Tag: FIFTY FIFTY

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BTS’s Jungkook Named Billboard’s Best K-Pop Artist

Jungkook

Billboard has officially declared BTS’s Jungkook as the best K-pop artist of 2024 in its inaugural ranking of the top 100 K-pop stars. The media outler made the announcement to mark the upcoming launch of Billboard Korea in May.

The 2024 Billboard K-Pop Artist 100 marks the first time the US magazine has ranked K-pop artists. The rankings were assembled by the chart teams at Billboard and its Seoul branch, Billboard Korea, which is set to publish its first issue in June. These rankings drew from artists’ activities across the Billboard 200 albums chart, Billboard Hot 100 songs chart, and Billboard Boxscore. The Boxscore tracks tour attendance and revenue, covering the period from January 7, 2023, to December 30, 2023.

Group members were generally listed together unless notable solo activities warranted individual recognition. That’s what happened with Jungkook. This year’s rankings included members from 16 groups: (G)I-DLE, aespa, ATEEZ, BLACKPINK, BTS, ENHYPEN, FIFTY FIFTY, ITZY, LE SSERAFIM, NCT 127, NCT Dream, NewJeans, SEVENTEEN, Stray Kids, TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT), and TWICE.

How did Jungkook take the top spot?

Jungkook’s rise to the top of Billboard’s ranking followed the success of his first solo single “Seven (feat. Latto)” and the album GOLDEN, both released in 2023. “Seven (feat. Latto)” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It remained at the top of the Billboard Global 200 for seven weeks, was hailed as the No. 1 Global Song of the Summer, and snagged the Top Global K-Pop Song at the Billboard Music Awards. Furthermore, Jungkook’s musical prowess was evident in his hit Hot 100 collaborations. These included the top-five hit “3D (feat. Jack Harlow),” which received a remix from Justin Timberlake, and “Too Much” with The Kid LAROI and Central Cee.

GOLDEN further cemented his status by debuting at No. 2 on the Billboard 200. It set a record for the largest sales week ever for a K-pop solo act with 210,200 equivalent-unit albums for the chart week dated November 18, 2023. His track “Standing Next to You” is on track to become his longest-running Hot 100 hit, having spent 16 consecutive weeks on the tally thus far. These accomplishments put Jungkook at the top of a list that evaluates activity on the Billboard 200, Hot 100, and Billboard Boxscore touring data over the past year.

Who else is on the list?

Second on the list is Stray Kids’ leader, Bang Chan, followed by Lee Know in third place. The rest of Stray Kids’ members—Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix, Seungmin, and I.N—also made the top 10, in that order. This indicates a strong showing by the group in Billboard’s rankings. Girl group FIFTY FIFTY, which only has one remaining original member, Keena, secured the No. 10 spot.

In anticipation of its May launch, Billboard Korea plans to host a kick-off event in Seoul. This event will celebrate the K-pop artists featured on the 2024 list as guests of honor. It’ll further highlight the global influence of K-pop and its artists. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: BTS’s golden maknae added another feather to his cap. Source: Billboard.

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ATTRAKT Announces FIFTY FIFTY Comeback With New Members

ATTRAKT releases concept photos of Keena. Credit: Twitter/FIFTY FIFTY

A FIFTY FIFTY comeback is happening this year! The group’s announcement of their upcoming comeback in June marks a significant moment for both the group and their fans.

ATTRAKT Announces FIFTY FIFTY Comeback

The news, shared by their agency ATTRAKT on February 8, came as a pleasant surprise to many, especially considering the tumultuous journey the group has faced in recent times.

Debuting in November 2022 with their catchy and infectious song “Cupid,” FIFTY FIFTY quickly garnered a dedicated fanbase and gained recognition on a global scale. However, their promising start was soon overshadowed by internal conflicts and legal disputes that threatened the group’s future.

In June 2023, FIFTY FIFTY faced a major setback when they filed an application for provisional disposition to suspend the validity of their exclusive contracts with ATTRAKT. The move sparked a series of legal battles and led to the departure of some members from the group. Amidst the turmoil, Keena, one of the original members, chose to return to ATTRAKT, signaling a potential turning point for the group’s fortunes.

