Police have launched a formal investigation into K-pop superstar G-Dragon and Yang Hyun-suk, the founder and chief producer of major entertainment agency YG Entertainment, following allegations of copyright law violations. The investigation marks a significant development in the ongoing legal challenges facing one of South Korea's most prominent entertainment companies and its biggest stars.
The Mapo Police Station in Seoul initiated the probe after receiving a formal complaint in November from a composer who alleges that their original song was illegally copied by both G-Dragon and Yang Hyun-suk. The complainant claims that the unauthorized use of their work constitutes a clear violation of copyright protection laws, prompting law enforcement to take action against the high-profile figures in the Korean entertainment industry.
As part of their investigation, police investigators have conducted two separate raids on YG Entertainment's headquarters, searching for evidence related to the alleged copyright infringement case. During these operations, authorities have questioned multiple individuals involved in the case, including staff members and executives who may have knowledge of the alleged copyright violations.
Law enforcement officials have remained tight-lipped about the specifics of the investigation, declining to provide additional details about the nature of the alleged copyright infringement or the timeline of events. Police have also not disclosed which specific songs are involved in the complaint or when the alleged copying may have occurred, maintaining the confidentiality of the ongoing investigation.
The investigation adds to the legal troubles that have periodically surrounded YG Entertainment and its high-profile artists. G-Dragon, whose real name is Kwon Ji-yong, is one of the most influential figures in K-pop and has been a cornerstone of YG Entertainment's success over the past decade. Yang Hyun-suk, meanwhile, founded the agency and has been instrumental in developing some of Korea's biggest musical acts.
As the investigation continues, both G-Dragon and Yang Hyun-suk will likely face continued scrutiny from law enforcement officials as they work to determine whether copyright laws were violated and what legal consequences may follow.
