On October 30 KST, the 41st Civil Division of the Seoul Central District Court delivered its initial ruling in the lawsuit questioning the validity of the exclusive contract between ADOR and girl group NewJeans.
The court concluded, "The exclusive contracts between the plaintiff, ADOR, and the defendants, NewJeans, signed on April 21 remains valid." The court additionally ordered the defendant's side to cover all costs related to the lawsuit.
[UPDATE 1]
According to the court, "ADOR's dismissal of Min Hee Jin from the position of CEO does not provide legitimization for the termination of the NewJeans members' exclusive contracts. It is difficult to conclude that Min Hee Jin's dismissal caused a gap in the group's activities, or that it rendered ADOR incapable of conducting its business in the interest of NewJeans."
Either side may choose to appeal the initial decision by November 14 KST. If neither party appeals, NewJeans will be contractually bound to continue their activities as artists under ADOR until 2029.
[UPDATE 2]
Shortly after the session conclusion, NewJeans' legal representative announced the group's plans to file an appeal immediately. The legal representative stated, "While we respect the court's decision, our clients remain of the position that it is difficult to return to ADOR and resume activities when all trust between the two sides have been effectively shattered. We hope that the appellate court will thoroughly review the evidence and existing laws on exclusive contracts and deliver a wise decision."
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