Fifty Fifty members Kina, Shana, Sio, and Aran posted a lengthy letter for their fans, followed by the announcement that the group filed a criminal case against ATTRAKT’s CEO Jeon Hong Joon.
In their penned letter, they said, “First of all, we apologize for causing great concern to all those who love us. Since there are fans who believe in and wait for us, the members of Fifty Fifty would like to bravely convey our position after a lot of hesitation.”
“I know that many fans are confused by the reports of many media outlets at the moment. We are also having a hard time every day feeling the misery that cannot be expressed in words amid snowballing misunderstandings and criticisms.”
“But despite these difficulties, we think there is a truth that must be revealed,” Fifty Fifty said. “And we firmly believe that if it turns out to be transparent, fans will understand us and cheer us louder. We have received undeserved love and encouragement from my fans so far. Also, many people around the members worked hard and helped us. I have never forgotten for a moment the gratitude and preciousness of my fans and everyone who helped me. We will continue to cherish this spirit and work more faithfully to repay our gratitude.”
Before this, Fifty Fifty, who said, “We want to correct what has been forced in the wrong way in our relationship with the agency,” expressed, “The inevitable choice to protect our music started here. As our members faced the road after a lot of consideration, we will continue to make careful decisions to overcome the current chaotic situation and hardships.”
“There are so many untrue contents in the media articles and SNS that are currently being reported. Nevertheless, we have refrained from commenting on the termination of the exclusive contract. This is not because it has admitted or accepted media articles reported so far. We thought it was the right way to resolve the situation by arguing in court based on facts.”
“We hoped that the truth would be revealed during the trial and that our legitimate rights would be guaranteed, and that’s what we still have in mind. For that realization, we will collect evidence and data based on the truth and continue to submit them. By doing so, we will try to clear up false suspicions and misunderstandings. We sincerely ask you to refrain from excessive criticism of the wrong suspicions and misunderstandings and to watch the objective situation.”
Finally, they said, “Currently, all of our members are united in one mind, relying on each other, and we are firmly enduring,” and added, “Our earnest wish is to be a sincere artist in a reliable environment. Our members will do their best until the end to fulfill this wish,” the letter concluded.
After the letter was uploaded, FIFTY FIFTY’s legal representative revealed that the group filed a criminal complaint against their CEO for charges of violating the Act on the Aggravated Punishment, etc., of Specific Economic Crimes (Breach of Trust).
According to a recent report, the group alleged that CEO Jeon Hong Joon misappropriated funds received as prepayments for future performances from the affiliate company StarCrew ENT and burdened the members with the resulting debt. The group also claimed that the CEO used revenues from FIFTY FIFTY’s music and album sales unrelated to prepayments to cover the debt, affecting the group’s financial stability.
The group’s lawyer Lee Dong Hoon, a legal representative from Barun Law Firm, called attention to the ongoing financial misconduct, which could jeopardize the group’s ability to receive fair compensation. The lawyer emphasized that taking legal action against the group’s label was not their initial intention. However, they felt compelled to do so to address alleged financial irregularities. The lawyer stated that if funds intended for the group’s benefit were diverted for personal or other business purposes, it would be unjust for the members to bear the debt.
FIFTY FIFTY’s image in South Korea was ruined, being accused of biting the hands that feed them. Lawyer Lee acknowledged the damage and explained they did not originally plan to file a criminal complaint against the CEO. However, it was necessary to address the issues and assert their rights, even if it led to legal action.
Sources: Herald Pop, KBiZoom
