Ador, the management agency of NewJeans, has rejected the group’s abrupt announcement of contract termination, asserting that their exclusive agreement remains valid until July 31, 2029. The K-pop label’s response came after NewJeans held a press conference Thursday to reveal their decision,

What’s next for NewJeans after their departure from ADOR? From new labels to going independent, here are some possible theories we explored.

NewJeans also revealed that they want to continue working with Min Hee-jin, the former ADOR CEO and the group’s creative director. Min was removed from her position at the label after HYBE accused her of attempting to gain control of ADOR from its parent company by selling company shares and leaking confidential information.

With Ador likely gearing up to start a legal battle, its now-former K-pop girl group NewJeans appears ready to move forward with their activities, signaling the start of what could be a long legal fight over rights and compensation.

The news comes two weeks after NewJeans sent an ultimatum to ADOR's parent company HYBE telling the firm they would terminate their contract unless a set of demands was met.

NewJeans members Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein said they would continue their activities independently, free from HYBE and ADOR.

NewJeans also stated that, after their contract termination, they may no longer be able to use their group name going forward. In response, ADOR maintained that its agreement with

In a press conference, the members of NewJeans said they're leaving their label, Ador — and may not be able to use their group name in the future