NewJeans’ fourth anniversary comeback sparks fan concern

K-pop girl group NewJeans celebrated their fourth debut anniversary by releasing new promotional content, raising speculation about a possible four-member comeback after nearly two years away from the music scene.

At midnight on July 22 (KST), the group unveiled a series of summer-themed videos and photos under the title “2026 Summer of NewJeans.” The newly released content featured Hanni, Haerin, Minji and Hyein, marking the group’s first official update together in a long time.

The release also confirmed Minji’s return to group activities following months of uncertainty. However, Danielle was absent from the anniversary content after officially leaving the agency at the end of 2025.

The cheerful summer concept has led many fans to believe that NewJeans may finally be preparing for a long-awaited musical comeback. Although no official announcement about a new album or single has been made, the timing of the promotional campaign has fuelled excitement across social media.

Despite the anticipation surrounding the group’s return, the new photos and videos also sparked mixed reactions among fans. While many welcomed seeing the members together again, others expressed concern over their appearance and questioned whether the group was genuinely happy.

Several fans claimed that the members looked unhappy in the promotional images, with some describing the content as rushed and lacking the group’s usual energy. Social media users shared comments suggesting the members appeared exhausted, while others said the videos did not reflect the bright and lively image NewJeans had been known for since their debut.

The group’s activities have remained uncertain since the highly publicised legal dispute involving their agency, ADOR, and its former CEO Min Hee-jin. The conflict dominated headlines throughout 2025 and significantly affected NewJeans’ career, forcing the members to pause group promotions for an extended period.

A major legal development came when a Seoul court ruled that the members’ exclusive contracts with ADOR remained legally valid. Following the ruling, Hanni, Haerin and Hyein gradually resumed activities with the agency, while discussions regarding Minji’s future also progressed positively before her eventual return.

Danielle, however, officially ended her contract with the company and continues to face an ongoing legal dispute related to damages claimed by the agency.

Soon after NewJeans released their anniversary content, Danielle shared a new post on Instagram that quickly attracted widespread attention. Alongside a selfie, she wrote an uplifting message about hope, resilience and staying grateful even during difficult times.

Fans also noticed that Danielle was wearing a cap with the word “REVENGE” printed across it. The detail immediately sparked speculation online, with many wondering whether the choice of clothing carried a hidden message related to her former agency or the ongoing legal battle.

However, Danielle has not commented on the meaning behind the cap, and there is no confirmation that it was intended as a reference to the dispute.

As NewJeans celebrate four years since their debut, fans remain divided between excitement over the possibility of new music and concern about the challenges the members have faced. Until an official comeback announcement is made, speculation surrounding the group’s future is likely to continue.