The future of K-pop group FIFTY FIFTY, sans member Keena, is uncertain. Three of its members, having filed for a suspension of their exclusive contract with Attrakt Entertainment, find themselves in a tight spot after the appeal was also dismissed. The industry's eyes are now on FIFTY FIFTY, once hailed as the "goose that lays the golden egg," now on the brink of disintegration.
On October 24th, the Seoul High Court Civil Division 25-2 (headed by Judges Kim Moon-seok, Song Mi-kyung, and Jung Jong-gwan) rejected the appeal raised by three members of FIFTY FIFTY regarding the earlier decision not to suspend the effect of the exclusive contract.
Back in June, FIFTY FIFTY members claimed Attrakt Entertainment failed to fulfill obligations like providing settlement data and caring for the members' physical and mental health. They sought a preliminary injunction for the termination of their exclusive contracts, which was rejected in August.
Dissatisfied with this verdict, the members immediately appealed. However, Keena withdrew her appeal on the 16th and returned to Attrakt Entertainment, causing an internal rift. While the remaining three continued with the lawsuit, making public statements criticizing Attrakt via their Instagram accounts, the plot thickened as Keena, now back with Attrakt, disclosed information and recordings about producer Ahn Seong-il of The Givers - deemed a pivotal figure behind the ordeal.
Following this, Attrakt, on the 19th, notified the termination of the exclusive contracts for members Sana, Xio, and Aran, making FIFTY FIFTY's return increasingly bleak. The agency stated, "The three members of FIFTY FIFTY showed no remorse for severe breaches of contract. Discussions regarding further measures against the members will be held."
With Keena's return, it seems she will continue to receive support from the agency for future music endeavors. Though her specific plans are not yet determined, there are speculations about a potential solo album release. She may also participate in auditions for a new girl group produced by Attrakt, aiming for a re-debut. With trademark issues resolved due to Keena's return, Attrakt might even consider recruiting new members and reforming FIFTY FIFTY.
However, the public's perception of Saena, Soo, and Aran remains cold, making their return to the music scene challenging. As producer Ahn Seong-il faces charges of embezzlement, forging documents, and using forged documents and is being investigated by the Gangnam Police Station, the future activities of the three siding with him will likely hinge on the clear findings against him.
