Professor Seo Kyung-duk Criticizes Chinese Netizens For Selling Fake K-Content Products
The issue of fake K-pop products such as idol photocards being sold on Chinese e-commerce platforms sparks controversy
On May 7th, Professor Seo Kyung-duk of Sungshin Women’s University said, “Recently, K-pop fans in Korea and overseas have made several reports and as a result of checking, many fake products are being sold”.
In this regard, Professor Seo mentioned various products of idols such as NewJeans and IVEs are being sold, pointing out photocard ($0.99), pendant ($1.89), and T-shirt ($3.17). He said, “At these prices, it is obvious that they did not negotiate with the K-pop stars’ agencies regarding the portrait rights and copyrights”.
He continued, “Illegal download of popular K-dramas such as ‘The Glory’, ‘Squid Game’ and ‘Extraordinary Attorney Woo Young-woo’ has become so common in China”, adding “What’s even more interesting is that they have been using the portrait rights of Korean stars in dramas freely and illegally to make and sell fake products to gain profits”.
Professor Seo emphasized, “Consumers must be aware of the issue. In addition, it is also time for the government to actively take action”, adding “They should not focus only on creating good content, but also build a good system that can be protected worldwide”.
In addition to Professor Seo, many people are also criticizing such behaviors of Chinese netizens.
