The group FIFTY FIFTY's recent controversy has ignited calls for revisions to the standard contract.
On the 14th, the Korea Music Label Industry Association (KMLIA) held a seminar in Lounge M, Mapo-gu, Seoul, to discuss the advancement of the popular music industry in 2023.
The 'Popular Music Industry Development Seminar' serves as a platform to discuss contract disputes between agencies and artists and to share information about support programs and policies necessary for artists.
FIFTY FIFTY had filed for a suspension of their exclusive contract, alleging that their agency, Attrakt, violated health management obligations and provided insufficient support for their activities. These clauses are specified in the standard contract, which has recently come under scrutiny.
Notably, on the 8th, Prime Minister Han Deok-su mentioned the FIFTY FIFTY situation, stating, "We plan to revise things like the standard contract by the end of the year after investigating the damage cases."
FIFTY FIFTY Sparks Debate on Contract Revisions: 'Only Exists in Our Country'
RokStar Music's CEO, Na Seong-sik, commented, "While the standard contract does incorporate perspectives from both artists and companies, it's outdated. It would be beneficial to see it revised after thorough discussions."
A representative, referred to as A, explained, "In the indie scene, many don't even have contracts. For idols, the investment amounts differ significantly."
They continued, "In the indie scene, poaching is done openly. If another company likes an artist, they directly approach and meet them. This can shake the artist's loyalty, potentially destabilizing their relationship with their original agency. There needs to be a solution, even from a human perspective."
B, who runs a label, observed, "The relationship between artists and their agencies seems too generalized."
B elaborated, "In developed music business countries like the US or Europe, roles are more segmented. Record labels, releases, concert bookings all have distinct roles. There are personal managers and business managers. Everything is specialized and roles are clearly divided. As far as I know, a government-designated standard contract like ours only exists in our country."
Meanwhile, on the 28th of last month, the Seoul Central District Court's 50th Civil Division dismissed FIFTY FIFTY's application for a suspension of their exclusive contract with Attrakt. FIFTY FIFTY announced their intention to appeal this decision and stated they would proceed with the main lawsuit in the near future.
