NJZ set to headline ComplexCon in Hong Kong amidst legal battle with former label

The annual ComplexCon, a pivotal event in the fashion and culture scene, has become a significant attraction for K-pop fans globally, particularly this year with the appearance of NJZ, formerly known as NewJeans.

The Korean girl group, comprising Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein, along with their former CEO Min Hee-jin, has been embroiled in a legal dispute with their previous company, ADOR, a subsidiary of HYBE. After announcing their departure from ADOR last November, the group rebranded as NJZ in February during an exclusive interview with CNN.

NJZ is set to headline at ComplexCon in Hong Kong, marking their first performance under their new name. The event will be held at AsiaWorld-Expo on March 23, where they are expected to unveil new songs.

Their presence is anticipated to attract a significant international audience, with fans from the U.S., Japan, Korea, Taiwan, China, and Southeast Asia expressing excitement and sharing travel plans on social media platforms like Threads.

The dispute with ADOR has not only been a legal battle but also a struggle for media recognition in Korea, prompting NJZ to seek international platforms to share their story. Despite these challenges, their upcoming performance at ComplexCon signifies a new beginning for the group.

Adding to the intrigue, South Korean rapper ZICO, also affiliated with HYBE through his company KOZ Entertainment, is scheduled to perform at the same venue on March 22.

This lineup places artists from adversarial companies back-to-back, highlighting the complex dynamics within the K-pop industry.

ComplexCon, first held in Los Angeles in 2016 and brought to Hong Kong last year, continues to expand its influence in Asia, attracting global attention. NJZ's participation this year not only boosts the event's profile but also marks a significant milestone in their career, promising a fresh chapter for the group and their fans worldwide.