The members of NJZ (formerly NewJeans) have strongly refuted recent claims that they are signing with the entertainment agency BANA (Beasts And Natives Alike). In a firm statement issued via their social media, the group’s parents dismissed these reports as entirely false and announced plans for legal action against media outlets spreading misinformation.
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False Reports Spark Controversy
On February 14, multiple news outlets reported that NJZ was in discussions with BANA regarding a potential contract. These claims were allegedly based on testimony from unnamed industry insiders. However, NJZ's representatives swiftly rejected the rumors, asserting that no such discussions or agreements had taken place.
Through their official social media account, the members’ parents stated, "NJZ has never engaged in any negotiations or contracts with BANA. The articles citing ‘multiple industry sources’ are completely baseless and were published without verifying the facts with any of the involved parties." They further accused certain media outlets of attempting to create controversy by spreading false information.
Hello,
— NJZ Loops 🐇 (@newjeans_loop) February 14, 2025
We would like to inform you that the exclusive article by reporter Min-Kyung Lee of 'TenAsia,' titled "NJZ Joins Hands with Bana," is completely false and baseless.
NJZ has never signed any affiliation contract with Bana or engaged in any discussions regarding such… pic.twitter.com/b1oSGKPuRM
Legal Action Against Misinformation
NJZ’s representatives emphasized their commitment to addressing the issue through legal channels. They announced plans to file a complaint with the Press Arbitration Commission and pursue criminal charges against the publication responsible for the misleading reports.
One of the media outlets named in the statement was Ten Asia, which was specifically called out for allegedly spreading false information without proper fact-checking. The parents of NJZ members stated, "We will be filing a complaint with the Press Arbitration Commission against Ten Asia, which has continuously spread misinformation without verification. The responsible journalist must be held legally accountable for the harm caused." They also highlighted the emotional distress these reports have caused for both the members and those close to them.
Ongoing Legal Dispute with ADOR
Meanwhile, NJZ remains entangled in a legal dispute with their former agency, ADOR. Last November, the five members—Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein—publicly announced their decision to terminate their exclusive contracts with ADOR. However, the agency has contested their departure, claiming that the contracts remain valid until July 31, 2029.
ADOR has filed a lawsuit to confirm the validity of the contracts and requested an injunction preventing NJZ from signing new deals or engaging in independent promotional activities. The court hearing for the injunction is scheduled for March 7, while the first trial regarding the contract dispute will take place on April 3.
NJZ Moves Forward with New Identity
Despite the ongoing legal battle, NJZ is moving forward with their rebranding. The group officially adopted the name NJZ earlier this month and has already lined up new projects. They are set to perform at ComplexCon Hong Kong in March, marking their first major event under their new identity. Additionally, they plan to release new music on February 23, signaling a fresh start for the group.
As NJZ continues to navigate these challenges, fans remain eager to support their next steps in the ever-evolving K-pop landscape.