FIFTY FIFTY Moving Forward

Now, with plans for a comeback underway, FIFTY FIFTY is poised to make a triumphant return to the music scene. The group’s agency, ATTRAKT, has initiated the reorganization of members, centering around Keena, in preparation for their upcoming release. Fans can expect a revamped lineup, with additional details set to be confirmed around April.

The announcement of FIFTY FIFTY’s comeback has generated excitement and anticipation among fans, who have also eagerly awaited news of the group’s return. Despite the challenges and obstacles they have faced, FIFTY FIFTY remains determined to overcome adversity and reclaim their rightful place in the spotlight.

As the group prepares to unleash new music in June, they are also poised to captivate audiences once again with their electrifying performances and infectious melodies. With the unwavering support of their fans and the determination of their members, FIFTY FIFTY is ready to write the next chapter in their musical journey and make their comeback a resounding success.

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Former FIFTY FIFTY Members Aran, Saena, and Sio Seek New Agency

Former FIFTY FIFTY members Aran (Jeong Eunah), Saena (Jeong Sehyun), and Sio (Jeong Jiho) are actively seeking a new agency after their departure from the group. The fan club FIGHT FOR FIFI contacted the girls’ legal team to ask how fans can support them.

Said legal team relayed a message from the girls themselves. FIGHT FOR FIFI shared it on social media with their permission. In the message, Aran, Saena, and Sia expressed gratitude for the fans’ unwavering support. “Currently, we’ve achieved the dissolution of the exclusive contract through mutual notification, which was the ultimate goal of the lawsuit,” they wrote. “We’re no longer artists under the management of ATTRAKT. Thus, there is no special legal assistance that fans can give us in the current situation.”

They added, “However, the three members Jeong Eunah, Jeong Jiho, and Jeong Sehyun continue to practice and recover while actively seeking new management. We remain determined to make music and aspire to be artists who positively influence others. We’ll do our best to present ourselves before our fans soon, and hope that fans will trust and support us even if it feels a little slow-footed.”

X/@FightForFifi

The FIFTY FIFTY saga

Previously, FIFTY FIFTY took legal action against their management company, ATTRAKT, to end their contracts, citing unclear financial dealings and poor healthcare. However, in August 2022, their case was dismissed, leading the members to appeal the decision. One member, Keena (Song Jakyung), chose not to continue with the appeal. Keena returned to ATTRAKT and implied that Ahn Sung Il of The Givers gaslit the group. The others disagreed; they attributed the issues to ATTRAKT’s mishandling of money and contracts.

Meanwhile, ATTRAKT, led by CEO Jeon Hong-jun, filed civil suits against Ahn Sung Il, Baek Jin Sil (also of The Givers), and the three former FIFTY FIFTY members. The agency is seeking tens of billions of won (tens of millions of dollars) in compensation for damages.

As they navigate these challenges, Aran, Saena, and Sio are determined to continue their musical journey and find new opportunities in the industry. This demonstrates their resilience and hope for the future. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Aran, Saena, and Sio won’t leave the idol life despite their legal struggles. Source: X/@UpdateFifty.

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ATTRAKT Files Civil Suits Against Former FIFTY FIFTY Members Saena, Sio, And Aran

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.

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These Are the K-Pop Songs That Made It to Rolling Stone’s ‘Best Songs of 2023’

NewJeans poses for their 2024 Season's Greetings. Credit: Twitter/NewJeans

Several K-pop tracks have earned a place on Rolling Stone‘s prestigious list of “Best Songs of 2023,” underscoring the genre’s growing influence on the global music scene.

Of particular significance is NewJeans‘ exceptional achievement as the sole K-pop group featured in both the “Best Albums of 2023” and “Best Songs of 2023” categories by Rolling Stone. 

On December 1, the authoritative music media outlet unveiled its highly-anticipated list for “The 100 Best Songs of 2023.” For the first time, a total of nine K-pop releases were featured in the list. 

NewJeans‘ pre-released track and title song, “Super Shy,“ from their 2nd mini-album Get Up, secured an impressive 6th position. Notably this marked the highest-ranking K-pop song on the list. According to Rolling Stone, the particular track was a “breakthrough” for the girl group. “The song is one of the purest pop thrills of the year, with a dreamy melody,” they added. “In true K-pop fashion, the accompanying music video is just as captivating.” 

