Even if you’re not a fan of K-pop, you’ve likely heard of the viral track, “Cupid”. The catchy song by K-pop girl group Fifty Fifty (피프티 피프티) remains their biggest hit – but from today onwards, the group and their agency no longer hold the copyright to the song.
A Korean court has recently settled the copyright dispute of Fifty Fifty’s hit song. Since 2023, “Cupid” has been part of a legal battle between the group’s agency, ATTRACKT, and Ahn Sung Il of the production group, The Givers. The case gained notoriety after Ahn Sung Il reportedly tried to sabotage the track’s copyright, even allegedly forging signatures. The case even snowballed into Fifty Fifty’s lineup change after three members left the group.
Before the case’s final ruling, ATTRAKT filed a lawsuit in 2024, asserting the song belonged to them. However, on 8th May 2025 (Thursday), the Seoul Central District Court formally rejected ATTRAKT’s intellectual property claim, citing the claims against The Givers have no factual merit. With the ruling, the court thereby recognises The Givers as the legally registered owners of “Cupid”.
If you’re wondering, “Fifty Fifty” can still perform their hit song, but won’t be able to re-record any new version of the track without permission from The Givers. However, it’s worth noting that Fifty Fifty member Keena (키나) was the lyricist for the song’s original version. The idol previously accused The Givers and Ahn Sung Il of forging her signature in documents, allotting her credits and copyright royalties as a lyricist.
Many netizens have chimed in on the news, sharing mixed reactions. Some voiced sadness over Fifty Fifty losing the copyright, particularly expressing sympathy towards Keena. However, others argued that the new Fifty Fifty lineup had little part in the initial success of “Cupid” because the song was sung by the group’s former members, Aran (아란) and Sio (시오). The two are now part of ablume with Saena (새나), another former Fifty Fifty member.
Meanwhile, Ahn Sung Il is still under investigation for forgery. Understandably, ATTRAKT is prepared to appeal the copyright claim case, but what are your thoughts on this?
