Singer Gureum ("Cloud")'s agency has hinted at taking legal action against Baek Ye Rin's agency for the unauthorized use of copyrighted material.
On October 4, Gureum's agency stated, "We would like to address the recent issue with People Like People Co., Ltd. (PLP), which has been performing unauthorized works by our artist Gureum. This is not just about the unauthorized use of copyrighted material; we are now in a position where we must take appropriate actions."
The agency further explained, "Gureum was previously a member of the band 'The Volunteers,' where he led the production, composition, and performance of many songs. Although his exclusive contract with Blue Vinyl ended on February 28, during Gureum's departure from The Volunteers, PLP unilaterally sent a confirmation document requesting the unauthorized free transfer of neighboring rights and a waiver of rights to unreleased songs. After discussing with the artist, we rejected the request."
Additionally, Gureum's representatives asked PLP multiple times, starting on June 10, to refrain from using the songs Gureum worked on. PLP initially agreed, but Gureum's agency confirmed that PLP performed the songs without his consent on several occasions, including at the Asia Pop Festival, and had used personal equipment that was not returned for The Volunteers' music videos.
As a result, Gureum's agency stated, "To protect our artist's rights and prevent further incidents, we have no choice but to proceed with legal action." They added, "We have also confirmed that some communities have spread false information, engaged in defamation, and made personal attacks regarding the artist's social media posts. We will take strong legal action against malicious commenters without leniency."
Lastly, the agency expressed, "We hope this will help correct the industry's harmful practices that undermine the value of others' creative work and assets. We are committed to ensuring that Gureum and many other artists can continue to produce great music."
In related news, Baek Ye Rin recently called out Ha Sung Woon for allegedly plagiarizing her song "0310" for an OST of 'Love Next Door,' leading the OST composer to compare the musical structures of the two songs. Baek Ye Rin is also a member of The Volunteers, which remains a 3-member group following Gureum's departure.
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