K-pop fandoms are known for their active engagement with intellectual property, going beyond music rights to protect their idols’ assets. Fans act as investigators, monitoring databases to anticipate their idols’ next moves while the industry strategically leverages this dedicated fan base.
In the music world, fan loyalty often surpasses the value of hit songs, a phenomenon well-established in the Republic of Korea’s K-pop industry. Companies invest in fostering strong connections between fans and idols through various platforms and exclusive events, underpinned by robust intellectual property strategies that extend beyond traditional copyright and trademark protections.
Major K-pop labels like SM Entertainment and Hybe Corporation meticulously plan and groom talent, emphasizing the importance of intellectual property in their operations. Companies like Hybe IPX and JYP Three Sixty have dedicated IP licensing branches, reflecting the industry’s commitment to safeguarding their assets and engaging fans in protecting their idols’ rights.
K-pop fans play a crucial role in upholding intellectual property rights, often detecting and reporting violations. The passionate support from fans leads to a collective effort to defend idols against infringements, as seen in instances like the BTS Army’s swift action against a cosmetics company attempting to trademark a phrase closely associated with the band.
Intellectual property disputes are not uncommon in the K-pop world, with controversies arising over choreographic resemblances, music plagiarism allegations, and trademark ownership. Companies like SM Entertainment and Hybe take proactive measures to educate fans on IP awareness and encourage them to report any violations they come across.
Copyright protection extends beyond music to cover platforms like Weverse and LYSN, where idols interact with fans. Choreographies and dance routines are also copyrighted, leading to disputes within the industry. Fans eagerly track songwriting credits and monitor official IP databases to stay informed about their idols’ creative contributions.
Trademark applications play a significant role in K-pop, with companies registering not only group names and logos but also fandom names and event titles. Ownership disputes over trademarks have emerged, with some artists successfully negotiating to transfer ownership from companies to band members, signaling a shift in industry dynamics.
Merchandise like lightsticks, a staple in K-pop fan culture, also involves design registrations and patents. These products serve as symbols of fandom identity and unity during live performances, showcasing the intricate interplay between intellectual property, fan engagement, and commercial strategies in the K-pop ecosystem.
Overall, K-pop fans are active participants in shaping the industry landscape, demonstrating a deep understanding of intellectual property’s significance. Through a blend of fan enthusiasm and strategic IP utilization, K-pop companies and fans collaborate to safeguard the industry’s assets and maintain a vibrant ecosystem centered around music, performances, and merchandise.
About the author: Ana Clara Ribeiro is an intellectual property attorney and researcher based in Brazil, specializing in trademarks and copyright for the media and entertainment sectors. With a keen interest in K-pop, she contributes to various publications and platforms, exploring the intersection of intellectual property and music industry dynamics.