ADOR Insists on 'NewJeans' Name, NJZ Responds with Video Release
The dispute between ADOR and the five members of NJZ (formerly NewJeans) - Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein -over the group's name continues to escalate.
On February 10, ADOR issued an official statement titled "Request Regarding the Use of the NewJeans Group Name," which was sent to media outlets.
"On February 7, the NewJeans members announced plans to continue activities under a group name that was not agreed upon with ADOR, causing confusion among journalists," ADOR stated.
The company emphasized that the exclusive contracts between ADOR and the NewJeans members remain legally valid and that any claims of termination are unilateral assertions. "ADOR has filed for an injunction to affirm its status as the exclusive management company in accordance with the contract. We are awaiting the court's decision on the validity of the contract."
ADOR then requested, "Please use the official team name NewJeans when reporting, as it is based on a legally binding contract."
The company added, "We will do our best to resolve this confusion as soon as possible and focus on delivering great music and content."
However, the members swiftly countered ADOR's claims. Shortly after the statement was released, NJZ uploaded a new animated video on their newly established social media account featuring characters marked with "NJZ" and each member's initials.
The video features animated faces of cats and dogs with the NJZ logo subtly incorporated, seemingly reinforcing their new identity. The timing of the post, coming right after ADOR's official request, has been interpreted as a direct rebuttal to the company's position.
Meanwhile, the contract dispute between NJZ and ADOR remains unresolved. On February 7, the members publicly announced that they would continue their careers under the name NJZ (EnJeiZi).
The legal battle is set to intensify, with ADOR's request for an injunction to maintain its authority over the group and prohibit independent advertising deals scheduled for a court hearing on March 7. Additionally, the lawsuit regarding the validity of the exclusive contract is set for April 3.
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