“Trying our best to protect our group name”: Fromis_9 members express frustration over trademark negotiations with HYBE 

The world of K-pop is no exception to legal battles, but when it concerns an artist's identity, things become personal! Fans of Fromis_9 were surprised when members publicly expressed their frustration over a trademark dispute with HYBE. While the group embarks on its life after HYBE under the wings of PLEDIS Entertainment, one important matter hangs in the balance—the ownership of its name.

The members recently spoke out about the issue, stressing that:

"We're just trying our best to protect our group name. I wish that others wouldn't try to take advantage of that. I wanted to stay quiet, but I was so upset that I couldn't sleep well last night"

Their comments have generated debate among fans and industry professionals, questioning how companies manage intellectual property when artists change agencies. The controversy underscores the bigger fight most K-pop groups face in keeping control over their names.

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The trademark controversy explained

Fromis_9, originally created via Mnet's survival show Idol School, has been a dynamic force in K-pop since 2018. The group first performed under Off The Record Entertainment before relocating to PLEDIS Entertainment, a subsidiary of HYBE.

However, when their contract with HYBE expired, ownership of their group name came into question. Though the members are still being marketed as Fromis_9, the true ownership of the trademark reportedly remains with HYBE.

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Why is trademark ownership important?

Trademark ownership in K-pop is not just a technical legality—it determines whether a group can keep its name even if it leaves an agency. Numerous artists who have parted ways with their agencies have found themselves stuck, sometimes having to completely rebrand.

In this case, Fromis_9 members have confirmed that they don't want to lose their name, emphasizing how much it means to them and their fans.

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Fans react to the present controversy

The news has sparked an outpouring of support from Fromis_9's fanbase, who have taken to social media to express their frustration.

A fan commented, "Total solidarity with Fromis_9! It's infuriating when others try to take advantage of their hard-earned name and reputation. Keep fighting, members! Your fans have your back"

"Trademark negotiations can be tough, but it's clear they're passionate about this issue." said yet another.

Some fans worry that prolonged legal battles could affect the group's upcoming promotions, while others are disturbed by the industry practice of agencies holding onto trademarks despite an artist's departure.

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How common are these conflicts?

Fromis_9's situation is one of many in which K-pop groups have encountered problems with their names. Similar issues have plagued other groups in the past, often requiring legal action or negotiations to be resolved. While some idols have successfully regained trademark rights, others have been forced to start over with new names.

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What's next for Fromis_9?

So far, no official resolution to the trademark dispute has been announced. However, the members' public statements indicate that they are determined to fight for their name. Whether the issue will be settled through legal action or company negotiations remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—Fromis_9 is not going down without a fight!

This ongoing controversy highlights a major issue in the entertainment industry: the need for clearer guidelines regarding intellectual property rights. Fans will be watching closely, hoping for a positive outcome that allows Fromis_9 to continue without abandoning the identity they have spent years building.

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