K-pop group NewJeans has been embroiled in a contract dispute with their management company ADOR, which is now resulting in an unexpected hiatus. The group had planned to debut under the new name “NJZ” but instead announced on-stage that they would be pausing all activities due to a court ruling issued earlier this month.
The Seoul Central District Court granted ADOR an injunction to bar NewJeans from releasing new music and performing internationally, effectively putting their plans for a new direction on hold. The group’s members cited the need to take a step back and gather themselves before moving forward.
Last month, the group announced they would be taking on the new name “NJZ” but the injunction has now led to a dramatic change in plans. Despite ADOR’s claims that they are committed to supporting the group, NewJeans has stated that they can no longer remain with a management that disrespected their identities and undermined their achievements.
The group currently faces a legal battle with ADOR over the legitimacy of their unilateral contract termination. A hearing is set for April 3. In a statement, the group emphasized their commitment to pushing forward despite the challenges.
Source: https://time.com/7271058/newjeans-njz-hiatus-pause-complexcon-concert-ador-injunction-pit-stop