The internationally acclaimed K-pop sensation, FIFTY FIFTY, has taken a monumental step forward by personally addressing their devoted fanbase amidst their ongoing dispute with their agency. On August 17, the group revealed heartfelt handwritten letters to their fans, conveying their thoughts and emotions in both Korean and English. A trusted representative of the group has confirmed the authenticity of these personal letters, marking a pivotal moment in the group’s journey.
This candid communication comes in the wake of a complex legal tussle between FIFTY FIFTY and their agency, ATTRAKT. In a turn of events, the group had initially filed to suspend their exclusive contracts with ATTRAKT in June. The ensuing legal process led to a court recommendation for mediation between the two parties, seeking a resolution to the dispute. However, on August 16, FIFTY FIFTY’s members notified the court of their decision to discontinue mediation efforts, effectively signaling the resumption of their legal battle with ATTRAKT. In a significant escalation, the group proceeded to file criminal charges against the CEO of their agency.
This development follows ATTRAKT’s allegations that FIFTY FIFTY had been influenced by Ahn Sung Il, former CEO of The Givers and a pivotal figure in the production of the group’s music. ATTRAKT claimed that FIFTY FIFTY had unlawfully breached their exclusive contracts under Ahn Sung Il’s influence, leading to a chain of legal actions. Notably, ATTRAKT also lodged criminal charges against Ahn Sung Il and several other employees of The Givers, citing accusations of fraud, breach of duty, and obstruction of business.
Warner Music Korea, despite initially refuting claims of their involvement in FIFTY FIFTY’s contract breach negotiations, faced further scrutiny when ATTRAKT released an audio recording from May. The recording captured an executive director from Warner Music Korea inquiring about a substantial 20 billion won (approximately $15.3 million) buyout, a transaction that had already been discussed between CEO Jeon Hong Joon of ATTRAKT and Ahn Sung Il.
The unveiling of these handwritten letters demonstrates FIFTY FIFTY’s unwavering commitment to their fans, providing a personal insight into their thoughts during this challenging period. As the legal battle continues and the industry watches with bated breath, FIFTY FIFTY’s heartfelt communication marks a significant chapter in their career—one that showcases their resilience and dedication to their music and their fans.
FIFTY FIFTY’s full English letter is as follows:
Dear fans,
This is Keena, Saena, Sio, and Aran from FIFTY FIFTY.
We would first like to begin by apologizing to everyone who loves us for causing much concern.
We know that there are fans who believe in us and are waiting for us. And that is why the members of FIFTY FIFTY decided to put our hesitation aside and stepped up to share our position.
We also know that many of you are confused by the current media and press coverage. Misunderstandings and accusations have been snowballing. We were deeply shocked by this and have been going through a tough time.
Nevertheless, we believe there is a truth that needs to be uncovered despite these difficulties. And we have strong faith that our fans will understand us and support us even more when it is clarified.The members of FIFTY FIFTY have received overflowing love and encouragement from our fans. We also have many people around us who have worked hard and helped us. We have never forgotten, not even for a single moment, how thankful we are to our fans and everyone who supported us. We would like to take it to our hearts and return our gratitude by working even harder in the future.
However, we first wanted to take this opportunity to right the wrongs that have been forced in our relationship with the agency. And to protect our music, we had no other choice.
So, after a lot of consideration, our members have decided to face this path. We will continue to move forward by making careful decisions to overcome the current confusions and difficulties.
It has been heartbreaking to see so many untrue stories being reported in the media articles and social media these days. Nevertheless, we have been careful about commenting on ending our exclusive contracts with our agency. This does not mean we admit or accept what has been reported in the media. We believed that taking this issue to court based on facts was the right way to solve the situation. We had hoped that the truth would be uncovered during the trial process and our right would be guaranteed. This is something we hope for even to this day. To realize that hope, we will continue to collect and submit materials and evidence based on facts. In doing so, we hope to clarify any doubts and misunderstandings. We sincerely hope that you do not make too much criticism based on false suspicions and misunderstandings and look at the facts objectively.
Right now, every one of our members is in this together, relying on each other to stand strong.
What we really want, however, is to carry out our activities as true artists in a trustworthy environment. Our members will do everything in our power to make this wish come true. We will do our best to come back in good shape and return our thankfulness to all of you who have been following us.
Thank you.
