Rosé Exits Korean Music Copyright Association for First Time in 22 Years Since Seo Taiji

Rosé of BLACKPINK has terminated her trust agreement with the Korean Music Copyright Association. According to the association’s website, Rosé submitted an application to end the trust on October 31 of last year, and the contract was officially finalized on March 31 of this month. This marks the first time a renowned singer has left the association since Seo Taiji in 2003. Going forward, Rosé’s copyright rights will be managed by Atlantic Records in the United States. Rosé signed a exclusive contract with Atlantic Records, a label under Warner Music Group, in September last year, and achieved global success with her collaboration song “Apartment” featuring pop star Bruno Mars. The industry analyzes Rosé’s decision to leave due to changes in her career focus and cost efficiency considerations. Previously, Rosé’s copyright rights were managed separately in South Korea and the United States. However, the success of “Apartment” led to her overseas activities surpassing those in South Korea, making it more efficient to handle all rights through a single entity in the U.S. The differing music copyright management systems between the two countries also played a role. In South Korea, the Korean Music Copyright Association oversees all types of copyright rights, including broadcasting, performances, karaoke, and transmissions. In contrast, the U.S. has separate organizations managing different types of rights. Organizations such as ASCAP and BMI manage rights in more detailed categories, resulting in a more sophisticated fee structure. Additionally, the U.S. offers faster copyright payment processes with lower fees. Rosé will continue her solo activities alongside BLACKPINK’s performances. BLACKPINK is set to hold a world tour in 10 regions around the world starting in July this year, with the tour including a performance at London’s Wembley Stadium — the first time a K-pop girl group has performed there.