[instiz] NEWJEANS, COMPLETED ALL SCHEDULES WITH ADOR… FULL FLEDGED INDEPENDENT ROUTE

“Whatever it is, I will do my best and go all the way.”

This is a post that the group NewJeans shared on their social media after winning two awards, including the grand prize, at the 39th Golden Disc Awards held on January 4 at the Fukuoka Mizuho PayPay Dome in Japan. Following the Golden Disc, NewJeans wrapped up their publicly scheduled commitments as agreed with ADOR. Attention is now focused on how they will overcome the risks ahead and carve out a new future, just as they have expressed in this statement.

Attention on resolving Hanni’s visa issues

Among the members of NewJeans, Hanni holds dual nationality of Australia and Vietnam, and does not have Korean nationality. Danielle, on the other hand, has dual nationality of Australia and Korea because her mother is Korean. Typically, foreign entertainers need to obtain an entertainment visa (E-6) based on an “employment contract” with an agency in order to work in Korea. It has been reported that Hanni’s visa expires early this year. ADOR stated, “The exclusive contract with NewJeans is still valid,” and “We are preparing the necessary documents to extend the visa.”

However, if Hanni continues to work in Korea with a visa extended by ADOR, it remains to be seen whether this would influence the validity of the exclusive contract in the ongoing legal dispute. ADOR had previously filed a lawsuit to confirm the validity of the exclusive contract after NewJeans notified them of the termination of the contract. Attorney Yang Tae-jung of the law firm Gwangya pointed out, “If Hanni works with a visa issued through ADOR, ADOR could use that as grounds to uphold the validity of the exclusive contract.” On the other hand, since NewJeans members stated at an emergency press conference on November 27 last year that “we will proceed with the schedules already arranged by ADOR,” some argue that it is only natural for ADOR to extend Hanni’s visa, as she is fulfilling commitments made with ADOR.

NewJeans could also join a new agency and Hanni might be issued a new visa. However, if ADOR applied for the visa first, there is a possibility of a double visa application, which could pose a challenge. A Ministry of Justice official stated, “It is possible to apply for a visa twice, but the later application may be rejected due to the first application’s priority.” Regardless of how Hanni’s visa expiration date became public, it is clear that this issue remains a significant obstacle to overcome.

How will NewJeans’ new name become…? Is there a 3rd way?

The group’s name is still uncertain. Currently, ADOR holds the trademark rights for the name “NewJeans.” Since declaring the termination of their exclusive contract with ADOR, NewJeans has refrained from mentioning the group name in any public appearances, including on Kim Hyun-jung’s News Show, Yoasobi’s concert, and various award ceremonies. In the Vogue Korea photo shoot with former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin, the five members appeared on the cover under their individual names.

Fans are increasingly interpreting the creation of a new SNS account, “Jeanz for Free,” as a sign that NewJeans may look for a new group name rather than reclaim the trademark. However, since the NewJeans members stated during their press conference, “We will strive to regain the rights to the name ‘NewJeans,'” there is also a possibility that a third solution could emerge.

While the possibility of an agreement between both parties seems remote at the moment, as ADOR has filed a lawsuit to confirm the validity of the exclusive contract, further discussions may take place depending on the outcome of that case.

When will they release an album and hold a concert?

Despite the ongoing dispute with ADOR, NewJeans ranked second for two consecutive years in Gallup’s “Artists of the Year” survey. Some analysts believe that their fanbase has become even stronger due to the conflict with their agency. NewJeans achieved remarkable accomplishments in 2024. As international artists, they made their debut at the Tokyo Dome in just 1 year and 11 months, the fastest ever. Their double singles Supernatural and How Sweet performed excellently on the U.S. Billboard charts and major domestic music charts.

Cultural critic Ha Jae-geun commented, “Regardless of the outcome of the legal battle between NewJeans and ADOR, the fans are highly likely to continue supporting NewJeans. Even if the group name changes, the fans will remain loyal.” He added, “If NewJeans wins, they will be freed from any activity restrictions and could either maintain or surpass their current status.”

However, for NewJeans to forge a new path, active participation in album releases and concerts is necessary. Earlier, ADOR revealed plans for NewJeans, including a domestic fan meeting in March, a full album release between June and July, and a world tour after August, along with plans to recruit a new producer. However, since NewJeans rejected continuing with ADOR, it is highly unlikely that the group will follow this plan.

Originally, NewJeans had plans for a fan concert in Korea following their Tokyo Dome fan concert last year, and they were also reportedly preparing for a new album and world tour early this year. It remains to be seen how NewJeans will carry out these delayed plans in their own way.

Currently, it is reported that NewJeans is only handling private advertising schedules. Their album release and concert dates are expected to be announced once the lawsuit regarding the validity of their exclusive contract with ADOR is settled.

On January 6, NewJeans member Danielle posted on SNS, “In 2025, I want to meet the Bunnies at more stages and have fun. Personally, I want to meet many artists, collaborate with them, and create music.” Whether NewJeans’ year will unfold excitingly as hoped remains to be seen, and both domestic and international fans’ expectations and attention are focused on their next steps.