The much-discussed and drama-filled FIFTY FIFTY is launching its second generation.
According to an OSEN report on November 2, their agency Attrakt has decided to reorganize FIFTY FIFTY, focusing on the recently returned member, Keena. The second-generation members will be composed of four individuals to maintain the group's originality. Apart from Keena, three more will be added.
Having debuted in November of the previous year, FIFTY FIFTY skyrocketed to 17th on the US Billboard 'Hot 100' main singles chart with "Cupid" in just five months, achieving global success. This is an unprecedented achievement for a girl group from a small-to-mid-sized agency. Hence, they've been termed the "Miracle of a Smaller-scale Idol".
However, in June, four FIFTY FIFTY members suddenly applied for a suspension of their exclusive contract with Attrakt, accusing the company of neglecting to provide settlement data and not fulfilling the duty of physical and mental care.
In response, Attrakt pointed fingers at outsourcing company representative An Seong-il for tampering (approaching before the end of an exclusive contract). On June 27th, Attrakt filed a lawsuit against An Seong-il and three others for fraud, breach of trust, and business interference. In July, additional charges of business embezzlement, document forgery, and the use of forged documents were filed against An Seong-il.
Even more, on September 27th, Attrakt filed a lawsuit against An Seong-il and Director Baek Mo, seeking 1 billion won in damages. They stated that the two not only violated their business service contract with Attrakt but also caused financial harm by obstructing and deceiving the company.
Later, the court rejected FIFTY FIFTY's request for suspension of their exclusive contract with Attrakt, siding with CEO Jeon Hong-jun. The FIFTY FIFTY members immediately expressed their intention to appeal. However, with the recent return of Keena to Attrakt, the dynamics have shifted. CEO Jeon forgave Keena, who then claimed through media outlets that she was gaslighted by An Seong-il.
In contrast, An Seong-il's side accused CEO Jeon of defamation by fabricating facts. They took issue with remarks about gaslighting FIFTY FIFTY and an external force enticing Attrakt's artists to breach their contracts. They also hinted at the possibility of additional lawsuits for false accusations and business obstruction.
While the adults were embroiled in legal battles, FIFTY FIFTY seemed to be headed towards disbandment. On the 23rd of the previous month, Attrakt announced, "As of October 19th, we have notified the termination of the exclusive contract for members Sana, Sio, and Aran, excluding Keena." They took a firm stance, stating the members showed no remorse for their serious contract breaches.
Subsequently, Sana, Sio, and Aran faced the unfortunate fate akin to "ducks of the Nakdong River," while Attrakt plans to introduce three new members alongside Keena, forging ahead with "FIFTY FIFTY's Second Generation". An industry insider reported that Keena has returned to her accommodation in Seoul and is preparing to take the stage with a refreshed mindset.
However, while Keena takes time for reflection, Attrakt plans to focus on a new girl group audition project. On the 27th of the previous month, they signed an MOU with Studio Jam, a subsidiary of JTBC, for the production of a new girl group audition program.
The legal battles are still ongoing, but both Keena and CEO Jeon are diligently preparing for the new FIFTY FIFTY. Despite the many twists and turns, the name FIFTY FIFTY has definitely been etched into the public's memory. As the "Icons of Betrayal" from the first generation have faded, all eyes are on whether the second generation of FIFTY FIFTY will rise anew.
