NewJeans Members Split on Return to ADOR

All five members of NewJeans have officially declared their return to ADOR as of November 12, but the process revealed a noticeable divide within the group. While Haerin and Hyein coordinated their return with the agency in advance, Minji, Danielle, and Hanni announced theirs separately through a law firm, showing a clear difference in tone and communication.

According to a report by Munhwa Ilbo, Haerin and Hyein had already expressed their intent to return to ADOR about a week prior to the official announcement. They reportedly worked closely with the agency and their families to reconcile after a year of tension. Their official statement was timed for November 12 because November 13 marked the deadline to appeal the court’s ruling on their exclusive contracts. ADOR had been waiting until that date to hear from the remaining members.

In contrast, Minji, Danielle, and Hanni had not been in contact with ADOR before their sudden public announcement. Their declaration to “return to ADOR” was made independently, leading ADOR to issue a cautious statement that it was still “trying to understand their true intentions.”

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The difference lies in what each side defines as “discussion” and “consultation.” For Haerin and Hyein, discussions involved direct talks with ADOR and their families, while Minji, Danielle, and Hanni’s consultations were limited to conversations among themselves — without ADOR’s participation. Their statement was also released directly to the media, not the agency.

The trio later explained that communication was delayed because “one member was in Antarctica” and that they announced publicly due to ADOR’s lack of response. However, this move was seen by many as consistent with their previous “independent approach,” suggesting internal misalignment even in their comeback process.

Industry insiders noted that while some fans wished ADOR had quickly accepted the three members’ declaration, the agency also has a duty to protect Haerin and Hyein, who had already cooperated and reconciled through proper channels. Accepting an uncoordinated return could risk future discord between the two members who followed the process and the three who did not.

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