Debuting in November of last year under indie record label ATTRAKT, K-pop’s newest quartet girl group from the genre’s fourth generation FIFTY FIFTY is the one you need to watch out for. Within months of their introduction to the global music stage, members Keena, Saena, Sio, and Aran found themselves caught in a TikTok virality wave to which they achieved overwhelming commercial success with their infectious pop single track ‘Cupid’, released as a part of their single comeback album THE BEGINNING: CUPID–which followed their 2022 debut EP, THE FIFTY. Breaking into Billboard’s Artist 100 and most notably setting an impressive record for K-pop girl groups having the longest-charting song on the Billboard Hot 100 (previously held by BLACKPINK), currently 13 weeks as of June 26th.

If you thought you escaped the chokehold the band has on playlists everywhere–think again. Having their much-anticipated song ‘Barbie Dreams’ featured on the soundtrack of Greta Gerwig’s blockbuster summer film Barbie and now with the release of the group’s newest EP THE BEGINNING out now, it’s safe to say that the pop ingenues are ready to take the music industry by storm.

GEN V: What does the name FIFTY FIFTY represent? 

SAENA: FIFTY FIFTY has two meanings. The first one is about the connection we have with our fans. The first fifty represents our fans, and the other half represents ourselves, which makes us 100, or a whole, when combined together. 

ARAN: The second meaning is the “dream world” versus “real world,” with fifty representing each half. This is meant to express the concept of our travels between the real world, which is full of challenges, and an ideal world that’s filled with nothing but love, friendship, and happiness. 

KEENA: With our music and concept, we hope to share our journey with our fans and share our personal stories through a wide spectrum of music. 

GEN V: We think it’s safe to say “Cupid” has undeniably become a smash hit. What has it been like seeing people connect with the song across the globe? 

ARAN: It makes me incredibly happy that “Cupid” has put smiles on so many faces. It definitely fuels my desire to keep making awesome music in the future. 

KEENA: It hasn’t quite sunk in yet, but the fact that our song “Cupid” has connected with and been embraced by so many people makes me unbelievably happy! 

SIO: It warms my heart to know that FIFTY FIFTY’s music is well-received by people from all corners of the world. 

SAENA: Our core focus has always been on staying true to ourselves while making and performing this song. We put our heads together to find the best way to communicate our message far and wide. It’s a blessing that our thoughts have deeply resonated with fans worldwide, and we’re overflowing with gratitude! 

GEN V: Speaking of, have you girls ever been mad at Cupid yourselves? 

ARAN: It hasn’t happened to me so far, but if the day comes when I get angry with Cupid, I’ll likely say, “He’s a bit foolish, but I guess I’ll forgive him.” 

SAENA: Hmm… I don’t think it has happened to me yet. I guess we’ll find out if I get mad or not when the time comes!

SIO: I’ve never really been angry with Cupid, but I have questioned whether he exists or not. 

GEN V: With the music video for “Cupid” currently sitting at 95+ million views, what will you always remember about this MINI MOMENT of releasing the song into the world?

ARAN: I never thought the bungee jump [from the five million music video view pledge] would actually happen, but it did! So, it was an unbelievable moment that made me realize the importance of being cautious with my words!

SAENA: There’s this video I watched that I can’t forget, where a bunch of people came together and sang and danced to our music. It was mind-blowing and gave me shivers. That memory has stuck with me ever since. 

KEENA: The most vivid memories I have are when our songs were used as background music on various media outlets and social media platforms, particularly when many users participated in our dance challenges. It’s truly unforgettable because our songs went viral across different social platforms so quickly. Watching others take part in our challenges felt like a dream and filled me with happiness. 

SIO: I can clearly recall the moment when we celebrated the 100th day since the debut of “Cupid” while juggling our performances of the song on music shows in Korea. Being alongside Aran, Saena, and Keena filled me with happiness.

GEN V: How does it feel to be part of the Barbie movie soundtrack, with your song “Barbie Dreams” sharing space with tracks by the likes of Nicki Minaj, Charli XCX, and Dua Lipa? 

SAENA: Being part of the soundtrack for Barbie is truly a blessing and an honor.

KEENA: I’m beyond excited that our song was featured in Barbie. Barbies have been a cherished part of my life since I was a kid, so it feels extra special to me and it’ll definitely be one of the highlights of my career. 

SIO: To be involved in this movie soundtrack is incredibly exciting and feels like a dream come true, especially since Barbie dolls were such a big part of my childhood.

GEN V: What are some of your goals and plans for the near future? 

ARAN: Our goal is to be part of many thrilling opportunities in the future, so I hope everyone can look forward to the exciting journey ahead. 

SAENA: Please stay tuned as we continue crafting our music to express the message we want to share, exploring endless possibilities to showcase our true selves. 

KEENA: Our focus remains on presenting the true essence of our music. We’re putting in tremendous effort, so keep an eye out for what’s coming! 
SIO: Our goal is to give our fans and listeners great music that represents our style for a long time.

Fifty Fifty’s new EP, THE BEGINNING, is now available to stream HERE!