BTS-themed installations in this South Korea city to be taken down following requests from HYBE
For many fans, visiting the different locations where Korean stars have shot their dramas or music videos is a key part of the Hallyu experience. However, some sights might become inaccessible in the near future, especially for ARMYs who are looking forward to seeing the BTS-related installations in popular attractions.
In multiple reports, the coastal city of Samcheok has agreed to remove installations related to BTS following an intellectual property rights dispute with HYBE, the group's agency.
Samcheok City has seen an influx of visitors after one of its beaches, Maebang Beach, became the backdrop of the septet's photo shoot for their hit single Butter in 2021.
The city even recreated the shooting set for a BTS photo zone—complete with sunbeds, parasols, and volleyball nets—attracting thousands of visitors.
However, in a formal letter reportedly sent by HYBE, the agency contended that the installations pose a potential legal issue due to the unauthorized use of their intellectual property.
An official from one locality told TenAsia that they negotiated with HYBE after it demanded removal of its installations, but were unsuccessful.
A HYBE official clarified, "We do not grant permission for streets, sculptures, and murals using our artists' names and intellectual property rights by government agencies, local governments, and public institutions," emphasizing the measure's purpose to protect artists' intellectual property rights, considering the challenges of ongoing management.
Besides Maebang Beach, another iconic BTS location includes the restored Hyangho Beach Bus Stop in Gangneung, which appeared in the album art for You Never Walk Alone in 2017. BTS songs are reportedly played on the station from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.