NewJeans surprised fans by announcing they want to terminate their exclusive contract with ADOR as of midnight on November 29. But legal experts say the process isn't as simple as it sounds, and it could take months to resolve.

According to lawyers familiar with such cases, NewJeans will likely need to file for a provisional disposition to suspend their contract or start a lawsuit to confirm it is no longer valid.

These legal steps can take time—usually three to four months but sometimes over six months. This delay raises questions about whether NewJeans can continue their usual activities while the case is ongoing.

One legal expert explained, "In most cases, it takes around three to four months for a court to decide on a provisional disposition. But if the hearings become complicated, the process could take even longer."

They also noted that NewJeans might still work under ADOR during the legal dispute. However, activities like hiring their own staff or working with other companies would not be allowed.

Another lawyer added, "It’s hard for the members to run independent activities during the provisional period. But as long as their relationship with ADOR remains, they should be able to continue performing."

Fans are worried this legal battle could cause a long break in NewJeans’ activities. Still, experts believe the group can keep working with ADOR in the meantime, although under strict limitations.

NewJeans made the announcement during an emergency press conference on November 28 at SpaceShare Samsung Station Center in Seoul.

They shared several demands that led to their decision, including the reinstatement of Min Hee Jin, ADOR’s former CEO, who had stepped down, and an apology from a Belift Lab representative for alleged dismissive remarks toward member Hanni.

Other issues raised by NewJeans include the use of photos and videos without their consent and the need for guarantees to protect their creative identity.

The group gave ADOR two weeks to respond to their demands, hinting that they would take legal action if their concerns were not addressed.

ADOR reportedly sent their response via email on November 28 at 7 p.m., just hours before the deadline.

Fans and the public are now waiting to see how this dispute unfolds, as it could shape NewJeans’ future and their ability to maintain their creative vision.

For now, the situation remains uncertain, but everyone hopes for a resolution that keeps NewJeans shining on stage.

Source: [1]

Yoo Yeon Seok and Chae Soo Bin’s When the Phone Rings has issued an apology for the recent controversy surrounding the mockery of sign language.

On November 29th, the drama’s production team released a statement on the viewer’s board addressing the issue. The statement began by saying, “We take the criticism about the improper handling of sign language very seriously, especially as it led to the mockery of the Deaf community and Korean sign language.”

They went on to clarify, “The drama’s theme centers around ‘communication’ between people, and there was absolutely no intention to mock or belittle sign language, which is a vital communication tool for the Deaf community.”

However, the production team admitted, “We humbly acknowledge that we did not give enough attention to the struggles of the Deaf community and the importance of Korean sign language. We will ensure that such mistakes do not happen again in the future.”

The statement also highlighted the role of sign language in the drama, saying, “Sign language plays a crucial part in the relationship between the two main characters as they learn to communicate with each other. Through their journey, we want to show the true value of sign language as an important tool that connects people.”

The production team concluded by asking for viewers' continued support, saying, “We hope you will keep watching the drama and point out any shortcomings you notice.”

Earlier, in the first episode of When the Phone Rings, which aired on November 22nd, a mistake occurred when sign language interpreter Hong Hee Joo (played by Chae Soo Bin) mistakenly used the sign for "mountain" while trying to interpret "landslide" due to a broadcast error.

This led to the sign being misunderstood as a finger gesture commonly seen as offensive, sparking backlash.

After the episode aired, a viewer posted a complaint on the viewer’s board, asking for an apology for mocking sign language.

The viewer explained that the sign for "mountain" is different from the offensive gesture and that using it in this context was hurtful to the Deaf community, as it has been used as a joke by hearing people.

The post described this as an act of discrimination and mockery, calling for a more respectful approach.

Source: [1]