The legal dispute between the girl group FIFTY FIFTY and their agency ATTRAKT has been a hot topic for a while. However, according to a report by the 50th Civil Affairs Department of the Seoul Central District Court, mediation may soon resolve it.
https://twitter.com/fiftyfiftylog/status/1686277249299886080
The recent decision by the court to send the legal dispute to mediation marks a significant turning point in the ongoing battle. Mediation, a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), offers a more private and potentially amicable way to end conflicts. It allows everyone involved to negotiate, giving them an opportunity to reach an agreement without the need for a public trial.
In the case of FIFTY FIFTY and ATTRAKT, the court’s decision to turn to mediation reflects an understanding that a civil settlement may be in the parties’ best interests. This process will enable the rookie group and the entertainment label to discuss their grievances openly and work towards a mutual agreement. However, the path to resolution does not have a guarantee. If the parties fail to reach an agreement, the court may propose a compromise. Should both parties reject this offer, the lawsuit will proceed through the traditional court system.
The allegations and conflict
FIFTY FIFTY, who became popular because of the hit song “Cupid,” accused ATTRAKT of betraying their trust and breaching their contract. Among other things, the agency reportedly pushed the girl group to continue promoting despite health issues. A legal representative for FIFTY FIFTY stated, “This application for an injunction is due to ATTRAKT’s violation of the contract and destruction of trust.”
ATTRAKT’s CEO Jung Heung Joon countered the allegations. He accused outside forces, including major label Warner Music Korea, of attempting to “poach” the group. The agency also sued “Cupid” producer Ahn Sung Il, claiming they bought the copyrights to the song from a foreign composer.
Cupid (Twin Ver.) – LIVE IN STUDIO | FIFTY FIFTY (피프티피프티)
The situation escalated when Dispatch revealed details behind FIFTY FIFTY‘s funding, formation, and copyrights. More than 95% of the song’s royalties were reported to go to Ahn Sung Il and The Givers. The Korean public supported ATTRAKT’s CEO, referring to FIFTY FIFTY as “Backstabbing Idols.”
The first trial took place on July 5. FIFTY FIFTY‘s lawyer accused ATTRAKT of incompetence and demanded proof of spending on the group. The argument fell apart after Interpark revealed that the money given to ATTRAKT had nothing to do with FIFTY FIFTY.
Impact of mediation on the industry
In another shocking revelation, Dispatch wrote that producer Ahn Sung Il forged the signatures of the “Cupid” songwriters to transfer its copyright to himself. As a result, FIFTY FIFTY‘s royalties from the song were withheld due to a decision made by the Korean Music Copyright Association.
The court’s decision to arbitrate an agreement between the two parties rather than giving a ruling elicited mixed reactions. Some fans have expressed support for FIFTY FIFTY‘s fight for freedom, while others called for new members to be picked for the group.
Free my girls from this paper company
— FTFT Fanboy (@fifty_fifty_fan) August 1, 2023
The legal battle also raised questions about the transparency and ethics within the K-pop industry. It exposed the complex relationships between labels, producers, and artists, shedding light on the challenges faced by young idols.
The fate of FIFTY FIFTY‘s career remains uncertain, but the impact of this legal battle will surely resonate throughout the K-pop industry. Whether the mediation leads to a settlement or the case goes to court, the outcome may affect how the K-pop industry handles contracts and relationships moving forward. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: At this point, netizens really want this case to be resolved as quickly as possible. Source: Twitter/@fiftyfiftyfeed.