On May 7th, Sungshin Women’s University Professor Seo Kyung-duk stated, “In recent times, K-pop fans both in Korea and overseas have filed numerous reports, revealing the widespread presence of counterfeit products being sold.”
Professor Seo highlighted that products of popular idols, including NewJeans and IVEs, are currently available for purchase. He specifically noted the sale of items such as photocard ($0.99), pendant ($1.89), and T-shirt ($3.17) and pointed out that the low prices suggest that there was no negotiation with the K-pop stars’ agencies regarding the use of their portrait rights and copyrights.
He remarked, “In China, it has become widespread to illegally download popular K-dramas like ‘The Glory’, ‘Squid Game’, and ‘Extraordinary Attorney Woo Young-woo’.” He also pointed out that there is a concerning trend of using Korean stars’ likeness from these dramas without permission to produce and sell counterfeit products for profit.
Professor Seo stressed the importance of consumer awareness regarding the issue and urged the government to take immediate action. He also emphasized the need for a strong system that can protect content globally, not just focusing on its creation.
Along with Professor Seo, numerous individuals are also denouncing the actions of Chinese netizens.
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