The K-pop group Fifty Fifty's management has provided insight into their recent inactivity, despite making impressive strides in the industry.
On June 23, Attrakt Entertainment, the group's agency, released an official statement explaining why Fifty Fifty has not been as active as expected.
The agency noted that since one of the members, Aran, underwent surgery in May, their activities had been notably reduced. The statement also hinted at external forces trying to entice them into new contracts.
Fifty Fifty stunned the world when their debut single "The Beginning: Cupid" charted on the "Hot 100", one of Billboard's main charts in the United States, just a month after their February debut.
Their track "Cupid - Twin Version" reached over 300 million streams on Spotify, the world's largest music streaming platform. They also maintained a presence on the 'Billboard Hot 100' for eleven consecutive weeks, setting a record for K-pop girl groups.
Their quick rise earned them the nickname "Miracle of the Minors," leading them to secure a partnership with Warner Records and expand into the American market.
Despite their achievements, FiftyFifty's activities came to a sudden halt. Addressing this on June 23, their agency stated, "We are well aware that many fans are wondering and worrying about why we are not active during this crucial time."
The agency further explained that one member exhibited medical symptoms, prompting them to discuss the situation with the member and their family. Following a consensus, they decided to follow the doctor's advice and proceeded with surgery on May 2. They emphasized that a two-month recovery period was needed, during which the other members also took a rest.
During Fifty Fifty's hiatus, the agency worked on system improvements to better support their artists. However, they revealed that external forces had been confirmed to be approaching their artists, enticing them to violate their exclusive contracts with Attrakt Entertainment.
Attrakt Entertainment expressed its outrage, stating, "This could significantly damage the image and future potential of our artists, who have only just debuted seven months ago."
The agency continued, "Although we started as a small company, we had bigger dreams than anyone else. We are outraged by the illegal actions of these external forces attempting to steal this tremendous miracle achieved by a small, powerless agency. However, we will respond coldly and firmly, fight to the end without any compromise with these external forces, and hold them legally responsible."
The agency added, "We will fight back with a desperate determination to protect our artists, who have become valuable talents in Korea, and we will strive even harder for their development. We will repay the generous love given by our fans."
Given that Fifty Fifty has been active for less than a year, this revelation about "external force intervention" has shocked fans. There is much anticipation to see if Fifty Fifty, who made a remarkable record from a small agency, can resolve their internal issues and resume their active career.