Former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin proposed waiving her 25.6 billion won court award against HYBE in exchange for the company dropping all legal actions involving NewJeans members and others. The offer came during a press conference on February 25, 2026, in Seoul, amid an ongoing dispute that began in April 2024. HYBE stated it has no position on the proposal, while ADOR unveiled a new brand film signaling a fresh start.
On February 25, 2026, Min Hee-jin, the former CEO of ADOR who now runs Ooak Records, held a six-minute press conference at the Kyowon Challenge Hall in Gwancheol-dong, Seoul. After winning a legal battle against HYBE, she offered to forgo the 25.6 billion won (approximately $17.7 million USD) payment awarded to her. In return, she urged HYBE to withdraw all civil and criminal lawsuits against NewJeans members, subcontracting partners, and employees.
Min Hee-jin emphasized values beyond money, stating the situation is “painful for both the members and the fans,” as NewJeans has been absent from music and public activities. The dispute originated in April 2024 over management control of ADOR, a HYBE subsidiary. HYBE accused Min of attempting to privatize ADOR and NewJeans for independence, but the court ruled in her favor, finding no solid evidence for HYBE's claims. NewJeans sought to terminate their contracts, but a late 2025 ruling confirmed they remain valid with ADOR.
HYBE responded shortly after, saying it “has no position” on the proposal, suggesting a cautious stance possibly awaiting further legal clarity to protect subsidiaries like Belift Lab and Source Music. Meanwhile, ADOR released a new brand film visualizing its “All Doors One Room” philosophy, featuring elements like Lab, Door, Key, and Human to symbolize its creative process. The label stated, “As we always have, we will open new doors in our own rhythm. And when that moment comes, we will once again surprise the world.” This move heightens anticipation for NewJeans' potential return, as ADOR, founded in November 2021, continues under HYBE's multi-label system emphasizing creative autonomy. Fans have praised Min's offer, with comments like “Choosing the well-being of the members over 25.5 billion won is a massive statement. Values over money,” highlighting support for prioritizing artists amid the tensions.
