NewJeans has sparked mixed reactions with their latest summer content release.
ADOR published a YouTube Short to the group’s official channel on July 22nd. The short video features Minji, Hanni, Haerin and Hyein holding hands and playing together inside a circular fisheye lens frame.
While a special anniversary video released earlier that day offered a cinematic look at summer colors, rabbit motifs and the four members reuniting, this new Short takes a lighter, more candid approach. Using quick movements and wide-angle distortion, the clip highlights the group’s signature close-knit chemistry and casual vibe.
Public opinion on the new release remains split. Many fans welcomed the return of the group’s signature summer energy, with one commenter sharing, “I missed feeling the summer with NewJeans.” However, film poster designer Park Si Young openly criticized the new video, calling it “tacky.”
Music video director Shin Hee Won, who previously directed hits like “Super Shy,” “Attention,” and “How Sweet,” also sparked controversy by posting an illustration of five girls dancing with the caption “The power of the director.”
The post drew sharp backlash from fans online. “It’s clear that not a single adult had NewJeans’ best interests at heart,” one fan wrote. Others added, “You’re pouring cold water on their return just because your director friends were replaced” and “This makes me want to support ADOR.”
Beyond the production debate, a significant portion of the fandom expressed frustration over the group’s new direction without Danielle.
The core challenge now facing NewJeans is whether ADOR’s new creative team can preserve the group’s signature identity without former CEO Min Hee Jin while still delivering fresh concepts.
ADOR stated that the new content was created to celebrate the group’s 4th anniversary with fans. The agency added that official comeback details will be announced once discussions with the members are complete.
While no official statement has been made regarding Minji’s full return, her appearance in the video suggests the group may move forward as a four-member lineup for now. Reports indicate that official announcements regarding Minji’s status were delayed due to ongoing contract negotiations with ADOR.
>> Is NewJeans’ Minji Finally Returning? ADOR Addresses Comeback Speculation
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