The legal clash between FIFTY FIFTY and ATTRAKT’s CEO, Jeon Hong Joon, took a dramatic turn that reverberated throughout the K-pop industry. On August 17, 2023, the renowned Barun Law Firm officially filed a criminal complaint on behalf of FIFTY FIFTY, alleging a “breach of trust” in accordance with the Act on Specific Economic Crimes. This move was unprecedented and raised significant questions about the intricate workings of the K-Pop world, especially the intricate relationships between artists and their management companies.
FIFTY FIFTY Takes Legal Action Against ATTRAKT CEO
Adding complexity to this high-stakes battle was FIFTY FIFTY’s history. The group initially signed with Jeon Hong Joon‘s previous venture, Star Crew Entertainment, before making the transition to ATTRAKT ahead of their debut. Barun Law Firm‘s claims of financial irregularities, involving the transfer of funds and debts between these two companies, have added layers of intrigue and complexity to the situation.
The eyes of the K-Pop community, fans, and industry insiders are fixed on this unfolding legal drama. The potential consequences of this battle are far-reaching and may significantly impact FIFTY FIFTY’s career trajectory and the broader landscape of the Korean entertainment industry.
In 2022, FIFTY FIFTY emerged as a dynamic K-Pop group, featuring the talents of Sio, Saena, Aran, and Keena. Under the management of ATTRAKT, they debuted in November 2022 with their EP “The Fifty.”
However, it was their viral hit single, “Cupid,” released in February 2023, that catapulted them to international stardom. Within an astonishing four months of their debut, FIFTY FIFTY became the fastest K-Pop group to secure positions on both the US Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart. This achievement was even more remarkable as they became the first K-pop girl group to break into the UK’s top ten.
The group’s rapid ascent in the music industry did not go unnoticed. In 2023, FIFTY FIFTY signed a significant deal with Warner Music Korea, firmly establishing their presence as a rising force in the global music scene. They were previously announced to appear in the “Barbie” original soundtrack.