Singer and musical actress Ock Joo-hyun has expressed her support for NewJeans, who are currently embroiled in a contract dispute with their agency, ADOR.
On the December 17 broadcast of SBS PowerFM’s 'Wendy’s Young Street', Ock appeared alongside Yoon Sa-bong to promote their musical Mata Hari.
During the show, Ock recommended NewJeans’ track 'Ditto,' explaining, “Since I was once a fairy-like idol myself, I intentionally keep up with news about girl group juniors.” She continued, “NewJeans has been going through some complicated issues. I really wanted to cheer them on. Watching their recent challenges, I’ve been silently supporting them in my heart.”
Ock also offered heartfelt advice, saying, “I don’t have direct contact with any of the members, but as a senior, if I could say one thing, it’s that going through hardships will make them even more remarkable individuals. They’ll gain deeper emotions and become artists capable of delivering even greater music.”
In response, NewJeans expressed their gratitude with a heartwarming gesture. On December 18, NewJeans posted a message on their newly launched independent social media account, '@Jeanz4Free,' tagging Ock’s handle and writing, “Thank you so much, 'sunbaenim'(a Korean term of respect for seniors in the industry).” Alongside the post, the members shared a photo of themselves forming hand hearts.
Touched by their response, Ock reshared the post on her SNS, writing, “I’m even more excited about NewJeans’ future. Supporting you with love.”
Ock isn’t the only veteran idol to rally behind NewJeans. Bada, a former member of S.E.S and a close acquaintance of Min Hee-jin, NewJeans’ former representative at SM Entertainment, has also shown her support multiple times in the past.
Meanwhile, NewJeans held an emergency press conference on November 28, announcing the termination of their exclusive contract with ADOR. The group is currently operating independently, engaging with fans through their newly created social media account, “Jeans4Free.” ADOR, however, insists that the contract remains valid and has filed a lawsuit with the Seoul Central District Court on December 3 to confirm its validity.
Despite the ongoing legal battle, NewJeans is moving forward with their schedule. They are set to perform at the 2024 SBS Gayo Daejeon on December 25, the AAA 2024 on December 27, and MBC’s Gayo Daejejeon on December 31.