NewJeans members Haerin and Hyein. [Herald POP (now Herald Muse) via Herald Business]
NewJeans members Haerin and Hyein. [Herald POP (now Herald Muse) via Herald Business]

NewJeans members Haerin and Hyein have been spotted in the United States, drawing fresh attention to the group's plans for the second half of the year.

On June 27, a soccer fan posted a video to their Instagram story with the caption "natural encounter with NewJeans," showing Haerin and Hyein chatting cheerfully face to face. Staff members carrying cameras were also visible in the footage, prompting speculation about an ongoing shoot. The clip quickly spread across social media and online communities.

The two had previously been seen in Copenhagen, Denmark, in April, when fellow member Hanni was also reported to have joined them on the trip. Speculation about new work grew after a photo surfaced showing "ADOR" listed on the schedule board of a local recording studio.

Ador said at the time that the Copenhagen visit was "part of the pre-production process to capture NewJeans' new musical narrative," adding that "members are preparing activities according to their individual conditions, and future plans will be officially announced at the most appropriate time."

NewJeans declared the termination of their exclusive contracts with Ador in November 2024 and left the agency, but subsequently lost a first-instance court ruling on the validity of those contracts. Without filing an appeal, the members one by one announced their intention to return to Ador. Haerin and Hyein rejoined first, followed by Hanni, bringing the active lineup to three.

Danielle, by contrast, was notified by Ador of the termination of her contract, and Ador has filed a lawsuit seeking 43.1 billion won ($27.7 million) in penalties and damages against Danielle's side and former CEO Min Hee-jin. That case is ongoing.

Meanwhile, Minji is still in discussions with the agency over whether she will return.


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