Singer Ben is currently embroiled in a legal battle against her former agency, Major9, seeking about 700 million KRW (roughly $500,000 USD) in unpaid contractual earnings.
The dispute centers on profit distributions from her music released during her contract period.
Ben officially ended her contract with Major9 in January 2023 and chose not to renew it.
However, disagreements arose over the settlement of future profits from songs and albums released while she was under contract. Despite Ben’s demands, Major9 reportedly refused to settle the payments.
The lawsuit’s first hearing is scheduled for July 23rd at the Seoul Central District Court.
Previously, an attempt at mediation was recommended by the court in 2023 but failed by November, pushing the case toward formal litigation.
Ben, who previously worked with both The Vibe Entertainment and Major9, gained popularity with hits like “180 Degrees” and “Love, ing.”
Outside her legal troubles, she finalized her divorce from Lee Wook, chairman of the W Foundation, in December 2023, after three years of marriage.
Recently, she opened up about her life as a single mother on TV Chosun’s show Now I’m Alone.
This legal conflict highlights ongoing challenges many artists face regarding fair profit distribution and contract disputes in the K-pop industry.
