Public Reaction in Korea to the Court Ban on NewJeans (NJZ)'s Independent Activities

 

Court Ruling on NJZ’s Solo Activities Sparks Mixed Reactions from Fans and the Korean Public

A recent ruling by the Seoul Central District Court has granted a request to prohibit the members of the popular girl group NewJeans (also referred to as NJZ) from pursuing independent entertainment activities without the approval of their agency, ADOR.

As a result, the members will be unable to engage in solo or unauthorized group promotions for the time being. The court has also banned the use of the name "NJZ" in their activities, further restricting any independent branding efforts.

📌 Summary of the Court’s Ruling

The Seoul Central District Court’s Civil Division 50 has approved ADOR’s request for an injunction prohibiting the members of NewJeans from engaging in independent activities such as signing endorsement deals or pursuing entertainment work without the agency’s consent.

In its statement, the court emphasized the following key points:

• An exclusive contract is based on mutual trust, and the burden of proof lies with the party claiming that the trust has been broken as grounds for termination.
• The court also noted that the members' current independent actions may be in violation of their contractual obligations.

🐰 How the Fandom ‘Bunnies’ Are Reacting

The official fan club Bunnies is expressing a wide range of emotions in response to the ongoing legal dispute.

At the start of the conflict, many fans supported the members’ desire for independence, emphasizing their right to self-expression and autonomy. Support poured in for NewJeans as they attempted to pursue independent activities.

However, following the court’s recent ruling, the mood within the fandom has shifted. A growing number of fans are now hoping for a peaceful resolution between NewJeans and ADOR, with the hope that the group can return to activities together.

Some fan communities had reportedly taken proactive steps—communicating with the members’ parents and even seeking legal advice. But recently, the overall atmosphere in fan circles appears to have cooled. While many still stand by the members, past controversies have resurfaced, and there seems to be a growing wave of online backlash targeting the group.

💬 Public and Social Media Reactions in Korea

Reactions on Korean online communities and social media have been deeply divided, but many in the general public are showing increasingly critical attitudes toward NewJeans.

• Supporters of the ruling emphasize the importance of respecting legal contracts and back the court’s decision.
• Critics of ADOR argue that the agency is exercising excessive control and express support for the members’ artistic freedom and individual rights.

One major point of controversy arose when the NewJeans members described themselves as “revolutionaries” in a foreign media interview. While some praised the statement as bold and refreshing, others criticized it as lacking professionalism, especially in the context of an ongoing legal battle.

Many comments pointed out that contracts exist for a reason, and ignoring a court ruling while continuing to push one-sided claims was seen by some as immature or reckless. The interview also drew backlash for criticizing the Korean idol system, with some interpreting it as an inappropriate expression of discontent during a sensitive time.

🔍 Key Points to Watch Going Forward

• Can ADOR and the NewJeans Members Repair Their Relationship?

  The core question moving forward is whether trust can be restored between ADOR and the NewJeans members after this legal dispute.

  Will the two sides find common ground through dialogue, or will this situation ultimately lead to a long-term split?

• HYBE’s Legal and Strategic Response

  As the parent company and major shareholder of ADOR, HYBE is a key player in this conflict.

  Observers are closely watching how much legal responsibility HYBE will assume and whether this case will lead to changes in ADOR’s management structure.

• Broader Debate on K-POP Contract Reform

  This controversy has reignited discussions about the sensitivity of exclusive contracts between agencies and idols.

  Topics such as fair contracts, protection of minors, and freedom of expression are at the center of renewed calls for systemic reform within the Korean entertainment industry.

• Global Media and International Fandom Reactions

  Given NewJeans’ significant international following, the reactions of foreign media and global fans are especially important.

  Their perspectives could influence the global image of the K-POP system, which is why both ADOR and HYBE must tread carefully in their next steps.

• The Future of NewJeans’ Activities

  Will group promotions resume? Will members pursue independent careers? Could contract renegotiations happen?

  Each member’s personal decision will play a crucial role in determining the future of NewJeans as a group.

👩🏻 Ajumma K’s Comment:

Like I said before—honestly, I’m a real NewJeans fan!

I just truly hope the girls can resolve everything soon and get back to doing what they love. 💕✨