Prior to this ranking, NewJeans’ Get Up also secured the 33rd position in Rolling Stones “The 100 Best Album of 2023.” 

Other K-pop songs that made it to Rolling Stone’s list

Meanwhile, SEVENTEEN‘s “Super” claimed the 47th position. The title track from their 10th mini-album FML is the second-highest among K-pop songs. In their list, Rolling Stone praised the group’s inspiration drawn from Chinese mythological creature Sun Wukong. As well as using this as a metaphor for their impressive growth in their eight-year journey. 

Next K-pop songs that made it to the list are TWICE’s pre-released English single “Moonlight Sunrise,” from their 12th mini-album Ready to Be, which secured the 55th spot. 

Meanwhile, V of BTS earned the 58th position with his pre-released track “Rainy Days” from his first solo album Layover. With this, Min Hee-jin, the producer of NewJeans and CEO of Ador, is the only Korean producer with two songs on the chart. To note, she also helped produce V’s solo debut album. 

Other K-pop songs on the list include BLACKPINK Jisoo’s solo debut song “Flower” at 67th spot and FIFTY FIFTY’s viral song “Cupid“ at the 75th spot. Also part of the roundup are XG at 77th with their title track “Left Right” from their third single Shooting Star. 

Placing 95 and 99, respectively, are aespa’s “Spicy” and BTS Jungkook’s “Seven” feat. Latto. 

How do you feel about this ranking? Should there be more K-pop songs included in the list? 

Featured image: NewJeans poses for their 2024 Season’s Greetings. Credit: Twitter/NewJeans

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ATTRAKT CEO Reportedly Followed Porn And Gore Accounts On Social Media

ATTRAKT, the entertainment company that gained prominence with the success of its girl group FIFTY FIFTY, is currently facing significant challenges and controversy surrounding its CEO Jeon Hong Joon. The company has been in the public eye due to a legal dispute with FIFTY FIFTY and, more recently, allegations concerning the CEO’s social media activity which included following porn and gore accounts.

ATTRAKT CEO Allegedly Followed Porn and Gore Accounts on Social Media

The legal dispute between ATTRAKT and FIFTY FIFTY started when the girl group filed for an injunction to suspend their exclusive contracts with the company. The issues cited by FIFTY FIFTY included violations of contractual obligations, lack of financial transparency, and medical negligence. The legal battle intensified with both parties filing charges against each other, involving Warner Music Korea and Ahn Sung Il.

The latest controversy emerged when fans scrutinized Jeon Hong Joon’s social media activity. Allegations arose that the CEO followed accounts on social media that featured explicit and pornographic content, as well as graphic animal gore. Fans expressed deep concerns about the nature of these accounts and the potential impact on the well-being of FIFTY FIFTY members.

The explicit content on the accounts included pornographic material, with one account featuring an OnlyFans model who recently turned 18. Fans were troubled by the nature of the content and raised questions about the appropriateness of the CEO’s interests, particularly considering the age of some individuals involved.

Even more distressing were the allegations related to animal gore accounts. These accounts reportedly shared extremely graphic images and videos depicting predatory animals engaging in violent acts of killing and consuming other animals. The disturbing nature of this content added to the growing concerns among fans about Jeon Hong Joon’s personal interests.

The scandal has cast a shadow over both Jeon Hong Joon and ATTRAKT, leading to a damaged reputation in the eyes of FIFTY FIFTY fans. Some fans expressed relief over the group members’ departure from the company, citing concerns for their safety and well-being in light of the disturbing revelations about the CEO’s social media activity.

The controversy surrounding ATTRAKT reflects the challenges faced by entertainment companies in maintaining a positive image and navigating legal disputes with their artists. The impact of these revelations on the long-term reputation of both ATTRAKT and Jeon Hong Joon remains uncertain as the situation continues to unfold.

