South Korea’s KOMCA Tightens Restrictions on AI-Generated Music Copyright
South Korea’s Korea Music Copyright Association (KOMCA), the nation’s largest music copyright collective representing over 30,000 members and administering a catalog of over 3.7 million works, has implemented a strict ban on the copyright registration of AI-composed songs. This decision, effective March 24, 2025, reflects growing concerns about the role of artificial intelligence in music creation and the lack of clear legal frameworks to address copyright issues related to AI-generated content.
The Ban and Its Implications
KOMCA’s policy prohibits the registration of any musical work where AI was used – even partially – in the composition, lyric writing, or melodic contribution. The move aims to preserve the integrity of the music registration process and prevent potential disputes over copyright ownership in the rapidly evolving landscape of AI music generation. According to KOMCA, the ban is a precautionary administrative policy enacted until clear legislation or regulatory guidance is established. Billboard reports that KOMCA recognizes only songs that are wholly the result of human creativity, with even a 1% contribution from AI rendering a song ineligible for registration.
Self-Declaration and Potential Penalties
To enforce the ban, KOMCA now requires all new registration submissions to include an explicit self-declaration confirming that no AI was involved in any stage of the song’s creation. This is accomplished through a checkbox on the registration form. False declarations carry significant consequences, including delayed royalty payments, removal of songs from the registry, and potential civil or criminal liability. Billboard
Addressing Concerns About Verification
KOMCA acknowledges the challenges of accurately detecting AI involvement in music creation, stating that a reliable technology capable of doing so does not yet exist globally. The current system relies on the creator’s voluntary reporting. The association recognizes the potential for false registrations due to these structural limitations but maintains that the policy is a proactive step to prevent chaos in the creative ecosystem. The Chosun Ilbo reports that KOMCA is reviewing the adoption of AI detection measures during the registration process and accelerating the development of a Korean-style AI detection program.
Beyond Composition: AI in Music Production
It’s significant to note that KOMCA’s policy specifically addresses the composition of music. It does not extend to other areas of music production where AI is increasingly being used, such as in recordings. For example, some K-pop companies, like HYBE, are already utilizing AI for tasks like translating vocal lines for multi-language releases. Billboard Philippines
Ongoing Monitoring and Future Developments
KOMCA is actively monitoring royalty settlements for anomalies and implementing post-measures to address potential issues related to AI-generated content. The Chosun Ilbo. The association is as well collaborating with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to establish standards for AI copyright management and protect the rights and interests of creators. This ongoing effort reflects a commitment to navigating the complex challenges posed by AI in the music industry and ensuring a fair copyright order.