NJZ, formerly NewJeans, announces hiatus after court loss, ADOR responds
Photo: Complex
K-pop group NJZ, formerly known as NewJeans, has announced a temporary hiatus just two days after losing a legal battle against their former agency, ADOR.
The court ruled on March 21 that the members are prohibited from engaging in independent activities under the NJZ name. Despite the decision, NJZ went ahead with a scheduled performance at ComplexCon in Hong Kong on March 23, where they debuted a new track titled ‘Pit Stop’.
During the performance, NJZ issued a public statement in English, confirming their decision to step back. “It’s very difficult for us to say this, but this may be our last performance for the time being. Out of respect for the court’s decision, we have decided to halt all of our activities for now,” the group stated.
NJZ announces temporary hiatus pic.twitter.com/aIDHqMgoBu
In an emotional message, the members expressed that they were mentally and emotionally overwhelmed but remain committed to protecting themselves and their values. “We respect the court's decision, and for now, we are just taking a step back to pause, take a breath, and calm our hearts and ourselves before moving forward,” they added.
ADOR responded on March 24, stating, “We consider it deeply regretful that in spite of the court’s decision, NewJeans pushed ahead with performing under a different name,". ADOR also requested a meeting with the members, expressing a desire to find a resolution and “do our utmost for NewJeans.”
We consider it deeply regretful that in spite of the court’s decision, NewJeans pushed ahead with performing under a different name instead of NewJeans and unilaterally announced that they would be halting their activities.
In accordance with ADOR’s valid exclusive contract, we would like to do our utmost for NewJeans.
We hope that we can meet with the artist as soon as possible and discuss their future.
While accepting the court’s ruling, NJZ plans to appeal and challenge further aspects in the upcoming trial on April 3. “We believe that the decision does not take into account the fact that the members' trust in ADOR has been completely destroyed,” NJZ stated.
As the legal standoff continues, NJZ maintains they acted within their rights and await a chance to fully present their side.