In a significant legal development, K-pop sensation NewJeans has been unsuccessful in its bid to terminate its contract with record label Ador. A South Korean court ruled on Tuesday that the group’s agreement with the agency, which extends until 2029, remains legally binding. The five-member group, consisting of Hanni, Hyein, Haerin, Danielle, and Minji, had announced their unilateral departure from Ador last year, alleging mistreatment and manipulation by the label. Despite their claims, the court upheld the contract’s validity, prompting the group to plan an appeal, as reported by local media. This case has sent shockwaves through the Korean entertainment industry, marking a dramatic escalation in the year-long dispute between the chart-topping act and its agency. Earlier this year, the group rebranded as NJZ, released a new single, and performed in Hong Kong before their independent activities were halted by a court injunction. The ruling underscores the complexities of artist-label relationships in the highly competitive K-pop industry.