between ADOR and popular girl group NewJeans, also under the label. NewJeans has been embroiled in tension with the company since the resignation of the former ADOR CEO, Min Hee-jin, following a conflict with HYBE.
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Amidst these ongoing tensions, ADOR’s new audition call has generated a divided response from netizens. Some feel that the company’s move to hold auditions while embroiled in a dispute with NewJeans is not a good idea. They stated that one should not go into the company with such legal conflicts. An X user, @cookieggom, wrote,
"don't audition they're gonna send u to squid game."
Others also voiced concerns, suggesting that the company should prioritize supporting its current artists before seeking out new talent.
"without Min Heejin’s direction over it Ador can’t do it it’ll just be the average Hybe group factory produced with remixes and random pcs," an X user wrote.
"aren't they ashamed to post ts? who would want to join a shameless company that everyone knows doesn't protect its artists?," another user added.
"Sis aint nobody joining bffr NSSNJSJDDJD," a person remarked.
"you’ll never be able to recreate a group like new jeans again btw," a netizen commented.
Others argue that the entertainment industry often operates in this manner, with new talent constantly being sought regardless of internal conflicts.
"Y'all really don't know how industry works smh! things need to keep going no matter what..," a netizen commented.
"Yes it’s high time they debuted a new group," another fan mentioned.
"Love this so much! We're ready to move forward . WE will be supporting," an X user wrote.
All we know about the ongoing NewJeans and ADOR's ongoing contractual conflict
NewJeans, which gained a significant following due to its fresh sound and 'girl next door' image, reportedly demanded Min Hee-jin's reinstatement after she stepped down from the position. They later accused HYBE of mistreating them and of not being treated well by the newly appointed CEO.
In November 2024, NewJeans made an unexpected announcement, stating their intention to terminate their contract with the label and pursue independent activities. This announcement was followed by internal battles, with ADOR rejecting the early termination, citing legal obligations.
While NewJeans members are completing their pending schedules, including performances and award shows, their future remains uncertain. The group is reported to be facing significant financial risks, including possible penalties for breach of contract.
Additionally, if they decide to continue their career independently, they may not be able to use the 'NewJeans' name without further legal complications.
Meanwhile, the label's announcement invites applicants to showcase any talent they have, with a simple application process requiring a waist-up photo, a full-body shot, and a one-minute audition video.
