De facto return process..NewJeans Minji, ADOOR agreement comes first [★FOCUS]

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

Could this be seen as a de facto return procedure? As the 4th-member comeback of girl group NewJeans becomes increasingly visible, expectations are rising that Minji, who serves as the group's leader, will release new profile photos taken together, signaling their comeback.

On the 22nd, agency ADOR unexpectedly released a full-group video featuring all four members, including Minji, to commemorate NewJeans' fourth anniversary since debut. This special film, unveiled via NewJeans' official YouTube channel, drew attention as it marks the group's first content release in approximately two years since their Japanese debut single "Supernatural" was released in summer 2024.

Notably, Minji, Hani, Haerin, and Hyein gathered one by one, holding each other's hands and striking poses, which not only showcased a shift from the subdued atmosphere following past legal disputes but also heightened expectations that NewJeans' 4-member comeback is imminent.

Subsequently, on the 24th, Minji shared a video featuring herself via NewJeans' official SNS, forming the words "I love Bunnyz" with her fingers to express her unwavering support for fans.

In response, an ADOR representative told StarNews on the 22nd: "This video was produced as commemorative content to celebrate NewJeans' fourth anniversary and enjoy it together with fans." The representative added, "Specific plans and methods for NewJeans' activities will be announced after discussions with the members are fully concluded," while holding back further details.

Previously, ADOR stated regarding Minji's comeback: "We are continuing internal discussions concerning future activities." The agency also noted, "While we cannot provide specific details at this time, please understand that negotiations are progressing in a generally positive direction."

At the time, ADOR shared photos of cookies baked by Minji via NewJeans' official SNS with the caption "HAPPY MINJI DAY." These cookies were a gift from Minji to fans after she personally visited a birthday café organized to celebrate her recent birthday.

This post, which could not have been published without Minji's consent, further fueled expectations regarding the possibility of Minji returning to ADOR.

NewJeans sparked curiosity and linked to comeback rumors in April when they were spotted by some fans in Copenhagen, Denmark. Documents appearing to show that a recording studio located there was reserved under ADOR's name from April 13 to 17 circulated on SNS. Additionally, reports emerged with photos of Haerin and Hyein visiting Lego Shop, a famous Danish toy brand. It was also reported that they were carrying cameras seemingly for filming purposes.

On the 27th of last month, ADOR told StarNews: "It is correct that Hani, Haerin, and Hyein visited Copenhagen, Denmark with staff." The agency continued, "NewJeans members' visit to Copenhagen was part of a pre-production process to incorporate new musical narratives. Members are currently preparing for activities according to their individual conditions and schedules optimized for each member. We will officially announce details regarding the members' future plans at the most appropriate time," it added.

Minji did not participate in this schedule, which was part of a pre-production process aimed at purposes such as song camps. Thus, it was interpreted that this would not significantly impact NewJeans' 4-member comeback itself. However, given that these activities occurred after Hani, Haerin, and Hyein returned to ADOR, they were seen as a "build-up" for NewJeans' comeback.

Of course, negotiations between Minji and ADOR have not yet reached the final confirmation stage; currently, a smooth agreement between both parties is the priority.

Earlier, following the announcement of Haerin and Hyein's return, ADOR issued an official statement on December 29 last year: "We are in discussions with Minji and continuing negotiations." The agency also stated, "Regarding Daniel, as he is a NewJeans member and an artist under ADOR, we have determined that it would be difficult for him to continue together, so we have notified him of the termination of his exclusive contract."

Furthermore, ADOR announced: "We intend to hold legal responsibility against one person from Daniel's family and Min Hee-jin Jeon (CEO), who bear significant responsibility for causing this dispute, leading to NewJeans' departure and delayed return."

<© STARNEWS. All rights reserved. No reproduction or redistribution allowed.>

*This content was translated by AI.View Original