In a stunning development that’s rocked the K-pop world, NewJeans members Haerin and Hyein have officially decided to return to ADOR after a year-long legal battle. The announcement came Wednesday, November 12, 2025, marking a potential turning point in one of K-pop’s most dramatic contract disputes. But what does this mean for the remaining three members, and can the group survive this split?
Table of Contents
NewJeans Facts: The Return at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Members Returning | Haerin (20) and Hyein (15) |
| Announcement Date | November 12, 2025 |
| Agency | ADOR (HYBE subsidiary) |
| Remaining Members | Minji, Hanni, Danielle (status unknown) |
| Court Ruling | October 30, 2025 (favor ADOR) |
| Original Contract | Valid through 2029 |
| Group Status | On indefinite hiatus |
The Bombshell Decision That Split K-Pop
ADOR confirmed through an official statement that both members expressed their intention to continue activities with the agency after careful discussions with their families. This decision comes after the Seoul Central District Court ruled on October 30 in favor of ADOR, determining the exclusive contracts to be valid.
The real shock? After thorough discussions with their families and careful consideration with ADOR, the two members decided to respect the court’s ruling and comply with their exclusive contracts. This marks a dramatic reversal from last November, when all five members publicly announced they were leaving the company.
For context on the intense pressure K-pop idols face during contract disputes, check out this comprehensive look at KATSEYE’s journey, another HYBE group navigating the complex entertainment landscape.
What Led to This Moment?
The drama began in April 2024 when a dispute erupted between former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin and parent company HYBE. NewJeans, often considered Min’s creative vision personified, sided with their former CEO. The tension escalated until November 2024, when all five members held an emotional press conference declaring contract termination.
The members temporarily rebranded as “NJZ” and launched independent social media accounts, signaling their intent to move forward without ADOR. However, a Seoul court injunction in March 2025 blocked their independent activities, forcing an indefinite hiatus.
Throughout this turmoil, NewJeans remained silent on new music releases for over a year—an eternity in the fast-paced K-pop industry. Their last official comeback was “How Sweet” in May 2024, leaving fans desperate for new content.
The Three Members Still in Limbo
Attention now turns to whether remaining members Minji, Hanni, and Danielle will also rejoin ADOR. At press time, neither the three members nor their representatives have issued statements about their intentions.
This uncertainty creates a troubling scenario: Can NewJeans function as a two-member group? The answer is complicated. K-pop groups have historically struggled when members depart mid-career, and NewJeans’ signature choreography and vocal harmonies were designed for five performers.
Industry insiders speculate the remaining members may hold out for different terms or potentially pursue solo careers if contractual obligations allow. The coming weeks will be critical in determining NewJeans’ future as a complete group.
What This Means for K-Pop Fans
For NewJeans’ devoted fanbase (affectionately called “Bunnies”), this partial return brings mixed emotions. On one hand, seeing Haerin and Hyein return to the stage is cause for celebration. On the other, the possibility of NewJeans performing without Minji, Hanni, and Danielle feels incomplete.
ADOR’s statement emphasized they would “do their utmost to ensure Haerin and Hyein can continue their entertainment activities smoothly,” suggesting solo activities, brand partnerships, or sub-unit promotions may be on the horizon while the group’s status remains uncertain.
The K-pop industry moves fast, and NewJeans faces stiff competition from rising fourth and fifth-generation groups who’ve capitalized on their absence. Groups like emerging girl group sensations covered on TechnoSports have filled the void NewJeans left behind.
The Bigger Picture: HYBE’s Gamble
This situation represents more than just a contract dispute—it’s a test of HYBE’s management philosophy. The company behind BTS has invested heavily in creating global superstars, but the NewJeans saga reveals cracks in their artist relations strategy.
Following the October court ruling upholding NewJeans’ contracts, HYBE’s market capitalization jumped approximately $644 million, proving that investors view this legal victory as financially significant. However, no amount of stock gains can repair broken trust between artists and management.
For more insights into how entertainment companies navigate complex artist relationships, explore TechnoSports’ entertainment coverage featuring the latest industry developments.
Can NewJeans Reclaim Their Throne?
NewJeans burst onto the scene in 2022 with hits like “Attention,” “Hype Boy,” and “OMG,” quickly becoming one of K-pop’s most successful acts. Their fresh concept, nostalgic aesthetics, and undeniable talent made them instant favorites. But their year-long absence has consequences.
The K-pop landscape operates on momentum. Groups must consistently release music, perform, and engage fans to maintain relevance. NewJeans’ hiatus has allowed competitors to capture market share and fan attention. Whether they can recapture their magic—especially if operating as a partial group—remains the industry’s biggest question mark.
FAQs
Q: Will NewJeans continue as a five-member group?
It’s unclear at this point. While Haerin and Hyein have confirmed their return to ADOR, Minji, Hanni, and Danielle have not made public statements about their plans. ADOR maintains that all five contracts remain valid through 2029 following the October court ruling. The group’s future configuration depends entirely on whether the remaining three members decide to return or pursue alternative paths within legal constraints.
Q: Can I expect new NewJeans music soon?
Not immediately. ADOR stated they’ll support Haerin and Hyein’s entertainment activities, but coordinating group comebacks with only two members would be unprecedented. The agency will likely wait to see if the other members return before planning full group releases. In the meantime, fans might see individual brand partnerships, photoshoots, or variety show appearances while the situation evolves.
