Veteran producer Yoon Il-sang recently voiced his candid opinion about the ongoing legal dispute involving NewJeans and their agency, ADOR. Speaking on his YouTube channel 프로듀썰, Yoon emphasized that while contracts are binding, true care for artists means protecting them—not exposing them to public pressure or manipulation.
He expressed concern over how young idols like NewJeans are being thrust into high-stakes legal and PR battles, arguing that adults—especially those guiding their careers—should take responsibility and shield them. As he put it, “A company exists so artists can focus on performing, not defending themselves in interviews.”
The legal background continues to evolve. A Korean court recently upheld an injunction favoring ADOR, preventing the members from independent activities without the label’s approval. Though the group filed an objection, it was rejected, and they’ve since escalated to a higher court.
Korean Reactions: “You Signed the Contract. Deal With It.”
Korean netizens responded strongly to both the court decision and Yoon’s remarks. Many blamed the parents and adults around the group for poor guidance, while others criticized the members for disregarding their legal obligations.
Top Korean Comments (Source : Nate)
“You signed the contract. Life isn’t a joke.” (👍 982 / 👎 120)
“Once you put your name on a contract, own the consequences.” (👍 858 / 👎 76)
“Min Hee-jin and her crew deserve more blame than the members. The girls are just kids.” (👍 90 / 👎 9)
“Their parents need to wake up. These girls don’t know what they’re doing.” (👍 89 / 👎 9)
“They ignored the basics, played the victim, and even brought it to parliament. Disgraceful.” (👍 88 / 👎 10)
“This legal fight could last 5 years. They’re done.” (👍 82 / 👎 8)
Global Reactions: “They Chose the Wrong Path”
International reactions also leaned critical, though with more focus on the consequences and strategic missteps rather than just moral outrage. Many pointed fingers at the parents, while others warned the girls had sacrificed everything for someone else’s ambition.
Top Global Comments (Source : allkpop)
“MHJ’s motives were obvious, but the real failure was their parents. Now the girls are trapped in a legal nightmare.” (👍 44 / 👎 3)
“NewJeans had no reason to jump in. The original conflict didn’t involve them.” (👍 33)
“Maybe in 10 years they’ll realize what they lost—and for whom.” (👍 28)
“They’re not innocent. Their actions amount to criminal deception.” (👍 26 / 👎 8)
“MHJ destroyed them for her own gain. Sad.” (👍 18)
“How long are their contracts, anyway? They keep appealing with no new grounds.” (👍 15)
Cultural Reflection: Loyalty, Legal Duty, or Misguided Leadership?
Both Korean and global audiences agree on one thing—NewJeans is in a deep mess. But the source of blame differs. Koreans lean toward contractual ethics and criticize the idols’ and guardians’ poor judgment. Globally, commenters emphasize adult manipulation and long-term consequences.
The cultural divide is clear. In Korea, violating contracts is seen as a moral failing. Overseas, it’s often interpreted through the lens of youth, inexperience, and misplaced trust.
One thing is certain: NewJeans’ legal journey is far from over. And their public image, once pristine, now faces a tougher battle than any courtroom could contain.