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

*This content was translated by AI.

Could this be seen as a de facto return process? 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 upcoming 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 were shown gathering one by one, holding each other's hands and striking poses. This display itself signaled a shift from the subdued atmosphere following their ongoing legal disputes, while also fueling speculation that NewJeans' 4-member comeback is imminent.

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

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

Previously, ADOR stated regarding Minji's comeback: "We are continuing internal discussions about future activities." They 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 herself 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 heightened expectations for Minji's potential return to ADOR.

NewJeans sparked curiosity in April when they were spotted by some fans in Copenhagen, Denmark's capital, amid comeback rumors. Documents appearing to show that a recording studio located there was booked under ADOR's name from April 13 to 17 circulated on SNS. Additionally, reports accompanied by photos confirmed that Haerin and Hyein visited Lego Shop, a famous Danish toy brand store. 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." They continued, "NewJeans members' visit to Copenhagen was part of a pre-production process to incorporate new musical narratives. The members are currently preparing for activities according to their individual conditions and schedules optimized for each member. We will officially announce details about the members' future plans at the most appropriate time," they 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. For now, 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: "After the court ruling confirming the validity of exclusive contracts was finalized, we have had extensive discussions with Minji, Hani, Daniel, and their families. Following sincere conversations, Hani decided to respect the court's ruling and remain with ADOR." They also stated, "Minji is also in communication with ADOR, and discussions are ongoing." Regarding Daniel, they added: "As a NewJeans member and an artist under ADOR, it was determined that he cannot continue together, so we have notified him of the termination of his exclusive contract."

Furthermore, ADOR announced: "We intend to hold Daniel's family member who bears significant responsibility for triggering this dispute and delaying NewJeans' departure and return, as well as Min Hee-jin Jeon (CEO), legally accountable."

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*This content was translated by AI.