Kakao Entertainment and AMG to Collaborate on Global K-Pop IP Development

Kakao Entertainment has established a strategic partnership with Warner’s Atlantic Music Group (AMG). The goal of this collaboration is to jointly develop and expand K-Pop’s global intellectual property.

This agreement represents a partnership between a South Korean company specializing in content ecosystems and a major American global music label. Kakao Entertainment possesses expertise in planning and producing K-Pop music IP, as well as in distribution, artist management, marketing, and fan engagement. AMG operates Atlantic Records, 10K Projects, and 300 Entertainment, and manages global artists such as Bruno Mars, Cardi B, Coldplay, Charli XxX, Charlie Puth, and Miley Cyrus.

The two companies plan to create a new label partnership that supports artists throughout the entire development process, from the early stages onward. This process includes songwriting camps, featuring collaborations, music distribution, digital marketing via streaming platforms and social media, TV and radio appearances, and fan engagement. The strategy is tailored to each artist’s musical identity, development stage, and potential in international markets.

Elliott Grange, chairman of AMG, said, “Kakao Entertainment has a proven track record of developing artists and connecting them with passionate fans.” He added, “By combining Kakao’s deep expertise in K-Pop with Atlantic Music Group’s global network and artist development capabilities, we have an exciting opportunity to create careers that resonate with fans around the world.”

Joseph Chang, co-CEO of Kakao Entertainment, stated, “This partnership holds special significance as it represents a collaboration between a leading South Korean entertainment company and a major American music powerhouse, combining complementary strengths and shared goals.” He explained, “We will support K-Pop artists and their IP in unlocking new opportunities in global markets and achieving sustainable success.”

This partnership is regarded as a strategic milestone for the global expansion of K-Pop.

The announcement was officially made on October 5, 2026. The related legislation, known as the “Music Video Fast-Track Act,” passing the National Assembly’s plenary session on October 1, also plays a role in supporting K-Pop’s global expansion. This law simplifies the pre-review process for music video and other music video files.