FIFTY FIFTY’s agency ATTRAKT files lawsuit against Warner Music Korea for alleged contract tampering

In a major court case, Warner Music Korea is being sued for $14.5 million USD by FIFTY FIFTY’s agency, ATTRAKT, on charges of contract tampering and interference. Former CEO Clayton Jin and current executive director Yoon Hyung Geun of Warner Music Korea are involved in the October 23 lawsuit, which alleges that they illegally contacted FIFTY FIFTY members while they were still bound by an exclusive deal with ATTRAKT.

The conflict began on May 17, 2023, when Warner Music Korea allegedly met in secret with the parents of the FIFTY FIFTY members at its headquarters with the goal of influencing the group’s contract status. ATTRAKT asserts that this meeting has provided it with important evidence to back up its allegations.

Jeon Hong Jun, the CEO of ATTRAKT, was unreserved in his denunciation of Warner Music Korea’s conduct, describing the attempted extortion of FIFTY FIFTY as “utterly unforgivable and shameless.” He added that the damages claimed might rise, suggesting that the financial losses would be more significant than the present estimate of 20 billion KRW (14.5 million USD).

Citing unfulfilled commitments, such as monetary settlements and health management, the four members requested an injunction to end their contracts with ATTRAKT. Despite the injunction’s dismissal in August, ATTRAKT accused Warner Music Korea and other outside parties of inciting the group to violate their contracts.

Member Keena subsequently withdrew her appeal and rejoined ATTRAKT as the court struggle went on. In September 2024, the agency revealed plans for a relaunch that would include Keena and three new hires. The remaining original members, Saena, Sio, and Aran, signed with MASSIVE E&C under IOK after terminating their contracts with ATTRAKT. They then filed a lawsuit against ATTRAKT’s CEO for an estimated 217,000 USD in unpaid settlements.