BLACKPINK’s Rosé Leaves Korean Music Copyright Association; Why This Move Could Change K-Pop Forever

BLACKPINK’s Rosé has made history by leaving the Korean Music Copyright Association (KOMCA), becoming the first major K-pop artist in over 20 years to take this step. Her decision highlights long-standing issues with unfair royalty payments in South Korea’s music industry.

Rosé officially ended her KOMCA membership on January 31, 2025, after submitting her withdrawal request on October 31, 2024. She is the first high-profile artist to leave the organization since Seo Taiji in 2002. This move allows her to manage her music rights independently, particularly through her new deal with Atlantic Records.

The Korean Music Copyright Association manages royalties for artists, but many creators receive only a small share of streaming revenue. Reports show that songwriters in South Korea get just 10.5% of streaming income, while platforms like Melon take 35%. In comparison, artists in the U.S. receive 12.3%, and those in the U.K. and Germany get 16% and 15% respectively.

Experts say the problem comes from too many middlemen in Korea’s music industry. Revenue passes through multiple companies before reaching artists, reducing their earnings. For global stars like Rosé, the system is even worse because she has to pay fees to both Korean and international copyright groups. By leaving KOMCA, she can now negotiate directly with streaming platforms like Apple Music and keep more of her profits.

“Now this is what you call paved the way. Real impact,” one fan wrote on social media. Others praised her as a “smart businesswoman” for taking control of her music rights.

Rosé’s decision comes after she signed with Atlantic Records in September 2024. The label, which works with stars like Bruno Mars and Ed Sheeran, will now handle her global music rights. Her solo single “APT.” featuring Bruno Mars has already been a hit, showing her strong international appeal.

This move could inspire other K-pop artists to rethink their deals with KOMCA. Many fans hope it will push the industry to change how royalties are distributed. While streaming platforms and agencies take large cuts, artists often end up with very little. Rosé’s bold step might lead to fairer pay for musicians in the future.

Credits: Korea JoongAng Daily, TenAsia

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