NewJeans Announces Full Group Return Amidst Contract Dispute Fallout

K-pop sensation NewJeans has officially announced the return of all its members, following a year-long exclusive contract dispute. However, sources suggest that achieving complete harmony may still take time.

ADOR, the group's agency, initially announced the return of members Haerin and Hyein on the 12th. Shortly after, Minji, Danielle, and Hanni also released statements through their representatives, confirming their decision to return to ADOR after discussions.

A key distinction was made in how the news was delivered: while ADOR directly announced Haerin and Hyein's return, Minji, Danielle, and Hanni's return was communicated unilaterally through their legal representatives.

The three members stated, "As we received no response from ADOR, we were inevitably compelled to announce our position separately." In response, ADOR released an official statement saying, "We are currently verifying the true intentions behind the return of Minji, Danielle, and Hanni."

As of now, there have been no further statements or official announcements regarding the three members. According to a report by Munhwa Ilbo on the 15th, there are perceived differences in opinion between the three members and ADOR regarding distance from former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin, with some suggesting the members wish for her return to ADOR.

This sentiment could indicate a potential divergence in opinions between the members whose returns were officially announced by ADOR (Haerin, Hyein) and those who announced their return separately (Minji, Danielle, Hanni).

Even if the wishes of the three members were to be considered, the return of former CEO Min Hee-jin to ADOR is seen as virtually impossible. Following her resignation from ADOR, Min established a new agency called 'EODAE' (오케이).

ADOR plans to schedule individual meetings with the members to discuss the next steps. The outcome of these meetings is expected to shape the future direction of NewJeans' activities.

Meanwhile, NewJeans was honored with the 'Trend of the Year' award in the K-pop group category at the '2025 Korea Grand Music Awards with iMbank' held at the Incheon Inspire Arena on the 14th.

Fans are expressing relief and support, with comments like "Glad they're all coming back together!" and "Hoping for a smooth future for NewJeans." Many are excited for their full group activities.