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Keena Pens Heartfelt Letter to Fans to Mark 1st Anniversary of FIFTY FIFTY

ATTRAKT releases concept photos of Keena. Credit: Twitter/FIFTY FIFTY

In celebration of the first debut anniversary of FIFTY FIFTY, Keena, the remaining member of the girl group, expressed her gratitude to fans amidst a recent contractual dispute. Initially a four-piece act, Keena was the only one who returned to the group’s agency ATTRAKT. 

Having dropped her legal case against the agency, Keena took to the group’s official fan site to share a handwritten letter acknowledging the unwavering support from fans despite the challenges. At first, the singer admitted that she’s cautious how to relay her thoughts  since it’s the first time in a while that she’s addressing their fans. 

https://twitter.com/keenadiary/status/1725939443935174961

“I want to convey my sincerity with courage,” Keena wrote, according to a translation from Korea Times. “I’m sorry to my fans, who must have had a hard time because of my careless behavior. I also want to thank you for trusting me and waiting in uncertainty.” 

Reflecting on the past year, the 21-year-old artist shared insights into her personal growth journey. Furthermore, she emphasized that she has “learned, experienced and grown up a lot” over the past year. “My fans gave a wake-up call for me every time,” she said. 

To conclude her letter, Keena left a heartfelt promise for her fans, saying: “In return, I will make you happy again with my music and performance.” 

Aside from the letter, ATTRAKT also released new photos of Keena to commemorate FIFTY FIFTY’s debut anniversary. 

What happened to FIFTY FIFTY?

On November 18, 2022, FIFTY FIFTY made its debut with the EP The Fifty. However, it was the group’s February single “Cupid” that catapulted them into popularity on social media that it even set several records. Furthermore, it led them landing a stint on the Barbie movie soundtrack. 

But in June, all four members Aran, Sio, Keena, and Saena filed a preliminary injunction with the desire to suspend their exclusive contract with ATTRAKT. According to the idols, the agency failed to provide them fair treatment and proper income distribution.

In August, the court rejected the group’s injunction request, with all four members later appealing the decision. Moreover, the heated dispute between two parties continued, with the members revealing that the group was used by the agency to settle major debts..

However, Keena withdrew her appeal in early October and returned to ATTRAKT. Shortly after, the contract with the three other members was terminated. 

Since the termination of their contracts with ATTRAKT, Sio, Saena, and Aran have yet to reveal their next plans for their career. 

Meanwhile, ATTRAKT confirmed that they have plans to “reorganize” FIFTY FIFTY with Keena. 

Featured image: ATTRAKT releases concept photos of Keena. Credit: Twitter/FIFTY FIFTY

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ATTRAKT Bares Plans to ‘Reorganize’ FIFTY FIFTY with Keena

Keena during one of the promotional activities for 'Cupid.' Credit: Facebook/FIFTY FIFTY

Following a months-long legal battle, ATTRAKT has revealed their plans to “reorganize” the K-pop girl group FIFTY FIFTY. 

The agency hinted their plans through a press release on Sunday, October 29, wherein they confirmed that member Keena will be attending the Billboard Music Awards. 

For the Billboard Music Awards, FIFTY FIFTY is nominated in two categories: Top Duo/Group and Top Global K-pop song for their viral hit “Cupid.” The awarding ceremony is set to take place on November 19 in the United States. 

Notably, only Keena will be present as she’s the only member of FIFTY FIFTY to return to ATTRAKT. Following her return, the agency announced that they’re terminating the exclusive contracts for the three remaining members: Sio, Saena, and Aran. 

A quick rundown between FIFTY FIFTY vs ATTRAKT

In June, all four members Aran, Sio, Keena, and Saena filed a preliminary injunction with the desire to suspend their exclusive contract with ATTRAKT. According to the idols, the agency failed to provide them fair treatment and proper income distribution. 

Such a move was a huge surprise to the industry as the rookie group was on their way to stardom. For instance, their February single “Cupid” gained so much popularity on social media that it set several records. Furthermore, it led them landing a stint on the Barbie movie soundtrack. 

In August, the court rejected the group’s injunction request, with all four members later appealing the decision. Moreover, the heated dispute between two parties continued, with the members revealing that the group was used by the agency to settle major debts.

However, Keena withdrew her appeal in early October and returned to ATTRAKT. Shortly after, the contract with the three other members was terminated. 

What’s next for both parties?

