Obstacles to launching Apple Music in Korea reportedly removed

Redesigned Apple Music iOS 10

Although Apple had previously attempted to roll out its subscription-based music-streaming service in Korea, the Cupertino firm ultimately failed to reach a consensus with local music copyright associations. But as of recently, Tim Cook & Co. have apparently managed to cut deals with local right holders and copyright associations.

As a result, the service could launch in South Korea, a 50 million people market, sooner than later, according to a news report today by The Korea Herald. No firm date for the launch was given at post time.

“We formed a contract with Apple Music to begin streaming service here,” said an official from Federation of Korean Music Performers, a music copyright association. “We made agreements on how to pay the copyright fees to the artists.“

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As the article notes, Apple Music cannot launch in Korea unless Apple has necessary copyright contracts with local industry organizations, like the Korea Music Copyright Association, the Recording Industry Association of Korea and major local labels that include LOEN Entertainment, KT Music and CJ E&M.

Source: The Korea Herald