Tag: FIFTY FIFTY

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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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FIFTY FIFTY Claims Agency Used Girl Group To Settle Major Debts

FIFTY FIFTY is not backing down from their conflict with ATTRAKT. The girl group shared new claims about their agency in a social media post. This time, the idols are claiming that the label used their success to settle major debts with a different company.

FIFTY FIFTY Drops New Bombshell Amidst ATTRAKT Legal Dispute

Since their legal dispute with ATTRAKT, FIFTY FIFTY has opened an Instagram account to share their side of the story. Although they have not posted anything for some time, their latest update is a true shocker. In the post, the girl group shared new claims about their agency.

“The agency should stop taking baseless accusations,” their statement read. “Did the agency consider the girl group as a means to earn money for resolving debts?”

It further read, “The CEO of the agency, J, approached the CEO of an outsourcing company, A, to align their claims by investing 5 billion KRW (3.7 million USD) in advance payment debt, which his other S agency owed, into the girl group FIFTY FIFTY.”

They wrote, “The agency charged the members 3 billion KRW in costs on the settlement statement, but they haven’t provided any detailed information about the operating costs of 3.3 billion KRW and the deposit of 1.7 billion KRW up to October.”

“Do not insult the members with unsubstantiated tampering (contact before the exclusive contract expires),” the statement continues. FIFTY FIFTY also had a warning for CEO Jun Hong Joon.

“Now, reveal everything about FIFTY FIFTY truthfully, last as it may be,” they wrote. “We will disclose everything we have suffered under surveillance and control, damaging our health. We will reveal the truth behind the good stories told about CEO Jun.”

FIFTY FIFTY previously lost the legal battle to break out of their exclusive contracts with their label. On August 28, a judge decided to reject an injunction aimed at suspending FIFTY FIFTY’s exclusive contracts with ATTRAKT. This decision was prompted by reports stating that FIFTY FIFTY had declined to engage in mediation court proceedings.

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Look: Here Are the K-pop Acts Nominated for the 2023 MTV EMAs

BTS' Jungkook during filming of his digital single 'Seven.' Credit: Facebook/BTS

K-pop has once again proved its global influence in the music industry. After numerous recognitions at the recently held 2023 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), K-pop acts are now set to bag a new set of awards at the 2023 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs).

On Tuesday, October 3, Billboard Brazil unveiled the list of nominations for the upcoming EMAs. 

According to MTV, the EMAs will be an event to celebrate the work of global artists with awards and legendary performances from international music icons. Notably, several K-pop acts made it to the record.

Who are nominated for 2023 MTV EMAs?

Topping the list are BTS’ Jungkook and TOMORROW X TOGETHER. Both HYBE artists garnered a total of three nominations each.

Jungkook, the youngest member of the sensational group BTS, has been nominated for the Best K-pop and Biggest fans categories. He will also compete for the Song of the Year category for his digital single “Seven” featuring Latto. Furthermore, this is Jungkook’s first EMA nomination as a solo artist. 

Just last month, Jungkook took home the MTV VMAs Song of the Summer award for the said track.

Meanwhile, boy group TOMORROW X TOGETHER also earned nominations for the following categories: Best K-pop, Best Push Artist, and Best Group. At the MTV VMAs, the “Sugar Rush Ride” singers bagged the Push Performance of the Year award.

Meanwhile, “Super” hitmakers SEVENTEEN and monster rookies NewJeans took two nods each, both for the Best K-pop and Best Group categories.

In addition, “Next Level” singers aespa also earned a nod for Best Group, while BLACKPINK is nominated for Biggest Fans category. Moreover, groups FIFTY FIFTY and Stray Kids will also compete for the Best K-Pop category.

Meanwhile, boy group TREASURE has been nominated in the Best Asia Act category as South Korea’s sole representative.

The 2023 MTV EMAs will take place in Paris, France on November 5. Fans can vote for their favorite acts on the MTV EMAs official website until October 31, 11:59 pm. Who are you rooting for among these nominees? 

Featured image: BTS’ Jungkook during filming of his digital single ‘Seven.’ Credit: Facebook/BTS

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Fans of Fifty Fifty Boycott Attrakt for Its New Compilation Album

FIFTY FIFTY poses for the concept photo of their song 'Cupid.' Credit: Twitter/FIFTY FIFTY

As the legal battle between K-pop girl group FIFTY FIFTY and its agency ATTRAKT continues,  the group’s fandom came in solidarity to support the “Cupid” singers amidst the controversy. 

On Saturday, September 23, the FIFTY FIFTY’s fan union announced a boycott of all merchandise produced by the music label ATTRAKT as a protest against the label’s abuse of the girl group. Such boycott include the group’s physical and digital albums, social media accounts, and paid event tickets.

Moreover, the boycott was prompted after ATTRAKT released a compilation album K-Pop called The Beginning on September 22. Given the circumstances surrounding its release, fans were unhappy with it.

‘The Beginning’ album draws backlash from fans

Despite the immense support for the girl group and their music, the group’s fandom was greatly disappointed and enraged with the poor quality of The Beginning. Which led them to boycott the product yet again.

In a two-minute clip shared by a fan, multiple empty pages in the album were visibly noticed. With the lack of content, some fans stated that it was a waste of money.

Another fan who purchased the album took her sentiments to social media. In a Twitter thread, she listed down all the details regarding the album’s poor quality. First, she pointed out that the photobook had 195 pages in total, and 123 pages of it are either blank, nearly blank, or have irrelevant designs.

Additionally, the user also criticized the reused content with most photos already publicly released, and the repetitive design all throughout the album. Apart from that, the fan also showed pages with random designs that are far from the group’s concept, in an attempt to fill up more space. 

Because of this, fans were quick to note that it’s just another way for ATTRAKT to squeeze money from FIFTY FIFTY fans. For them, the lack of thought and preparation for the compilation album is proof of the company’s negligence to the group.

One fan even harshly commented that The Beginning album might just be the worst K-Pop album in history.

FIFTY FIFTY’s legal battle with ATTRAKT

In June 2023, all four members Aran, Sio, Keena, and Saena filed a preliminary injunction with the desire to suspend their exclusive contract with the agency. Moreover the group revealed that the agency lacked providing them fair treatment and proper income distribution. 

On the other hand, ATTRAKT CEO Jun Hong Joon, stated that a third party named Ahn Sung Il attempted to poach the girl group. Ahn Sung Il is the CEO of The Givers who has the copyright of FIFTY FIFTY’s debut album registered under his name. Upon discovering Ahn’s anomalies, Jun Hong Joon filed a police report accusing Ahn of fraud, breach of trust, and other offenses.

Following the report, the court approved ATTRAKT’s request to put Ahn Sung Il’s copyright revenue on hold. 

With all the contrasting arguments, the group’s heated dispute with the agency remains unresolved.

Featured image: FIFTY FIFTY poses for the concept photo of their song ‘Cupid.’ Credit: Twitter/FIFTY FIFTY

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