NewJeans Unveils New Song in Hong Kong: Thousands of Fans Show Support Amid Legal Battle
Outstanding Fanbase
Despite their ongoing legal battle with ADOR, NJZ (NewJeans) has proven their overwhelming popularity in Hong Kong, drawing thousands of fans at ComplexCon Hong Kong on March 23. The venue, AsiaWorld-Expo in Lantau, was filled with NJZ supporters, with lines stretching for hundreds of meters even outside.
The event, known for celebrating global pop culture, saw a massive turnout of NewJeans fans, many of whom wore official merchandise, including items from NewJeans’ “Supernatural” collaboration with renowned pop artist Takashi Murakami. Unlike traditional K-pop fanbases that often have a higher female demographic, NewJeans’ crowd reflected a balanced mix of male and female supporters, primarily in their teens and twenties.
A standout sight was the NJZ merchandise booth, which attracted a queue so long it extended outside the venue. While other booths had minimal lines, the NJZ section became the busiest spot at the event, reinforcing their immense fan support. Several items, including T-shirts, keychains, and pens featuring NJZ members’ characters, quickly sold out.
One of the event staff commented, “There are way more NewJeans fans today compared to yesterday. Their presence is undeniable.”
Fans’ Support Amid Legal Battle
Many fans at the venue were well aware of NewJeans’ ongoing conflict with ADOR and HYBE. A 25-year-old fan expressed her frustration, saying, “I just hope HYBE stops interfering with NJZ’s future and lets them move on peacefully.” Her friend of the same age also echoed the sentiment. Meanwhile, two 17-year-old fans, both sporting NJZ’s signature rabbit hats, passionately chanted, “NJZ never dies!” showing their unwavering support for the group’s independent path.
Earlier that day, when NJZ members arrived at Hong Kong International Airport, hundreds of fans gathered, chanting “NJZ” in support as they stepped out.
NJZ’s Hong Kong Concert: A Defiant Statement
Despite their incredible reception in Hong Kong, NJZ faces significant hurdles ahead. On March 21, the Seoul Central District Court granted ADOR’s injunction, temporarily prohibiting NJZ from engaging in independent activities without ADOR’s approval. Until a final ruling is made on their exclusive contract lawsuit, NJZ remains legally tied to their original agency.
Despite concerns that their performance might be canceled due to the court ruling, NJZ decided to move forward with the concert, prioritizing their commitment to fans. Tickets were already sold out, and canceling would have resulted in even greater disruption. ADOR also sent staff to Hong Kong to ensure NJZ could perform under their original group name, allowing them to continue their activities for now.
As anticipation builds, each member of the group has so far delivered solo covers of various songs instead of performing NewJeans songs. In particular, Danielle performed TLC’s “No Scrubs”, Minji delivered a cover for Upsahl’s “Smile for the Camera”, Haerin sang The Internet’s “Don’t Cha”, Hyein covered SWV’s “use your heart”, and Hanni covered “My Boo”. The girl group has also introduced a new song titled “PIT STOP” at the event.
