ATTRAKT is taking legal action against former FIFTY FIFTY members Saena, Sio, and Aran, along with The Givers, by filing a complaint and seeking tens of billions of won (tens of millions of dollars) in compensation for damages. The decision to pursue civil suits represents a significant move by ATTRAKT to address the complications and disputes surrounding the group’s contracts and the alleged interference by external entities.
Former FIFTY FIFTY Members Face Civil Suits Filed by ATTRAKT
On December 19, a representative for ATTRAKT shared a statement confirming the agency’s next move.
“We filed civil suits against former FIFTY FIFTY members Saena, Sio, and Aran for compensation of damages and penalties for violating exclusive contracts, The Givers’ Ahn Sung Il and Baek Jin Sil for actively engaging in the unfair breach of exclusive contracts, and the parents of the three members for compensation of damages caused by joint illegal activities,” it read.
FIFTY FIFTY gained global fame with their debut song “Cupid” in November 2022. However, the group faced internal conflicts, leading to a legal battle with ATTRAKT. In June, FIFTY FIFTY applied for provisional disposition to suspend the validity of their exclusive contracts with ATTRAKT. During this time, ATTRAKT suspected The Givers of attempting to influence the group’s decision to terminate their contracts.
One FIFTY FIFTY Member Remains
In August, the Seoul Central District Court denied FIFTY FIFTY’s request to suspend their contracts with ATTRAKT. Despite the court’s decision, FIFTY FIFTY immediately appealed. Keena, one of the members, later withdrew the appeal and returned to ATTRAKT in November.
The legal complaint against Saena, Sio, Aran, and The Givers signifies a proactive stance by ATTRAKT to seek compensation for damages beyond a simple contractual dispute. The legal representative, lawyer Park Jae Heon of Lee & Ko, emphasized that the lawsuit aims to establish fair trade practices in the entertainment sector, indicating the broader implications of the legal action.
The lawsuit is expected to shed light on the intricacies of the entertainment industry, especially concerning exclusive contracts, fair business practices, and the rights of both entertainment agencies and artists. ATTRAKT’s commitment to pursuing the case underscores the significance of establishing transparent and just standards within the industry.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the outcome will not only impact the individuals involved but may also contribute to shaping the legal landscape and ethical considerations in the entertainment sector. The case serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by artists and agencies in the dynamic and competitive realm of the entertainment industry.
