The ongoing conflict between NewJeans (now known as NJZ, and recently renamed to mhdhh_friends) and their agency ADOR continues to escalate, with both parties involved in a legal and public dispute. Allegations have been exchanged, and NJZ has officially terminated their contract with ADOR, citing a loss of trust in the company. Meanwhile, the group’s fandom, Bunnies, has taken to more drastic measures, including protests that have gained considerable attention.
On April 7, 2025, fans organized a protest truck which was dispatched to HYBE’s Yongsan headquarters in Seoul. The truck displayed LED messages demanding that the members adhere to the court’s ruling and return to ADOR. This was the second time Bunnies had sent a protest truck to express their frustration with the situation. The messages on the truck critiqued the group’s continued resistance, urging NJZ to reconsider their stance within 11 days and avoid hasty decisions.
The protest represents a shift from online campaigns to real-world activism, marking a more intense form of support for ADOR. Among the messages displayed were statements like:
- “Respecting the members’ opinions? Supporting them down the wrong path isn’t respect; it’s enabling.”
- “A fandom that encourages lawbreaking is unusual. Return to normalcy by complying with the court’s decision.”
- “This lawsuit has no end. Waking up and stepping back is the real victory.”
- “Come to your senses, wake up and respect, go back.”
The protest also highlighted ongoing tensions surrounding member Hyein, the youngest of the group, whose parents are reportedly caught up in a custody dispute linked to the fallout with ADOR. Legal documents have revealed that one of Hyein’s guardians opposes the contract termination, while the other seeks full control over decisions related to the 16-year-old’s career. This development has sparked public debates, with fans questioning the involvement of family matters in the dispute, prompting reactions such as, “Which side is really bringing up family matters?” and “Since when does disagreement make family not family?”
Despite the mounting pressure from fans and the court’s provisional ruling in ADOR’s favor, NewJeans and their families have remained united in their decision. The five members (Haerin, Minji, Hyein, Danielle, and Hanni) have publicly declared that they do not wish to return to ADOR.
On April 3, 2025, the 41st Civil Agreement Division of the Seoul Central District Court convened a hearing on the validity of the exclusive contract between ADOR and NewJeans. The judge overseeing the case described the situation as “unusual.” The main issue is whether NJZ has a valid reason to terminate the contract. Another injunction appeal hearing is set for April 9, 2025, with a follow-up session scheduled for June 5, 2025.
