The court upheld the exclusivity contract with Adore and acknowledged Adore’s management rights, rejecting NewJeans’ claims of discriminatory treatment by HYBE. It found insufficient evidence for allegations that HYBE disregarded or overlooked the group’s concerns.

In the latest ruling from the Seoul Central District Court, the court granted Adore’s request and declared the exclusive contract with NewJeans valid, effectively affirming the plaintiff’s victory in the action over contract validity. The decision emphasizes that NewJeans’ termination notice was deemed ineffective, and that Adore retains management rights, rendering the group’s independent activities practically unfeasible under the current arrangement.

The court further addressed NewJeans’ claims that changes in leadership, including the dismissal of former Adore president Min, undermined management continuity. It stated that such upheaval does not automatically render Adore unable to manage the group, and noted that the contract does not require Min to remain in a leadership role. The court also concluded that Min’s actions in public relations to protect the group cannot be regarded as legitimate grounds to terminate the contract.

Additionally, the court highlighted that Adore and HYBE had provided substantial support for a rookie act, citing the creation of a dedicated fan communication app, a private practice space, and luxury accommodations as evidence of favorable treatment toward NewJeans. The ruling contends that these measures illustrate a robust level of backing from the management, rather than mistreatment.

NewJeans’ legal representatives indicated they would appeal the decision. Industry observers, however, suggest overturning the verdict without new evidence or a clear legal basis would be challenging.

Note: This summary retains only sentences directly related to the headline and the official court ruling, avoiding extraneous commentary or translator interpretation.