South Korean Music Industry Organizations Respond to Growing Concerns
On February 27, 2025, five key South Korean music organizations—Korea Music Content Association (KOMCA), Korea Management Association, Korea Entertainment Producers Association, Korea Music Label Industry Association, and Korea Recording Industry Association—conducted a joint press conference to address pressing issues within the industry. Notable topics included contract disputes between artists and labels, mounting allegations of misconduct, and the scarcity of concert venues.
The Impacts of Fan Petitions
During an interview with YTN, KOMCA’s Secretary General, Choi Kwang-ho, emphasized the significance of fan petitions and their potential influence on legal proceedings. He expressed concern over the risks posed to the industry by fans exerting pressure on government entities:
“When this fandom support is conveyed to the National Assembly or the government, the opinions of the management company are ignored, and there is even a possibility that this method will become institutionalized. I think this situation can clearly pose a risk to the entire K-pop industry.”
Background to the Press Conference
The recent conflict between NJZ and Ador has intensified public scrutiny of the actions taken by these organizations. As the drama unfolded, many perceived a lack of response from the associations, leading to a chorus of critiques regarding their operational effectiveness. Choi remarked that both parties’ exaggerated claims concerning their disputes should be reevaluated for a more balanced perspective.
Choi further remarked:
“There is no industry that does not need regulation, but it is a basic economic principle that excessive regulation can eventually hinder industrial growth. A planning company is not simply an employer, but an entity that runs a business while taking risks as an investor. If a bill that excessively emphasizes the responsibility of a planning company is passed, it will be difficult to run a business stably.”
The Interplay Between Fandom and Industry Dynamics
In light of recent events regarding NJZ and Ador’s ongoing legal challenges, Choi highlighted that excessive fan involvement can complicate the already precarious relationship between management agencies and their artists. He cautioned that when fans pressure authorities, it can intensify stress during critical decision-making processes.
The Future of K-Pop: A Call for Balanced Policies
Choi concluded by noting that the K-pop sector has enjoyed remarkable growth in recent years, emphasizing the necessity for the government to establish balanced policies that respond to the industry’s evolving demands. Concurrently, he stressed the importance of agencies building trust with their artists to ensure sustainable success.
Support for NJZ from Fans
NJZ’s fanbase, known as the Bunnies, has rallied in favor of the group by submitting a petition against Ador’s injunction. According to reports from Sports Gyeong Hyang, this petition was filed on March 12 (KST) and has garnered signatures from approximately 30,000 fans, both local and international. The petition articulates widespread dissatisfaction with the label’s alleged mishandling of the situation and calls for enhanced protection for the group.