Sign MOU to Strengthen Copyright Protection for Korean Films

Expected to Enhance Copyright Protection Capacity by Combining Institutional Expertise

The Korean Film Council (Chairperson Han Sang-jun, hereinafter “KOFIC”) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Korea Copyright Protection Agency (Director Park Jung-ryul, hereinafter “KCPA”) on December 12 at KCPA’s headquarters, with the aim of strengthening copyright protection for Korean films. Through this agreement, the two organizations plan to combine their respective expertise to reinforce copyright protection capabilities and jointly foster a more robust copyright protection environment across the Korean film industry.

This MOU was initiated in response to the continued occurrence of illegal distribution incidents—such as unauthorized filming—during the theatrical release of major Korean film titles. To enable swift and effective joint responses, the two institutions recognized the need for closer cooperation. KOFIC has been conducting continuous monitoring as well as takedown and blocking measures against illegally distributed films through its Illegal Film Distribution Survey and Copyright Protection Program, while KCPA serves as the national authority overseeing copyright protection practices, with specialized expertise in online copyright enforcement.

In preparation for the agreement, the two organizations held working-level consultations and a joint workshop in November to discuss specific areas of cooperation. Under the MOU, they agreed to pursue collaboration in the following areas:

• Expanded cooperation in monitoring online illegal film distribution

• Joint statistical research on the status of film copyright infringement

• Establishment of an emergency hotline for rapid response to illegal distribution

• Expansion and operation of a joint consultative body for responding to illegal distribution

• Cooperation in providing counseling, education, and consulting related to film copyright protection

• Exchange and joint utilization of film copyright-related information

Chairperson Han Sang-jun of KOFIC stated, “This agreement marks an important milestone in which two central institutions dedicated to protecting copyright in the film industry have come together. Through mutual exchange and cooperation, we expect to significantly enhance the level of rights protection for professionals working in the Korean film industry.”

Director Park Jung-ryul of KCPA remarked, “The film industry is a core sector driving the competitiveness of K-content, and copyright protection is an essential foundation that supports its sustainable growth. Through our cooperation with KOFIC, we aim to ensure that creators’ legitimate rights are fully protected and to create a sound environment in which the public can enjoy films with confidence.”

Following the signing of the agreement, KOFIC and KCPA plan to convene the Korean Film Illegal Distribution Response Council. They will meet with Korean film distributors to gather industry feedback and discuss measures for establishing an emergency response hotline for illegal distribution. The two organizations also plan to share the results of KOFIC’s illegal film distribution surveys and copyright protection measures, introduce KCPA’s copyright support services, and explore further avenues for cooperation.