Billboard — a name most fans associate with American music rankings and artist recognition — is expanding its global presence by launching Billboard Korea. This move, a collaboration with Global Entertainment Media Group (GEMG), marks a significant moment for the already thriving Korean music scene.
| Billboard
Scheduled to grace the music world with its first issue, “Billboard K Vol.1,” in June, Billboard Korea represents a pivotal step in acknowledging and celebrating the global impact of Korean music.
| Forbes
Mike Van, the president of Billboard, expressed his enthusiasm about the expansion.
We are thrilled to announce our expansion into Korea.
— Mike Van
He acknowledged the “rich contribution of Korean music across our platforms” and described this expansion as a milestone that underscores Billboard’s commitment to amplifying the talent shaping the vibrant Korean music scene.
| Billboard
Furthermore, Yuna Kim — the chairperson of GEMG and publisher of Billboard Korea — highlighted the global rise in the status of K-artists and K-Pop. She emphasized that Billboard Korea would play a crucial role in promoting K-Culture, serving as a bridge that connects Korean artists and the global audience.
| Rolling Stone
According to a recent press release, Billboard Korea aims to be more than just a music publication. The company plans to partner with various Korean entertainment firms, platforms, and brands, offering high-quality content and chart data in the future.
Ahead of its physical publication in June, Billboard Korea is gearing up to launch its official website and digital platform in spring 2024.
Billboard Korea joins the ranks of Billboard’s international editions, such as Billboard Japan, Billboard Arabia, Billboard Español, and Billboard Brasil. This expansion into Korea signifies the increasing importance of Korean music on the global stage and Billboard’s recognition of this phenomenon.
| Billboard
With its commitment to amplifying the voices of Korean artists and its role in promoting cultural exchanges, Billboard Korea is set to open new doors and create exciting opportunities in the world of K-pop and beyond. For fans and artists alike, this marks the beginning of a new and thrilling chapter in the story of Korean music on the world stage.
