Set designer Gary Card sparked online buzz after unveiling unseen visuals from a cancelled project allegedly linked to NewJeans and Calvin Klein. On April 5, 2026, he shared a series of five images on Instagram featuring a denim-inspired set.
The visuals featured a large bunny soft toy constructed from denim, with button eyes bearing the CK logo. The set also included a gingerbread-style bunny emblem associated with the group, alongside oversized plush furniture shaped like the word NewJeans in blue denim.
In the caption, Card described the installation as an unused project, writing that it had been created for a “famous girl group” he chose not to name. He added that he had been fond of the set at the time and expressed disappointment that it was never used, noting he hoped enough time had passed to share the images without issue.
Although the artist did not name the collaborators, fans speculated that the concept was originally created for NewJeans as part of a potential campaign with the global fashion label. The post emerged amid ongoing developments surrounding NewJeans and their agency ADOR.
The group had previously been involved in a legal dispute after attempting to terminate their exclusive contracts in October. A court ruling did not favor the members’ position, leading to continued negotiations between the parties.
Subsequently, members Haerin and Hyein were reported to return to the label and resume group activities, followed by Hanni, while, ADOR stated that talks were still ongoing with Minji. In December 2025, ADOR announced the termination of Danielle’s exclusive contract and removed her from the group, citing a breakdown of trust and alleged contract violations.
The agency also stated it would pursue legal action involving a family member and former CEO Min Hee-jin. The situation led to uncertainty regarding the group’s lineup and future activities among fans.
Following Card’s post, the images began circulating widely across social media platforms. Fans expressed disappointment over the apparent cancellation of the collaboration.
Others linked the situation to the broader dispute involving HYBE, which oversees ADOR. While reactions varied, some fans attributed the outcome to the handling of the group’s contractual situation. One widely shared comment read,
“Hybe sabotaged them real bad. But we will see the karma soon.”
Fans continued to hold the agency responsible for the missed opportunity, pointing to the cancelled Calvin Klein collaboration as a significant loss for NewJeans. Some also strongly criticised the chairman of HYBE Bang Si-hyuk, attributing the situation to internal conflicts involving former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin.
Many described it as more than just a contract dispute, suggesting that potential campaigns, brand deals, and defining career moments were affected. Some users described it as a missed opportunity, imagining what a joint campaign between the group and the global fashion brand could have looked like.
NewJeans move forward amid contract fallout and comeback speculation
NewJeans remained in a transitional phase following internal and legal developments involving its members and agency ADOR. In early February 2026, ADOR updated NewJeans’ official social media platforms. Group images featuring all five original members were removed and replaced with logo-centric visuals and the group’s Binky Bong lightstick character.
At present, the agency appears to be moving forward with NewJeans as a four-member act. ADOR has previously stated that work on the group’s upcoming full-length album is underway. Recently, on April 15, The Korea Herald reported that the NewJeans members Haerin, Hyein, and Hanni were seen in Copenhagen, Denmark, alongside staff.
As per the report, images and eyewitness accounts showed the trio in public areas, accompanied by what appeared to be filming equipment. The presence of production staff led to speculation that the trip may be connected to official group activities. ADOR confirmed ro The Korea Herald, that the members had traveled to Denmark but did not provide details regarding the purpose of the visit, stating that it could not confirm specific schedules or whether filming was taking place.
Although Haerin, Hyein, and Hanni have reported to have resumed activities with the agency, Minji’s position remains yet to be officially confirmed.
Edited by Adrija Chakraborty
