NewJeans Addresses Uncertain Future and Emotional Goodbye at 2024 Korea Grand Music Awards

NewJeans, the popular K-Pop group, made a heartfelt and emotional speech at the 2024 Korea Grand Music Awards, where they addressed the uncertainty of their future together. On November 16, KST, during the award ceremony organized by Ilgan Sports, NewJeans received the Best Artist Award and used the platform to express their gratitude and concerns.

In their acceptance speech, the members of NewJeans did not shy away from discussing the ongoing conflict between their current management, HYBE, and the former ADOR CEO, Min Hee Jin. Hanni, a member of the group, emphasized the strong bond between the group and their fans, known as Bunnies, stating, “We don’t know when we will be able to stay as NewJeans, but I think the relationship between the five of us and the Bunnies cannot be destroyed. So, let’s stick together until the end.”[3]

The speech was particularly poignant when the group reiterated their new motto, “NewJeans never die,” which resonated deeply with the audience and other idols present. (G)I-DLE leader Soyeon was seen tearing up during the speech, a reaction that has gone viral on social media. Netizens speculated that Soyeon could relate to NewJeans’ uncertainty, given her own group’s past struggles and near-disbandment scare in 2021.[3]

NewJeans has also taken legal steps by notifying ADOR of potential contract termination unless specific conditions are met by the label. This move underscores the group’s determination to protect their interests amidst the ongoing management disputes.[3]