Since the termination of their contracts with ATTRAKT, Sio, Saena, and Aran have yet to reveal their next plans for their career. 

Meanwhile, ATTRAKT teased that FIFTY FIFTY will continue their activities. “We plan to reorganize the group and present it to the public together with Keena,” they said. 

Aside from that, the agency also confirmed their plans to collaborate with JTBC for a new girl group project show.

Featured image: Keena during one of the promotional activities for ‘Cupid.’ Credit: Facebook/FIFTY FIFTY

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ATTRAKT Terminates Remaining FIFTY FIFTY Members’ Contracts

ATTRAKT has confirmed the termination of its contract with three of the FIFTY FIFTY members Sio, Saena, and Aran. The decision comes amid a legal dispute regarding the exclusive contracts of these members.

ATTRAKT Confirms Termination of FIFTY FIFTY Members Sio, Saena, and Aran’s Contracts

On October 23, ATTRAKT confirmed the news in a statement.

“We notified the FIFTY FIFTY members Saena, Sio, and Aran that we terminated our contract with them starting on October 19. The three FIFTY FIFTY members have not showed any signs of reflections regarding their serious contract violations and thus, made our decision. We will discuss follow-up measures regarding the members moving forward,” the statement read.

In contrast, FIFTY FIFTY’s Keena has chosen to return to ATTRAKT. She switched her legal representation from Barun to Shinwon and submitted a notice of withdrawal of appeal related to FIFTY FIFTY’s ongoing request to suspend their contracts.

“Keena met with CEO Jeon Hong Joon yesterday,” a source from ATTRAKT said. “Keena will be taking the time to self-reflect for the time being, and then we will gradually talk about our future course of action.”

The development marks a significant change in the group’s composition, as it splits the members between two agencies. Additionally, ATTRAKT has been actively working on forming a new girl group through an audition program that will be broadcast on JTBC. The recent terminations of the FIFTY FIFTY members’ contracts will likely have an impact on the group’s future direction.

The legal matters surrounding these contracts have been a subject of attention and concern, but with Keena’s return to ATTRAKT, the situation appears to be moving towards resolution for the members involved. The K-pop industry is known for its legal complexities surrounding contracts, and these recent changes also highlight the challenges artists and agencies face in navigating such issues.

For now, it is unclear if FIFTY FIFTY will continue promoting in the future. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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ATTRAKT Collaborating With JTBC on New Girl Group Project TV Show

ATTRAKT is set to embark on a promising venture in collaboration with JTBC for a new girl group project. The announcement signals a positive turn of events for the entertainment company. This comes after ATTRAKT faced challenges related to the FIFTY FIFTY dispute but is now determined to move forward with its plans for a fresh girl group, which will be formed through an audition program.

ATTRAKT’s New Girl Group Project Still Moving Forward

On October 20, it was reported that ATTRAKT is actively engaged in negotiations for a collaborative effort with JTBC to oversee and produce the audition program for the new girl group. The discussions are currently underway, hinting at an exciting partnership that could bring a wave of new talent to the K-pop scene.

Despite past legal complications stemming from exclusive contracts with FIFTY FIFTY members, ATTRAKT has managed to overcome these obstacles. The court’s initial trial rejected the members’ plea for an injunction against the validity of their exclusive agreements. Furthermore, one of the members, Keena, opted to discontinue her lawsuit and return to the agency. This marks a significant development in ATTRAKT’s journey to build a strong foundation for their upcoming girl group.

https://twitter.com/attraktaudition/status/1698350179269980309

ATTRAKT has also been successful in attracting substantial investments from abroad, engaging in productive discussions with overseas investors who have displayed a keen interest in the upcoming girl group project. They have received an impressive influx of over 1,000 demo songs from international sources, demonstrating the global allure of their venture.

Having previously announced their objective to debut the new girl group in the upcoming year, ATTRAKT has drawn the K-pop industry’s attention and anticipation. The community is now eagerly awaiting the unfolding of this endeavor, curious to witness if ATTRAKT can once again establish a success story for a small entertainment agency. The collaboration with JTBC adds an extra layer of excitement, highlighting the potential for an impactful and dynamic project in the world of K-pop.

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