Attrakt
The Korea Entertainment Management Association (KEMA) publicly voiced its support for K-pop girl group Fifty Fifty's agency, Attrakt, amidst ongoing allegations and controversy surrounding the group. In a press statement released on Tuesday, KEMA called for the resolution of the dispute between Fifty Fifty and Attrakt, urging them to avoid further disruptions within the industry.
The dispute revolves around the exclusive contract between Fifty Fifty and Attrakt, with Attrakt claiming that a buyout attempt has been made following the group's rise to stardom in the fiercely competitive music industry.
On June 19, all four members of Fifty Fifty applied for an injunction to suspend their exclusive contracts with Attrakt, citing breaches of contract such as inadequate compensation for their work and the forced participation of one member in scheduled activities despite poor health.
In response, Attrakt alleges that a subcontracted outsourcing company called The Givers, led by producer Siahn, who was involved in the production of the hit single "Cupid," approached Warner Music Korea in an attempt to sell off the girl group and persuade them to terminate their contract with Attrakt.
KEMA praised Attrakt's CEO, Jeon Hong-jun, as a hard-working producer with exceptional creativity, crediting his efforts for Fifty Fifty's debut on the Billboard charts.
The involvement of a third party in this dispute has raised concerns within the industry. KEMA considers the attempt to poach members of the group as a serious threat to the future of artists and the entertainment industry. The association pledged to respond robustly to such unhealthy practices that disrupt the industry.
In a related development, the Korea Music Copyright Association (KOMCA) announced on the same day that it would postpone the payment of royalties for the song "Cupid" at Attrakt's request. KOMCA has the authority to delay royalty payments in cases of civil or criminal disputes between involved parties or upon requests from the police or court.
Attrakt has taken legal action against The Givers, alleging that the group discreetly obtained a larger share of the copyright for the song "Cupid" by acquiring the rights from three Swedish composers involved in its creation. Currently, Ahin, Keena, and Siahn are listed as copyright co-holders of the song, as registered with the Korea Music Copyright Association.
The ongoing dispute has captivated the K-pop industry, drawing attention to the complexities and challenges faced by artists and agencies in the highly competitive music landscape.
Sayart.net
Blue YIM, yimyoungseo1010@naver.com
