The K-Pop Landscape Shifts Amidst NJZ's Silence

On September 21, 2025, a thought-provoking article by Hankook Ilbo raised a burning question: "Is there still room for NJZ (NewJeans) in the dynamic world of K-Pop?" This inquiry sparked a fiery online debate, reflecting the group's prolonged absence from the scene.

Once hailed as the trailblazers of the 4th generation girl group era, NewJeans has seen their momentum stall due to ongoing disputes with ADOR. It's been six months since fans have heard new music or seen performances from this once-unstoppable group.

How Did We Get Here?

NewJeans burst onto the K-Pop scene in 2022, with their infectious debut track, 'Attention,' igniting a national sensation. Hits like 'Hype Boy,' 'Cookie,' and 'OMG' solidified their status among K-Pop royalty. However, in April 2024, tensions flared between ADOR's then-CEO Min Hee Jin and HYBE, leading to a legal mess that has stifled the group's career.

After announcing the end of their exclusive contract in November 2024 due to lost trust, NJZ attempted to carve their own path, but an injunction from the court prevented them from pursuing new music or endorsements. With their legal battles stretching on, fans can't help but wonder: will NewJeans ever regain their former glory?

Fan Opinions: Hope or Hopelessness?

With NewJeans' absence, the K-Pop scene has drastically shifted, and many groups have risen to fill the void. The question now isn't just about their potential comeback, but whether they can truly reclaim their prior impact. Comments on social media reveal mixed feelings among fans, with some declaring they’ve already moved on, while others still yearn for the group.

Some fans are hopeful, saying things like, "If they come back, they still have a chance to shine," while others express skepticism, noting, "It won't be easy for them after such a long time away."