NewJeans' rebrand to NJZ called 'deeply regrettable' by former label ADOR

NewJeans's former label ADOR describing the group's move to rebrand as NJZ as "deeply regrettable" in a new statement.

The K-pop group announced their new name on 7th February, coinciding with confirmation of their headline slot at ComplexCon Hong Kong 2025. The March appearance will mark their first performance under the new moniker and feature new material from the band.

"Even though we have to leave our previous name behind us for a bit, we're not fully moving on from it. And we don't want to either, because [being NewJeans] was still a very special period of time to us, and it's something that our fans also probably hold really dear," Hanni told CNN.

ADOR have responded to the announcement, stating: "It is deeply regrettable that the members made this unilateral decision before any legal ruling has been made regarding the validity of their exclusive contracts with ADOR." The label added that they would "continue to do our best to protect the brand value of NewJeans" and remain "always open to meeting with NewJeans members or their legal representatives to resolve any misunderstandings and discuss the group's future activities".

The change follows the group's contract termination with ADOR and HYBE in November 2024, with the members stating they "have no intention of ever returning" to their former labels. The band are set to face ADOR in court after the company filed a lawsuit regarding contract validity and an injunction concerning independent brand deals.