Music Video “Fast-Track” Law Passes

On October 1, 2026, the partially revised bills titled the “Law on the Promotion of the Music Industry” and the “Law on the Promotion of Films and Video Works” (also known as the music video “fast-track” law), originally introduced by Representative Kim Seung-soo (People Power Party, Daegu Buk-gu), were approved at the National Assembly’s plenary session.

Under the current system, music video files and other musical video content must undergo prior review by the Video Content Rating Board or broadcasting companies, resulting in delays in promotion. Recently, changes in broadcasting companies’ rating policies have led to an increase in cases where they refuse to review music videos unrelated to their own music programs, continuing to make it difficult for musicians from small production companies and those from overseas to release their music videos.

The revised bills allow producers or distributors of musical video content to classify ratings autonomously. Additionally, the Video Content Rating Board can reclassify content at its discretion if it determines that the rating does not meet standards to prevent the distribution of musical video content harmful to minors. The Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism may issue orders prohibiting self-classification for those who receive three or more such discretionary reclassification decisions.

While overseas music platforms release music videos without prior rating classification, domestic platforms require it, sparking ongoing debates about unfair treatment. Representative Kim Seung-soo stated, “This bill is one of several legislative reforms aimed at advancing the K-POP industry and reforming regulations to align with global standards.” He added, “With the approval of this revised bill at the plenary session, it will become possible to promote K-POP in a timely manner across various platforms, significantly contributing to its global expansion.”