HYBE Takes Stand Against 'The Camp' for Violating Portrait Rights — Is This Why They Enlisted?

In a bold move, HYBE, the agency representing K-pop sensation BTS, has issued a warning to 'The Camp,' a military letter app, for unauthorized use of BTS members' names and faces.

The agency is contemplating legal action, citing a blatant "violation of publicity rights," emphasizing the right to obtain economic benefits through the use of an individual's likeness.

Unauthorized Use Unveiled

Media reports reveal that BTS's images and names have been incorporated into 'The Camp' without consent from either the artists or BIGHIT MUSIC.

The app, designed for families to send letters to enlisted trainees, faced scrutiny when it was discovered that BTS's intellectual property rights were used in the Recommended Star Soldier service, detailing artists' military life and community service for fans.

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Management Rights and Official Communities

HYBE raised concerns over 'The Camp' using the term "official" in individual communities dedicated to BTS members, asserting that it infringes upon the agency's management rights of BTS's official fan community.

The commerce channel, The Camp Mall, faced criticism for selling dolls and soldier name tags using the real names of BTS members, deemed by HYBE as a violation of intellectual property.

Fan-Led Controversy and HYBE's Legal Stand

Initially brought to light by BTS fans, the controversy prompted HYBE to issue an official letter to The Camp, citing violations of the Unfair Competition Prevention Act, Electronic Commerce Act, and the Personal Information Protection Act.

Despite The Camp's removal of BTS-related content, the BTS community reportedly continues to operate, arguing its voluntary creation by fans.

HYBE's Stance and Potential Legal Battle

HYBE, contemplating legal action, argues that using an artist's intellectual property for free undermines the entertainment industry's foundation.

Accusing The Camp of exploiting BTS's fandom for promotional effects, HYBE asserts that startup status should not grant immunity. The agency points out that such actions jeopardize the industry's investment in discovering and nurturing artists.

Silent Response from 'The Camp'

While HYBE is gearing up for potential legal proceedings, 'The Camp' has maintained silence, stating, "We have nothing to say," in response to the controversy surrounding BTS's publicity rights infringement.

The situation remains tense as the entertainment giant HYBE vows to protect its artists' rights in the face of alleged exploitation.

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Written by Cassidy Jones.