Recently, NewJeans appeared at Yoasobi's concert at Inspire Arena in Incheon (Korea). This was NewJeans' first domestic performance since the group announced the termination of their contract with ADOR Company (from November 29).
However, according to Allkpop, the 5-member girl group did not mention the name “NewJeans”. Instead, they introduced themselves by their own names (Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, Hyein).
The group name and logo were also absent from the stage images. Although Yoasobi briefly mentioned “NewJeans” during the introduction, this was the only time the group name was mentioned throughout the event.
Fans also discovered that the members covered up the name “NewJeans” on the t-shirts they wore.
Previously, when introducing the group on some Japanese shows, they only said “Hello” and skipped the introduction “We are NewJeans”.
The situation of NewJeans avoiding calling themselves by their group name quickly spread on social media. This unusual thing was hotly discussed in the Kpop fan community.
Some netizens called it a “strange tragicomedy,” borrowing a recent statement from the Korea Entertainment Producers Association (KEPA).
Others compared it to the English expression “AKA,” wondering whether the members should now be called “AKA NewJeans.”
Meanwhile, controversy surrounding NewJeans' contract termination announcement continues to escalate.
Prominent industry organizations such as the Korean Entertainment Producers Association and the Korean Management Association have called on NewJeans to reverse the decision to terminate the contract, saying, “NewJeans is creating a crisis that could shake the foundation of K-pop with its unreasonable and irresponsible statements.”
