Girl group NewJeans has significantly expanded its legal representation ahead of the second hearing in its lawsuit to confirm the validity of its exclusive contract with ADOR.

According to legal sources on May 21st KST, NewJeans submitted an updated attorney designation form to the Seoul Eastern District Court on May 9th. The group is represented by major law firm Shin & Kim, and with the latest additions, a total of 13 lawyers are now handling the case. Some of these lawyers previously represented former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin.

ADOR, on the other hand, has appointed 12 lawyers through Korea’s largest firm, Kim & Chang, highlighting both sides’ strategic readiness and the seriousness of the legal battle. While the number of lawyers doesn’t determine the verdict, the fact that more attorneys than NewJeans members are involved underscores the symbolic weight of the case.

NewJeans had also added lawyers ahead of the first hearing on April 3rd, where the key issue was whether trust between the parties had irreparably broken down. ADOR suggested the possibility of a settlement, but NewJeans rejected the proposal, signaling a firm stance. The members did not appear in person at the first hearing, and their attendance at the second has yet to be confirmed.

Currently, NewJeans’ activities are on hold due to a court injunction in March that upheld ADOR’s request to suspend the effect of contract termination, limiting the group’s independent activities.

However, on May 19th, member Danielle sparked interest after a now-deleted Instagram post hinted at a collaboration with U.S. R&B duo Emotional Oranges. The post’s swift deletion has been interpreted as a move to avoid legal complications amid the ongoing dispute.

The second hearing in the NewJeans vs. ADOR contract case is scheduled for June 5th.

SEE ALSO: High profile legal heavyweights join NewJeans' and ADOR's legal teams amidst ongoing battle