Hanni visa issues led NJZ to shift activities overseas, starting with a performance in Hong Kong. The group is in a legal dispute with former agency ADOR over contract validity, complicating Hanni visa renewal. Public reactions vary, with concerns about NJZ agency plans and possible ties to Chinese investment.
NJZ’s Rebranding and Hong Kong Debut
The girl group formerly known as NewJeans has changed its name to NJZ and announced its first official activity. They will perform at a concert in Hong Kong this March. This marks their re-debut since their 2022 debut under ADOR with “Attention.”
In November 2023, NJZ unilaterally terminated its exclusive contract with ADOR and has since pursued independent activities. Recently, they revealed their new group name and photos through their official social media. They also confirmed their participation in ComplexCon, a global street fashion and culture festival in Hong Kong, from March 21 to 23.
Hanni Visa Issues and Hong Kong Performance
NJZ’s move to Hong Kong has led to speculation that it was influenced by Hanni’s visa expiration. As a foreign member, she held an E-6 artist visa, which prohibits her from continuing entertainment activities in South Korea after its expiration.
Concerns have also arisen regarding NJZ’s independent activities without an official agency. If Hanni has not obtained a new visa through a new company, her continued presence in South Korea would be considered illegal. Some fans have reported potential immigration violations related to her visa status.
Legal Dispute and Hanni Visa Complications
ADOR has taken legal action, asserting that NJZ’s exclusive contracts remain valid. The company has filed a lawsuit to confirm the contracts’ validity and has sought an injunction to prevent NJZ from signing new commercial agreements. ADOR also reportedly attempted to process Hanni’s visa extension, but NJZ, having already distanced itself from the company, likely rejected this.
Korean legal experts suggest that ADOR’s lawsuit could lead to contract reinstatement or financial compensation. Meanwhile, online discussions speculate that Hanni avoided renewing her visa through ADOR to strengthen NJZ’s legal stance in the dispute.
Speculation About NJZ’s New Agency and Chinese Investment
While NJZ members assured fans that they will soon have an official agency, doubts remain. Some suspect Chinese financial backing, particularly due to NJZ’s links with Complex Networks, a company rumored to have Chinese ties. This has led to negative public sentiment in some communities.
Furthermore, discussions on online forums include harsh criticisms of Hanni, with some extreme comments suggesting she should return to Vietnam, referencing her Vietnamese-Australian heritage. These accusations stem from allegations that she is currently overstaying her visa in South Korea.
NJZ’s situation remains uncertain, with legal battles ongoing and questions about their new agency’s identity. Until the agency is officially revealed, speculation regarding their financial and operational backing will likely continue.
Thank you so much for reading this post! I’d love to hear your thoughts, so feel free to share them in the comments!
Hanni is thinking of cutting ties with ADOR after they refused to cooperate with her visa application. But this article says that if Hanni doesn’t get a visa through another agency, she won’t be able to return to Korea. I don’t know what Hanni is thinking. I’m worried that she didn’t think this through before making this decision.