Billboard’s First Official Partnership with K-Pop via Kakao Entertainment

Kakao Entertainment has entered into a strategic partnership with Billboard to expand the global influence of K-pop.

Kakao Entertainment announced on the 17th that Mike Van, President of Billboard, and Kim Yuna, Publisher and CEO of Billboard Korea, met with Co-CEO Jang Yoon Joong at the Kakao Entertainment office in Jonggak, Jongno-gu, Seoul, to discuss cooperation between the two companies. This is the first time Billboard’s U.S. headquarters has officially partnered with a K-pop company.

Kakao Entertainment, Billboard, and Billboard Korea will introduce K-pop and related content to the world and jointly promote and market the global activities of K-pop artists. Combining Kakao Entertainment’s music IP planning, production, and distribution capabilities with Billboard’s data and media influence will also introduce a new business model. With the support of Kakao Entertainment, Billboard will be able to successfully launch Billboard Korea in June and diversify its music portfolio. Kakao Entertainment will facilitate the expansion of global activities for various artists, including those from its label, to broaden the fandom of K-pop.

President Van and Publisher Kim said, “We expect to be able to introduce the diverse charm of K-pop to global music fans through our partnership.” Co-CEO Jang said, “We will continue working to demonstrate the unique competitiveness of K-pop in the global market and to expand our global presence and growth.”